One of the best things about an adult education degree is the flexibility
it offers. The program can train you to teach in a lot of different places,
from high schools to correctional facilities.
And there are many paths that may lead to a career in adult education.
A degree in adult education is available at both undergraduate and graduate
levels in the U.S.
Entrance requirements vary. James Witte is a coordinator of adult education
programs at Auburn University. He suggests students develop a broad academic
background while in high school -- especially in areas that require a
lot of reading and thinking.
"Any coursework that demonstrates the...ability to speak, to write and
to think are pluses," he says.
Grades matter, too. The higher your grades, the better your chances
of getting into a program. "We look for high SAT or ACT scores as well as
a high grade-point average," says Witte.
"Beyond that, individual motivation, the willingness to learn, maturity
and the ability to work with people are desired qualities."
Students in adult education typically take courses on the nature of
adult education, adult program development and evaluation and teaching methods,
says Witte.
You can also become an adult educator if you have some vocational experience.
So if you know a trade well, you could teach it to other adults.
Practical experience has often been the only requirement for teachers of
adult vocational-technical courses. But Witte says this is changing. "I think
what we're seeing now is a rise in educational requirements. In order
to teach plumbers, it is no longer sufficient to be a good plumber. You also
have to be a good teacher," he says.
There are few additional expenses in adult education programs other
than assigned readings and occasional textbooks.
Links
Occupational Outlook Handbook
For more information related to this field of study, see: Adult
Basic and Secondary Education and Literacy Teachers and Instructors
Education World
A place to go for lesson plans, educational links and other resources
Grad Schools.com -- Adult and Continuing Education
A list of master's programs worldwide