Despite all the advances in technology, the ability to communicate effectively remains one of the most sought-after skills in the professional world. Even the most cutting-edge tech companies need skilled writers to help explain their products to consumers. Writing is an important art form, but skilled writers would be in short supply without knowledgeable teachers. The Master of Education with a concentration in Teaching of Writing for Grades P-12 online program from William Paterson University (WP) helps practicing teachers strengthen their skills and instructional expertise in writing so they can emerge as professional leaders and prepare their students to excel as writers.
Does Written Expression Still Hold Value in a Technology-Driven World?
In an era of Zoom meetings and Facetime, it may seem like there is little value in written expression. However, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), written communication is one of the eight essential Career Readiness Competencies. These vital skills “broadly prepare the college educated for success in the workplace and lifelong career management.” The ability to clearly communicate via the written word is invaluable for individuals seeking success. Consider the following forms of writing, all of which play an important role in collegiate, professional or day-to-day settings:
- College applications
- Professional cover letters
- Resumes
- Scholarship essays
- Email communication
A grammatical error in something seemingly informal as an email to a potential employer could lead to an applicant being eliminated from consideration, so while written expression may seem like an afterthought in this tech-obsessed world, it’s as relevant today as ever.
How Can Teachers Help Their Students Become Lifelong Writers?
Fostering skilled, lifelong writers begins with improving the quality of instruction students receive. Teachers, administrators and school districts must view writing as a valuable skill essential to long-term student success. Once written communication is established as a core value, teachers and administrators can begin cultivating the following values:
- Teachers should be strong writers.
If an educator lacks confidence in writing, they may not be passionate about teaching writing or developing the skills required to help their students master this subject. In fact, teachers who are weak writers can be reluctant to include challenging writing assignments in their weekly lesson plans.
Educators should be solid writers themselves so they can effectively teach their students necessary literary skills.
- Teachers should know a wide range of instructional strategies.
If an educator cannot explain how writing is an artistic tool, students will likely struggle to make real progress. Having an educational background in the methodology and pedagogy of writing instruction is vital. Additionally, teachers are inclined to spend more time on writing instruction if they feel positive about their instructional abilities.
- Teachers should educate their students on the different types of writing.
Writing teachers should be familiar with many types of writing: poetry, persuasive, humorous, fiction, nonfiction, dramatic, research and more. Getting students to connect with at least one of these writing styles could be the key to sparking a lifelong passion for the written word.
Comprehensive Curriculum Focused on Writing Instruction
WP’s online Master of Education with a concentration in Teaching of Writing is an opportunity for working teachers to learn from distinguished faculty in online courses that adhere to International Literacy Association standards. The curriculum make students stronger, more confident writers so they can pass their skills along to their students. The curriculum offers courses such as:
- Theoretical Foundations of Literacy
- Written Expression with Technology
- Literacy and Content Instruction for English Learners
- Writing Assessment in P-12
- Curriculum Design: Language Arts Literacy across the Disciplines
- Advanced Inquiry of Literature for Children and Youth
WP’s Master of Education with a concentration in Teaching of Writing for Grades P-12 is a fully online, affordable program that is perfect for working teachers. The rolling admissions, multiple start dates each year and streamlined admissions process make it the best option for educators who want to take their career to the next level.
Learn more about William Paterson University’s online Master of Education With a Concentration in Teaching of Writing for Grades P-12 program.
Sources:
American Educational Research Association: Changing How Writing Is Taught
National Association of Colleges and Employers: What is Career Readiness?
