As the country continues to experience a foreign-born population explosion, the benefits of earning an online master's degree in ESL education grow clearer everyday.
by Jessica Santina
Online Universities Columnist
In 2000, the U.S. Census Bureau found that the number of foreign-born residents in the U.S. had increased 44 percent since 1990. In fact, since 1970, the foreign-born population had doubled to comprise 10 percent of the total population. ESL classrooms are filling fast, and demand for trained ESL teachers is stronger than ever.
Such a population explosion also challenges teachers throughout the nation's educational system to meet the needs of a diverse student population. ESL and public school teachers alike can benefit from an online master's degree in ESL Education.
Online Master's Degrees That Target Demand
Opportunities for teachers will be excellent over the next decade, but prospects should be best in urban locales. Since foreign-born residents are primarily concentrated in large metropolitan areas, demand for ESL educators should be especially strong. The school districts that need the most teachers will also need the most English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers. Your online master's degree in education (MAEd) with an ESL concentration can be put to use immediately.
The Benefits of Online Programs for Teachers
The estimated average salary for elementary and secondary public school teachers in 2003-2004 was $46,597. But one way to boost this salary is by earning a master's degree. Completing one of the many online or distance learning programs available allows you to retain your current teaching position, while preparing for possible future promotions or salary increases with your online master's degree.
If international travel figures into your plans, distance learning is ideal--there's no need to attend a classroom, and the time difference is no longer a consideration.
One of the biggest benefits of online programs is that you can apply what you're learning immediately in the classroom. Distance learning enables you to get rapid feedback about what works and what doesn't.
Plus, as technology instruction becomes more and more important--particularly in the ESL classroom--your experience with distance learning tools helps you to see firsthand how to apply these tools effectively for your students.
Explore this site to discover how one of the many online MAEd programs in ESL can benefit your career.
Source(s)
"Coming to America: A Profile of the Nation's Foreign Born (2000 Update)," U.S. Census Bureau
"Distance Learning for ESL/EFL Professionals," ESL Magazine
About the Author
Jessica Santina is a freelance writer with a background in media and marketing. She also teaches first-year writing courses at the University of Nevada, Reno.
