Online Social Studies Teacher
If you are aspiring to become an educator and would like to teach a broad range of subjects, consider becoming a Social Studies teacher. Social studies teachers teach subjects such as American and world history, civics, geography, sociology, and anthropology to middle and high school students. In order to become a social studies teacher, an individual must at least have a bachelor’s degree in a related subject and meet state teacher certification requirements. Read on to learn more about what it takes to become a Social Studies teacher.
Qualifications: Courses, Training, Certification
Every state requires Social Studies teachers to hold a bachelor’s degree and obtain teaching certification. Most Social Studies teachers earn a bachelor’s degree in Education, although many states now offer programs that allow college graduates with other degrees to become teachers as well. Courses for Social Studies teachers include philosophy of education, psychology of learning, and teaching methods. Education certification programs also include supervised practice teaching in schools.
Required Skills
Social Studies teachers must be able to effectively communicate with students, as well as build their trust, motivate them, and understand their needs. These teachers also need computer skills, along with the ability to work cooperatively with parents and other teachers.
Role of a Social Studies Teacher
Social Studies teachers are somewhat different from other types of teachers, as they’re expected to have a direct impact on students’ behavior through their teaching. They use lessons in a variety of subjects such as government, geography, civic ideals, and current events to give students the knowledge and skills needed to become well-rounded citizens. These professionals are found in every grade level from kindergarten to 12th grade. They also assign and grade homework and create and lead classroom activities.
Job Opportunities and Salaries
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov), the number of jobs for Social Studies teachers will increase 12% by 2016, with most job opportunities found in urban schools. The BLS also notes that Social Studies teachers who are bilingual will have the best chances of finding jobs.
Social Studies teachers’ typical annual pay rate is $32,000–$55,000, mostly influenced by the school employing the teacher as well as by their qualifications (experienced teachers tend to be paid more).
Now What Are You Waiting For?
If becoming a qualified Social Studies teacher is your goal, go ahead and pick the online Social Studies Teacher Education program that suits you the most from the list of courses offered by accredited universities and be on the way to building a successful career!
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics