Distinguishing Between Educator & Teacher

Educator and Teacher are two terms that are often mistakenly used interchangeably. There is a distinct difference between the two words. The term ‘educator’ is used to mean ‘mentor’, while the term ‘teacher’ is used to mean ‘trainer’ or ‘preceptor’. In fact, the term ‘educator’ is used in the special sense of ‘mentor’. This is the main distinction between the two terms.

The term ‘educator’ is primarily used as a noun. An educator leaves a lasting impression on the student. Many times, the student considers a person who has left a lasting impression on them as their mentor or ‘educator’. It is important to understand that not all teachers can be called educators. Only those teachers who leave a permanent mark in the hearts of the students can be referred to as educators.

On the other hand, a teacher is appointed by the management of a school or college to teach the lessons that are part of the syllabus for the students of a particular class. Their role is to clear the doubts in the minds of the students regarding the theory in a specific subject or an art. A teacher works for a salary at the end of the month.

Key Takeaways

• A teacher can become an educator, but not all educators are teachers by profession.
• An educator leaves a lasting impression on the student, while a teacher is appointed to teach a specific subject or class.
• The term ‘educator’ is derived from the verb ‘educate’, while the term ‘teacher’ is derived from the verb ‘teach’.