Suggestions for each of the areas are presented below to serve as a guide for the cooperating teacher. A good orientation program is a vital part of the cooperating teacher's work with student teachers in the public schools. Although orientation is generally regarded as very significant during the initial stages of student teaching, it is most effective when it is a continuous process throughout the experience. It is a good policy to have the student teacher assume some responsibilities immediately. These responsibilities will vary from school to school and with different grade levels.
Participation is intended to help the student teacher gain confidence.
The cooperating teacher should share written, as well as verbal plans with the student teacher. It is desirable that this be a cooperative decision between the student teacher and cooperating teacher. Greater responsibility for teaching should proceed gradually. Students in a single ten to sixteen week placement should teach full time for a minimum of ten days. The scheduling of these days should provide the student teacher with the chance to assume the teacher role on several consecutive days as well as providing time for reflection.