Online Teacher Aide Degree Programs

As the teacher's right hand in the classroom, the teacher aide offers valuable support. Teacher aides assist in the classroom, schoolyard, and on field trips. They may work with students individually or in small groups to reinforce lessons and provide guidance in completing assignments. They also perform critical support tasks such as recording grades or attendance, monitoring students and chaperoning them on trips, preparing instructional materials and setting up equipment, and more.

Many teacher aides specialize in a particular age group or function. Specialties include:

• Preschool or child care
• Elementary school
• Secondary school
• Special education
• Computer and educational technology
• Schoolyard monitoring
• Specific subject area assistance, such as science or math

Teacher Aide Education

A college education is increasingly important as a qualification for teacher aide positions. Teacher aide programs are available at the certificate or associate's degree level.

Teacher Aide Certificate

A Teacher Aide certificate, also called a Paraprofessional Certificate or a Certificate in Early Childhood Studies, typically takes a year to eighteen months to complete. Students learn the basics of child development and practice classroom teaching techniques. They also consider special topics such as teaching students with disabilities and applying educational technology in the classroom.

Teacher Aide Associate's Degree

A teacher's aide associate's degree program, also called an Associate of Paraprofessional Education degree, offers a more comprehensive background in early childhood education. The two-year program begins with general education courses in liberal arts and sciences, before turning to specialized coursework in child development, classroom management, and teaching techniques.

Additional Teacher Aide Requirements

In addition to formal training, some states require that teacher aides be licensed. The state of New York, for example, offers Paraprofessional Certification to teacher aides who pass an exam and complete a series of workshops.

Career Outlook for Teacher Aides

Teacher aide positions should grow at the same rate as teacher positions, according to Department of Labor projections, with a 10 percent increase in new jobs through 2016. Certain factors could boost demand beyond this forecast, however. Increasing class sizes, higher diagnosis rates for special needs students, and rising enrollment overall could increase the need for qualified teacher aides. Opportunities should be best for those with at least two years of postsecondary education reports the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Experience with special needs students and ability to speak a foreign language will also be an asset in the job market. Teacher aides averaged $22,820 in 2007; with a degree, this figure rises to the higher $33,050 mark.

Teacher aides fulfill an important role in the classroom, supporting children in their development. At a time when school budgets are tight and class sizes are growing, aides offer a powerful antidote. Individual attention can make or break a student's learning experience, making the system more sensitive to the unique needs of each student. With a certificate or associate's degree in paraprofessional education, you will have the necessary career training to perform effectively in the classroom. These qualifications are widely available online, making them accessible to working adults looking to transition into this rewarding career.

• Education