Students must be successful in each and every strand in order to complete a thematic unit. Lecture content is guided by thematic units of study. Students must engage in independent inquiry on topics related to areas of study but not directly addressed in discussion. The seminar also offers students a forum in which to discuss their experiences and inquiries in the field. In Year II, Semester 3, students complete a block field experience - an extended and intensive period in the school.
Students also return to the university for a weekly seminar.
During Semester 4, students engage in an inquiry project - an action research project which takes two days per week and should be designed to meet needs specific to the school to which the student is assigned. International Study is an option in Semester 4. Students remain registered at the U of C and communicate electronically with their instructors, while living in another country and learning about its educational system.