EDUCATORS’ EDEN - What is “the right” college for my first online teaching job?

This episode is part of our EDUCATORS’ EDEN™ series wherein we explore the paradise that the most passionate, creative and committed educators create for themselves, their students, peers, administrations and institutions! This specific episode is, “What is “the right” college for my first online teaching job?”

Why are you planning to teach online? Is it because you have the thirst for teaching and online is the only method that will fit your schedule or other restrictions? If so, I would suggest that your first online teaching organization should be one that is free (that provides the opportunity to express your joy for teaching without specific restrictions or requirements that might be onerous). For example, University of the People is a tuition free option for students that provides volunteer faculty opportunities (http://uopeople.edu/groups/faqs). 

If you desire to teach online and have an honest desire to earn income and/ or to pursue full time teaching opportunities in the future, please be cognizant of the wide range of faculty pay and expectations per course at different types of institutions.

Do not be afraid to turn down an opportunity that does not meet your individual needs! “No,” is a beautiful word and you should use it to ensure that you are joyful in regards to your online teaching. You should confirm the requirements regarding synchronous or asynchronous formats. Also, confirm the course enrollments, the organizational culture (more autonomy or more corporate conformity), the expectations for faculty at the institution, etc.. 

Let’s explore how you should determine what “the right” institution of higher learning is appropriate for you as you start your online teaching journey!