Education & Training
Teacher Training
Program Summary
Teachers act as facilitators or coaches, using interactive discussions and “hands-on” approaches to help students learn and apply concepts in subjects such as science, mathematics, and English. They utilize “props” or “manipulatives” to help children understand abstract concepts, solve problems, and develop critical thought processes. For example, they might teach the concepts of numbers or of addition and subtraction by playing board games. As the children get older, the teachers use more sophisticated materials, such as science apparatus, cameras, or computers.
To encourage collaboration in solving problems, students are increasingly working in groups to discuss and solve problems together. Preparing students for the future workforce is the major stimulus generating the changes in education. To be prepared, students must be able to interact with others, adapt to new technology, and think through problems logically. Teachers provide the tools and the environment for their students to develop these skills.
Preschool, kindergarten, and elementary school teachers play a vital role in the development of children. What children learn and experience during their early years can shape their views of themselves and the world and can affect their later success or failure in school, work, and their personal lives. Preschool, kindergarten, and elementary school teachers introduce children to mathematics, language, science, and social studies. They use games, music, artwork, films, books, computers, and other tools to teach basic skills.
Employment Trends
- Public school teachers must have at least a bachelor’s degree, complete an approved teacher education program, and be certified.
- Many states offer alternative certifying programs to attract people into teaching, especially for hard-to-fill positions.
- Excellent job opportunities are expected as a large number of teachers are projected to retire over the next 10 years, particularly at the secondary school level.
- Opportunities will vary by geographic area and subject matter so consider relocation if it will work to your advantage.
Program Objectives
Teacher Training courses are designed to stand alone and are primarily used to increase skills and to satisfy continuing education requirements. There is no fixed curriculum, and course offerings will vary throughout the year as new courses are added.
- Successful completion of each course earns a Certificate of Completion
- Students may request Continuing Education Units for the online course offerings.
Please check the
Schedule of Courses for courses currently offered.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do you offer any courses online?
Yes, lots! PGCC offers online courses across-the-board in many topic areas, including Education & Training. To see the list of course offerings, the schedules, and to learn more about enrollment, registration and payment instructions, click on this link to the PGCC Online Instruction Center.
You will, then, be contacted by college staff to confirm that you are registered for the course.
- What do I need on my computer to take an online course?
All you need for an online course is Internet access through a standard browser, such as Netscape or Internet Explorer, and an e-mail application.
- If I see a course that I’d like to take, but it’s already started (or is even over), is there anyway I can still take it?
Yes. Most courses are offered on a repeating basis – some even on a monthly basis. Please contact the program coordinator (listed below) to check the schedule and even pre-register.
- Who can I contact to get additional information?
Mary Anne Ryan, PGCC Program Coordinator
301-386-7545, mryan@pgcc.edu