Becoming a teacher?

Question

I'm undecided when it comes to my major in college. My parents, relatives, and other people constantly tell me the benefits of being a teacher and that I would love it. I'm getting lured in by the advantages of being a teacher, but I have a major problem with speaking in front of people. That's what teaching is! I would love to look into this, but I don't know if I could do it and I'm afraid it would be a mistake. Do you have any advice for me-is it possible for me to overcome my fear and earn a teaching certificate?

Answer 1

I think anyone who has taught and still tries to convince you they were never terrified is telling you a story! While I absolutely agree with the previous post in that I don't think that teaching is a calling (I do note that the 'calling' comment was posted by a college student and not an experienced teacher), there are definitely those people whose personalities are better suited to it than others, just the same as in any profession.

The sort of qualities which are pretty important include a big sense of humor, having the confidence to control (that's not the same as being able to shout - most control is achieved through positive behavior management), having a thick skin (you won't always hear praise from pupils or parents no matter how many hours you work and how diligent you are), knowing your subject well (kids can spot a phony) and being willing to really enjoy getting to know and nurture young people's abilities.

Certainly don't be lured into the profession by tales of long holidays and short working hours - these are myths! I can testify that during the school year I average about 65 hours a week and carry quite a bit of curriculum work and grading into the school holidays - perhaps that's a lot, but I know plenty of others in the same situation.

I'd advise you to volunteer as a teacher's aide or school helper, as this will give you a sense of the sort of dynamic you will find between teachers and their pupils. You may find yourself swept up in relationships rather than feeling yourself 'speaking in front of people' and it may give you not only the confidence to go further, but also the experience to convince a teacher training college to admit you. Really, there is no way to know if you can overcome it unless you put yourself into the situation where you can find out.

Good luck!

Source:
10 years as high school teacher & school principal in the UK / International School arena

Answer 2

Many teachers have overcome nervousness in front of others. It takes some longer than others. If you think this is something you would enjoy by all means look into it. Remember, before you are turned loose into a classroom you will have many experiences that will allow you to become comfortable in front of students. As one writer said, consider substituting. Another option would be to get a job in a day care to begin with. You won't know if it's a mistake until you at least give it some serious consideration. Just don't let anyone talk you into it because of the benefits. It won't be worth any benefits if you don't like the job.

Teaching IS NOT a CALLING. It is a job, a professional job just like any other. The ministry is a calling. As long as people look at teachers as doing their jobs as a "calling" they will never consider us professionals.

Answer 3

I have been an educator for 11 years (4 in the classroom and 7 as an administrator. I think everybody that goes into teaching is nervous about being in front of people, especially kids, unless they have some other experience that has given them experience at it. Ask yourself if you really like working with kids (maybe youve worked with them babysitting, at church, etc.) and are you easily flexible. No two days are the same, kids can be a handful if you dont have good control. Nervousness can be conquered and great control will be gained with experience. My best piece of advice would be to try substitute teaching at whatever age level (elem/middle/high school) you are interested in. This will give you a pretty good idea if (a) you like it all (b) you think you can handle it. I've known people who went through getting an educational degree, then did their student teaching and realized they hated it. If you sub, this may answer your questions. If you need any more info, you can e-mail me at [e-mail]. Good luck.

Answer 4

Teachers in general are outgoing, outspoken, and exhibitionists. But I know wonderful and talented teachers who, in class are all those things, but in front of their peers would never be able to stand in front of them to speak. So in that respect, you are not alone. If you have a fear of being questioned and challenged, you're better off teaching younger students. Your knowledge of the material will be very extensive (because the material is so basic) so if kids question you, you'll be able to answer it easily.
As a side story, my first year, another teacher actually told me he was so nervous the first few days of teaching that he actually dry heaved on his way to class. So don't feel too nervous, everyone teacher feels that way.
I've been teaching for 6 years and every year before the first day of school I still have trouble sleeping!

Answer 5

Regardless of the career you select, all service related occupations may require you to address a group of people at times. Yes. It is possible for you to overcome your fear and earn a teaching certificate. However, you must observe as many other alternatives as you feel would be feasible for you to pursue because you do not want to be stuck in a career that you will be dreading every day. Follow your own intuition. It is you, not your parents, who will be on the job every day. Best wishes.

Answer 6

Fear of speaking in front of people is nothing new. We've all been there, so you're not along by a longshot. It's a new experience that you haven't had before. It's like the first time you rode a bike, was shaky at first but in no time you were riding like a pro. Same goes for public speaking, nervous at first, but then as you practice more and realize it isn't really all that scary, you'll be an old pro.

Answer 7

Go to any school and tell them you want to observe a class. Teaching isn't really about public speaking its about control. If you can't control the kids you are going to lose. Half the fun of teaching is to lure the kids in that think you have nothing to teach them. I think talking in front of the class is the easiest of teaching chores. Paper work, parents, politics, and sometimes administrators can make teaching more challenging. I wouldn't worry about talking in front of the kids at all. Think about the other things I mentioned. When I think of myself I can't think about doing anyting else...if you can do the same then you're ready to be a teacher. Really any job means talking in front of people.

Answer 8

I am currently seeking a degree/certification in Elementary Education, and I have always had a huge fear of speaking publicly, however, as you continue your education,you not only are required to take a speech communications course that helps you get over those fears, but you will also have plenty of opportunities to practice those skills in several of your classes. Believe me, the fear is worse than the actuality of speaking publicly. You must remember that no matter what everyone is equally as nervous, and with practice it will get easier.

Answer 9

Well, talking in front of people is one thing...talking in front of studnets is another. I used to think I couldn't talk in front of people, as a matter of fact, I still get nervous when speaking in front of the entire staff. However, when speaking in my classroom to my students I feel very much at ease. Why? Because they are kids and I am teaching them things they don'e know or things they need to know. I truly enjoy teaching and would encourage others to get into the profession. Not only can you enfluence others, but you get many great vacation days and summers off! You also get awesome feedback from your students in both tangible and non-tangible ways! Teach!

Answer 10

I hate talking in front of people and I have finished my first year teaching. I find that it's not really hard for me to talk in front of children. It's just scary around people my age and older. I still can feel myself turning pink and getting warm when I have to talk in meetings and things, but luckily it's not that often. So if you think you would like teaching, then just do it. If I can talk in front of people all day so can you.