Distance Learning Teacher Education Programs

If, after reading all about traditional education programs, it just doesn't seem feasible for you to physically attend classes on a campus, you can opt for a distance learning teacher education program. These days, it's possible to earn an entire undergraduate or graduate degree by participating in a distance learning program. This means you learn the same material as you would by participating in traditional classes; however, your education is done at home, at your own pace, through reading, participating in online courses, and taking exams.

Depending on the course of study, students may not need to be enrolled full-time, and they usually have more flexible schedules for finishing their work. Taking courses by distance study is often more challenging and time-consuming than attending classes, however, especially for adults who have other obligations. Success depends on an individual student's motivation. Students usually do reading assignments on their own. Written exercises, which they complete and send to an instructor for grading, supplement their reading material.

Assuming you pass the exams associated with the distance learning program, the end result and the degree or certification you earn is identical to what someone who attended a traditional educational institution would earn.

Distance learning programs may or may not have a residency requirement; therefore, be sure to investigate carefully each program you are considering. Some schools offer only one or more education courses via distance learning, while others offer entire degrees.

For more information on distance learning, go to the United States Distance Learning Association's website at http://www.usdla.org/.

Making Your Choice

There are hundreds of teacher education programs with unique classes and stringent requirements. Do not look for easy; look for useful. Look for a program that will turn you into a good teacher—knowledgeable and reflective of the needs of your community and world.

It may seem an insurmountable task to become certified as a teacher. But it's not; thousands of people have become teachers, and you can, too. One key is to plan, early and carefully. Another is to have good information. Then, make your decisions one at a time.

Do your homework. Get as much information as possible now, so your college experience will be a great beginning to a wonderful career!

Insider Advice

I would advise anyone interested in teaching to gain as much experience as possible working with students in the age group you wish to teach. I would also suggest putting a great deal of effort into your student teaching experience. It can help you to obtain a good recommendation. You should also use this opportunity to visit other teachers and experience the different ways that teachers accomplish so much. What works for one teacher may not work for another. This also applies to individual students. Be prepared, your first year can be very overwhelming.

What I Wish I Had Learned in School

More on how to reach the student who is unmotivated to learn. More on how to create positive working relationships with parents. More on using positive reinforcement and reward systems to promote good behavior, without spending a lot of money on material rewards.

Greatest Joys

When students from the past come back to visit me, I really feel like I touched their lives. Also, every time a struggling learner masters a task, and when I hear students encouraging each other to succeed.

Biggest Drawback

Dealing with uncooperative parents, who just don't seem to see what is most important for their children due to troubles within their own lives. Constantly adapting to an ever-changing curriculum that is based on state testing results.

Future Plans

To remain working with students from low-income areas, many of whom really need to have good role models in their lives.

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Distance Learning Teacher Education Programs