Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.
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Chapter 2 Becoming a Teacher
Perhaps you can begin by searching the Internet for information about
college or university teacher preparation programs. Find a volunteer or
paid work experience. Maybe you can have a conversation with one of
your teachers about his or her career path. Now is a good time to set
goals, enjoy your experiences, and be open to the changing world around
you. See Figure 2.6 for an example of one student’s career plan. How will
yours look?
Create a Portfolio
Artists, photographers, architects, designers, and writers commonly
use professional portfolios as a way to showcase their abilities and work.
In other words, a professional portfolio serves as an expanded visual
résumé. A written résumé simply lists a person’s accomplishments, skills,
and experience, but a professional portfolio adds visual evidence to
support it.
Anyone can use a portfolio, and its use is becoming increasingly
common in education. Now is the time to start developing a personal
portfolio for teaching. A personal portfolio is an organized collection
of materials and information that shows how personal knowledge, skills,
and attitudes have developed over time. It can be adapted to serve as
a professional portfolio when you are ready to enter your career field.
Developing a portfolio may be a requirement for this course. Even if it is
not required, you will find it very helpful.
Figure 2.6 Sample Career Plan
High School
• Gain experience working with children and youth
• Job shadow
• Take a career exploration course
• Meet with guidance counselor and discuss interests
• Look for college teacher preparation program
• Apply to colleges
• Choose college program that best meets your needs
College
• Meet with guidance counselor and enroll in courses
• Job shadow
• Gain additional experience working with children and
youth
• Complete necessary coursework
• Complete student teaching
• Graduate
Last Year or
After College
• Apply for certification
• Conduct job search