Teachers seeking to continue thier education can utilize state and distict programs in addition to graduate studies and colleges and universities.
Education is a field that is constantly evolving. New research is always emerging that can make individuals more effective teachers. Professional educators have an ethical obligation to stay abreast of new developments in education so they can better serve their students. All 50 states have continuing education requirements as requirement for renewing teaching certificates. There are a variety of ways that teachers both fulfill and go beyond the continuing education requirements set by their school districts. These include professional development classes offered through the school system or private companies, college coursework, and graduate degrees.
Professional Development
Professional development is the name given to classes that educators take on a variety of subjects to improve either their knowledge of content or teaching techniques. In addition to continuing education requirements enforced by the state, many school districts also require that a minimum amount of hours be accrued each school year. For this reason, most districts have a staff development department that is responsible for the creation and implementation of professional development opportunities for teachers.
Master's Degree
For teachers who want to go beyond the minimum continuing education requirements set by states and school districts, there are advanced degree programs available. The first level is a master's degree. There are many different master's degree programs available to educators which include topics like administration, counseling, and curriculum and instruction. The area chosen depends on the interest of the individual. For those who want to be principals administration would be a good choice, while those who would like to improve their teaching skills would choose curriculum and instruction.
Doctorate Degree
Educators who are interested in taking their post-baccalaureate studies even further can pursue a doctorate in education. Doctorate degrees are offered in the same areas as master's degrees, but they include even more research and writing. Many educators who are seeking high-ranking administrative positions or jobs in educational research would find obtaining a doctorate a valuable resource.
Graduate Coursework
Educators who are not interested in gaining a master's or doctorate degree can still utilize graduate-level classes to continue their education. Teachers can choose classes that will improve their research skills, teaching techniques, and general knowledge in the teaching profession without working towards an advanced degree.
Additional Teaching Certificates
Continuing education for educators can also help teachers change their teaching assignment. Every state has different grade levels assigned to secondary and elementary education teaching certificates. Some educators may be interested in moving up or down a grade to teach a different age group or a different subject. These individuals could take additional college course work or professional development classes to prepare them to meet their state's certification requirements in the desired teaching area.
Tags: continuing education requirements, education requirements, continuing education, school districts, advanced degree, classes that, curriculum instruction
