When I decided I wanted to teach computer technology for
grades K-12 I realized I first needed to get a license. But who offers a license in computer
technology? There are currently two
options in Ohio. A license in Computer Information Science or an endorsement on
your current license in Computer Technology. Below I outline how you can pursue
either of those options.
Get a Master’s Degree in P-12 Education
A free-standing license in Computer Information Science is
only available at Wright State University but you can get updated information on licensing programs
through the Ohio Board of Regents.
While both computer teaching options are at the graduate
level, there are a few more options for the computer technology endorsement.
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Blended/Hybrid
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Weighing advice
I was told
by one principal get the computer technology license as quick as possible, look
into the Alternative Licensure Program. He
said there aren’t as many computer teacher openings but the last opening he had
was open for 6 months and he only had three applicants. For math positions he had nearly 200
applicants. He said if you get the technology credentials, you will get the
job. Other school districts said, we need math and science teachers more often
than computer teachers so there are more jobs available. Get a license in Integrated Mathematics.
Alternative/Supplemental license options
The alternative
license program allows you to start teaching after taking some online
coursework. My undergrad was in
Management Information Systems and I had the computer courses necessary to
teach the subject area so this was a viable choice. Ultimately I wanted
options. I wanted to teach computer
technology but I got my license in Integrated Mathematics. By having a license
in a core subject area I was able to add my computer information science
license as a supplemental
license. This was really easy. Make sure you either already have the
coursework or take the coursework under supervision of a mentor and within two
years you can progress your supplemental license to stand alone.
See…you have options.
Icing the cake
No matter what option you choose at some time through the
progression (prior to the license, or in years 1 or 2) you will need to take
the appropriate licensure exam.
Good luck becoming a computer technology teacher. It’s a blast!!!