Teacher candidates take part in a professional seminar that supports their spring student teaching as well as the observation experience. Topics include teacher identity, professionalism, reflective practice, renewal of and support for teachers, observation protocols, and the creation of democratic learning communities.

A number of guiding principles from the Graduate School’s Conceptual and Ethical Framework will be explored: Learning and Living Environments, Professional Practice, Connection to Community, Professional and Technological Resources, Assessment, Research and Reflection, Leadership and Collaboration, Professional Life. We will use the Teacher Candidate Assessment (TCA) domains to guide our content:

Knowledge of Learners
Instructional Planning
Implementing Instruction
Assessment Strategies
Learning Community
Reflection and Adjustments
Professionalism & Leadership