Do I Want to Be an Online Educator?
Online educators use their knowledge of teaching and instructional design to present courses for learners from preschool age through college. Courses are available through the Internet and may be supported by an educational platform such as Blackboard. Classes are often offered asynchronously, meaning that teachers and students are not required to be online at the same time. Others are synchronous, where teachers and students may interact directly at times. Online educators are often considered adjuncts and may not be valued as highly as full-time, on-site teachers. However, the ease of not having to travel to schools or follow a rigid schedule may appeal to many teachers.
Job Requirements
Like most instructors, online educators are normally required to have teaching degrees and licenses for K-12 classes, and graduate degrees for college-level courses. In addition, they also must demonstrate superior understanding and utilization of technology and its uses in educational settings. The following table lists some of the qualifications:
| Common Requirements | |
|---|---|
| Degree Level | Bachelor's degree for K-12; master's degree or Ph.D. for post-secondary teachers* |
| Certification | Appropriate state certification or licensure** |
| Experience | 1-3+ years of experience teaching, preferably in subject of position** |
| Key Skills | Written and verbal communication skills, flexible schedule, customer service/student support experience** |
| Computer Skills | Microsoft Office applications, Web-based tools, database, graphics programs desirable** |
| Additional Requirements | Must meet No Child Left Behind highly qualified teacher requirements** |
Sources: * U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), May 2010 data, **Monster.com, September 2012
Step 1: Earn a Teaching Degree
Online teaching at the K-12 level requires a bachelor's degree and appropriate state-issued teaching certification. At the postsecondary level, potential online educators must have earned master's or doctoral degrees. Most colleges and universities don't require applicants to have degrees in education. Rather, they prefer a degree and experience in the subject which the applicant intends to teach.
Step 2: Gain Certification or Licensure
According to the BLS, teachers are generally required to become certified or licensed in their state which may require exams. Most education degree programs cover information required to become a licensed teacher. Online educators are also required to meet any teaching requirements that are applicable to classroom instruction.
Success Tips:
- Research your state's certification and licensure requirements. Colleges or the applicable state's board of education website can provide information on a state's teacher certification requirements and any required examinations. Continuing education or professional development may be required for teachers to maintain state certification or licensure.
Step 3: Teach in a Classroom
Because online teaching combines teaching ability with technological ability, proving teaching skills to potential employers with experience teaching in a classroom can facilitate an easier transition to online teaching.. Moreover, it's usually easier to negotiate an online teaching position with a current employer than to find a new employer for a direct hire into an online education position
Success Tips:
- Find a teaching position in a specific subject area and/or age group. Online educator jobs typically require experience in a specific subject area and 1-3 years of experience in teaching. Choosing a classroom teaching position in the specific area or level of instruction better prepares candidates for online instruction positions.
Step 4: Seek Additional Education Certificates
Elective certificate programs for aspiring educators can be a good way to learn about online instruction and to add to a resume. Many colleges and universities offer certificate programs with courses in e-learning, computer-based training, online tutorials, and electronic delivery. Many of these courses are available through the Web, so potential online educators are exposed to the online classroom experience while learning how to use programs designed for online learning, such as Blackboard. Certificate programs are available at both the graduate and undergraduate levels and vary in the number of courses required for completion.
Source: http://education-portal.com/articles/Become_an_Online_Educator_Career_and_Education_Roadmap.html
