Adult Literacy and High School Equivalency Diploma Teachers
Training & Qualifications
Most adult literacy and high school equivalency diploma teachers must have at least a bachelor's degree. Employers typically prefer workers who have some teaching experience.
Education
Most states require adult literacy and high school equivalency diploma teachers to have at least a bachelor's degree. Some employers, such as community colleges, prefer to hire those with a master's degree or graduate coursework in adult education or English as a Second Language (ESL). Some colleges and universities offer master's degrees or graduate certificates in teaching adult education or ESL.
Programs in adult education prepare prospective teachers to develop adult education programs, to use effective teaching strategies for adult learners, to work with students from a variety of cultures and backgrounds, and to teach adults with learning disabilities. Some programs allow these prospective teachers to specialize in adult basic education, secondary education, or ESL.
Prospective ESL teachers should take courses or training in linguistics and theories of how people learn second languages. Knowledge of a second language is not necessary to teach ESL, but it can be helpful to understand what students are going through.
Many adult literacy and high school equivalency diploma teachers take professional development classes to improve their teaching skills and ensure that they keep up with the latest research in teaching adults.
Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations
Some states require adult literacy and high school equivalency diploma teachers to have a teaching certificate to work in government-run programs. Some states have certificates specifically for adult education. Other states require teachers to have a certificate in elementary or secondary education.
To obtain a license, adult literacy and high school equivalency diploma teachers typically need a bachelor's degree and must complete an approved teacher-training program. For more information, contact the state director of adult education. Contact information can be found from the U.S. Department of Education.
Training
In order to receive certification or licensure, teachers may need to perform fieldwork, commonly referred to as student teaching. During student teaching, they work with a mentor teacher and get experience teaching students in a classroom setting. The amount of student teaching that is required varies by state.
Important Qualities
Communication skills. Adult literacy and high school equivalency teachers must collaborate with other teachers and program administrators. In addition, they talk with students about their progress and goals, and must explain concepts in terms that students can understand.
Cultural sensitivity. Teachers must be able to work with students from a variety of cultural, educational, and economic backgrounds. They must be understanding and respectful of their students' backgrounds and be familiar with their concerns.
Patience. Working with students of different abilities and backgrounds can be difficult. Teachers must be patient when students struggle with material.
Resourcefulness. Adult literacy and high school equivalency diploma teachers must respond appropriately to difficult situations and think on their feet. For example, they need to be able to alter their teaching methods to meet the needs of each student they teach and find ways to keep students engaged in learning.