Practicum and Student Teaching
Student Teaching Applications
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- Elementary
- Middle Level
- Secondary
- Elementary Inclusive
- Undergrad SPED
- SPED Graduate Field Experience
- Graduate
SPED
- Fall application due March 1st, spring applications due October 1st
- Out of state applicant must meet with the Director of Field Experiences (Dave Van Horn) well before the respective due date
- Attend pre-student teaching meeting
- Read Student Teaching handbook (to be distributed at the pre-student teaching meeting)
- Be willing to: --be punctual with student teaching --take constructive criticism and apply it to one's teaching --always be prepared --be willing to devote the time and energy necessary to improve.
Practicum
Practicum experiences at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln consist of all pre-student teaching field experiences that are a part of each professional education program. They may occur as introductory experiences in the early stages of a program or may be a part of a methods experience. Therefore, the requirements for each practicum can vary on the basis of when they are offered in one's program sequence and are influenced by the grade level and endorsement subject area of the student’s program. As students progress through different practicum experiences, the requirements become more rigorous. Students must dress and behave in a professional manner at all times. They are expected to use good judgment and common sense. Finally, they are expected to grow professionally and to improve their skills as educators. Students are encouraged to meet with their respective advisor for more specific information as to the nature of each practicum.
Students are required to complete a minimum of 100 hours in a PreK-12 school setting as part of their practicum experience(s). As part of the 100 hours, 40 hours must be spent in schools offering culturally diverse experiences.
Student Teaching
Student teaching is the culminating experience of the teacher education program. It is generally agreed that it is the most important single activity in the process of becoming a teacher. Student teachers are provided with an opportunity to refine those skills and abilities necessary to become an effective teacher. Student teaching also provides experiences upon which the prospective teacher can generate a personal knowledge base tied to teaching.
Students are required to complete a minimum of 16 continuous weeks in a PreK-12 school setting during their student teaching experience. Students pursuing endorsements in two subject areas will devote 8 weeks to each subject for a total of 16 weeks. Other student teaching timelines may vary by endorsement or combination of endorsements. The student should consult with the coordinator of each program area.
Steps to Complete Student Teaching
- Successfully complete all of the admission requirements for student teaching (see UG Bulletin)
- Apply for student teaching
