Assessment of basic skills is a requirement for entry into several baccalaureate degree programs. Basic skills may include Reading Comprehension, Sentence Skills and Algebra, Basic Writing Skills, and perhaps a background in some social or lab science. Although this isn't a problem for most students, there are some students who may need remediation in these areas; for these students, courses in basic academic skills are essential. As a student in a basic skills program, you'll learn how to teach basic skills, such as lower level English and mathematics courses, and other General Education courses. You will learn how to work with remedial students, and explain things in detail to students who might have difficulties learning. You will also learn how to work with adults, who may have different needs than younger counterparts. If you like to work with remedial students, and obtain a degree or certification in basic skills, you may enter the following career fields: Teaching Assistant, Educational Services, and Adult Literacy Education.

Teaching Assistant

Teaching assistants help teachers with many of their daily tasks. These tasks include providing one-on-one or group assistance to students, grading papers, calling parents, photocopying materials, and managing their students' grades. Other possible tasks include planning field trips and handling the required documentation. The job outlook for teaching assistants is good. As populations increase, more schools will be built and more teachers needed. This will provide employment opportunities for teaching assistants. Earnings for this occupation range from about $15,000 to $29,000 per year.

Educational Services

The educational services industry offers academic education, vocational and technical instruction, and other education training. Elementary, middle, and high schools provide instruction to students from kindergarten through the 12th grade. Some high schools offer career and technical instruction in addition to their academic program. Postsecondary institutions are also included in this field. These include universities, colleges, professional schools, community colleges, and technical institutes. The job outlook for this industry is expected to increase over the next few years. Earnings in this field vary greatly depending on education and experience.

Adult Literacy Education

Adult literacy teachers provide adults with the education needed to speak, read, and write English correctly. They also teach adults basic skills that equip them to solve problems in our society, hold a job, and further their education. These teachers also teach adults basic academic courses in mathematics, history, reading, science, and other areas. Job openings in this field are expected to increase over the next few years, largely due to the need to replace retiring teachers or people who leave the occupation. The median earnings of adult literacy teachers are around $18.00 per hour.

For more information about degree or certificate in Basic Skills, or to learn more about associated careers, visit the US Bureau of Labor, www.bls.gov, or iSeek, www.iseek.org.