Learning Before Teaching
by Joe Cooper
Email this articleOnline Degrees Columnist
In order to be successful in providing education, you've got to have one first. A teaching degree is the best preparation you can give yourself before you step into the classroom; that, and a healthy dose of courage.
On my first day as a teacher in the Bronx, NY, I was nervous. On the second day, I felt the same way. In fact, this feeling stayed with me the whole year. Every day I faced new challenges, and every day I felt unprepared. I didn't have my credential yet--I was earning it as I was teaching.
Some people can step into a classroom and command immediate attention, earning students' respect (and equally as important, a quiet classroom) instantly. For others, this is an uphill battle. But regardless of innate skill, every teacher needs to know how to teach. An education in education is essential to becoming a great teacher.
Learning First
Earning your teaching degree online is a great way to start your career as a teacher, or transition into a career in education. Online degrees come from accredited universities, and prepare you just as well as an on-campus degree would. You are free to create your own schedule and tailor your coursework according to your degree requirements.
Once you have a bachelor's degree in education or your teaching credential, you'll be qualified to search for teaching jobs, or to pursue further education. More and more teachers are earning their master's degrees, either in education or in a more specialized subject area. (This can also be done online).
To teach, first you have to learn. Getting your teaching degree online is a great way to make this happen.
About the Author
Joe Cooper is a freelance education and technology writer and edits medical literature. He holds a bachelor's in American Literature from UCLA.
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