The Education Field
education field is wide in its scope, the traditionally thought of line of work is teaching in a public, private, or parochial school, or, college setting. Whereas elementary teachers teach core subjects, usually to one classroom of students, secondary teachers have an area of expertise and teach the subject to several different classes of students. Beyond planning lessons, teaching and grading papers, teachers are involved in non-teaching activities. They confer with parents and manage after-school events. Then there are special education teachers who educate and train students with a disabilities and use different methods to promote learning. College and university faculty members teach at the undergraduate or graduate level. They prepare lectures, conduct seminars and supervise student research. They keep up with advances in their specialty, perform their own research and publish papers. Professionals with a background in education also serve in an administrative capacity at educational institutions. Administrators are involved in the development of academic programs, formulation of policies and procedures as well as in the day-to-day management of schools and universities. This job description fits principals, department heads, deans and provosts. Educators are needed outside the academic scene as well: for employee training and development in business, industry, and non-profit groups. There are viable career options in education testing services, consultancy firms and community organizations.
The career track that you choose to pursue within this discipline determines the course of study. For initial certification and eligibility to teach at a public school you require a bachelor's degree and completion of an approved teacher training program and supervised practice teaching. You have a choice of all grade (k-12), child education, elementary education or secondary education majors. Many states have alternative routes to teacher certification for those who have college training in the subject to be taught but do not have the necessary education courses required for a regular certificate. In addition to demonstrating competence in the subject area you are required to take preparatory courses in teaching prior to actually taking charge of a classroom. As requirements vary from state to state it is a good idea ascertain with your state's education agency. On the other hand if you would prefer a full-time faculty position at a 4-year college, a Ph.D. is a necessary qualification. In 2-year colleges, master's degree holders fill most teaching positions. To be considered for a school administrator post you generally require an advanced degree in
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