Andragogy by Courtney Earley

 Project Name: Alternative Teaching Certification in Florida

Goal: Individuals will be able to obtain their temporary teaching license through alternative certification.

Objectives: After following these steps, individuals will be able to apply for their temporary certification through the Florida Department of Education.

1. Pass the subject area exam
2. Apply for Statement of Eligibility
3. Secure a job
4. Obtain temporary teaching license

 

Rationales: Adults have the ability to independently determine their needs for learning and take responsibility.  They are motivated to achieve their goal because it adds value to their life. They understand why they want to learn and the importance of working toward it.

Design: This will be created to share information with individuals who are looking to become alternatively certified to teach in the state of Florida. These individuals have already graduated with their bachelor’s degree in any field.

Module 1: The Subject Area Exam 

• The first step to certification is passing the subject area exam. This will be dependent on what subject or grade you would like to teach. For this example, I will use the example of becoming an elementary school teacher.
• Now that you have determined what test you need to take, it is time to prepare for the exam. These exams are given as computer-based tests, and it is important to understand not just the content, but also the format of the exam.
• There are multiple companies that have prep books available for the subject area exam. You can also use resources from the Florida Department of Education that detail the question types and categories. For elementary education, you will need to take exams that cover up to sixth grade in language arts and reading, social science, science, and mathematics. Once you have learned the basics of the subject areas, you are almost ready to take the test.
• It is important to understand the format of the exam. The exams are computer-based tests with approximately 175 multiple choice questions in total. All four areas of the exam will be completed in four and a half hours. The Florida Department of Education provides example questions to understand what the test looks like.
• Once you are ready to take the test, you will schedule the test at a testing center. Testing centers are located throughout the state, and nationwide. Testing cites have different hours, so it is important to look at the testing enter you plan to use.
• On the day of your test, you will take the exam on a computer with proctors available. Proctors are not able to assist with the questions themselves, but can assist with any technical difficulties.
• After you have finished the exam, you will find out if you passed the test. Once you have passed the test, continue to the next step.

Module 2: Apply for Statement of Eligibility

• Now that you have passed your subject area exam, you must file for your Statement of Eligibility through the Florida Department of Education. This Statement of Eligibility, or SOE, details the requirements you have already met, as well as additional requirements.
• The SOE will verify that you have passed your exams and are eligible for a temporary teaching certificate. This will show potential employers that you are qualified and ready to begin teaching.
• The SOE will give additional requirements that you will need to complete before you obtain your professional teaching license.

Module 3: Secure a Job

• After receiving your SOE, you may begin applying for jobs.
• Every school district will have their own job posting area, and it is best to check the district’s website to find their open positions.
• Once you apply for jobs and begin interviewing, you will use your Statement of Eligibility to verify the ability to teach and apply for a temporary certificate.
• It is important to make sure you are applying for positions within the scope of your subject area.

Module 4: Obtain Temporary Teaching License

• Congratulations, you have been offered a job!
• Now, you will work with your school administrators and your school district to apply for your temporary certificate. The district must apply for this on your behalf, confirming that you have a position with them.
• Once they have applied for your temporary certificate, you will begin to accomplish the other requirements detailed on your Statement of Eligibility.
• As you continue to follow the requirements of your SOE, you will work towards applying for your Professional Teaching Certificate that is renewable.

References

Florida Department of Education. (n.d.-a). Certificate Pathways & Routes. Florida Department of Education. https://www.fldoe.org/teaching/certification/pathways-routes/#types

Florida Department of Education. (n.d.-b). Certificate Types and Requirements. Florida Department of Education. https://www.fldoe.org/teaching/certification/general-cert-requirements/

Florida Department of Education. (n.d.). Subject Area Knowledge. Florida Department of Education. https://www.fldoe.org/teaching/certification/general-cert-requirements/subject-area-knowledge.stml

Merriam, S.B., & Baumgartner, L. (2020). Learning in adulthood (4th ed.). (pp. 129-135). San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.

Pearson Education. (n.d.). Elementary education K–6. Elementary Education K–6. http://www.fl.nesinc.com/testPage.asp?test=060