Job Description for an Educator
Educators teach students of all ages and in a variety of settings. Many educators work in the public school system as teachers, administrators or in a specialized area of education. Preschools, private schools and colleges and universities employ educators of all levels as well. Some educators work directly with students while others focus on the operational tasks of running an educational institution.
Other People Are Reading
-
Teachers
-
Teachers work directly with students to impart knowledge through a variety of learning opportunities. They create and implement lesson plans and learning activities and test and grade students on their mastery of the course material. At the elementary or primary grade level, teachers usually teach a variety of subjects to their pupils. Teachers in middle and high schools often specialize in one subject area and teach on this topic exclusively. Teachers at all levels of education from kindergarten to high school spend many hours on their feet presenting lessons and supervising student activities. They often spend out-of-classroom time preparing for lessons, gathering materials and supplies, speaking with parents and other educators and participating in continuing education courses and workshops.
Administrators
-
Most education administrators hold at least a master's degree in education or related fields, according to the 2010-2011 Occupational Outlook Handbook. Administrators hold leadership positions within individual schools as principals, vice principals and central office administrators within a district. Principals oversee school policies and operations, prepare budgets and communicate with co-workers, students and parents. Assistant or vice principals focus on areas such as class scheduling, transportation and other tasks within the school. At the district and state level, administrators develop, evaluate and choose curricula, direct various programs within the district and serve as liaisons between the school district and the community.
-
Specialization
-
Several specialties exist within the field of education. Special education teachers work with students with a variety of physical, emotional and learning disabilities. Additional education allows educators to work as librarians, counselors, reading specialists or within other niche areas of the school system. Other specialties include music, art, physical education and other subjects often classified as electives.
Post-secondary Educators
-
Post-secondary educators instruct students following high school graduation in a variety of areas. Those at four-year colleges and universities frequently perform research in their area of specialty in addition to actually teaching students. They give lectures, advise and supervise students and meet with students and faculty members. They often serve on various committees and conduct administrative duties. Those at two-year colleges may have more frequent and direct interaction with students and spend more time advising students on an individual basis.
Skills
-
Educators perform many different jobs and duties requiring a wide range of skills. All educators need thorough education and training, including opportunities for hands-on learning prior to graduation and licensing. Educators should communicate effectively in a variety of formats with people from a varied backgrounds and educational levels. They must remain detail-oriented, creative, and personable, and possess excellent problem-solving skills. Successful educators motivate students and others around them to perform to their highest abilities while providing patient direction and further instruction to struggling learners.
Others
-
There are a variety of other education positions available nationwide. These include careers as teaching assistants at the college level, teacher assistants or para-educators who help out in the classroom at elementary, middle and high school levels and early childhood educators such as daycare providers and preschool teachers. Requirements vary by the job with most requiring at least some post-secondary training in education or a related field. Licensing may be available or required in some states for some of these positions and continuing education courses may also be required.
-
References
- Occupational Outlook Handbook: Teachers--Kindergarten, Elementary, Middle and Secondary
- Occupational Outlook Handbook: Education Administrators
- Occupational Outlook Handbook: Teachers--Postsecondary
- Occupational Outlook Handbook: Teachers--Special Education
- Occupational Outlook Handbook: Teacher Assistants
Resources
- Photo Credit teacher image by Twilight Dragon from Fotolia.com
