This toolkit is designed to support and guide you as you explore career opportunities within the education sector. Whether you're just beginning your career journey or looking to refine your understanding of this dynamic field, this resource provides comprehensive insights and actionable guidance. This toolkit provides valuable information and an overview of five common career pathways, including K-12 teaching, education administration, education technology, education policy, and curriculum development. Each pathway is tailored to help you understand the unique opportunities and challenges within education. You'll also gain access to the latest industry trends, discover emerging fields, and uncover potential career paths that align with your interests and skills. This toolkit is your essential resource for making informed decisions and confidently navigating your career in education.
TABLEOFCONTENTS
About
Vandy in Education
Meet the Team
How to Use this Toolkit
Quick Start Resources
Belonging & inclusion
Dates to Know
Alumni Spotlight
5 Common Pathways
K-12 Teaching
Education Administration
Education Technology
Education Policy
Curriculum Development
Companies to Consider
CLICK TO NAVIGATE
ABOUTVANDYINEDUCATION
Vandy in Education is designed to support a broad spectrum of students passionate about the educational sector. Who we serve is not confined to those aspiring to teach; rather, we extend our resources to individuals fascinated by various facets of education. Whether your interests lie in educational technology (EdTech), policy formulation, administrative roles, or any capacity that involves enriching the lives of children or the educational landscape, the Vandy in Education community at the Vanderbilt Career Center stands ready to assist. Our goal is to foster an environment where every student, regardless of their specific interest within the field of education, can find guidance, resources, and support to pursue their goals.
ABOUTTHEVUCAREERCENTER
The Career Center’s mission is to help students gain clarity about their future. The office plays a significant role in the Vanderbilt experience by offering a full range of services to help students with their future at Vanderbilt and beyond.
Be it a career, an internship, graduate study, a fellowship, a gap year, or an entrepreneurial endeavor, our team is here to start the journey.
Bethany Reilly
Career Coach
“The Vandy in Education students I work with are passionate and eager to make a difference in the lives of others, and I know they will make a positive impact on the future of the education system. I love helping them develop the skills they need to grow within the education field and watching as they succeed in their careers!”
MEETTHEVANDYINEDUCATIONTEAM
Anna Chen
Emp y p st
“I love partnering with employers and connecting them to Vandy in Education students to provide internship, job, and mentorship opportunities. Connecting employers with VU talent and engaging employers in aligned programming is essential in helping students understand various career pathways in the field of education!”
Student Ambassador
"Being a part of the Vandy In Education community has been instrumental in shaping my preparedness for the future. Through this community, I've not only gained invaluable insights into the myriad resources available at the career center but also honed essential skills like resume crafting and networking."
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HOWTOUSETHETOOLKIT
This toolkit is designed to support and guide you as you explore career opportunities within the education sector. Whether you're just beginning your career journey or looking to refine your understanding of this dynamic field, this resource provides comprehensive insights and actionable guidance. This toolkit provides valuable information and an overview of five common career pathways, including K-12 teaching, education administration, education technology, education policy, and curriculum development. Each pathway is tailored to help you understand the unique opportunities and challenges within education. You'll also gain access to the latest industry trends, discover emerging fields, and uncover potential career paths that align with your interests and skills. This toolkit is your essential resource for making informed decisions and confidently navigating your career in education.
HOWTOENGAGEVANDYINEDUCATION
Students can engage with this community by utilizing this toolkit, attending Vandy in Education events, and staying informed about opportunities posted on Handshake. For personalized assistance, students can take advantage of drop-in sessions to receive help with resumes, cover letters, or general career advice. By actively participating in Vandy in Education, students can gain insights, build connections, and prepare themselves for successful careers in the education field.
QUICKSTARTRESOURCES
The Career Center is proud to provide a robust suite of resources to support the career development of Vanderbilt students. Here are 6 key tools we recommend to get started and how you can apply them to a career in education.
The Career Center’s primary online career hub! To find events happening on campus related to education, search the “Vandy in Education” tag under the Events tab.
A powerful network and job search tool. Gain free access with a Vandy email. Search “education” under job key words to find relevant opportunities.
Master LinkedIn using this online course. Enroll for free with a Vandy email. Think about how you can incorporate education in your profile with a title like “Aspiring Educator.”
Our 24/7 virtual interview platform! When practicing, think about questions that might be relevant to education- communication, leadership, competing priorities etc
Students can showcase relevant skills to employers by obtaining digital badges.
Keep an eye during Vandy in Education Week (Oct 14-18) to complete extra activites for your “communication” badge!
The premiere career portal for international students and international opportunities. Enroll with a Vandy email! Also a great place to look for education/teaching jobs abroad.
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Students entering the education field can actively seek out resources by researching potential employers' diversity initiatives and examining their commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. While there are many different avenues to explore, it is essential to look for employers with identity-based affinity groups, inclusive leadership opportunities, and access to educational associations that focus on diversity in education. Vanderbilt University is not responsible for the content from external sources.
Education Associations with an EDI Focus:
National Education Association (NEA)
Association on Higher Education and Disability (AHEAD)
Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (ALAS)
Teachers of Color Foundation (TOC)
National Alliance of Black School Educators (NABSE) GLSEN
DATESTOKNOW
SEPTEMBER
Back to School: Vandy in Education Essentials
Commodore Career Week (23rd-27th)
OCTOBER
Vandy in Education Week (14th-18th)
NOVEMBER
Teaching Abroad 101
FEBRUARY
Volunteering as a Skill
EdTech Panel: Skills to Succeed
MARCH
What Should I Do With My Child Studies Major?
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ALUMNISPOTLIGHT
ALIYAMEADOWS‘20AND‘22 K-5 MATH CURRICULUM
DEVELOPER @ AMPLIFY
“My name is Aliya Meadows, and I grew up in Marietta, GA. My passion for teaching led me to pursue internships in Georgia’s elementary schools and preschools throughout high school. In undergrad at Vanderbilt, I majored in Elementary Education and Child Studies, graduating in 2020. After teaching 5th grade in Georgia for two years, I noticed I was frustrated by the lack of quality resources and curriculum for students of color. I began to create my own lessons and units to fill this gap for my students. This motivated me to return to Vanderbilt for a master’s in Learning and Design in 2022. In 2023, I moved to Milwaukee with my fiancé, taught 5th grade math and science, and then transitioned to a role as a curriculum developer with a national curriculum company. I currently work remotely writing a new math curriculum, which has been an exciting and fulfilling journey!”
Top 3 Things I did to help my career while I was still in school...
Preston Taylor Ministries
I tutored K-3rd grade students in an after school program
Summer Camps
I worked at an educational summer camp for 3 summers. This helped me connect with the social-emotional side of education
Career Fairs
Peabody's Career Fairs were a great opportunity to network with districts and companies in major cities around the country table of contents
5COMMONPATHWAYS
From the vast array of opportunities, we will highlight career pathways where our graduates have found success. These pathways serve as a representative sample of the diverse possibilities within the world of education. Each of the five pathways will be viewed through the lens of Discover, Develop, Design and Deliver.
K-12TEACHING
EDUCATIONADMINISTRATION
EDUCATIONTECHNOLOGY
EDUCATIONPOLICY
CURRICULUMDEVELOPMENT
K-12TEACHING DISCOVER
K-12 teaching covers education from kindergarten through 12th grade. Teachers develop and implement lesson plans to meet educational standards and cater to diverse student needs, use various teaching methods and technologies to engage students and create a positive learning environment, and they assess student progress through assignments and tests.
The biggest trends in the field are:
Integration of technology in the classroom with digital tools and resources enhances the learning experience and facilitates remote education.
Increased focus on social-emotional learning (SEL), aiming to develop student's emotional intelligence, resilience, and interpersonal skills.
Gain more insight into the field:
Access the Vault Guide to Education Jobs. Dive into O*Net for Teacher Career Insights.
CLASSROOMMANAGEMENT
The ability to create a positive learning environment, maintain discipline, and manage diverse student behaviors effectively. Student teaching or classroom shadowing are great ways to start gaining this skill!
CLUBSONCAMPUS
Education clubs are a great way to network with your peers who are also interested in education To name a few: Tutor Nashville, Kappa Delta Pi, and Future Educators of Color.
WORKINGWITHCHILDREN
Working with children in any capacity will be beneficial to teaching. Examples such as nannying, camp counseling, or after-school care can all be helpful. Also, consider volunteer opportunities like tutoring.
COMMUNICATION
Communication is crucial in teaching because it enables educators to convey complex concepts. Check out VandyPASS to learn how you can earn your communication badge.
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K-12TEACHING DEVELOP-FINDINGINTERNSHIPS
To find a K-12 teaching internship, it is critical to start networking with educators and school administrators! This will help you make connections and gather more information about what it is like to work in a school setting.
Tip: Utilize the Career Center to tailor your resume to the education field, and start getting strategic! Think outside the box when looking for opportunities, and consider contacting schools or educational organizations that don’t have formal internship postings.
1.
Connect with other teachers
Attend Vanderbilt’s career fair and Vandy in Education events.
Connect with professors, alumni, and professionals in the K-12 teaching field.
2.
Highlight education in application materials
Craft a tailored resume highlighting experiences working in a classroom or with children.
Write a compelling cover letter expressing your passion for education.
Gather strong references from professors or previous employers.
3.
Think outside the box
Look for internship postings on school district websites and job boards.
Reach out directly to schools or districts of interest.
Consider both paid and unpaid opportunities to gain valuable experience.
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K-12TEACHING DESIGN-BUILDYOURBRAND
1.
Building a professional brand in K-12 teaching establishes credibility and demonstrates your expertise in specific educational areas. This branding also enhances your networking capabilities, attracting like-minded educators and creating opportunities for career growth. Perhaps most importantly, a welldeveloped brand amplifies your voice on important educational issues, increasing your potential to influence positive change within schools and the broader education community.
2.
Emphasize any teaching or tutoring experience. Showcase skills like curriculum development or classroom management. Resume
Teaching Portfolio
Learn more from We Are Teachers. Create sample lesson plans for different grade levels. Showcase any educational materials or resources you've developed.
3.
Interview Guidance
Prepare stories that demonstrate a passion for education. Be ready to discuss current issues in K-12 education. Practice articulating your teaching philosophy.
4.
Additional Tips:
Start an education blog or YouTube channel. Attend and present at education conferences.
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K-12TEACHING DELIVER-HIRINGTIMELINE
The most active hiring periods for K-12 teachers are in spring and early summer, with schools aiming to have most positions filled before the new school year begins in late summer or early fall.
ADVICEFROMPROFESSIONALS:
“It is important to find a school where you feel supported by coworkers and administration. This will make a huge difference in your experience.”- Melissa Cohen, Double ‘Dore, former classroom teacher, current Curriculum Developer at Amplify
“Actively engage with various student organizations, both on and off campus. Working directly with students can provide valuable insight into whether a classroom setting is right for you.”- Anna Chen, Vandy in Education Student Ambassador table of contents
EDUCATIONADMINISTRATION
Education administration involves managing and leading educational institutions, such as schools, colleges, and universities, to ensure effective operation and high-quality education. Professionals in this field are responsible for setting academic policies, overseeing staff, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with educational standards and regulations. Common job titles include school principals, superintendents, and deans.
Current trends in education administration emphasize the integration of technology for improved school management and communication, including the use of data analytics to drive decision-making and enhance student outcomes.
Insights into the field suggest that successful administrators must be adaptable, innovative, and proactive in fostering collaboration among staff, students, and the community.
For further insights, look into related blogs & podcasts focused on education administration.
LEADERSHIP
The ability to guide and motivate teams of educators is key to administration. Consider gaining leadership experience with clubs on campus (Tutor Nashville, Kappa Delta Pi, Future Educators of Color, etc.).
COMMUNICATION
Effective communication with diverse stakeholders (teachers, parents, students, and community members) and public speaking skills are ideal for working as an administrator. Consider volunteering within your community and interacting with as many people as possible to help with these skills.
DATAANALYSIS
Ability to interpret and use educational data to inform decisions and understanding of assessment methods and their applications. Often times research opportunities will enable you to gain data analysis skills.
EDUCATIONPOLICYKNOWLEDGE
Understanding of federal, state, and local education laws and regulations and the ability to ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards. Start by attending local school board meetings and work your way up from there.
To find an education administration internship, it is critical to start networking with teachers, administrators, and other education professionals!
This will help you make connections and gather more information about what it is like to work in the education field.
Think outside the box when looking for opportunities, and consider reaching out to schools or educational organizations that don’t have formal internship postings.
1.
Network with Education Professionals
Start by connecting with school administrators, district officials, and other education professionals.
Tap into Vanderbilt’s alumni base on LinkedIn.
2.
Leverage Online Platforms:
Handshake is a great place to start, but also consider LinkedIn, Careershift, or Indeed to search for education administration internships.
Ensure your Handshake profile is up to date, as employers are 5x as likely to reach out about jobs!
3.
Seek Out Diverse Opportunities
Education administration internships may not always be widely advertised.
Think creatively about where to apply and consider reaching out directly to school districts, educational nonprofits, and government education departments.
EDUCATIONADMINISTRATION DESIGN-BUILDYOURBRAND
1.
Resume
Building a professional brand in education administration establishes your credibility and demonstrates your expertise in school leadership and management.
This branding enhances your networking capabilities, attracting like-minded administrators and education professionals and creating opportunities for career advancement. Perhaps most importantly, a well-developed brand amplifies your voice on critical educational issues, increasing your potential to influence positive change within schools and the broader educational system.
2.
3.
DISCOVER
Design
Highlight leadership roles in student organizations or campus initiatives.
Emphasize experience with data analysis and decision-making. Showcase any projects related to school improvement or policy analysis.
LinkedIn
Craft a headline that reflects your aspiration in education administration.
Join groups related to K-12 administration and engage in discussions.
Obtain recommendations from professors or supervisors in relevant roles.
Interview Guidance
Prepare examples demonstrating leadership and problem-solving skills.
Be ready to discuss current trends in K-12 education. Practice articulating your vision for effective school leadership.
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EDUCATIONADMINISTRATION DESIGN-KEYRESOURCES
Education Week American Association of Administrators Edutopia
Leading publication & authority in education, and a cornerstone for educators.
Professional development opportunities, networking events, access to research, and publications.
A free source of information, inspiration, and practical strategies for learning and teaching in preK-12 education.
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EDUCATIONADMINISTRATION DELIVER-HIRINGTIMELINE
The hiring timeline for education administration roles typically follows the academic calendar, though it can vary depending on the institution's needs and the specific role. The most active hiring periods are in the spring and early summer, with schools aiming to fill most positions before the new academic year begins.
ADVICEFROMPROFESSIONALS:
“Don't be afraid to put big ideas out there. Change is needed within education, specifically higher education, and that change is going to come from those with big ideas!” - Julie Chapman, Vandy Alum and current Senior Strategic Engagement Executive at DuoLingo
“Set boundaries and routines. As a new administrator, there is a tendency to want to dedicate every minute to your new job. Although there is no doubt your school will appreciate it, soon this level of dedication will begin to take its toll on you and your family.”- William Sullivan for EdWeek
EDUCATIONTECHNOLOGY DISCOVER
Education technology, or EdTech, involves developing and applying digital tools and platforms to enhance teaching and learning experiences. This field encompasses various technologies, including online learning platforms, interactive software, digital assessments, and classroom management systems. EdTech aims to improve educational outcomes by making learning more accessible, personalized, and engaging for students. Professionals in this field work on designing, implementing, and evaluating these technologies to ensure they effectively support educators and learners.
Current trends in education technology focus on personalized learning, utilizing AI and data analytics to tailor educational experiences to individual student needs. Additionally, virtual and augmented reality technologies are integrated into classrooms to create immersive learning environments.
Check out EdSurge to learn more about what it is really like to work in EdTech.
TECHPROFICIENCY
Strong understanding of educational software, learning management systems, and AI, VR/AR in education Consider the Coursera course “Generative AI for Educators & Teachers Specialization”, which is free with your Vanderbilt email!
INSTRUCTIONALDESIGN
Ability to create effective digital learning experiences and content aligned with pedagogical best practices.
DATAANALYSIS
Skills in interpreting learning analytics and using data to improve educational outcomes and product development. Often times, research opportunities will enable you to gain data analysis skills.
INDIVIDUALPROJECTS
Individual projects can help you gain experience and give practical application to EdTech tools. Consider building a classroom management tool or designing an online course.
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EDUCATIONTECHNOLOGY DEVELOP-FINDINGINTERNSHIPS
To find an EdTech internship, it is critical to start networking with professionals in the educational technology field! This will help you make connections and gather more information about what it is like to work in EdTech. Think strategically when searching for opportunities. Consider contacting EdTech startups, educational institutions, and tech companies that may not have formal internship postings but could offer valuable hands-on experience.
1.
Network with EdTech Professionals
Connect with professors, alumni, and professionals in the field.
Join EdTech groups on LinkedIn and other social media platforms.
2.
Reach Out to EdTech Startups and Companies
Even if they don’t have formal postings, reaching out directly with a well-crafted email expressing your interest and highlighting your relevant skills can open doors to internships that might not be publicly listed.
3.
Explore Technology Roles with Educational Focus
Consider applying for internships at tech companies that develop tools or software for educational purposes, even if their primary focus is not education. Experience in these tech roles can provide valuable insights.
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EDUCATIONTECHNOLOGY DESIGN-BUILDYOURBRAND
Building a professional brand in EdTech establishes your credibility and demonstrates your expertise in educational technology and innovation. This branding enhances your networking capabilities, attracting like-minded EdTech professionals and creating opportunities for career growth.
Perhaps most importantly, a welldeveloped brand amplifies your voice on important educational technology issues, increasing your potential to influence positive change and drive the future of education through technology.
1. 2.
Resume
Highlight relevant technical skills (e.g., programming, UX/UI design, data analysis).
Showcase any EdTech tools you've developed.
LinkedIn
Craft a headline that reflects your EdTech aspirations (e.g., "Aspiring EdTech Developer).
Write a summary highlighting your passion for using technology to improve education.
3.
Interview Guidance
Have examples ready of how you've applied technology in educational settings.
Demonstrate knowledge of current EdTech trends and major players in the industry.
4. ePortfolio or Website
Allows you to present a curated collection of your work, including projects and technologies. Consider Wix or Squarespace to showcase your work. Learn more from this LinkedIn Article.
EDUCATIONTECHNOLOGY DESIGN-KEYRESOURCES
The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE)
Nonprofit organization that helps educators use technology to revolutionize learning.
Enormous collection of classroom resources & district-level resources on networks, storage devices, software, and hardware.
Empowering people by giving them the evidence they need to make decisions about technology in education.
Ed Tech Magazine
Ed Tech Hub
EDUCATIONTECHNOLOGY DELIVER-HIRINGTIMELINE
Many EdTech companies hire as needed throughout the year, especially f technical roles like software developers or product managers.
ADVICEFROMPROFESSIONALS:
“Don't be afraid to put big ideas out there. Change is needed within education, specifically higher education, and that change is going to come from those with big ideas!” - Julie Chapman, Vandy Alum and current Senior Strategic Engagement Executive at DuoLingo
“Embrace Technology as a Tool for Transformation, Not Just Automation: Don’t see EdTech as simply replacing traditional teachi methods. Instead, leverage its potential to revolutionize learning experiences, personalize instruction, and empower students.”Kristina Hertzig for ISTE
EDUCATIONPOLICY
Education policy encompasses developing and implementing laws, regulations, and guidelines that shape the local, state, and national educational system. This field involves analyzing and addressing educational equity, funding, curriculum standards, teacher qualifications, and student assessments. Professionals in this field must navigate complex legal and bureaucratic landscapes to advocate for and implement effective educational reforms.
Current trends in education policy focus on promoting equity and inclusio ensuring all students have access to quality education regardless of their background. Additionally, data policy is becoming increasingly important in quantifying the impacts of education policy efforts and connecting education relevant policy areas (e.g., economic development, health outcomes, etc.).
For further insights into the field, stay up to date with the U.S. Department o Education.
DATAANALYSIS
Skills in interpreting learning analytics and using data to improve educational outcomes and product development. Often times research opportunities will enable you to gain data analysis skills.
CRITICALTHINKING
Evaluating policy impacts & outcomes and developing innovative solutions to educational challenges. A great way to gain critical thinking is through debates. Consider joining the Vanderbilt Debate Team.
STAKEHOLDERENGAGEMENT
Building relationships with diverse groups and facilitating discussions on policy issues. This can be through student groups, like Women in Government, or any volunteer organization in Nashville.
POLICYKNOWLEDGE
Understanding of federal, state, and local education laws and regulations and the ability to ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards. Start by attending local school board meetings and work your way up from there.
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To find an internship in education policy, start by networking with professionals and organizations in the field, such as education think tanks, advocacy groups, and government agencies. Leverage online job boards and specialized platforms to search for relevant opportunities, and tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your interest and experience in policy analysis and education.
1.
Reach Out to Educational Institutions and Think Tanks
Contact universities, research institutions, and think tanks focusing on education policy, such as the Brookings Institution or the Urban Institute.
Inquire about internship programs or opportunities to work on policy research.
2.
Tailor application materials towards policy
Highlight relevant coursework and experiences, such as data analysis or critical thinking.
Write a compelling cover letter expressing passion for education policy.
Gather strong references from professors or previous employers.
3.
Follow Policy-Related Organizations and Government Agencies
Reach out directly to organizations or policymakers to inquire about potential internships, even if they are not advertised. table of contents
Keep an eye on the websites and social media channels of organizations and government agencies involved in education policy.
Examples: the U.S. Department of Education, the Center for American Progress, or the Education Policy Institute.
EDUCATIONPOLICY DESIGN-BUILDYOURBRAND
Building a professional brand in education policy establishes your credibility and demonstrates your expertise in policy analysis and educational reform. This branding enhances your networking capabilities, attracting like-minded professionals, policymakers, and advocacy groups and creating opportunities for career advancement.
1.
Resume
Highlight relevant coursework in education policy, public policy, and data analysis.
Showcase internships or volunteer work with policy-focused organizations.
Include any experience with data analysis tools (e.g., SPSS, R, Stata).
2.
LinkedIn
Craft a headline that reflects your policy focus (e.g., "Education Policy Analyst | Researcher").
Share and comment on current education policy news and research.
Perhaps most importantly, a welldeveloped brand amplifies your voice on critical education issues, increasing your potential to influence policy decisions and drive positive change within the education system. table of contents
3.
Interview Guidance
Be prepared to discuss current education policy issues at local, state, and federal levels.
Have examples ready of how you've applied policy analysis skills.
Demonstrate knowledge of key education legislation and its impacts.
EDUCATIONPOLICY DESIGN-KEYRESOURCES
Education Commission of the State
Help education leaders gain the insight and experience needed to create effective education policy for their constituents.
U.S. Dept of Education Learning Policy Institute
Promotes student achievement and preparation for global competitiveness by fostering educational excellence and ensuring equal access.
Conducts high-quality research to improve education policy and practice.
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EDUCATIONPOLICY DELIVER-HIRINGTIMELINE
The hiring timeline for education policy jobs can vary, but there is often a busy period in early spring to prepare for the upcoming fiscal year and planning staffing needs.
ADVICEFROMPROFESSIONALS:
Learn the policymaking process. Each state has a unique approach when it comes to policy creation and implementation. Get to know the ins and outs of policymaking in your state, including the budget process.
- Deven Scott, Education Commission for the States
Get as much experience as you can within different roles in education policy (data analysis, policy analysis, program management) to understand where you'll feel most fulfilled and identify the specific skills you need to develop to be successful.
-Janelle Brown, Double ‘Dore and Director of Strategic Initiatives at Tennesee SCORE
CURRICULUMDEVELOPMENT
Curriculum development involves creating, evaluating, and continuously improving instructional materials and programs used in schools. This field aligns curriculum content with educational standards and learning objectives to ensure students acquire the necessary knowledge and skills. Professionals in curriculum development work collaboratively with teachers, administrators, and subject matter experts to design effective, engaging, and inclusive learning experiences. Their role also includes integrating new teaching methods and technologies to enhance educational outcomes.
Trends in curriculum development emphasize integrating digital tools and technology to create interactive and engaging learning experiences. There is also a growing focus on competency-based education, where students progress based on their mastery of skills rather than time spent in class.
Learn more about Curriculum Development from “We Are Teachers.” table of contents
CONTENTEXPERTISE
Deep knowledge in specific subject area(s), and the ability to create accurate, engaging, and grade-appropriate content. Consider a personal project creating resources such as education materials or lesson plans. Check out Teachers Pay Teachers to see examples.
INSTRUCTIONALDESIGN
Knowledge of learning theories and pedagogical approaches and skill in developing clear learning objectives and assessments.
COMMUNICATION
Strong writing and editing skills and the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams (educators, designers, subject matter experts, etc.). Check out VandyPASS to learn how you can earn your communication badge!
TECHNOLOGICALPROFICIENCY
Competence in using digital tools and educational technology to enhance learning and engage students.
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CURRICULUMDEVELOPMENT DEVELOP-FINDINGINTERNSHIPS
1.
Explore Education Nonprofits and EdTech Companies
To find an internship in curriculum development, it is critical to start networking with educators, instructional designers, and curriculum specialists. This will help you make connections and gather insights into the field of curriculum design.
2.
Investigate nonprofits focused on education and EdTech companies that develop educational materials and resources. These organizations often have curriculum development projects and may offer internship opportunities to students interested in this field.
Search Job Boards and Specialized Platforms
Look for curriculum development internships on job boards like Handshake, Indeed, and LinkedIn.
Explore specialized platforms such as EdSurge or HigherEdJobs, which often feature positions related to curriculum design and development.
Think outside the box and consider reaching out to organizations or companies that may not have formal internship postings but could offer valuable experience in curriculum development. table of contents
3.
Network with Educators and Curriculum Developers
Connect with teachers, educational consultants, and curriculum developers.
Networking can help you learn about potential internship opportunities and gain insights into the field of curriculum development.
CURRICULUMDEVELOPMENT DESIGN-BUILDYOURBRAND
Building a professional brand in curriculum development establishes your credibility and showcases your expertise in designing educational materials. This branding enhances your networking capabilities, connects you with educators and curriculum specialists, and opens doors for career growth.
Most importantly, a strong brand amplifies your influence on curriculum design issues, increasing your potential to drive positive change in educational practices.
1.
Resume
List relevant skills (e.g., instructional design, educational technology integration).
Mention any published work or presentations on curriculum topics.
2.
LinkedIn
Write a summary that outlines your approach to curriculum development.
List your experiences with detailed descriptions of your curriculum work.
Share articles or posts about curriculum trends and best practices.
3.
ePortfolio or Website
Allows you to present a curated collection of your work, including projects and resources.
Consider Wix or Squarespace to showcase your work.
Learn more from this LinkedIn Article.
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CURRICULUMDEVELOPMENT DESIGN-KEYRESOURCES
Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development
Where educators come to learn about new instructional strategies, grow as individuals and thrive as professionals.
Ed Surge Edutopia
A nonprofit newsroom reporting on the powerful forces, fascinating people and innovative practices shaping teaching and learning.
A free source of information, inspiration, and practical strategies for learning and teaching in preK-12 education.
Most companies will hire on an as-needed basis, but if working for a school district, The most active hiring periods are in spring and early summer, with schools aiming to have most positions filled before the new school year begins in late summer or early fall.
ADVICEFROMPROFESSIONALS
“In order to stand out, leverage any experiences you have in leadership positions as well as any experience you have writing or adapting curricula to fit the needs of your students.” - Aliya Meadows, Double
‘Dore, K-5 Math Curriculum Developer at Amplify
“The field of education offers many diverse opportunities, and even if the university doesn’t provide a specific pathway, it's beneficial to explore and broaden your knowledge by taking on additional minors, that at the end of the day will benefit your primary learning goals and aspirations.”Nick McCoy, Vanderbilt Class of 2025
