I just posted a biography with background information (PhD in aero engineering and have taught over 15 years, also naval aviator and CFI). I have taught and still teach courses in the field of aerodynamics, aviation, human factors, and mathematics that have brought many challenges and enjoyment. In the near future, I would like to teach college courses online (especially mathematics, or aviation related subject matter). Any suggestions as to how to proceed? Do I need a certificate to do this kind of teaching, and if so, do you have a recommendations? Thanks, Bob
Hi SB,
Thanks for the tip. I have heard good things about the making the Virtual Classroom a Reality program from other teachers.
We do list a number of University of Illinois Graduate Education Online degree programs.
So far, the ones listed in the Get Educated directory have 5 happy students who give Illinois a collective straight A for student satisfaction, so something good is certainly going on with Illinois online and its programs for educators and teachers.
All the Best
Vicky
I couldn’t help but notice that the University of Illinois’ Illinois Online Network’s [url=http://www.ion.uillinois.edu/courses/]Making the Virtual Classroom a Reality[/url] series has not come up in replies. Specifically, we have a Master Online Teacher (MOT) certificate that is very helpful in documenting your skills and abilities as an excellent online teacher. Yes, you may have all the skills and experience you need without it but we find that even experienced instructors gain valuable insights, skills, and perspectives through their participation. We are very aware of the competencies required of an online teacher and have crafted the MOT to meet them.
Hi Bob
I don’t think you need any other credentials to teach online. In fact, with such an extensive experience, you should think of starting your own online tutoring business where you can get to teach students from across the world at your convenience.
Hello,
It seems you have got a really nice teaching experience. You can apply anywhere and have a nice salary.
Thanks
I don’t have any particular preference myself, but my experiences have been mostly with Blackboard and a competitor called Desire2Learn.
Blackboard is one of the more popular educational suites out there, so if you haven’t already, feel free to highlight that you already have a working knowledge of the toolset on your application/resume.
If you already know the tools, that’s less training that a given school would have to give you.
David,
Thanks for the response and the links.
I have some experience with Blackboard about 5 years ago, and I currently use Coursecompass to a small degree.
Do you have a preference for any particular online tools?
Thanks again, Bob
Hello, I agree with David. You don’t need a formal certificate or degree to teach online college courses in most cases. Many online degree programs offer or require that new adjuncts or instructors take a short continuing education course (that they provide) on how to use the software system they use and on how to engage students online. If you are very serious and want to move up and teach and develop more courses online then a certificate of say 3 to 5 courses can help your job prospects. You can find a good many online teaching certificates or elearning… Read more »
Bob, It sounds like you already have a lot of experience as a teacher, which is a huge advantage. Generally, a certificate for online teaching isn’t required, but familiarity with using online teaching tools (ex. Blackboard, Desire2Learn, eCollege, Angel, etc.) is always a HUGE plus. Have you used these kind of tools before as a part of your teaching? There are certificate programs available on the topic of online teaching for anyone who wants to demonstrate that they’ve got a solid foundation in e-learning. Naturally, the classes are usually available online. 😉 There are two programs that I know of… Read more »