Some paper copies of the ExCET are available in the Education Department. ExCET study guides and sample tests are also available on-line. The instructor will observe each student several times by scheduled appointment, and will confer with the student afterwards. If feasible, we encourage students to arrange an observation by a faculty member in their content areas. However, since that is an overload for other professors, and because some students may be a great distance from campus, we cannot require this.
Teaching is a complex, demanding job.
You are not expected to become a master teacher in one or two semesters, but we do expect you to make progress toward that goal, and to exhibit to a satisfactory degree the knowledge, skills and attitudes that we believe a successful teacher must possess. This includes knowledge of content and curriculum, developing positive relationships with students and colleagues, creating an environment that invites learning, and drawing on a variety of appropriate strategies for teaching and for evaluating learning. Through post-observation conferences with the college instructor, consultation with your mentor teacher, and continual reflection, you will recognize and affirm your strengths and set goals for those areas in which you need to grow. For every observation, the instructor will complete a form with specific feedback and an overall assessment. For students in the final semester of the Austin Teacher Program, a grade will not be assigned until the student has completed and submitted all required certification forms to Wanna Kniss.