Hello everyone I wanted to ask some questions on teaching English as I am planning to possibly pursue a career in this field. I am going to list them now; thanks in advance for any input.
1) Does it matter what University/College you attend to get your degree from? Does it matter if the school is private or public?
2) What is the correct degree to aim for teaching English (high school level)? I would suppose an English degree from an accredited university but I want to double check.
3) To begin teaching I believe I need a state licence (how would I get this in the state of Georgia)?
4) How do you get experience in this field with no prior experience?
Thanks everyone!
Answers
John,
1. As long as the school is accredited by the state, no it doesn't matter.
2. Check with the Georgia State Board of Education; every state is different; usually, a credential after a bachelor's degree is required; some schools are starting to offer credential and masters together with teaching experience. Attend "School/Teacher Career Fairs" many schools will be recruiting and you can find out a lot in a day.
3. Check with the Georgia State Board of Education; at times credentials are waived if there is significant need.
4. Not only is student teaching required as part of a credential program, but during undergraduate studies there are many opportunities to tutor, coach or teach on campus and at local institutions, both paid and volunteer. You don't have to wait to be in a program to take advantage of these and the more experience/exposure you get in the field the more it will help you decide or confirm your goals and gain tools.
Good luck,
Thanks for the help everyone!
the first place is to check with the state board of education . Many states will require you to have a bachelors degree in some aspect related to the curriculum ie: english lit / comp, chemistry, math etc as well as a certificate in education -- which is less hours but will give you the teaching credentials once you get your BA you can substitute teach and that is a great way to get into a school as they will get to know you and you will be there to see if any of the teachers may be leaving / retiring
there are several state mandated skill tests that you will take when you are closer to finishing and your school will help you ---
as for the quality / big name school Q -- of course you want to go to the best fit for your interests, budget, and area of interest -- but I have seen teachers will all experience get great jobs --- a Masters degree will also be a bonus -- but to get the first job a BA/ teaching cert is a way to go -- with the low budgets of schools these days they may be more apt to hire inexperienced teachers at that pay level
good luck !
John, while I have no experience along this line, my husband taught junior high English quite a few years ago, so he's helping me answer your questions.
1. Your degree is the same regardless of school, as is your pay. There might be a perceived hiring advantage to attending a more prestigious school, such as the Ivy League schools, but it probably isn't worth the extra expense.
2. You need at least a Bachelor of Science in Education. Your area of concentration would be in some aspect of English - literature, writing, etc. You will also select a minor program of study. Having a Master's will put you in a higher pay bracket.
3. Yes, every state has some sort of licensing or credential requirement. You may be able to find Georgia's information online, or through whatever school you select.
4. Student teaching is part of your curriculum for graduation. Experienced teachers could have an advantage in hiring, but everyone has to start somewhere after graduation, and that is understood. Your military experience could also count in your favor for getting hired, so make sure to mention it on your resume.
Hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
Gail Baccetti
gbaccetti@hotmail.com
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