Online MAT in Elementary Education: Flexible Learning for Busy Education Professionals
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A child’s academic journey begins in elementary school, and effective teachers provide the building blocks a child needs to be successful. Good elementary school teachers can make an impact beyond the classroom by teaching students how to learn, how to think critically, and how to function in groups as well as independently.
Professionals who want to inspire students and make a career change to teach Pre-K through 5th grade can take advantage of the flexibility and affordability of the online Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree program from Brenau University. This teacher prep program prepares you for initial certification by giving you the tools to become an effective elementary school teacher.
What is an MAT in Elementary Education?
There are several diverse roles, specializations and certifications available to those who earn a master’s in teaching. The MAT degree can prepare you to be an elementary school teacher, a special education teacher, a curriculum specialist, a literacy specialist and more. This degree program is suited for individuals with a bachelor’s degree who wish to acquire the skills necessary to teach in the classroom, as opposed to a Master of Education degree, which is designed for those who are already teachers and want to transition into educational leadership roles.
Elementary school teachers often teach more than one subject, so the MAT program focuses on literacy, literature and language arts, social studies, science and math for grades Pre-K through 5. In addition, the MAT program also teaches the skills to work with students with diverse learning needs, and effectively use computers as an instructional medium. Teaching theory, instructional planning, school law and ethics are all part of the preparation for classroom teaching.
Making an Impact in Elementary Education
Childhood development is inextricably tied to education and teachers can have a direct, positive impact on this development. In discussing the importance of elementary education, Enterprise World lists five crucial aspects:
- Foundation of Learning – Elementary school is where children are introduced to academic disciplines that establish a framework for future learning in math, language arts, science, and social studies
- Development of Core Skills – These are the years when children learn to read, write and do basic arithmetic, which provide the basis for advanced learning in higher grades
- Socialization and Communication – Elementary school is where children learn to develop social skills, effective communication, empathy and the ability to express thoughts and ideas
- Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving – Hands-on activities help children learn critical thinking, creative thinking and how to problem solve, all of which lay the groundwork for their future
- Cultural Awareness and Diversity – Exposure to diverse cultures, histories and perspectives fosters awareness, tolerance and an appreciation for diversity
The Role of the Teacher in Elementary Education
Providing an effective education to young learners requires qualified and engaging teachers. Teachers who understand children’s developmental needs and know how to use innovative teaching methods contribute to a positive learning experience.
A well-designed curriculum that balances core subjects plus art, physical education and extracurricular activities helps teachers provide a holistic approach to learning. Teachers, especially in the early years, can have more impact on student achievement when they actively work with parents, and when they provide interactive and inclusive learning environments.
Regular assessment and feedback help teachers gauge the success of various teaching methods which allows teachers to adapt as needed. Feedback shared with students as well as parents can identify areas where a child is strong and where more support is needed.
Though some elementary school teachers specialize in teaching one subject to more students, like in middle school and high school, it is still more common for elementary school teachers to have a contained classroom and teach all the major subjects to one group of students. This helps foster a closer student/teacher relationship and a recent study shows that students are not benefitting from teacher specialization at those grade levels.
Career Growth and Salary Outlook for Elementary School Teachers
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that over the next 8 years, until 2033, they are expecting a very slight decline in the number of new teacher jobs. However, there are 106,500 openings for kindergarten and elementary school teachers each year as workers transfer to other occupations, exit the work force or retire.
Public school elementary education teachers earn a median wage of $63,980. Many kindergarten and elementary school teachers work the traditional 10-month school year and have a 2-month break during the summer. They also have a short midwinter break. Some teachers work during the summer.
Earning Your MAT Degree
Brenau University’s fully online MAT program features small classes, supportive faculty and has two start dates per year. Their teacher prep programs are aligned with Georgia standards and prepare you for certification from the Georgia Professional Standards Commission.
Become an excellent elementary school teacher as well as leader among your school administration with Brenau University. Stay up to date on recent education developments and increase your career opportunities by earning this advanced degree.
Learn more about the Master of Arts in Teaching in Elementary Education online program from Brenau University.