Inside Distance Learning Programs
There are several four-year universities and colleges, both public and private, that offer online or hybrid degree options for prospective teachers, some of which provide for students to complete their student teaching requirements with a local district. Participants may be able to complete all their courses online, while other institutions offer hybrid learning options combining online and campus-based coursework. In either case, individuals must complete student teaching at a school in their area.
A bachelor's degree is the common academic requirement for those interested in obtaining teaching certification or licensure, so students can expect to find several online four-year degree programs in fields such as elementary, middle or secondary education and areas like special education or early childhood education. Some schools also offer master's degrees for those who have an unrelated bachelor's degree and are looking to enter the teaching profession. These usually lead to a Master of Arts in Teaching or a Master of Arts in Education.
Typical Coursework
Coursework in an online teacher education program is in keeping with that required in traditional on-campus programs. Bachelor's degree programs require general education coursework and foundational courses in education, along with specialization classes focused on the chosen grade level or teaching subject. Common courses included in a teaching education program include the following:
- Instructional methods
- Educational psychology
- Instructional technology
- Academic assessment
- Curriculum development
- Literacy
- Classroom and behavior management
Online Learning
Usually, online teaching programs work much like other online degrees, providing students with a login to school education software that can be accessed via the Web. This software usually combines email, forum, and instant messaging communication with a system that allows students to take test and turn in assignments. This may also provide real-time grading of a student's work and audio or video conference capability to allow for easier class interaction.
Teacher Certification and Licensure
In order to teach at a public institution, teachers must have both a 4-year degree from an accredited college or university, usually in the subject they will teach, and a teaching certificate, which is often earned at the same time as the student's degree. Requirements for teaching certificates vary because the programs that offer them are state-approved, but usually a teaching certificate must include a period of student teaching, also considered an internship, which requires some kind of in-person contact.
Online-only colleges and universities will sometimes work with students' local school districts to place them in a school for a term of in-classroom teaching. This provides for the student teaching requirements of licensure and gives prospective teachers invaluable face-to-face experience with a class. In addition to the academic and practice teaching requirements, prospective public school educators must pass a certification exam.
