Online preschool teaching certification and
training programs are available for both current teachers and those
aspiring to become preschool teachers. Preschool teachers are trained to
provide early childhood education and nurture young developmental
skills.
Overview of an Online Preschool Teaching Training and Certification Program
Preschool teacher
training requirements vary by state; however, most require a minimum of
a high school education and some experience with teaching. The most
common certification for employment opportunities is the Child
Development Associate (CDA), although some states require early
childhood development college courses or a degree. Some online training
and certification options include an online college credit eligible CDA
certificate program, a preschool add-on license program for those who
already have a bachelor's degree and a post-master's preschool through
grade 3 endorsement program. Prerequisites for these options depend upon
the level
of education,
but may require a letter of intent, written proof of a high school
diploma or its equivalent, current teacher certification and employment
in a teaching environment; participants must be 18 years or older.
The length of these programs depends on the certification or training
chosen. For example, the online CDA certificate program requires 120
hours of study with an option of 26 additional quarter credit hours for
those new to preschool education. In contrast, the post-master's
endorsement program requires just 13 credit hours and four courses to
complete.
In order to participate in online programs, participants must have
access to a computer and printer, an Internet Service Provider (ISP) and
an e-mail account. Some schools also have specific software and web
browser requirements
List of Common Courses
Coursework in online preschool teaching training or certification
programs varies by the chosen level of education. Topics common to most
of the online offerings include subjects of early childhood development,
curriculum, learning and literacy as described below. Some programs
also include a practical requirement in specific early childhood
settings.
Education and Development in Young Children Course
Early childhood assessment methods and early intervention techniques
are studied in this course. Curriculum emphasizes current developmental
theory and appropriate practices.
Early Childhood Curriculum, Methods and Materials Course
Students of this class learn to use appropriate materials and
learning techniques for preschool children. The course also focuses on
developing a preschool learning environment that encourages active
participation in the classroom.
Early Literacy Course
Developing literacy in both regular and special educational young
children is the focus of this class. The curriculum explores current
theory and methods of engagement in reading, writing and language
skills.
Early Childhood Collaboration Course
This class focuses on family, school, teacher and community
collaboration in developing young children. Cultural, social,
environmental, political and medical issues affecting learning are also
explored.
Preschool teachers earned a median annual wage of $24,540 in May of
2009, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Child day
care services provided the highest number of employment opportunities (
www.bls.gov).
Depending on where a preschool teacher is employed, professional
development requirements may include higher levels of education to
advance to teaching pre-kindergarten classes. Continuing educational
choices are available to preschool teachers in secondary or
postsecondary coursework and all degree levels in early childhood
education. Additionally, some employers offer specialized training and
educational funding.
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