<p>So, after several years of being out of school with my degree, I've realized I'm not happy, and I've decided to go back to school to become a teacher. I'm looking at either a second bachelor's degree or a post-bacc certification program. Anyway, I'm at a bit of a crossroads, and I'm hoping to hear from other education-major-hopefuls, those who have been studying for awhile, or even recent grads.</p>
<p>I'm very much torn between teaching two different groups: either getting my degree and certification in a dual special Education/childhood education program, or focusing on adolescents and becoming an earth science teacher for grades 7-12.</p>
<p>I'm just curious to know what helped you decide which group/subject you wanted to work with, and if anybody had any insights into what makes a good teacher in one area or the other. I'm leaning toward childhood/special education, because I feel like kids need all the advocacy and education they can get early in life, especially if they've got special needs. But I also know that preparing today's kids with knowledge and skills in the areas of science is an important endeavor, too.</p>
<p>So, what made your particular area "click" for you? :)</p>
<p>My daughter is just starting out on her education degree, but there was a time when she was debating between elementary ed and secondary math. She took every opportunity to tutor, teach and observe various grade levels and finally decided on the math route. Practical experience with various age groups was valuable for her.</p>
<p>Thanks for the insight! I’m really leaning toward special education, but I think I’ll do what you suggest and try to get some tutoring opportunities with older students in the sciences, too, just to see what feels like the best fit for me. I’m also sure the answer will become more crystalized in my mind once I’m able to start my studies this fall.</p>
<p>Each age group probably has its own challanges and rewards. If I were you, I wouldn’t go solely on which subject appealed to me the most, but also on which age group I referred to be with. Good luck!</p>
<p>I’m not sure where you’re from but in NJ earth science is taught in the middle school (if this changes your mind at all) so you would really only get to interact with 12-13 year olds. </p>
<p>Also within special education, some programs let you specialize even further such as teaching kids with autism.</p>
<p>Here in New York State, most kids take Earth Science their 8th or 9th grade year, which is followed by the Regents Exam. So, I’d be working with a lot of 12-to-14/15 year-olds, from what I gather.</p>
<p>The more I think about it, I really think I’m cut out to work with younger kids with special needs. The college I’m looking at for that program offers a degree that leads to dual certification: Childhood (1-6) and Special Education. So I definitely think I’d have a wider range of experiences and would be a bit more broadly prepared. Plus, as a person who dealt with the special education system when he was younger, I just kind of feel like I have a connection with those kids.</p>
<p>I’m still going to sit down and talk with members of the various departments at my two leading schools and get their insight.</p>
<p>Volunteer with local school districts as a tutor, mentor, lunch buddy, classroom helper…etc. with different age groups. Special Education is a wonderful route. I duel majoring in Elementary and Special Education, currently.</p>
I’m really leaning toward special education, but I think I’ll do what you suggest and try to get some tutoring opportunities with older students in the sciences, too, just to see what feels like the best fit for me. I’m also sure the answer will become more crystalized in my mind once I’m able to start my studies this fall.</p>