The need for teachers is expected to increase faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2005 as public school enrollments grow and school districts reduce class sizes. Particularly needed are more teachers trained in the areas of early childhood education, bilingual education and English as a second language, special education, and technology training. In addition, the teaching and organizational skills acquired in an educator preparation program carry over to other professional enterprises such as business, government or international schools. Majoring in interdisciplinary studies for elementary education certification Kindergarten and elementary teachers spend their days teaching children fundamental skills, from reading, writing and mathematics to lessons in the arts, civics, geography and history. Their work is essential to a child's development and view of his or her place in the world.
Teachers understand that they are role models for their students.
Because they contribute so much to a child's learning and social and emotional growth, teachers are trained in child development, taught different ways of learning and exposed to numerous academic subjects as part of their college course work. You will take professional education courses including child development, measurement and evaluation, multicultural education, and special education. In addition, UNT trains its teachers in the use and integration of technology in the K-12 classroom. The Professional Development Technology Lab is a computer lab set up to support the professional preparation of teachers and teacher candidates specifically in technology. After you have completed 60 hours of general studies, you will specialize in the academic area that you plan to teach.