Technology Education

Computer Teachers and Technology Training

Computer teachers work in elementary and secondary schools, where they teach in classrooms and computer labs. Here are some of the duties of computer teachers:

• Instruct students on basic computer and Internet skills


• Teach students how to use common computer programs, such as Word, Excel, Access, computer-aided drafting (CAD), as well as basic and intermediate computer programming


• Assign computer projects so students learn to deal with real-life situations, such as time and budgeting


• Train students to solve computer problems in their classroom projects


• Help students connect math, science and technological principles to their computer work

Computer Teachers at School

The work that computer teachers do depends to a large extent on the skills of their students. Younger students may focus on typing and understanding basic word processing and other common programs. More advanced students will be able to do more complex work in computer programming, web design and data processing.

Computer lab work can be more challenging and might involve one or more of the following:

• computer programming
• computer animation
• digital photography
• multimedia

Depending on the school they teach in, computer teachers might teach full classes or give individualized computer instruction.

Increase Your Career Potential with Teacher Education

Colleges and universities offer various computer degree tracks at the bachelor's level. Some programs give education majors the option to minor in technology, while others make technology education available as a major. There are also colleges that offer master's degree programs in computer and technology education.

Your computer teacher education will emphasize math, science, computer skills and pedagogy. Specific coursework may cover the following areas:

• engineering, math and design
• manufacturing technology systems
• multimedia design
• tech writing and communication skills
• technology and physics

Computing Your Technology Teacher Salary

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2008 kindergarten, elementary, middle, and secondary school teachers earned an annual salary in range of $47,100 to $51,180, but the top 10 percent earned between $75,190 and $80,970.

Computer teachers can earn more money by getting advanced teacher education degrees, with more seniority, and by getting a national teaching credential.

Become a Computer Teacher

If you're interested in becoming a computer teacher, browse our list of technology programs and request information from the schools that interest you most.

As a computer teacher, you are giving each generation of students the cutting edge they need to compete in our high tech world. Your passion for computers is contagious and will help you motivate your students. One of them may develop the technology that computer teachers will be teaching well into the future.