Undergraduate Teacher Candidate Handbook:Senior Year Information – All Candidates
Purpose of Handbook
The purpose of this handbook is to provide a comprehensive reference guide to students seeking Texas teacher certification. The handbook outlines policies, procedures, and guidelines used y the Undergraduate Teacher Education Preparation Programs (EPP) in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction at East Texas A&M University. It answers most of the questions asked by students regarding course requirements, program admission, field experiences, certification testing, clinical teaching and teaching certification.
Goals of the Program
The goal of the student teaching experience at East Texas A&M is the preparation of an effective, skilled, and independent educator.
Learning Outcomes/Objectives of the entire Student Teaching Experience
This includes Clinical Teaching Semester I and Clinical Teaching Semester II
- To be immersed in the profession of teaching at their target grade range that allow for a smooth transition from the role of a student at East Texas A&M to the role of a classroom teacher
- To be placed in a classroom with a cooperating teacher, who also has the same credentials, for two full semesters
- To observe the behavior and learning styles of students in a world of diverse cultures and expectations
- To develop high levels of teaching competence through guided teaching experience
- To learn how to create and use effective lesson plans for instruction
- To become competent in creating and using instructional materials and strategies
- To effectively use technology for instruction and communication
- To establish open communication to support and be an asset to the cooperating school and teacher education program
- To become familiar with the organization and programs of the public-school
- To establish professional relationships with fellow teachers, students, administrators and parents
- To engage in self-evaluation and professional goal setting
- To apply research-based practices and teaching strategies in a classroom setting with the support of a cooperating teacher and a field supervisor
We recognize that student teaching is a disruption to family life, work schedules, and leisurely habits; other professions admittedly require less time and fewer requirements outside coursework. However, we make no apologies for the rigor and the time commitment—we are preparing teacher candidates for one of the most demanding professions, as well as some of the most meaningful work that can be done.
Texas Administrative Code defines required minimums for coursework and activities required for teacher certification in the state of Texas. East Texas A&M exercises its right to have program standards above the minimum to ensure the quality of our program and positive outcomes for our candidates. Policies and procedures within this handbook that go beyond state minimums while maintaining compliance will supersede the minimums outlined in state code for East Texas A&M students.