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How to Become a Teacher Online – A Complete Guide

Do you want to learn what it takes to become a teacher online? If YES, here is a complete guide plus requirements needed to become a teacher without a teaching degree.

The teaching profession all over the world is tagged as very promising one. This is because there are organizations that pay their teachers really well. And this is because they understand that teachers indeed mold destinies of the children that are put in their care. We are now in the century where everyone is striving hard to have a job that can earn them a source of income- at least to cater for themselves and their families.

Also, the major aim of students going to school is to graduate and find a job that can sustain them in their entire lives. A person’s job is the role and activities he performs in the society, it could be part time or full time. It is the reason why some jobs requires some specific training before it could be practiced.

The profession of a teacher is a durable and an excellent career for individuals that have good time management, effective planning and multi-tasking skills. It is one profession that can guarantee great returns if you are well positioned.

What is a Teacher?

Indeed, a teacher is someone that teaches and instructs people. The person a teacher teaches is often regarded to as a student. A teacher can teach a particular student or group of students. However, a teacher has no other place to practice his profession apart from a classroom. A person that wants to practice the teaching profession must be knowledgeable, dynamic and positive minded because that is what the job requires.

Teaching is a very demanding profession that requires the practitioner to have in-depth knowledge of the subject or subjects he is handling, he need to have patience and have a very good classroom management skills because it requires various skills to handle the students, especially the young and playful ones.

If you are considering teaching as a career, then you have to look critically at this read, because you would really need to know all what the profession entails, because patience, leadership skills and creativity are not everything it takes to indulge in the lucrative profession of teaching.

Duties of a Teacher and their Job Description

  • Teaching Students: Teaching is the process by which a teacher tries his best to make a student learn.
  • Instructing Students: A teacher always instructs the students to perform some specific tasks for them to learn a particular thing.
  • Taking Attendance: A teacher does take the attendance of his students to know and determine the students that are present and the students that are absent.
  • Evaluating Students Performance: A teacher can use various ways to evaluate the students’ performance, he can give them assignments at the end of the class and the feedback would be used to asses and evaluate the students. Test and examination are also a useful medium of knowing and determining, how far the students have gone in knowing what they’ve been taught.
  • Researching: It is believed that a teacher gets updated and know more about his profession whenever he do research on the work he teaches, his students and the school. We are now in a dynamic world, that everything changes within few times; so, a teacher need to always do his research mostly on the internet to have an up to date knowledge about his subject and profession.

Tools of the Trade for a Teacher

  • Lesson Plan: This is the first equipment a teacher must have before going into teaching students. A lesson plan is otherwise known as a pre-class plan, it is exactly how a teacher has planned his class to go. A class is often planned in a book called lesson plan and the teacher might take it to class and adhere to it. In the lesson plan, a teacher can allocate specific time for specific things he would do in the class. For instance, a teacher could write in his lesson plan to allocate 10 minutes for writing of notes and 30 minutes for explanation in the class. It is important a teacher have a lesson plan, as this will give the class a good shape.
  • Chalk or Marker: This are known as the writing materials a teacher uses in his class to facilitate learning. A chalk is a primitive writing equipment a teacher uses to write on a blackboard in his class, while a marker is a writing equipment a teacher uses in his class to write on a white board in his class. It is believed that chalk and blackboard are no more in vogue and that the marker and white board is what the teacher now uses in class. Teachers in countries like America, U.K, Canada and Australia now uses marker and white board to propagate learning in their classes.
  • Pen: A teacher uses a pen in the class for many functions. It important a teacher always have a pen in his custody, as he would use it to perform several duties like writing lesson plan, marking the student’s work, writing the grades and assessment of the students and writing of the students attendance. Some teachers even do go to class with more than a pen to borrow the student that didn’t come to class with a pen. A good teacher is always with at least two different colors of pen i.e. Blue and Red pens, for writing and for marking.

How to Become a Teacher Online – A Complete Guide

Facts, Figures and Labor Market Situation for Teachers

  • Every practitioner needs a teacher to attain whatever height they want to, as the teachers are the only professionals that can teach and tutor you to become whatsoever you want to be. Teachers are very important and their impact on students cannot be over-emphasized because they are the only professional that can make a student attain a desired level and profession he so want.
  • With schools as the major source of employment for teaching practitioner, the profession is an excellent and welcoming career to follow- especially now that there the number of schools is increasing in countries like America, U.K, Australia and Canada. In fact the problem now is that there is shortage of professional teachers for teaching profession that are vacant.
  • From 2012 to 2022, it is expected that the number of students will increase drastically especially in elementary and post-secondary school and which will eventually lead to the increase in number of teachers, this will make the labor market an interesting place for the teachers and those on the path of becoming one.
  • According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistic, the teaching profession is expected to grow by 12 percent in elementary schools, 6 percent in high school and 19 percent in post-secondary school from 2012 to 2022. This projection is faster than an average profession could be. Teaching is a good profession with top-notch salary and a favorable labor market, if you are considering salary and labor market as a criterion for following a profession, consider teaching as an excellent one for you.

Impact of Internet and Technology on the Teaching Profession

The teachers and students now use the internet as an avenue to share ideas. Teachers now use the internet to give the students assignments and students will as well submit via email and which has made it possible for the students and teachers to interact.

The teachers and student now use the technological equipment to facilitate teaching and learning both in schools and at home. Teaching and learning is made easy for both part with the innovation of technological equipment like Mobile Phones, Tablets, Computer etc.

Career ideas / Sub-sectors That Exists within the Teaching Profession

  • Teach in pre-nursery establishments
  • Early Childhood Educator
  • Adult and Community Teacher
  • Science Teacher
  • College Teacher
  • Elementary School Teacher
  • High School Teacher
  • Humanities Teacher
  • Primary Teacher
  • Inculcate morals in primary schools
  • Working as private home tutors (In home schooling settings)

Professional bodies and Associations to Join be Recognized as a Teacher

  • National Science Teachers Association (NSTA)
  • American Association of School Administrators (AASA)
  • American Federation of Teachers (AFT)
  • National Education Association (NEA)
  • Nation Council for Teachers of Mathematics
  • Nation Council for Teachers of English

Benefits of Becoming a Teacher

  • Knowledge enhancement: teaching is a profession that requires not only the students to learn but the teacher as well. In the process of trying to get ready for class and to teach the students in an efficient way, a teacher also undergoes some learning practices that enhance his knowledge.
  • Time management: A teacher is always trained to have time management skills, as the profession requires it. Apart from having time management drive, a teacher also does have time for himself and his family because the profession gives rooms for it.

Factors Discouraging People from Becoming Teachers

  • The Teaching Profession’s Nature: The nature of the teaching profession makes it difficult for young ones to want to venture into it. This is because; many see the profession as a difficult and strenuous one. Most see the profession as one in which the professional has to spend long period of time in ensuring that a concept is well understood by the students/pupils. This seemingly “difficult” nature of the teaching profession is a factor discouraging people from venturing into it.
  • Lack of adequate reward for teachers: Teachers are one of the most disadvantaged professionals in terms of rewards. This is because, the efforts by teachers in ensuring the growth and development of societies has been relegated to the background and is not really appreciated. Many societies see teachers as professionals who should not really appreciated for what they do in terms of reward. Due to this, they are not adequately rewarded.
  • The Pressure involved in teaching: There is no other profession which has the magnitude of pressure experienced by teachers daily. Many parents, guardians, governments etc. set benchmark for teachers which must be achieved on their wards. This benchmark which is usually in terms of what the wards, children and citizens must know at a particular point in time must be met. This pressure discourages many people especially the young ones from wanting to go into the profession
  • Lack of Motivation: In many parts of the world, teachers are not motivated to perform better and be encouraged to do more. Motivation which could be in terms of bonuses and other benefits are really lacking for teachers. This lack of motivation also discourages would-be teachers from venturing into the profession.

How Much Do Teachers Earn Monthly/Annually

Teachers earning in most parts of the world is dependent on many factors. This could include the number of hours spent teaching, the level of students been taught (be it primary, secondary etc.), the type of qualification obtained, and the years of experience spent while practicing the profession.

While teachers in England, according to a report are one of the most paid in the world. Teachers in other countries fair well too. A critical observation of the earnings of teachers in some countries of the world is thus as follows:

  • In the united states

As it has been stated earlier, the salaries of teachers in the United States differ by states. While in the 2002-03 report, California had the nation’s highest average salary with about $55,693 per annum. Michigan was $54,020, New Jersey was $53,872, and the District of Columbia was at $53,194.

Likewise the states such as Dakota at $32,414, Montana at $35,754 and Mississippi at $35,135 were the states with the lowest earnings for teachers. Therefore, in the United States, teachers earn averagely between $30,000- $55,000 depending on states.

  • In Canada

The average pay of these professionals in Canada is not quite different from what can be obtained elsewhere. Teachers are usually paid based on an hourly basis. While teachers in high school in Canada, According to the latest figures, the highest hourly average (median) wages are earned in Kitchener / Waterloo / Barrie, Ontario is at $41.76 per hour and the lowest average (median) wages are earned in Prince Edward Island at $32.42 per hour.

Thus, a typical full-time annual salary for high school teachers is in the region of $55,000 – $70,000. Likewise an Elementary School Teacher earns an average salary of C$50,595 per year. And according to the latest figures, the highest hourly average (median) wages are earned in Calgary, Alberta at $37.58 per hour and the lowest average (median) wages are earned in Prince Edward Island at $30.00 per hour. Thus a typical full-time annual salary for this occupation is in the region of $60,000 – $75,000.

  • In Australia

The salary earned by teachers in Australia depends on the level of education being taught, while the average pay for a High School Teacher is AU$61,191 per year. A Primary School Teacher earns an average salary of AU$55,290 per year.

While a casual teacher with three to four years’ experience could earn $220-$290 per day. Casual teachers with less experience could earn like $95 to $120 per day. While generally the Salaries for permanent teachers may be around $33,000-$45,000 per year for teachers with a few years’ experience and can go up to $55,000-$70,000 for teachers holding much more senior positions.

  • In the united kingdom

An international report found that English teachers are one of the highest paid in the world, and yet they work for a short period of duration. Though new entrants to the primary school teaching Profession in England, Wales and Northern Ireland start on the main salary scale, this rises incrementally from £22,244 to £32,831. Enhanced pay scales apply for teachers working in or near London.

In Scotland, the new entrants’ starting salary is £21,867, plus any payments made through the Preference Waiver Scheme, rising incrementally to £34,887. For high school teachers, newly qualified teachers (NQTs) in England and Wales start on the main salary scale, which rises incrementally from £22,023 to £32,187.

London salaries may be higher depending on location. Salaries on the main scale in Northern Ireland range from £21,804 to £31,868.In Scotland, salaries range from £21,867 to £34,887.

In addition, in some parts of Scotland it may be possible to obtain a Distant Island Allowance or Remote Schools Allowance. NQTs will receive an additional payment of £8,000 under the Preference Waiver Scheme if they agree to work anywhere in Scotland for their induction year.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Teacher Online?

Becoming a teacher as a professional doesn’t take long unlike some other professions. The length of time it takes to become a teacher can vary, but there are some similarities. For example, all states require at least a bachelor of arts or a Bachelor of Science degree. Most education requirements have increased over time and standards are set by the individual states. Added to these differences in state requirements are the various education routes available.

Thus, the length of schooling necessary will depend on your individual situation. Becoming a teacher therefore can take within 4-6 years, depending on the route one wishes to follow.

The routes and their differences are as follows:

  • The Four-Year Route: This can be attained whenever it is possible to complete all of the necessary requirements to teach at elementary school or kindergarten in four years. Though, it is not likely that someone would be able to teach a high school after only four years of schooling, but it is important to get the training.. In order to complete everything in four years, you would need to get a bachelor’s degree at a university or college that also offers a teacher certification along with a student-teaching program to acquire the necessary teaching hours.
  • The Five-Year Route: This situation is applicable in most states, where you can only teach at middle or high school after obtaining a bachelor’s degree, subject area endorsement, and certification and teaching hours. The length of time required to get an endorsement can vary from state to state. Getting an endorsement may require an extra semester or just a couple of additional classes. In some states, teachers may start to work while they obtain their endorsement. Those who change majors or complete their certification programs after their degrees are more likely to need five years.
  • The Six-Year Route: This is when it practically takes about four to five years to complete a bachelor’s degree in the specific subject area you will be teaching at the middle and high school levels. Some states require a master’s degree, which takes one to two years. In some cases, a master’s can be earned while teaching. Although it takes more time, a master’s typically means higher pay, more freedom to teach the subject of your choice, and a higher likelihood of getting a job.

Therefore, generally the route to becoming a teacher is usually between four-six years.

Educational Requirements Needed to Become a Teacher

Undergraduate training programs, an essential requirement that can lead to a bachelor’s degree in education, usually vary depending on the prospective teacher’s specialization. Likewise aspiring elementary school teachers undergo training programs that will provide them with insights into the best methods for teaching different subjects.

Middle and secondary school teachers usually teach just one subject and may earn double majors in both education and the subject area they teach. Some states require potential teachers to take certain required courses, such as teaching children with special needs or using technology in the classroom.

An alternative education program is also available to professionals who have already earned their undergraduate degrees and would like a transition into teaching. For example, a college graduate who has earned a bachelor’s degree in political science but does not have any post secondary training in education may use an alternative certification program, such as a Master of Arts in Teaching program, to become eligible for teacher certification. Additionally, alternative certification programs are common for high-need areas like math or science.

It is required that students in an alternative licensing program must already have a bachelor’s degree. The bachelor’s does not necessarily have to be in the subject area that the student will be teaching.

Are Certifications Required to Become a Teacher

  • National Board Certification: This is an advanced teaching credential offered by the  National Board for Professional teaching standards. It complements, but does not replace, a state’s teacher license. This certification is available nationwide for most pre- K-12 teachers. Before applying for National Board Certification you need to meet the following requirements: Hold a bachelor’s degree. Have completed three full years of teaching/counseling experience. Have a valid state teaching/counseling license for that period of time, or, if teaching where a license is not required, have taught in schools recognized and approved to operate by the state.
  • AMERICAN BOARD FOR CERTIFICATION OF TEACHER EXCELLENCE (ABCTE): This is dedicated to recruiting, preparing, certifying, and supporting teachers. It is designed to inspire people who are changing careers to become teachers. It offers a way to earn teaching certification using an online, independent study program with a rigorous and efficient process and a study plan customized for each candidate. Certification is offered in a variety of subject areas and is currently accepted in nine states as a route to full certification to teach in that state.

Can You Become a Teacher by Taking Online Courses?

Yes it is possible to become a teacher by taking online courses. For instance, those desiring to become elementary school teachers, there are various options of distance learning education that are widely available. Many colleges and universities offer online degree programs designed to prepare students for educating children in grades K-8.

While online education programs for prospective teachers can be found at many public and private four-year institutions and in multiple formats. Both undergraduate and graduate degree programs are available in elementary teacher education. With this program, students may be able to complete all their coursework online with the exception of student teaching requirements. Some schools may offer a hybrid program instead, which combines distance learning courses with campus-based instruction.

Examples of common online programs for this field include the following:

  • Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (K-8)
  • Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education Interdisciplinary Studies
  • Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (Early Childhood concentration)
  • Master of Arts in Teaching: Elementary Education
  • Master of Arts in Education: Elementary Education etc.

Skills and Traits Needed to Become a Successful Teacher

  1. An Engaging Personality and Teaching Style: A successful teacher is very engaging and holds the attention of students in all discussions.
  2. Clear Objectives for Lessons: A successful teacher must establish clear objectives for each lesson and thus works to meet those specific objectives during each class.
  3. Effective Discipline Skills: A successful teacher must be disciplined in order to promote positive change in students
  4. Good Classroom Management Skills: A successful teacher must have good classroom management skills and can ensure good student behaviors effectively
  5. Good Communication with Parents: A successful teacher maintains open communication with parents and keeps them informed of what is going on in the classroom as far as curriculum, discipline, and other issues.
  6. High Expectations: A successful teacher has high expectations of their students and motivates everyone to always work at their best level.
  7. Knowledge of Curriculum and Standards: A successful teacher has thorough knowledge of the school’s curriculum and other standards that must be upheld in the classroom.
  8. Knowledge of Subject Matter: As obvious as this seems, it is sometimes overlooked. A successful teacher has incredible knowledge of and enthusiasm for the subject matter they are teaching.
  9. Passion for Children and Teaching: A successful teacher is passionate about teaching and working with children. They are excited about influencing students’ lives
  10. Strong Rapport with Students: A successful teacher usually develops a strong rapport with students and establishes trusting relationships

Tips and Advice for Advancing your Career as a Teacher

  • Be passionate about
  • Start the learning process of your profession early
  • Be prepared for opportunities
  • Lead by example always
  • Actively acquire new skills