Definitions
- Referring to a person who assists a professional in their work, often in an educational or healthcare setting. - Describing a person who has some training or education in a specific field but is not licensed or certified as a professional. - Talking about a support staff member who works under the supervision of a licensed professional.
- Referring to a person who assists another person with a task or job. - Describing a person who provides aid or support to someone in need. - Talking about a person who contributes to a group effort or project.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words refer to a person who assists or supports another person.
- 2Both can be used in various contexts and settings.
- 3Both imply a subordinate role to the person being helped or supported.
- 4Both can be used as nouns or adjectives.
What is the difference?
- 1Education/Training: Paraprofessional implies some level of education or training in a specific field, while helper does not require any specific qualifications.
- 2Professionalism: Paraprofessional is often associated with a professional setting, while helper can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
- 3Scope of Work: Paraprofessional typically has a more defined scope of work and responsibilities, while helper can be more general and flexible.
- 4Supervision: Paraprofessional usually works under the supervision of a licensed professional, while helper may work independently or under the supervision of anyone.
- 5Connotation: Paraprofessional has a more formal and technical connotation, while helper is more casual and general.
Remember this!
Paraprofessional and helper are both words that describe a person who assists or supports another person. However, paraprofessional implies some level of education or training in a specific field and is often associated with a professional setting, while helper is more general and can be used in various contexts. Paraprofessional typically has a more defined scope of work and responsibilities and works under the supervision of a licensed professional, while helper can be more flexible and work independently or under the supervision of anyone.