Education Teachers, Postsecondary

Adjunct Instructor

Assistant Professor

Associate Professor

Education Instructor

Education Professor

Faculty Member

Instructor

Lecturer

Professor

Special Education Professor

What is a Education Teachers, Postsecondary?

Education Teachers, Postsecondary are professionals who instruct students in the theories, principles, and practices of education at the college or university level. They are responsible for preparing future educators by teaching courses on topics such as curriculum development, educational psychology, instructional methods, and classroom management. These teachers are often involved in research, mentoring students, and developing educational programs. Their role also includes evaluating student performance, advising students on academic matters, and serving on academic committees. Education Teachers, Postsecondary are typically required to have advanced degrees, such as a master's or doctoral degree in education or a related field, along with relevant teaching experience. They play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of educators and contribute to the advancement of educational practices and policies.

Job Outlook

Projected salary and job growth

$39670.0 - $130000.0

New job opportunities are likely in the future. : Average

Finding local jobs...

Assessment

Related assessments and tests

No assessment available.

Related Occupations

Tasks

Prepare course materials, such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts.
Conduct research in a particular field of knowledge and publish findings in professional journals, books, or electronic media.
Compile, administer, and grade examinations, or assign this work to others.
Keep abreast of developments in the field by reading current literature, talking with colleagues, and participating in professional conferences.
Supervise students' fieldwork, internship, and research work.

Technology Skills

Word processing software
- Google Docs
- Microsoft Word
- Google Docs
- Microsoft Word
Computer based training software
Electronic mail software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Outlook
Data base user interface and query software
- Canvas LMS
Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel

Tools Used

Microphones
- Handheld microphones
- Wireless microphones
Televisions
- Liquid crystal display LCD televisions
- Television monitors
Portable data input terminals
- Interactive whiteboard controllers
- Student response systems
Multimedia projectors
- Computer projectors
- Multimedia projection equipment
Videoconferencing systems
- Videoconferencing equipment

Knowledge

Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Psychology
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
Sociology and Anthropology
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
Administration and Management
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.

0 Active Jobs in South Africa

Avg Salary: R40,577pm

Are You Ready to Shape the Future? Becoming a Postsecondary Education Teacher in South Africa

Stepping into the world of tertiary education is more than just a career move; it is a commitment to developing South Africa’s future intellectual capital. Currently, the market remains active with 1 active jobs available. Financially, the sector is on an encouraging trajectory. Starting at an average of R35,708 in January 2024, salaries for Postsecondary Education Teachers have seen a steady incline, reaching approximately R44,635 by December 2024. With an overall average salary of R40,577pm, the profession offers both stability and growth for those with the right temperament and expertise.

Is Postsecondary Education Right for Me? (Psychometric Checklist)

Before committing to this academic path, evaluate whether you possess the core psychological and professional traits necessary to thrive in a South African lecture hall or laboratory:

Intellectual Curiosity: Do you have an innate desire to stay at the forefront of your field and contribute to new knowledge?
Strong Communication Skills: Can you articulate complex theories in a way that is accessible to students from diverse socio-economic and educational backgrounds?
Empathy and Cultural Intelligence: Are you equipped to navigate the unique challenges faced by South African students and provide meaningful mentorship?
High Degree of Organisation: Can you balance the administrative demands of marking, lesson planning, and curriculum design?
Resilience: Are you prepared for the rigours of academic research and the patience required to manage large groups of learners?
Integrity: Do you uphold high ethical standards in research and assessment?

A Day in the Life of a South African Lecturer

A typical day in the life of a postsecondary teacher in South Africa is dynamic and multifaceted. Your morning might begin at a University or TVET college, preparing digital resources on a Learning Management System (LMS) before heading into a two-hour lecture. Unlike primary schooling, your audience consists of young adults who require engagement and critical thinking rather than just rote learning.

Lunch breaks are often spent in departmental meetings or consulting with students who require extra guidance on their research projects. The afternoon is frequently dedicated to "the work behind the work"—grading assessments, updating course material to reflect local industry changes, or conducting your own academic research. In the South African context, you are not just a teacher; you are a researcher, a mentor, and an administrator, often working within a vibrant, multicultural environment that demands constant adaptability.

Education, Qualifications, and Upskilling

The barrier to entry for postsecondary education is high, reflecting the responsibility of the role. To succeed, you must focus on a blend of formal qualifications and modern certifications:

Formal Degrees: At minimum, a Master’s degree is generally required to lecture at a University level, with a PhD being the standard for senior positions and research-heavy roles. For TVET colleges, a relevant National Diploma or Bachelor’s degree combined with industry experience is often essential.
Professional Certification: Obtaining a Post Graduate Certificate in Higher Education (PGCHE) is highly recommended to bridge the gap between subject expertise and pedagogical skill.
Short Courses & Micro-credentials: In the digital age, being proficient in "EdTech" is non-negotiable. Short courses in online facilitation, data analytics for education, and inclusive teaching practices are vital.

It is important to remember that in academia, continuous learning is the cornerstone of your career. The moment you stop being a student of your own discipline is the moment you lose your effectiveness as an educator. Regularly attending South African and international conferences and publishing in peer-reviewed journals is vital for professional progression.

Next Steps: Test Your Readiness

Deciding to educate the next generation of South African professionals is a noble and rewarding pursuit, but it requires a specific alignment of skill and passion. Are you truly prepared for the demands of the lecture hall and the rigour of academic life? Don't leave your career progression to chance. Test your readiness now by taking our comprehensive professional assessment to see if you have what it takes to excel as a Postsecondary Education Teacher.

Skills

Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Instructing
Teaching others how to do something.
Learning Strategies
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.

Abilities

Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Speech Clarity
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Written Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.

Education

How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?

Doctoral degree

90 %
Master's degree

9 %
Bachelor's degree

1 %

Work Activities

Training and Teaching Others
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People
Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.

Detailed Work Activities

Research topics in area of expertise.
Develop instructional materials.
Write articles, books or other original materials in area of expertise.
Evaluate student work.
Administer tests to assess educational needs or progress.

Work Interests

Social
Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.
Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.