The student teaching experience is designed to give the student a full time internship under the supervision of a cooperating teacher. The Education Department requires that the student’s total scholastic effort be devoted to the student teaching experience. There are no other college course responsibilities during this time period. Specifically, the student will:
- Observe and teach for a minimum period of 14 weeks during the first or second semester of the senior year. Students may elect to student teach as post-graduates.
- Create and teach from lesson plans made under the supervision of a licensed public or private school teacher.
- Gradually assume responsibility for teaching from three to four classes a day during this period. (Teaching load may vary in relationship to the subject being taught and the school schedule.)
- Be responsible for administrative duties associated with these classes. This should include attendance reports and other routine duties previously handled by the cooperating teacher.
- Assume responsibility for the grading of students in assigned classes.
- Construct, administer, correct, and grade examinations for classes being taught.
- Visit with administrative personnel and special education teachers about the total educational system.
- Assume duties in addition to daily classes. This could include study hall, small group tutoring, or whatever is deemed necessary to make the schedule and experience as complete as possible.
The broad goal of student teaching is that the student have the best possible introduction to the teaching field. Major responsibility rests with the cooperating teacher to set reasonable and specific objectives befitting the individual ability and development of the student teacher.
It is assumed that the cooperating teacher will guide the student through a variety of experiences ranging from the practice of basic teaching skills to classroom management. The cooperating teacher should decide on specific goals and objectives after observing the student in a classroom teaching situation. It is quite possible that many competencies will be proven early, while others such as asking high order questions, will need more practice.
In addition to learning about teaching skills and methods and dealing with classroom management, the student should gain knowledge about the community in which he or she is teaching. The Education Department recommends, but does not insist, that the student live in the community while student teaching. It is hoped that this will help him/her to better understand the children being taught.
It is also our desire that the student teacher develop in the area of professionalism. Ethical behavior towards students and peers is essential. The cooperating teacher and college supervisor should be alert to counsel and advise the student on these matters.