Being a great teacher is about so much more than the right qualifications. Of course, qualifications count, and there are a couple of routes you can take. You can also choose the path of an educator as soon as you leave school or get your qualifications much later in life. Ask anyone, and you’ll be told that teaching children of all ages can be very challenging. Dragging them away from their mobile devices and encouraging them to learn something new can be difficult. Inspiring them on to bigger and better things requires a certain skill set. If you’re wondering whether you’ve got what it takes, read on to find out what you need:
Formal Qualifications
The qualification required if you want to be a teacher varies, depending on where you live and where you want to teach. In the US, for example, you need to earn a bachelor’s degree from an approved teacher education program. This is the base entry level and will mean your choice of job is restricted. For more flexibility, you could choose a higher qualification such as a Masters. You can continue to work while you complete the Merrimack College Teaching Degrees online
What it Takes to be a Great Teacher
There are certain characteristics and personal skills associated with being a teacher. For a start, you have to be comfortable and enjoy being around other people. It’s not just enjoying their company either, as you will have to interact with them too. As well as children you will need to communicate with colleagues, other professionals, and parents. A great teacher also has to be very patient. There’s no point in losing your temper because your students aren’t listening. Teachers also have to be very flexible. Things don’t always go according to plan during a lesson, and you need to be able to think on your feet.
One of the most important qualities a teacher needs to possess is that they have to be caring. Not just about the students but about their success as well. If you don’t care about what you’re doing, this type of job will quickly become a chore. You need to be passionate about learning and educating in order to be an inspiring teacher.
Try Before You Buy
A great way to find out whether you’ve got what it takes is to get into the classroom and volunteer. Get in touch with your local schools and ask if you can come in and help out for a day or two. Explain the reason behind your request and most schools will be happy to have you help. You might even get a chance to talk to some of the teachers and ask them what they like about the job.
There are other practical considerations you might want to think about, such as salary, certification requirements and whether there are any jobs in your area. If you want to play a part in the educating of future generations, teaching is a good route to take. It’s not going to be the easiest of careers, but you can be certain it will be rewarding.
