Kindergarten teachers introduce children aged
4-6 years to counting, reading sight words and interacting socially
with peers. While specific teaching license requirements vary by state, a
bachelor's degree from an accredited college and professional
experience through a teaching practicum is typically required to teach
kindergarten. Online degree programs in primary education are available
for undergraduate and graduate students.
Overview of Online Bachelor's Degrees in Elementary Education
Because kindergarten students do not change classrooms,
kindergarten teachers
are trained to teach a variety of subjects. Programs are not specific
to the kindergarten level, but instead cover kindergarten through 12th
grade (K-12) or primary school (K-6). Training specifically for
kindergarten needs is accomplished through student teaching. Private
schools with religious affiliations advocate theories and teaching
methods specific to their institutions.
A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Education may be obtained mostly
through online means. However, in order to meet standard state licensing
requirements, the degree program must be followed by supervised
classroom teaching experiences. Programs may be completed in four years
or even less time, provided the core subject (English, math, natural and
social science) requirements are fulfilled through transfer credits or
competency testing.
Teaching content is delivered via webinars requiring high-speed
Internet. Digital recorders, scanners and word processing software are
commonly used to complete assignments.
Courses Offered
In preparation for a multiple subject teaching credential, a
well-rounded liberal arts education in English, history, math and
natural science is offered and supplemented with coursework in
education. Students acquire the skills necessary to effectively manage
classrooms and engage students.
Foundation of Education Course
An historical survey of education is presented in this introductory
course. The philosophy of education is explored in light of current
legal and ethical concerns.
Educational Theory Course
Understanding the various ways in which students learn aids educators
in developing strategies to maximize learning outcomes. Teachers create
lesson plans to engage diverse learners. Educators develop their own
personal teaching philosophies through this theory-based course.
Conduct Disorders Course
Methods of identifying and managing students with disciplinary and
emotional problems and those with learning disabilities are explored.
Future educators learn to accommodate diverse student needs in
structured learning environments.
Overview of Online Master's Degrees in Elementary Education
Some states require licensed teachers to obtain master's degrees in
education within a certain number of years after they begin teaching.
Graduate study may also be pursued to increase earnings or for
professional development. Online Master of Arts (M.A.) and Master of
Science (M.S.) degree programs are available, but they too require
classroom teaching components or demonstrated experience.
Online programs help licensed educators pursue advanced master's
degrees in a year or two while continuing to work in their field. A
fully online, degree-only option is available for those with current
teaching credentials. For post-baccalaureate students pursuing teaching
licensure, online coursework is supplemented with a supervised teaching
practicum.
Courses Offered
Core coursework provides a solid foundation in teaching theory and
practice. The student may then take specialized courses in instructing
age-appropriate subjects before applying his or her skills in a
classroom practicum.
Teaching with Computers Course
Technological advances have created new learning opportunities for
all students, including those with disabilities. The ways in which
interactive educational software and the Internet enhance classroom
activities are reviewed.
Curriculum Development Course
Learning theories and teaching methodologies are reviewed. Educators
develop portfolios of lesson plans and student assessments based on
their personal teaching philosophies.
Teacher preparation requires field experience. During the teaching
practicum, student teachers are paired with licensed teachers for
on-the-job learning in kindergarten classrooms. Students are coached and
evaluated by their supervisory teachers.
Careers in Elementary Education
Primary education degrees prepare students to become teachers and
childcare specialists. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (
www.bls.gov), kindergarten teachers earned a mean wage of $50,380 in 2009.
Continuing Education
Doctoral programs are available for teachers interested in pursuing
advanced research or careers as professors of education, principals or
other school administrators. Online programs are offered; however, they
may also have on-site colloquia requirements.
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