A Guide to Continuing Education for Teachers

04/30, 2024 - Sohini

  1. Introduction 

  2. Significance of continuing education for teachers

  3. What are the types of teacher continuing education?

  4. What are the benefits of continuing education for teachers?

  5. Where can teachers find continuing education courses?

  6. Which fields require continuing education courses

  7. Conclusion

Continuing education can help improve the knowledge of teachers. In continuing with their daily education, it is also crucial that they never stop learning about new things. Continuing education helps a teacher evolve and learn new opportunities. Keep reading to explore more about continuing education courses for teachers.

Significance of continuing education for teachers

Teaching is a practice that evolves continually. While new teachers can gain from their experience, experienced teachers can also benefit from continuing educational opportunities. Teaching as a profession involves several new methods and standards that need continuous improvement. Irrespective of the level of experience, continuing education programs can benefit teachers by helping them attain new things.

Irrespective of the grade level, they must be willing to be lifelong learners. This is crucial when teaching special education to keep up with the standards of high-quality care.

What are the types of teacher continuing education?

There are several kinds of courses to take. You will need to check the state and the CEU credits. However, here are some of the common opportunities:

  1. Graduate-level course: You can advance your career and take it in a new direction. You can use the courses for your CEUs.

  2. Workshops and training: These require less investment in time. These CEUs are beneficial in helping teachers acquire new skills, especially in managing classrooms and helping students with special needs.

  3. Conferences: Conferences are beneficial for helping you learn from the experts. They can help engage in discussions and create a network.

  4. Lectures: Learn from experts in the field on several topics.

What are the benefits of continuing education for teachers?

Continuing education for teachers are essential additions to your list. However, continuing education has several benefits that go beyond helping students. Here are several benefits of continuing education for teachers:

  1. Renewing your teaching license: This is one of the most common benefits related to your teaching license. Most states require a specific level of continuing education to renew your teaching license. The types of classes required for recertification vary depending on your state.

  2. Increase of promotion and salary: Although it might benefit based on the districts, continuing education is beneficial in requesting a salary advancement. Some districts also offer bonuses for specific levels of continuing education.

  3. Professional marketability: Continuing your education will make you more popular. You can add the credits and hours to your resume, whether you are located in a nearby district.

  4. Help with a career transition: If you are a teacher willing to make a change, continuing education can help you achieve it. Moving into a different role requires skills and knowledge, which help you build additional courses.

  5. Networking: Continuing education courses help you connect with others and build a large network. Connecting with professionals can help you learn new ideas and offer new opportunities.

Where can teachers find continuing education courses?

When it comes to finding CEU opportunities, there are several options. You will want to inspect your state for licensure and pick the best option to meet the requirements. Here are some common coursework options:

  • Universities and colleges: Many higher education institutions offer in-person and online credit courses. It will require an extended time commitment and cost more than training. However, it will be a high-quality course that will substantially boost your career.

  • Online courses: Online non-credit courses are popular and offer more flexibility as they have a shorter duration. By offering more flexibility, they have a shorter duration, and the work is completed at home.

In your local community, evaluate your own community and your school district. This will help you find the kind of CEUs offered. You can attend workshops and special conferences to help them meet the continuing education credits for teachers. It will help build skills and network with others in the community.

Read More: Need of CPR Programs for Schools & Teachers

Which fields require continuing education courses?

Here are some common professionals who require their employees to obtain continuing education credits to continue practicing:

Professions

Average amount of CEUs required

Lawyers 

Four CLE credit hours per year

Healthcare workers 

30 contact hours of continuing education 

Educators 

10-360 per licensure period

Accountants

20 CE credits minimum yearly

Engineers

16 PDH credits two years


Conclusion

Continuing education thus offers graduate-level courses. It is crucial to maintain state licensure because it keeps teachers updated on the best practices in education. By providing great opportunities for your career, professional development courses for teachers helps aspiring teachers grow their careers. Choose professional continuing education courses for teachers and get the best opportunities to advance your career.