EDU 420: PRACTICUM IN ELEMENTARY EDUCATION

EDU 420 includes twelve weeks of supervised candidate teaching in an elementary classroom. Each candidate is matched with a supervising practitioner (classroom teacher). Under the direct supervision of both a program supervisor (University supervisor) and supervising practitioner, the candidate observes, assists, and teaches elementary school pupils. The candidate is responsible for designing and teaching a range of lessons in the core academic subjects to elementary pupils with diverse learning needs. The candidates’ lesson plans and instructional units will demonstrate their connection to the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks. Over the course of the practicum, each candidate’s performance will be assessed jointly by both the program supervisor and supervising practitioner through the Massachusetts Candidate Assessment of Performance (CAP) for the Initial License The candidate will spend full school days at the field site for the spring semester. Teacher candidates follow the elementary school calendar during their practicum and therefore are expected to be at the elementary school each day it is in session, including those days when Assumption University classes may not be in session. Prior to the beginning of the practicum, practicum students may request approval to attend Assumption University sponsored events. Such requests must be made in writing and addressed to the Licensure Program Coordinator, and, if approved, the practicum student will extend the practicum placement beyond the typical ending date for the practicum. Limited to Elementary Education majors who have satisfied all retention criteria, including taking all required Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL) by January 15 of the senior year. Students must concurrently take the associated 3-credit seminar, EDU 420S.