Teachers—Adult Literacy and Remedial and Self-enrichment Education


Teachers Adult Literacy and Remedial and Self enrichment Education Earnings

Median hourly earnings of self-enrichment teachers were $14.09 in 2002. The middle 50 percent earned between $9.86 and $19.69. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $7.37, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $26.49. Self-enrichment teachers are generally paid by the hour or for each class that they teach.

Median hourly earnings of adult literacy, remedial education, and GED teachers and instructors were $17.50 in 2002. The middle 50 percent earned between $13.21 and $24.00. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $10.08, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $34.30. Part-time adult literacy and remedial education and GED instructors are usually paid by the hour or for each class that they teach, and receive few benefits or none at all. Full-time teachers are generally paid a salary and receive health insurance and other benefits if they work for a school system or government.


Teachers Adult Literacy and Remedial and Self enrichment Education Nature of Work

Self-enrichment teachers teach courses that students take for pleasure or personal enrichment; these classes are not usually intended to lead to a particular degree or vocation. Self-enrichment teachers may instruct children or adults in a wide variety of areas, such as cooking, dancing, creative writing, photography, or personal finance. In contrast, adult literacy and remedial education teachers provide adults and out-of-school youths with the education they need to read, write, and speak English and to perform elementary mathematical calculations—basic skills that equip them to solve problems well enough to become active participants in our society, to hold a job, and to further their education. The instruction provided by these teachers can be divided into three principle categories: remedial or adult basic education (ABE), which is geared toward adults whose skills are either at or below an eighth-grade level; adult secondary education (ASE), which is geared towards students who wish to obtain their General Educational Development (GED) certificate or other high school equivalency credential; and English literacy, which provides instruction for adults with limited proficiency in English. Traditionally, the students in adult literacy and remedial (basic) education classes were made up primarily of those who did not graduate high school or who passed through school without the knowledge needed to meet their educational goals or to participate fully in today’s high-skill society. Increasingly, however, students in these classes are immigrants or other people whose native language is not English. Educators who work with adult English-language learners are usually called teachers of English as a second language (ESL) or teachers of English to speakers of other languages (ESOL).

Self-enrichment teachers, due to the wide range of classes and subjects they teach, may have styles and methods of instruction that differ greatly. The majority of self-enrichment classes are relatively informal and nonintensive in terms of instructional demands. Some classes, such as pottery or sewing, may be largely hands-on, requiring students to practice doing things themselves in order to learn. In that case, teachers may demonstrate methods or techniques for their class and subsequently supervise students’ progress as they attempt to carry out the same or similar tasks or actions. Other classes, such as those involving financial planning or religion and spirituality, may be somewhat more academic in nature. Teachers of these classes are likely to rely more heavily on lectures and group discussions as methods of instruction. Classes offered through religious institutions, such as marriage preparation or classes in religion for children, may also be taught by self-enrichment teachers.

Many of the classes that self-enrichment educators teach are shorter in duration than classes taken for academic credit; some finish in 1 or 2 days to several weeks. These brief classes tend to be introductory in nature and generally focus on only one topic—for example, a cooking class that teaches students how to make bread. These and other self-enrichment classes may be scheduled to occur after school or during school vacations.

Remedial education teachers, more commonly called adult basic education teachers, teach basic academic courses in mathematics, languages, history, reading, writing, science, and other areas, using instructional methods geared toward adult learning. Because the students often are at different proficiency levels for different subjects, adult basic education teachers must make individual assessments of each student’s abilities beforehand. In many programs, the assessment is used to develop an individualized education plan for each student. Teachers are required to evaluate students periodically to determine their progress and potential for advancement to the next level.

Teachers in remedial or adult basic education may have to assist students in acquiring effective study skills and the self-confidence they need to reenter an academic environment. Teachers also may encounter students with a learning or physical disability that requires additional expertise. Teachers should possess an understanding of how to help these students achieve their goals, but they also may need to have the knowledge to detect challenges their students may have and provide them with access to a broader system of additional services that are required to address their challenges.

For students who wish to get a GED credential in order to get a job or qualify for postsecondary education, adult secondary education or GED teachers provide help in acquiring the necessary knowledge and skills to pass the test. The GED tests students in subject areas such as reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies, while at the same time measuring students’ communication, information-processing, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills. More advanced students may concentrate on writing and conversational skills or focus on learning more academic or job-related communication skills. Some of their students have a college degree and many advance quickly through the program owing to a variety of factors, such as their age, previous language experience, educational background, and native language. Because the teacher and students often do not share a common language, creativity is an important part of fostering communication in the classroom and achieving learning goals. Many teachers also must learn the latest uses for computers in the classroom, as computers are increasingly being used to supplement instruction in basic skills and in teaching ESOL.


Teachers Adult Literacy and Remedial and Self enrichment Education Job Outlook

Opportunities for jobs as adult literacy, remedial, and self-enrichment education teachers are expected to be favorable. Employment is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2012, and a large number of job openings is expected, due to the need to replace people who leave the occupation or retire.

Self-enrichment education teachers account for the largest proportion of jobs in these occupations. The need for self-enrichment teachers is expected to grow as more people embrace lifelong learning and as the baby boomers begin to retire and have more time to take classes. Subjects that are not easily researched on the Internet and those that provide hands-on experiences, such as cooking, crafts, and the arts, will be in greater demand. Also, classes on spirituality and self-improvement are expected to be popular.

As employers increasingly require a more literate workforce, workers’ demand for adult literacy, basic education, and secondary education classes is expected to grow. Significant employment growth is anticipated especially for ESOL teachers, who will be needed by the increasing number of immigrants and other residents living in this country who need to learn, or enhance their skills in, English. In addition, a greater proportion of these groups is expected to take ESOL classes. Demand for ESOL teachers will be greatest in States such as California, Florida, Texas, and New York, due to their large populations of residents who have limited English skills. However, parts of the Midwest and Plains States have begun to attract large numbers of immigrants, making for especially good opportunities in those areas as well.

The demand for adult literacy and basic and secondary education often fluctuates with the economy. When the economy is good and workers are hard to find, employers relax their standards and hire workers without a degree or GED or those with limited proficiency in English. As the economy softens, more students find that they need additional education to get a job. However, adult education classes often are subject to changes in funding levels, which can cause the number of teaching jobs to fluctuate from year to year. In addition, factors such as immigration policies and the relative prosperity of the United States compared with other countries may have an impact on the number of immigrants entering this country and, consequently, on the demand for ESOL teachers.

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Teachers Adult Literacy and Remedial and Self enrichment Education Significant Points


Teachers Adult Literacy and Remedial and Self enrichment Education Training

The main qualification for self-enrichment teachers is expertise in their subject area; however, requirements may vary greatly with both the type of class taught and the place of employment. In some cases, a portfolio of one’s work may be required. For example, to secure a job teaching a photography course, an applicant would need to show examples of previous work. Special certification may be required to teach some subjects, such as a Red Cross water safety instructor certificate to teach swimming. Some self-enrichment teachers are trained educators or other professionals who teach enrichment classes in their spare time. In some disciplines, such as art or music, specific teacher training programs are available. Prospective dance teachers, for example, may complete programs that prepare them to instruct any number of types of dance—from ballroom dancing to ballet. Self-enrichment teachers also should have good speaking skills and a talent for making the subject interesting. Patience and the ability to explain and instruct students at a basic level are important as well, particularly when one is working with children.

Requirements for teaching adult literacy and basic and secondary education vary by State and by program. Federally funded programs run by State and local governments require high accountability and student achievement standards. Those programs run by religious, community, or volunteer organizations, rather than State-run, federally funded programs, generally develop standards based on their own needs and organizational goals. Most State and local governments and educational institutions require that adult teachers have at least a bachelor’s degree and, preferably, a master’s degree. Some—especially school districts that hire adult education teachers—require an elementary or secondary school teaching certificate. A few have begun requiring a special certificate in ESOL or adult education. Teaching experience, especially with adults, also is preferred or required. Volunteers usually do not need a bachelor’s degree, but often must attend a training program before they are allowed to work with students.

Most programs recommend that adult literacy and basic and secondary education teachers take classes or workshops on teaching adults, using technology to teach, working with learners from a variety of cultures, and teaching adults with learning disabilities. ESOL teachers also should have courses or training in second-language acquisition theory and linguistics. In addition, knowledge of the citizenship and naturalization process may be useful. Knowledge of a second language is not necessary to teach ESOL students, but can be helpful in understanding the students’ perspectives. GED teachers should know what is required to pass the GED and be able to instruct students in the subject matter. Training for literacy volunteers usually consists of instruction on effective teaching practices, needs assessment, lesson planning, the selection of appropriate instructional materials, characteristics of adult learners, and cross-cultural awareness.

Adult education and literacy teachers must have the ability to work with a variety of cultures, languages, and educational and economic backgrounds. They must be understanding and respectful of their students’ circumstances and be familiar with their concerns. All teachers, both paid and volunteer, should be able to communicate well and motivate their students.

Professional development among adult education and literacy teachers varies widely. Both part-time and full-time teachers are expected to participate in ongoing professional development activities in order to keep current on new developments in the field and to enhance skills already acquired. Each State’s professional development system reflects the unique needs and organizational structure of that State. Attendance by teachers at professional development workshops and other activities is often outlined in State or local policy. Some teachers are able to access professional development activities through alternative delivery systems such as the Internet or distance learning.

Opportunities for advancement in these professions, particularly for adult education and literacy teachers, again vary from State to State and program to program. Some part-time teachers are able to move into full-time teaching positions or program administrator positions, such as coordinator or director, when such vacancies occur. Others may decide to use their classroom experience to move into policy work at a nonprofit organization or with the local, State, or Federal government or to perform research. Self-enrichment teachers also may advance to administrative positions or may even go on to start their own school or program. Experienced self-enrichment teachers may mentor new instructors and volunteers.

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Teachers Adult Literacy and Remedial and Self enrichment Education Employment


Teachers Adult Literacy and Remedial and Self enrichment Education Related Occupations

The work of adult literacy, remedial, and self-enrichment teachers is closely related to that of other types of teachers, especially preschool, kindergarten, elementary school, middle school, and secondary school teachers. In addition, adult literacy and basic and secondary education teachers require a wide variety of skills and aptitudes. Not only must they be able to teach and motivate students (including, at times, those with learning disabilities), but they also must often take on roles as advisers and mentors. Workers in other occupations that require these aptitudes include special-education teachers, counselors, and social workers. Self-enrichment teachers teach a wide variety of subjects that may be related to the work done by those in many other occupations, such as dancers and choreographers; artists and related workers; musicians, singers, and related workers; recreation and fitness workers; and athletes, coaches, umpires, and related workers.


Teachers Adult Literacy and Remedial and Self enrichment Education Additional Sources

Information on adult literacy, basic and secondary education programs, and teacher certification requirements is available from State departments of education, local school districts, and literacy resource centers. Information also may be obtained through local religious and charitable organizations.

For information on adult education and family literacy programs, contact

For information on teaching English as a second language, contact


Teachers Adult Literacy and Remedial and Self enrichment Education Summaries of Related Webpages

If you live in Boston, there are dozens of high schools to choose from. How do you find the right one. Eye on Education has the tools to help you decide. Summer Stuff 2005 Find a job, take a course, learn to sail or play golf, volunteer at a museum or homeless shelter, plan for college, and go to free concerts and movies. 2005 Summer Reading List Pick the books you need to read this summer for the BPS summer reading program.
Summary of: http://www.eyeoneducation.tv/students/

Many of them are not that time consuming and can make a world of difference. The list below includes a few of the ideas that have helped the students I work with. Doing this will help all the students in your class; they each have their own unique learning style after all. For example, imagine most students are doing subtraction with regrouping in class. If you need to, ask the special education teacher to help you find this information in the students' IEP's and PPT minutes.
Summary of: http://www.pacificnet.net/~mandel/SpecialEducation.html

Multicultural education owes its momentum to a variety of interrelated factors. Foremost among these factors is society's burgeoning demographic diversity, which is reflected in the nation's schools. In 1984, approximately one in four schoolchildren were minority students. In the 25 largest American school districts, minority students comprised about 72 percent of the total school enrollment in 1994 (National Center for Education Statistics, 1997). Many of the elements also contain Obstacles to Action and Different Points of View.
Summary of: http://www.ncrel.org/sdrs/areas/issues/educatrs/presrvce/pe300.htm

If you work as a UK education and training provider we can help you recruit international students, develop partnerships and promote your offer overseas. We create a wealth of opportunities for learners of English to meet their goals and we support those professionals involved in bringing the English language to life around the world. Teach English for us We employ 2000 teachers in 57 countries. Search our vacancies online. Our development work in education Find out why education is at the core of our work for sustainable development.
Summary of: http://www.britishcouncil.org/learning

Every attempt has been made to write these descriptions in an easy-to-understand style. Most visitors appreciate this. You will find useful information here that will give you a different perspective, get you thinking, and maybe help you to be a more effective teacher, or better student. By doing so, you help support the operation and maintenance of this site.
Summary of: http://www.adprima.com/ideamenu.htm

If you work as a UK education and training provider we can help you recruit international students, develop partnerships and promote your offer overseas. We create a wealth of opportunities for learners of English to meet their goals and we support those professionals involved in bringing the English language to life around the world. Teach English for us We employ 2000 teachers in 57 countries. Search our vacancies online. Our development work in education Find out why education is at the core of our work for sustainable development.
Summary of: http://www.britishcouncil.org/learning.htm

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Summary of: http://www.education-world.com/

By doing so, you help support the operation and maintenance of this site.
Summary of: http://www.adprima.com/

A bachelor’s degree, completion of an approved teacher preparation program, and a license are required to qualify; many States require a master’s degree. Many States offer alternative licensure programs to attract people into these jobs. A small number of special education teachers work with students with mental retardation or autism, primarily teaching them life skills and basic literacy. The program includes a transition plan outlining specific steps to prepare special education students for middle school or high school or, in the case of older students, a job or postsecondary study. Teachers review the IEP with the student’s parents, school administrators, and, often, the student’s general education teacher.
Summary of: http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos070.htm