Associate in Elementary Education
If you have a love for teaching and would like to work with young children, then completing a program in elementary education may lead to a fulfilling career. Elementary education is the education of young students in various topics, subjects and concepts in the fields of mathematics, science, languages and more. It usually refers to the period of education from kindergarten to grade 5 or 6.
Elementary education teachers are required to have a Bachelor's degree in either elementary education or in some other field. However you may choose to enroll in an Associate of elementary education program to study to become an elementary teacher assistant. An Associate degree can also form the base on which you may choose to continue your education at the Bachelor level.
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Program Structure and Coursework
The Associate of elementary education degree is a two year program. It teaches students about various aspects of primary education. Teaching methods and techniques are taught. Along with teaching practical skills for the classroom, students also learn about different philosophies in education, child psychology and classroom diversity, among other subjects. Students of an Associate of elementary education program also learn about classroom technology and management. They are also taught how to design lesson plans and develop curriculums. Child assessment methods are also part of such a program.
Careers in Elementary Education
With an Associate of elementary education degree, you can find employment as a primary teacher aide or assistant. These aides assist elementary teachers with tasks such as student supervision, classroom materials preparation and grading assignments. The average salary range for an elementary teacher aide is between 15,000 to 35,000 US dollars.