This simple guide will help you pass the teacher certification exam. It includes step-by-step instructions and suggestions that will enable you to do well in the exam.
As a teacher, you desire to become certified in your field, but there’s a catch. You must pass a certification exam to become certified.
Unfortunately, this exam isn’t easy. It requires a lot of hard work and dedication to pass.
If you’re ready to take the plunge and get certified, here’s a quick guide to help you prepare for the test.
A classroom teacher who wants to become certified as an Educational Technology Specialist (ETS) has two options: take the exam directly through Pearson Vue or use an online alternative.
Both options offer benefits and drawbacks.
In this blog post, we will outline the pros and cons of each option and help you decide which one is right for you.
The first time I took the exam, I wasn’t prepared. I knew how to study and was ready to do my best, but after studying only one week before the test, I felt overwhelmed and didn’t know what to expect. I was unprepared and didn’t pass the test.
What is a teacher certification exam?
A teacher certification exam is an academic test given to teachers who wish to receive a degree or certificate from a higher education institution.
Certification exams may be taken by students at the secondary level and above.
They are usually designed to test the student’s knowledge of a specific subject.
What are the test requirements for the certification exam?
The Educational Technology Specialist (ETS) certification exam consists of four main sections:
1. The general knowledge section (75% required)
2. The technology skills section (25% required)
3. The subject matter expert (SME) section (10% required)
4. The professional development (PD) section (5% required)
How long does it take to complete the exam?
While you can complete the exam in as little as 1-2 hours, you can spend as much time as you like if you want to be thorough.
The Pearson Vue version is a standard multiple choice test and requires a computer, internet connection, and the Pearson Vue app. You’ll have access to your questions and answers, and your score is immediately available.
The alternative option is the Pearson VUE e-Learning version. This allows you to complete the test from the comfort of your home or office, and the score is immediately available.
While both versions are scored the same way, the Pearson VUE version allows you to retake the test, view your answers, and get expert advice on your results.
Where do I go to study for the certification exam?
If you’re thinking, “teacher certification exams are a scam”, I tell you it’s not. I have myself taken two teacher certification exams, one with Pearson Vue and the other with a competitor.
Each test was a three-hour ordeal with multiple-choice questions. The difficulty level was quite challenging, so you’re mistaken if you think you can breeze through this exam.
In my experience, the online option works best. For instance, you can review your answers and check your progress, and you can retake the test multiple times if you need to.
If you’re looking for an online provider, there are plenty of choices, but I recommend using the one that has the most reviews. In my case, that’s Pearson Vue.
You can also take the test on a mobile device, and you can choose your time zone. In my opinion, this is a much better option than taking the exam at the same time as your colleagues.
Frequently asked questions About Teacher Certification Exam.
Q: How should I prepare to take the Teacher Certification Exam?
A: I recommend that students start studying at least one month before the exam.
Q: How long will it take to pass the certification exam?
A: It takes approximately two weeks to complete the certification exam. You should spend 4-6 hours a day studying the material covered in the certification exam. This is a great way to maximize the time you have to check.
Q: Is there any special preparation I need for the certification exam?
A: You should review all of the material covered in the last three years. Also, you may want to prepare some sample test questions.
Q: Do I need a specific license or certification to teach in California?
A: Yes, you must have a teaching credential to work as a teacher in California.
Q: What are my options after getting certified?
A: There are two options that teachers can choose from after they are certified. They can either renew their certificate every five years or not renew their certification. Renewing your certificate every five years is cheaper than not renewing your certification.
Q: What does “Certified” mean in regards to teacher credentials?
A: The “Certified” means completing the examination and passing the written test.
Top Myths About Teacher Certification Exam
1. Students must pass the test before taking their classes.
2. Students must have a certain GPA to take the test.
3. Students cannot retake the exam for free.
4. Teachers cannot have their certification exams.
5. Teachers must have at least two certifications.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to start teaching online, I recommend the following books:
This excellent resource covers everything you need to know to pass the state exams. I would also recommend getting familiar with Google Classroom as it’s a great tool to manage your students’ work and communicate with them.
If you’re looking for a comprehensive resource for preparing for the national tests, I recommend this book.
If you’re looking to become a full-time teacher, I would recommend reading these books:
I hope these resources help you achieve your goals!