Continuing Education for Teachers
If at any given time you were to ask teachers why they are considering continuing education classes, you are likely to receive a variety of responses.
Some teachers find they are in a position where they need professional development courses to keep their teaching license current. These courses are often offered internally, though some teachers choose to take courses at a nearby college. These days, however, enrolling in online courses is quickly becoming the norm.
Because online classes have changed the face of continuing education, more and more teachers are taking advantage of the relative ease in which they can further their education. No more commutes after a long teaching day, no battling traffic, and no more late night classes. Online education is suitable for any formalized training program.
Here are some common scenarios that show the need for continuing education:
Mr. Jones is a veteran schoolteacher having taught sixth grade science for 27 years. Because of changes mandated by the state, next year the science curriculum will undergo a major change. Instead of teaching the physical sciences he has become so comfortable with, he is now faced with a dilemma. He has two choices – either change grade levels, or enroll in a college course to get up to speed on the new sixth-grade curriculum. Luckily, online courses are available through his community college.
Ms. Johnson received her teaching diploma two short years ago. As a new college graduate she was eager to spread her wings and move out on her own. Though she had a roommate, she quickly found her salary did not go far past basic living expenses. Ms. Johnson decided that in order to increase her earning potential, she would move up her plans to attend graduate school and get her master’s degree. She found an online college that met her needs.
Mr. Davis teaches fifth grade. He has a diverse group of students and he enjoys teaching across the curriculum. Since his is an inclusion classroom, he teaches students with all skill levels. Mr. Davis has found he has an affinity for teaching gifted students. After careful consideration he chose to take advantage of his school district’s professional development opportunity and pursue gifted certification. Several of his classes were offered online.
In all the above scenarios, the school underwrote the cost of continuing education. Both teacher and school reaped the benefits. The student’s benefited from having a teacher with increased expertise and knowledge. Equally as important, teachers received a sense of accomplishment and new fulfillment in their careers.
For teachers on a busy schedule seeking professional growth, online courses may be the best choice.
