Become a Technology Teacher

Keep students on the cutting edge by becoming a computer teacher

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Technology teachers impart the knowledge, tools and techniques necessary to help students develop technological literacy. Using math, science and technology principles, they teach students problem-based learning skills through laboratory activities that involve computers, machines and other technology.

Technology Teacher Job Description

Technology teachers work in elementary and secondary schools, where they conduct lessons in a classroom or laboratory setting. Here are some of the duties of a technology or computer teacher: Introducing basic computer, keyboard, and Internet skills Teaching students how to use design applications, computer-aided drafting or manufacturing to develop technological solutions Assigning projects where students deal with real-world constraints, such as time and materials Allowing students to unravel technological problems using a hands-on, trial and error approach Encouraging creative thinking through open-ended classroom projects Assisting students in connecting math, science and technological principles to everyday life

The Technology Teacher at Work

As a computer teacher, your day will depend mostly on the age and ability level of your students. Younger classrooms will focus on keyboarding and understanding basic word processing and other typical office programs, as well as Internet basics. With older students, you might offer more advanced classes in software programming, hardware, web design and programming, data processing or more advanced office programs.

Laboratory experiments for technology education students can be more complex and might involve one or more of the following innovations:

• animation
• automotive technology
• computer programming
• digital photography
• electronics
• lasers
• multimedia applications
• robotics

Depending on the school, technology or computer teachers might present whole-class instruction or individualized exercises using a teacher presentation system linked to computer workstations.

Compute Your Salary

The weekly schedules for technology teachers may vary in hours and intensity, which would inherently impact their income. For example, smaller elementary schools might deliver technology or computer education to each grade level once a week. In contrast, technology teachers in secondary schools would likely teach full-time to deliver the comprehensive technology curriculum appropriate for secondary students.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average yearly teacher salary in 2006 was $49,109. October 2008 data from Salary.com indicates that average salaries for public school teachers range from $43,194 and $57,731 annually.

Teachers can increase their earnings through a number of options, such as earning advanced degrees, gaining experience or attaining national or advanced certification.

Power Up With Education and Training

Colleges offer different computer bachelor's degree tracks. Some give education majors the option to specialize in technology, while others make technology education available as a major. You will also find colleges that offer master's degree programs in technology education studies.

Your technology teacher education will emphasize math, science, communication and teaching concepts as they relate to the grade level(s) you plan to teach. Specific course work may cover the following areas:

• general physics
• multimedia design
• writing and communication
• engineering math and design
• structures and mechanics
• manufacturing systems
• multiculturalism
• content and methods
• student teaching

Certification Options

Certification requirements for technology teachers will vary from state to state, so check with your local Department of Education to see what's required in your area. The following three organizations work in concert to accredit academic programs that award technology teaching degrees:

• National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE)
• International Technology Education Association (ITEA)
• Council on Technology Teacher Education (CTTE)

The NCATE indicates three phases of teacher preparation and development to assure public trust in teaching professionals:

• Attend a professionally accredited school of education
• Attain your state license, which typically involves passing a state exam and meeting education and experience requirements
• Earn advanced certification to demonstrate your dedication to continuous education and expertise in your field

As a technology teacher, you are giving each generation of students the edge they need to compete in a highly technological world. Through your passion and interest in this field, you will create a lasting interest among your students—who will one day be developing the technology that your next class will use.