What Is a Teacher – Adult Literacy?
An adult literacy teacher teaches adults as well as out-of-school youths in reading, writing, speaking English, and math. It is with these skills that they are then able to solve problems, better their job opportunities, and advance their education.
There are three main parts of instruction these teachers offer to those ready and willing – adult basic education, adult secondary education, and general educational development. All are designed to help those who most likely did not graduate from high school or those who passed through school without acquiring the knowledge required to meet their educational or career goals. Typically the students in these classes are immigrants or others that do now view English as their first language.
Teachers who work with adult English-language learners are regularly titled teachers of English as a second language. Adult literacy teachers cover basic academic courses – i.e. mathematics, history, science – using instructional methods that are specifically designed for adult learning.
How to Become a Teacher – Adult Literacy
Almost every program requires its teachers to have at least a bachelor’s degree – however there are those that require a master’s degree in adult education. Some states require teachers to have a license explicitly for adult education teachers.
In almost all parts of the country, adult education teachers do need at least a bachelor’s degree, but if you are looking to make the application process easier on yourself and increase the chances of you receiving a job out of school, it is recommended that you work toward earning a master’s degree.
Adult literacy teachers are expected to be able to work with all different types of people. Interacting on a regular basis with a wide range of people, who stray from all parts of the country, is a daily occurrence. As an adult literacy teacher, you will be expected to fully respect and understand all of your student’s personal concerns. It is important to know how to successfully motivate all of your students and help them reach their potential.
Teacher – Adult Literacy Career Outlook & Salary
According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2008 teachers of adult literacy held about 96,000 jobs. Other teachers served as unpaid volunteers. Most of these jobs are federally funded, with more funds coming from State and local governments. Almost every one of these teachers is employed by the educational services industry.
Employment is projected to grow faster than average, with a large amount of job openings expected because of the need to replace people who leave the occupation or those who have chosen to recently retire. Job opportunities are expected to be good, particularly for teachers who are helping those that speak another language.
Employment of adult literacy teachers is anticipated to grow by 15% through 2018 – this is faster than the average for all occupations. With employers looking to constantly add more literate employees to their staff, the demand for adult literacy teachers is most likely going to grow.