Online Teacher Training
One of the most helpful developments for teachers over recent years has been the increase in the availability of online teacher training. Five to ten years ago if a teacher wanted to complete some extra training they would need to enroll in a course either over weekends or during their vacations. This is no longer necessary as courses can now be taken as and when the teachers want and at their own pace. With modules and courses needing as little as five hours work per week even the busiest teacher can add to their qualifications.
Online teacher training courses usually take one of two formats. The more straightforward and basic courses will consist of a series of modules which have to be completed on a regular basis. On successful completion of the modules you will be awarded a diploma or a certificate. Many of the more in depth courses will require the completion of the relevant modules and attendance at a number of classroom sessions. These classroom sessions will help to provide the student with knowledge and techniques which can only be taught in a live environment, such as how to control a classroom or deal with unruly students. These classroom sessions will usually take place on weekends and during times when schools are closed.
It is important that you choose the right course for your personal circumstances. You may need to organize your course around a busy family life or your current job. Many people make the mistake of assuming that they can easily find an extra 5 or 6 hours a week to study but this is not always possible. Some online teacher education providers are happy to give you a demo course which you can try to complete in a week. If you find that this is proving to be a problem you should possibly consider a residential course or even night classes at a local college as many people find it much easier to study in a structured environment than at home.
There is a wide variety of courses available and whatever you are looking for, you should be able to find a college or private company who are able to supply it. Some courses will deal with single subjects like algebra, designed to improve a math teacher’s knowledge of the subject. Such a course is available from $199 and will take 30 hours to complete. On the other hand, a series of courses aimed at providing a teacher with all the qualifications to become a head teacher or school director will cost many thousands of dollars and take several years to complete. It can occasionally be difficult to make the right choice, so to help you many colleges will have student liaison officers who can advise you on which are the best courses to take.