Is an Elementary Education Degree Easy?

Coursework Requirements

The coursework in an elementary education major isn't usually too strenuous and intense. Of course, everyone has a different definition of what's hard and what's easy, but elementary education courses aren't particularly difficult or complex.

Within an elementary education program, your coursework will likely cover topics like:

• child development
• classroom management
• creating lesson plans
• instructional technologies
• student assessment

You'll also take courses that cover how to teach specific subjects, like math, reading, writing, science, and social studies, to young learners. If you have a particular area of focus, like special education or art education, you'll cover those as well.

One thing to note is that bachelor's degrees in teaching, especially Bachelor of Science degrees, often have very strict education requirements that need to be fulfilled. They often have fewer elective courses or optional courses than other majors.

Student Teaching Experience

Most states require teachers to undergo classroom experience before earning their teaching certification. This field experience, often referred to as student teaching, can be hard work for many aspiring teachers.

During your student teaching, you'll get hands-on experience in a classroom setting under the guidance of a licensed elementary teacher. Often, this is the point in teaching degree programs that future teachers realize the weight of their career path and the responsibility they have in working with young children.

State Licensure Exams

Most states require teachers to take exams to earn a teaching certificate. The exams vary by state but usually focus on the age group and subject area you plan to teach.

The majority of states use the Praxis teacher exams. However, some states, including California, Minnesota, New York, and Texas, use their own exams.

You can typically find study materials for these exams online. Your advisor will likely be able to help you find study materials as well.

Classroom Management

Classroom management refers to how well a teacher can maintain control of their classroom. This can be difficult for teachers, especially for those new to the education field.

Children, naturally, can be a little unruly. However, there are ways even first-year teachers can effectively manage their classrooms. Setting clear class rules, establishing routines, staying consistent, and building relationships with students can all help teachers with classroom management.

Emotional and Social Demands

One of the hardest parts of being a teacher is the emotional and social demands that teaching jobs require. Elementary teachers have unique demands that differ from those of middle school and high school teachers.

Children have a harder time regulating their emotions, and they can't articulate their thoughts and feelings as well as older students. Elementary school teachers should understand how to help young children with big feelings.

Additionally, teachers who work with kids every day will eventually meet children who are abused or neglected. That can weigh heavily on teachers, especially as they continue to work with more children throughout their teaching careers.

Workload and Time Management

Another tricky part of being a teacher is managing the workload associated with teaching. While teachers have a chunk of the summer off, they often work long hours during the school year.

Teachers often arrive at school early and leave late. They must spend time outside the classroom, like evenings and weekends, grading assignments and preparing lessons. This can be difficult for many teachers, and this time is technically unpaid.

Communication and Collaboration Skills

Communication and collaboration skills are key to being a successful teacher. However, these skills don't come naturally to everyone.

Teachers start to develop these skills as they progress through their degree programs. Professional development programs can also help hone these skills for established teachers.

Is an Elementary Education Degree Easier Than Other Degrees?

A degree in elementary education is likely going to be easier than a degree in, say, biomechanical engineering. How easy it will be for you will depend on how naturally it comes to you.

Elementary education is usually considered one of the easier degree programs out there, but that doesn't mean it's a breeze. You'll still need to study hard, complete required student teaching hours, and pass the exams to earn your license.

What Skills Make an Elementary Education Degree Easier?

We mentioned the importance of communication and collaboration skills above, but there are a few other skills that will make an elementary degree easier. These include:

• creativity
• patience
• problem-solving
• time management

Can I Work While Earning an Elementary Education Degree?

You can work while earning an elementary education degree, but it can be more complicated. Some colleges and universities offer online elementary education degrees, which are often flexible enough so you can earn your degree while working.

The trickiest part of working while earning an elementary education degree is the student teaching segment of the program. Student teaching must be in person, and because these hours must be worked during the daytime, it can be hard to schedule work around it.