Teacher Preparation via Online Learning: A Growing Alternative for Many

Abstract

There is increasing use of distance-learning technologies to deliver alternative teacher licensure and certification programs for those areas of shortage such as rural and urban areas and those content areas for which it is difficult to find highly qualified teachers. This article reviews those collaborative groups, partnerships, and institutions that are using distance learning to deliver alternative teacher education programs in the United States. Alternative programs being offered via distance-learning technologies and methods will continue to grow with the demand for such programs. With the advent of charter teacher education colleges, this will become an option for those who are teaching without the proper teaching credential or those wishing to fill the high demand area voids.