Candidates are certified to teach only if they demonstrate ability to teach effectively. Teaching competency is determined by the Director of Student Teaching, the university supervisor, and the cooperating teacher or teachers. The student teacher is also required to take a practicum while student teaching. Student teachers are not generally permitted to enroll in other courses during the student teaching experience. Student teaching is normally conducted in selected public schools located in the service area of the university.
Alternative programs are also available.
Interested students should discuss this possibility with the Director of Student Teaching. The institutional philosophy regarding student teaching is to prepare students adequately to assume their responsibilities in the teaching profession with the knowledge and skill essential to their areas of specialization. Student teaching is designed to provide a climate wherein the student may exhibit creativity and the ability to make critical judgments based upon knowledge and reason. Applications must be submitted in September for Spring semester student teaching and in January for Fall semester student teaching. Transfer students are not assigned to student teaching until they have completed at least 24 credits of work at this university.