How to Become a Computer Applications Instructor

Become a computer applications instructor to share your knowledge with others. You can work for a college, school district, online academy or as an independent contractor.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Cover letter
• 4-year degree or 5 years of experience
• Resumé
• Public speaking seminar

1. Secure a bachelor's degree in computer sciences, with a minor in education to jump-start the process. If you already have at least 5 years of experience in the field, but lack the requisite degree, you may be able to obtain a teaching position with a smaller company or institution.
2. Immerse yourself in as many available computer applications classes as you can find. It's important that you become well-schooled in the software applications for the major operating systems, like Windows XP, Vista and Macintosh systems. In the future, you might want to focus your teaching on a certain area like web design, writing software programs or networking systems.
3. Brush up on your interpersonal communications skills. Standing up in front of a classroom filled with students will be challenging at first, but if you take the time to study how to speak in front of a group effectively, you will be a better instructor. You should pay particular attention to developing non-verbal communications skills, effective leadership methods and staying organized while delivering technical information.
4. Approach an online-based institution about the possibility of becoming an instructor. Web-based universities hire instructors to write course outlines, assist students with help, host web discussions and write blogs about computer instruction. You can find a list of online-based educational institutions on the ComputerSchools.com website (see Resources below).
5. Send your resumé to a host of colleges, academic facilities, local school districts and libraries in your area. You'll find that a number of agencies and people need computer applications instruction. After sending out your resume and personalized cover letter, make a follow-up phone call to see if your paperwork is with the appropriate staff member.
6. Attend local job fairs, vocational schools and technical training centers to enhance your job search. By speaking directly to representatives from organizations you're interested in, you can see what type of jobs are available, find out about benefits and review what skills these companies are looking for.

Tips & Warnings

• Take on a job as a student teacher while in college to beef up your instructional experience. You can truly benefit from this first-hand experience.