Career in Teaching - CareerLight

Introduction::

Now, Teaching is one of the gracious professions in the world and has become a boon to society. Through confidence, wisdom, patience, intelligence, friendliness, amicability, communication skills and passion for subject, a good teacher can contribute many eminent doctors, engineers, journalists and other professionals to the society. They can shape a child’s character and groom students to excel in their chosen field. Thus, a teacher, not only builds up the aptitude and intellectual mind of students, but also regulates the behavior of the society in an indirect manner and creates the sense of responsibility as citizens of the country.

Hence, teaching has been among those career options that have different specializations. After acquiring the desired skills and qualifications, teachers can join any of the educational institutes in both public and private sector. A qualified teacher can also earn some extra money by offering private tuitions or opening up a coaching institute. So, a teacher must always try to be a friend, philosopher and guide to his students.

Nature of Work:

Depending upon the educational qualification and skills, teachers can become professors of colleges and universities, teachers of preschool, kindergarten, elementary, middle and high schools, tuition teachers, teachers of performing arts such as music, dance or teachers of defense techniques and martial arts. They can also work as specialists in the field of adult literacy, remedial and self-enrichment education.

Teachers can find employment in:
• Play schools
• Nursery schools
• Primary/elementary schools
• Secondary schools
• Colleges
• Universities
• Educational research institutes
• Special schools
• Self employment by starting institutes/tutorials

Remuneration: Primary level teachers draw a salary around Rs. 5000 to Rs. 9000 per month. The salary of senior level teachers ranges between Rs. 15000 and Rs. 20000 per month. Experience can bring a hike in the salary. The pay scale of college and university professors ranges from Rs. 25000 to Rs. 35000 per month.
So, if you have an interest in this subject or need a secure professional career and regular annual vacations, you can opt for this career. It is also a better career choice for those who have retired from professional services.

Eligibilty:

The teaching profession has many myths about it. It is commonly believed that anyone can teach, provided he has some knowledge for the subject. Nothing could be farther from the truth. Knowledge is just one thing that a teacher should have among other things. The fundamental qualities required are excellent communication skills, the ability to hold the attention of young minds, to inspire confidence and finally, the ability to set an example by word and deed.

To enter schools, you should have a B.Ed degree. Colleges across the country offer these degrees. Some universities offer B.Ed courses by correspondence too. One can do the M.Ed later, to add to qualifications. As a matter of fact, M. Ed is only required to enhance your possibilities of promotion or getting the next higher grade. Incase you want to specialise as a nursery teacher only; you must undergo a special nursery teachers\\\’ training, available in various universities. In case an individual plans to be a games/physical fitness instructor, he/she will require obtaining a certificate/ degree or diploma from any one of the sports institutes located around the country.

College and university teaching requires a different approach. After finishing M.A. in a subject, one can become a specialist by doing M. Phil. or Ph.D. To become a college lecturer, you will have to clear the NET exam conducted by the University Grants Commission (UGC). One can then apply to colleges for a job as and when a vacancy arises.