Careers in education are a great way to help students learn and apply concepts in various classroom subjects such as English, math and science. In 2002 educators held more than 4.2 million job positions in the United States.
Common goals among educators include helping their students learn and apply real life concepts, understand abstract concepts, work out problems, and develop crucial thought processes. However, specific responsibilities of educators vary among academic level.
Elementary School Teachers generally instruct a single class of children, from five years old to twelve years old, in several different subjects. Their goal is to help further the students� language and vocabulary development, improve upon their social skills and introduce and enhance scientific and mathematical concepts. Elementary school educators do this in several ways; they read with students, spend individualized time with each student and they have the students work in small groups. In this phase of education children are taught basic social and scholastic skills needed to progress to the next step of learning.
Middle and Secondary School Teachers instruct students ages twelve through eighteen. These educators teach more in depth concepts of subjects that were introduced to the students in elementary school. They expose students to more valuable information about the world and provide the knowledge and skills that are needed in order to attend a postsecondary school. Middle and secondary school teachers usually specialize in one specific subject. Classes include English, mathematics, history, Spanish and chemistry. These teachers are also trained to teach subjects that are focused around careers.
Special Education Teachers work with children and teenagers with various disabilities. Most teachers instruct students at the elementary, middle and secondary school level. Some special education teachers work with students who have mental retardation or autism. They initially teach these students basic life and literacy skills. Generally, special education teachers only work with children who have mild to moderate disabilities. In these instances, educators use general education curriculum, or modified versions, in order to meet each child�s learning needs.
Postsecondary School Teachers instruct students in numerous academic and vocational subjects well beyond the high school level. These courses lead to improved academic and life skills and may even lead to a degree. Postsecondary teachers include college and university faculty, technical education teachers and graduate teaching assistants. However, the majority of postsecondary teachers are college and university faculty. Because of technological advances these teachers need to have advanced technology skills that include computer technology, the Internet, electronic mail, software programs and CD-ROMs.
