Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Chapter 1 The Teaching Profession 17 Adult and Community Education In a society where jobs require up-to-date knowledge and skills, the need for adult education is ongoing. Literacy programs, for example, may focus on teaching adults to gain and improve reading skills or learn the English language. For those who did not achieve a high school diploma, General Equivalency Diploma (GED) programs can provide the equivalent of a high school diploma. Other programs provide general or specific job skills, and technical skills in areas such as computer training, or personal enrichment. Most professional degrees also require some level of continu- ing education in order to maintain or renew licenses. Adult education teachers plan, deliver, and evaluate educational pro- grams. Their roles are similar to elementary, middle school, high school, and college educators, but their audience is different. As other teachers do, they may use lecture, hands-on learning, computers and other forms of digital media, team work, and projects to teach course content. They must stay informed and current in their teaching. As in all teaching, personal interaction between students and the teacher is important at all levels. Adult education programs often have government funding. Some receive support through private funds and/or companies that must make a profit. Com- munity colleges and universities may also provide adult education programs, although these do not normally lead to a degree. Because the field is so varied, career opportunities range from teaching one course to full-time positions. Adult education teachers also work in job-training centers, community centers, or any environment where training and education programs are a need. Some teachers work for community organizations such as the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, summer camps, or park districts (Figure 1.10). Many organizations sponsor educational programs on topics of interest. These may range from gardening and cooking to religious studies. For exam- ple, a community group might sponsor defensive driving classes. Many music teachers find employment with religious organizations, providing music for services or organizing and leading musical groups such as choirs. Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock.com Figure 1.10 Some teachers work with students outside the classroom at summer camps and with youth organizations.