Has anyone considered (or have done) the alternate route to teaching? (instead of the traditional--MA degree)?

Question

I am interested in teaching high school social studies, primarily US history, and I saw brochures and read some info on the alternate route to teaching, but I am still not sure about it? Any advice, tips?? Also, if I did take the alternate route how would I get the valuable classroom experience to effectively teach students?

Answer 1

I don't know what the alternate route is but as for "valuable classroom teaching" if you have a passion for teaching and know your material you will be good. A good teacher comes naturally and it is the love of what they do. Befriend other teachers for insight on the ins and outs.•

Answer 2

I am currently in an alternative certification program. It has its pros and cons. For one thing, you are learning on the job, you won't have alot of background in teaching or the many tips and things you can do to manage a class, lesson plan, etc. But even if you went and got the MS to teach, you still wouldn't have the experience to teach.

Although it is very stressful, I am glad I decided to go ACP because I am getting paid while I learn. There isn't any course you can teach that will prepare you for teaching. Just start, learn as you go, and know that next year it will be different. I know what I will and what I definately won't do next year!

Hope that helps. You can also look at the program I am with to compare if you like. its www.txteachers.org

Answer 3

I completed the alternative teacher program to get my M.Ed and certification. I did this at the University of West Alabama, and I did my student teaching with my Masters, so I did recieve some teaching experience with my degree. I also was able to do this program in about a year. You do about 30 hours in education classes, and 25 in your subject area. You will be working on your Secondary Education degree. This alternative program is a really great one.

Answer 4

depends which state you're doing the alternate in. each state is different.

in florida, you don't get student teaching experience during the alternate, which means you get through school much much faster and for cheaper, but the cons is - a lot of schools will prefer to hire those who have completed student teaching. so you'll be among the last people they hire. you may also have to go through additional paperwork, and complete a portfolio, once a school district does hire you, and be on a temporary certificate for about 2 years, instead of getting a permenant one right away.

but - it depends on your state. none of that may be true for your state. call the local school district and ask to speak to someone in personnel. they can tell you the qualifications/requirements to teach.