Student teaching is a required component for all teacher certification programs. Virginia Wesleyan College, however, takes field experiences to a different level that distinguishes it from similar programs.
"Our early field experiences make our program unique," says Lynn Seltzer, director of field experiences. "We offer our students four opportunities to observe and teach in classrooms."
Early in their college career, prospective teachers participate in two practicum placements, where they spend time observing and perhaps participating in classroom settings that vary depending on the student's major and teaching endorsement.
Later, after meeting requirements, including passing the Praxis I Test (a pre-professional skills test), they have two student teaching placements of seven weeks each, where they gradually take over a classroom and have complete responsibility for lesson plans, teaching, grading, meeting with parents and other facets of teaching.
"Our placements are very individualized," Seltzer explained. "We try to find placements for our students that meet their needs."
Student teacher supervisors play an important role in observing and guiding the students. All of Wesleyan's supervisors are recently retired certified teachers who are selected carefully for their roles. And, to further enhance the supervisory relationship, students have different supervisors for each student teaching placement.
"Typically, student teachers and their supervisors form a close bond," Seltzer said. "Students really benefit from receiving input and evaluation from two different experienced teachers."