Key Differences in Requirements for University Lecturers and High School Teachers
Have you ever wondered why high schools and universities have different requirements for teaching staff? Specifically, why does a high school require a teaching certification, while universities do not? This article will explore the underlying reasons behind this distinction, and provide insights into the rules and regulations that govern these educational institutions.
Understanding the Need for Certification in High Schools
It is a widely accepted assumption, and one that I believe to be correct, that university students are adults with a willingness to attend class. Thus, they don't necessarily require the same level of patience or imaginative teaching techniques as high school students, who are often described as captive and unwilling to attend class. Providing these high school students with a more personalized and patient approach is crucial to their learning experience.
However, it is interesting to note that university lecturers could potentially benefit from some form of education training, which is why the requirements for teaching credentials in universities are less stringent.
Laws and Regulations: A Major Driver for High School Teaching Certificates
Two different places, two different sets of rules. State laws govern who can teach in public elementary, middle, and high schools. Additionally, a teaching certificate obtained in one state, like Missouri, may not be recognized in another state, such as Texas. In the case of Texas, one might need to complete additional coursework in Texas history to obtain a teaching certificate.
Before becoming a high school teacher, I had taught university courses as a graduate assistant. Did the certification coursework for teaching improve my teaching skills? In general, I would say no. However, there were several classes that I found to be highly beneficial. The quality of education professors also plays a significant role.
Sometimes, states allow individuals to teach for a limited time without a teaching certificate. This was the case for my best friend, who had one year to obtain her certification before her contract would be renewed, regardless of her teaching quality. Also, the No Child Left Behind Act mandated that every classroom must have a 'well-qualified' teacher, which typically means a state-certified teacher.
The Role of Regulation in Ensuring High-Quality Education
Most people tend to answer this question with knowledge-based answers. However, I believe that the need for teaching certificates is more related to regulation than to the quality of education itself.
Public schools are subject to local, state, and federal laws that mandate the requirements for teaching staff. These requirements are in place because the schools receive funding from public taxes. Lawmakers want to ensure high-quality education by hiring only those with teaching certificates. Furthermore, the requirements for obtaining a teaching certificate are also regulated.
On the other hand, universities receive the majority of their funds from tuition and often operate more like a business model. They establish their own rules for staff, which are often based on prestige. A well-known and published professor can attract more students and generate more revenue. Since tax money does not pay salaries, university staff are not regulated.
Finding the Right Teaching Approach
While some universities may not require teaching certifications, it is essential for educators to find the right approach to teaching. High school teachers need to be patient, imaginative, and understanding to cater to the needs of their students. Similarly, university lecturers can benefit from educational training to enhance their teaching skills and better engage their students.
Ultimately, the goal of education is to ensure that students receive a high-quality learning experience. Whether it is through certification or other forms of training, it is crucial for educators to find the methods that best suit their students' needs.