While considering how you could further your career as a teacher, earning your National Board Certification is a great way to show that you are committed to doing the absolute best job possible in the classroom. While you can attempt to earn this on your own, specifically designed online master’s degree in education programs will help prepare you for the reality of accomplishing this goal. There are a few things you can do to get ready for your shot at this certification. Here are a few tips to help you prepare.
Avoid procrastination
One of the hardest parts of any project is getting started. That is especially true when you are working on something that is self-guided. One way to avoid the issue is to enroll in an online master’s degree in education program that will give you the structure to stay on track throughout your progress. While some people can manage their own progress, a structured program will help by giving you deadlines. When the work you are doing in your courses aligns with the requirements for certification, it is that much easier to stay on track.
Work on writing
A major portion of the National Board Certification is written reflection. Consider taking a course specifically aimed at teaching how to write in the manner you will need for the certification. A graduate-level course designed to help you in this process may be the best way to achieve this, although there are other options. Be aware that you may have to work with editors or proofreaders to hone your work. The writing you will do for this evaluation is reflective and must be descriptive and analytical. For those who teach writing currently, this may be something you are already comfortable with, but if you have not worked on your writing skills in a while, it might be time to brush up.
Be organized
Since the majority of this type of program relies on self-guidance and the collection of artifacts over time, you will have to keep all these things organized. Keep each section separated from the others. By utilizing binders to create sections, you can be ready to submit any section at any time and will not be scrambling to find artifacts to place in a portfolio without knowing exactly where to pull them from.
As an educator, you know the importance of bringing your best into the classroom each day. By furthering your education and earning an online master’s degree in education while preparing for your National Board Certification, you can be sure that you are going to not only bring your best but also set yourself apart from other educators and be one of the best in the field. This type of achievement can help open doors for you professionally, but most importantly it can help you be better for your students.
Learn about the A-State online MSE in Educational Theory and Practice program.
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