Teaching the Teacher: Professional DevelopmentBecause, in the world of education, professional development is a way of life All Education Articles & Resources | Find Education Schools There's always more to learn. As a teacher, you know that better than anyone. Through continuing professional education, you can satisfy your own passion for learning, while also gathering the fresh fruit of knowledge to bring back to your students. Teacher professional development can advance your career or move you closer to a long-term goal, such as a master's degree or education specialist program. It can also boost your confidence and send you back to the classroom with new energy. And most states actually require a minimum number of annual continuing education hours for you to keep your teaching license. Choices for Teacher Professional DevelopmentEducation professional development may include college level coursework, seminars, conferences or online classes. The best opportunities for teacher continuing education are those that interest you personally and offer worthwhile information and ideas to enhance your performance in the classroom. Here are a couple of the many opportunities available:
Be sure to read up on all the requirements in your state by checking with your local Department of Education before pursuing professional development credits. Costs for Teacher Professional DevelopmentCosts for teacher continuing education can vary widely. Some learning opportunities, such as the Department of Education workshops mentioned above, are free. Online courses through private companies typically offer 10 to 20 contact hours for under $100. When you take a class or workshop that has met the requirements to offer accepted Continuing Education Units (CEUs), you can expect to pay at least $100 per CEU. Each CEU represents ten contact hours of learning. University courses are generally more expensive at a few hundred dollars or more per credit hour; however, you would also be earning credit toward a graduate degree while completing your required professional education. This double benefit can have you well on your way to the salary and job perks graduate degrees can bring to teachers. Most public and private schools have funds to help their teachers pursue continuing professional education. After all, every school wants teachers brimming with knowledge, enthusiasm and innovative teaching techniques, so the majority of them are willing to support the growth of their teachers in this way. Finding the Time for Professional DevelopmentMany teacher continuing education providers arrange their offerings around the school calendar so that teachers can pursue education professional development during their summer vacations or through weekend workshops. Also, many colleges and universities offer night classes for working students that can count toward advanced degrees, as well as continuing professional education. For ultimate convenience and flexibility, you can take courses online and complete the work around your own schedule. A growing number of online schools offer teacher professional development courses, as well as comprehensive degree programs. You can usually find a high-quality, accredited educational experience at most of these schools, but be sure to check that the school you choose is recognized in your state. Rewards of Lifelong LearningProfessional development is a win-win situation for teachers, schools and students. You get to learn and grow, and your career grows along with you. Soon you may find yourself craving more than just a few classes here and there and moving on to pursue a master's degree or even a doctorate. Whether you teach kindergarteners or seniors, aspiring artists or future scientists, continuing professional education ensures that you'll continue to be the best teacher you can be, year after year. There's no better way to keep the joy of learning alive while finding new ideas and ways to inspire your students! |
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