Ed 3500 Handbook
Ed 3500 Handbook
Ed 3500 Handbook
3 5 0 0
EDUC ATION
Professional
Semester One
Field Experiences
Faculty of Education
University of Lethbridge
4401 University Drive West
Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4
Contents
Appendices.............................................................................................. 16
APPENDIX A: Faculty of Education: Standards of Professional Conduct ............................. 16
APPENDIX B: Alberta Teachers’ Association: Code of Professional Conduct ....................... 17
APPENDIX C: Alberta Education: Teaching Quality Standard.............................................. 18
APPENDIX D: Faculty of Education: Non-Academic Standards ........................................... 22
APPENDIX E: Attendance Policy: University Sanctioned Activities...................................... 23
APPENDIX F: Expectations on Student Teacher Orientation Day ........................................ 24
APPENDIX G: Expectations by Practica .............................................................................. 25
APPENDIX H: Field Experience Reports/Seminar Reports .................................................. 27
APPENDIX I: Map of Zone 6 Placement Area ..................................................................... 28
University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education v Education 3500: Professional Semester I
PROFESSIONAL SEMESTER I
Overview
Professional Semester I (PS I) is the first Professional Semester in the Faculty of Education and is
offered only in the Fall. This is a generic semester where the focus is on basic teaching skills
across all subject major areas. In this semester, all students take the same courses regardless of
major and are placed in cohorts of 36-40 students. Placements are usually in elementary
schools.
During the on-campus portion of the semester (prior to practicum) Student Teachers study six
courses. These courses prepare Student Teachers to begin to assume responsibilities for
classroom instruction. To that end, some courses involve classroom-based activities to
complete assignments during the practicum. Teacher Associates should seek clarification from
the Student Teachers and University Consultants regarding such assignments in order to assist
in maximizing their learning value. These courses are:
• EDUC 3503: Language in Education – Understanding the role of language and the
language arts in education generally, and instruction across the curriculum (K-12)
specifically.
• EDUC 3505: Teaching Seminar – Understanding the personal and professional nature of
teaching; learner and classroom contexts; teaching strategies, and teacher
development.
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After the on-campus courses are completed successfully, Student Teachers will be able to
complete their first supervised practicum experience:
• EDUC 3500: PS I Practicum – Student Teachers are assigned to schools for
approximately five weeks (125 hours) in a generic practicum to develop and practice
skills and knowledge related to on-campus components. Student Teachers are expected
to start teaching as soon as possible with the overall aim of teaching 1/3 of the time,
assisting 1/3 of the time, and observing or preparing 1/3 of the time.
The first week or two of the practicum should be characterized by cooperative planning
between the Teacher Associate and the Student Teacher, including frequent feedback by the
Teacher Associate about the Student Teacher’s understanding of the complexities of the
teaching process. Teacher Associate should attempt to provide the student teacher with
comments on all lesson plans prior to the lesson being taught and provide further feedback
after each lesson. The Student Teacher is expected to act upon the comments provided by the
Teacher Associate in ways that maintain strengths and attend to weaknesses.
Toward the end of the practicum, the Student Teacher must demonstrate initial progress in
developing the six competencies in the Alberta Education Teaching Quality Standard (TQS). If
time permits, and in consultation with the Teacher Associate (s), the Student Teacher may wish
to experiment with advanced instructional methods
Note: Components of the Teacher Education Program at the University of Lethbridge are
progressive with specific expectations for each level. See Appendix G: Expectations by
Practica.
Goals
The knowledge, competencies, and attitudes expected of EDUC 3500 Student Teachers are
based on the Alberta Education TQS. They include:
¨ Professional Body of Knowledge
o Planning: single lessons initially extending to a series of connected lessons (not an
entire unit).
o Instruction: familiarity with and confident use of several teaching strategies
applicable across grades and subject areas such as brainstorming, discussion, and
questioning techniques.
o Assessment and evaluation: conduct assessment and evaluation of student
learning using informal procedures such as checklists, simple teacher-made tests,
and anecdotal notations.
¨ Classroom Leadership and Management — follow routines established by Teacher
Associate such as giving directions and facilitating transitions from one learning activity
to another and develop communication and classroom control strategies as needed to
maintain a productive, inclusive, and respectful learning environment.
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Placements
Field Experiences, in partnership with District Superintendents and School Administrators, make
all practicum placements. One University Consultant is assigned to supervise six or seven
Student Teachers. After Field Experiences has made the placement, the University Consultant
contacts Teacher Associates to discuss the practicum.
These policies are related to the placement of students in practicum (See University Calendar:
Faculty of Education)
• Students must not contact teachers or school administrators with the intent of
procuring a practicum placement. Field Experiences personnel make all placements.
• Students must not contact the Teacher Associate prior to the practicum until advised to
do so.
• Practicum placements for PS I are made within Zone 6 (see Appendix I) and the Calgary
and Foothills areas.
• Students will not be placed in schools where family members are employed or where
family members are pupils.
• Students who refuse a placement may be required to withdraw from the practicum and
reapply for admission to the Faculty of Education to resume their studies in a
subsequent year.
Attendance Policy
The Faculty of Education maintains a mandatory attendance and punctuality policy for on-
campus classes, practica, and related activities such as workshops. If a Student Teacher must be
absent or late during practicum, the Student Teacher must notify the Teacher Associate and
University Consultant as soon as possible. If unable to contact either the Teacher Associate or
the University Consultant, the Student Teacher must telephone Field Experiences (403-329-
2259) and leave a message. Typically, illness, inclement weather and school closures are the
only acceptable reasons for being absent or late. If absent, Student Teachers must provide the
Teacher Associate with lesson plans for all classes they were assigned to teach. (Also see
Appendix E: Attendance Policy – University Sanctioned Activities.)
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The Student Teacher is asked to work with the Teacher Associate to determine the teaching
schedule for the upcoming week and to ensure that the Teacher Associate approves the
schedule.
The Student Teacher is required to submit one copy of the schedule to the University
Consultant no later than Thursday evening for the upcoming week. If the schedule changes,
the Student Teacher must inform the University Consultant immediately because these
schedules are used to plan supervision visits.
Supervision
Frequent and specific feedback is critical for the Student Teacher’s success. It is a general
expectation that the Teacher Associate will provide daily feedback (both verbal and written),
though not necessarily on every lesson. To ensure ongoing growth and development, the
Student Teacher is expected to act upon the feedback provided by the Teacher Associate and
University Consultant as soon as possible. The Student Teacher should regularly and actively
invite critique of teaching performance. Such feedback allows the Teacher Associate to offer
valuable suggestions on student learning, planning, teaching methods, and classroom
leadership and management.
The most important aspect of the Student Teacher’s practicum experience is formal teaching.
Specifically, formal teaching refers to the Student Teacher’s taking responsibility for preparing
and conducting learning activities for groups or classes as assigned by the Teacher Associate.
Formal teaching provides opportunities for the Student Teacher to assume an integral role in
facilitating student learning. The Student Teacher must be fully prepared to teach (well-
developed lesson plans, knowledge of content, organized resources), and must be assisted in
every possible way to understand and accurately assess the effectiveness of the teaching and
learning that transpires.
In this dynamic environment, the Student Teacher’s knowledge, competencies, and attitudes
are challenged and nurtured (e.g. academic knowledge, understanding of learners and learning
processes, communication skills, ability to build relationships, maturity, commitment to
teaching, and accounting for contextual variables).
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STUDENT TEACHER
Roles and Responsibilities
ORIENTATION DAY occurs near the end of the on-campus courses prior to the
commencement of practicum. This is an opportunity for Student Teachers to visit the school
in which they are placed, meet their Teacher Associate and other school staff and students,
become familiar with the school, and learn about their teaching assignment and other duties.
For more information, see Appendix F: Expectations on Student Teacher Orientation Day.
During Practicum
• Arrival and departure times should be discussed with the Teacher Associate.
Dependability and punctuality are essential in the teaching profession.
• Student Teachers are to be at school at least 20 minutes before classes commence and
expected to stay for the same amount of time after classes are over at a minimum. Before
the classes commence, the Student Teacher should meet with the Teacher Associate to
discuss the daily schedule of observations, prepare classroom resources, and complete
any other mutually arranged activities.
• Student Teachers must remain at school at the end of the school day to discuss lessons,
plan lessons, and to participate in duties that are a part of the teacher’s routine.
• Student Teachers must develop lesson plans for all lessons they teach. Lesson plans must
be in the school and available for the Teacher Associate, Administrator, and/or University
Consultant to review. At this point in their development, Student Teachers are not
required to complete a unit, rather a sequence of lesson plans for all subjects taught.
• Student Teachers may be asked to teach lessons in subject areas other than their major or
minor depending on the Teacher Associate’s teaching assignment.
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• Resources in the school are available for planning the lessons. Student Teachers are
expected to locate and return all resources to their respective places. Resources are not
to be taken without permission.
• The Student Teacher will abide by any expectations that the school may have in respect to
dress, grooming, general deportment, and interpersonal conduct with pupils. This may
include providing, to the Central Office or School Administrator, an up-to-date Criminal
Record Check. These expectations may be best understood from personal observation and
consultation with the Administrator and Teacher Associate.
• Student Teachers should and are encouraged to participate in any or all of the activities
that constitute the normal working day of their Teacher Associate such as meetings, in-
service sessions, hall or playground supervision, or outdoor education trips.
Note: While the Student Teacher should share in supervision with the Teacher Associate(s), the
Student Teacher cannot assume legal responsibility for pupil supervision. It is suggested
that the Teacher Associate is always available and on the school site for the Student
Teachers’ support. At no time during the practicum can the Student Teacher act as a
substitute teacher.
Logbook
During PS I practica, Student Teachers compile a well-organized and up-to-date logbook. This
must be available to be read by the University Consultant and Teacher Associate. The logbook is
usually a loose-leaf binder containing the following information.
Note: Student Teachers are required to maintain confidentiality and anonymity within their
logbook, adhering to FOIP and PIPA Guidelines.
General Information
• Student Teacher: Name, contact information, brief autobiography.
• School: Name, address, phone number, email address, school map, school-wide policies,
location of classroom, brief description of school, and School Handbook if available.
• Supervisors: Names and contact information for Administrator, Teacher Associate, and
University Consultant.
• Classes: Class organization, seating plan(s), and rules, routines, procedures.
• Timetable.
Lesson Plans
• Filed according to subject area, and class, and in the order taught.
• Written reflective critiques/self-assessments of all lessons. Indicate: (a) how you felt
about the lesson; (b) what went well and why, or what went poorly and why; and (c)
what might be done to change or improve the lesson.
• Copies of materials used for each lesson can be included in the logbook or kept in a
separate, orderly folder or binder. Reference information concerning electronic
resources used should be filed together with lesson materials.
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Other
• Journal entries: daily/weekly reflections.
• Observation notes: Student Teacher’s notes from all lessons observed.
• Collection of useful ideas and resources.
Student Teachers are required to engage in self and collaborative evaluation through
professional portfolio development. The portfolio development process engages students in a
cycle of reflection, goal-setting, working toward those goals and collecting evidence of
achievement.
The demonstration and discussion of progress and achievement should take place in a three-
way conference between the University Consultant, the Teacher Associate, and the Student
Teacher. The portfolio evaluation conferences should be held at the mid-point and end of
practicum. They may be led by the Student Teacher and should focus on the Student Teacher’s
achievement of the goals set for the semester and the competencies noted in the Formative
Assessment and Summative Report.
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University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education v Education 3500: Professional Semester I
TEACHER ASSOCIATE
Roles and Responsibilities
The role of Teacher Associate is an important and complex one. It demands that teachers be
coach, mentor, role model, supervisor, and critical friend to Student Teachers. Teacher
Associates are strongly encouraged to see their primary role as one of being a teacher-of-
teachers. Teacher Associates share responsibility for assessment of Student Teachers with
University Consultants.
The Teacher Associate is expected to assist in the development of the Student Teacher’s
knowledge, competencies, and attributes:
¨ Introducing the Student Teacher to all school staff. Promoting a sense of belonging by
orienting the Student Teacher to all school facilities, discussing expectations of
administration and other staff members, and inviting them to department, staff, school
council, and other meetings.
¨ Facilitating a conversation with the School Administrator and the Student Teacher. At this
time, information about the school, its policies, regulations, and available teaching
resources (persons and materials) will be reviewed. Related discussions might also foster
the Student Teacher’s understanding of the school as an inclusive environment and point
out to the Student Teacher ways in which the school is linked to the surrounding
community.
¨ Becoming familiar with the Student Teacher’s personal and educational background and
goals for the semester through conversation and a review of the Student Teacher’s
professional portfolio.
¨ Encouraging Student Teachers to develop their own abilities, personalities and styles as
teachers. It is a vital part of the supervisory function to challenge the Student Teachers’
maturity, professionalism, and resourcefulness.
¨ Developing a trusting relationship with the Student Teacher.
¨ Involving the Student Teacher in activities and routines of the class from the first day
forward so the Student Teacher has opportunities to learn and assume the leadership and
management responsibilities expected of this practicum. The Student Teacher should not
be idle.
¨ Providing an atmosphere of acceptance in the school and in the classroom. It is important
for the Teacher Associate to convey to the pupils that the Student Teacher is a competent
co-worker whose directions must be followed. It is necessary for the pupils to accept the
Student Teacher as a legitimate authority in the class. The Teacher Associate should resist
offering suggestions or corrections in the presence of the students.
¨ Determining the initial teaching assignment(s) for the Student Teacher.
¨ As appropriate, supplying the Student Teacher with essential information concerning the
pupils with whom the Student Teacher will be working.
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University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education v Education 3500: Professional Semester I
UNIVERSITY CONSULTANT
Roles and Responsibilities
The Student Teacher is assigned a University Consultant who will assume responsibility for the
following:
¨ Helping the Student Teacher develop an initial understanding of the TQS and its
implications for the knowledge, performance and professional growth of Student
Teachers.
¨ Helping the Student Teacher understand the connections between theory and practice in
teaching. The University Consultant shares this responsibility with colleagues, Teacher
Associates and School Administrator.
¨ Assisting the Student Teacher throughout the practicum. The University Consultant will
stay informed of the Student Teacher’s performance and progress through regular
communication and conferences with the Student Teacher, the Teacher Associate, and
the School Administrator.
¨ Assessing and evaluating, with supporting documentation, the Student Teacher’s planning
and performance during the practicum.
Specific Responsibilities
• The expectation for EDUC 3500 is for the University Consultant to supervise the Student
Teacher at least three (3) times during the practicum. Supervision is defined as a school
visit that consists of the following 3 components: a pre-conference, full lesson
observation, and post-conference feedback.
• The Teacher Associate and/or Student Teacher may request more supervision by the
University Consultant. The University Consultant is asked to respond promptly.
• Notify the Assistant Dean, Field Experiences immediately when a Student Teacher is
identified as failing to meet practicum expectations or a problem situation arises.
(See Failure to Meet Expectations section.)
• Attend the final meeting with the Student Teacher and Teacher Associate. Determine and
submit the final grade for the practicum.
Note: If a University Consultant, through illness or absence from campus, is unable to visit Student
Teachers for a week or more, Field Experiences will arrange appropriate supervision.
Additional Responsibilities
• The University Consultant serves as a liaison and is responsible for facilitating and
maintaining communication between the university and the school.
• Working closely with Teacher Associate to ensure that the experiences facilitate the
maximum growth of the Student Teacher.
• Participating in the process of the Student Teacher’s professional portfolio development.
• Advises Field Experiences on matters relating to the operation of PS I.
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University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education v Education 3500: Professional Semester I
The evaluation of the Student Teacher’s performance, progress and professional development
is made with overarching respect for the Alberta Education TQS and more specifically, in
relation to the competencies stated for the PS I Practicum. Evaluation is a difficult and complex
task that involves deliberations among the three people concerned: the Student Teacher,
Teacher Associate, and University Consultant. To be most effective, evaluation should be
considered a sustained process. Therefore, it is important that the Student Teacher, through
frequent consultation with supervisors, has a clear understanding of progress throughout the
practicum. This is to be accomplished through ongoing feedback as well as periodic
assessments using the PS I Formative and Summative forms (Appendix H).
PS I Formative Assessment: The PS I Formative Assessment form is provided to give the student
teacher focused, specific feedback during the PS I Practicum (EDUC 3500). Specific objectives
for EDUC 3500 are listed on the PS I Formative Assessment form. The Teacher Associate should
complete this form at regular intervals during the practicum (e.g. every week or every other
week).
Note: At the end of the practicum, the Formative Assessment form becomes the property of
the Student Teacher. It is not part of the Student Teacher’s permanent record in the
Faculty of Education.
PS I Summative Report Form: During EDUC 3500, the Teacher Associate, the University
Consultant and the Student Teacher share responsibility for practicum assessment. At the end
of the practicum, the Teacher Associate and University Consultant complete an appraisal of the
Student Teacher’s final performance on the PS I Summative Report form. This report is to be
discussed in a final conference with the Student Teacher, the Teacher Associate, and the
University Consultant. Student Teachers are strongly encouraged to obtain and retain a copy of
the Summative Report and place it in their portfolio at the time the Report is discussed and
signed.
The completed and signed Field Experiences Report form must be submitted to Field
Experiences before the deadline. Student Teachers may examine the Summative Report forms
after submission. Summative Reports are not to be removed from Field Experiences and may not
be copied without permission of the originator.
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University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education v Education 3500: Professional Semester I
The demonstration and discussion of progress and achievement should take place in a three-
way conference with the Student Teacher, Teacher Associate (s), and University Consultant.
Portfolio conferences should be held at the mid-point and at the end of the practicum. They
may be led by the Student Teacher and should focus on achievement of the goals set for the
semester and the attainment of the PS I competencies.
In rare situations, one of the following designations may be assigned by the University
Consultant. Grading options for practicum include:
• Incomplete (‘I’)
in case of illness or other extenuating circumstances beyond the control of the student,
which make it impossible to complete the required work by the end of the term (see
University Calendar: Academic Regulations, Policies and Program Requirements)
OR
when the Teacher Associate and the University Consultant, believe that the Student
Teacher will be able to meet expectations for EDUC 3500 if more time in the practicum
placement was provided.
Note: The ‘I’ designation is awarded only on application to and approval of both the
instructor and the Dean of Education. (See Student Program Services for additional
information and the appropriate forms.)
• Withdrawal: ‘W’
Students in a Professional Semester who are considering a withdrawal must immediately
contact Student Program Services and Field Experiences for assistance. Withdrawing from
any component of a Professional Semester will result in the student’s withdrawal from the
Faculty of Education
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• Failure: ‘F’
The ‘F’ should be given if the Student Teacher has failed a course, module or not met
practicum expectations. Also, the student may be assigned a failing grade for the
component where the Standards of Professional Conduct were not met.
A Student Teacher or Intern will have the option of withdrawing from the Faculty of
Education up to the last day of classes (see ‘W’ or ‘WC’ above). Past that date, an "F" will
appear on the academic transcript.
Note: Such cases should be brought to the attention of Deans of Student Program Services and
Field Experiences as soon as the conflict arises.
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University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education v Education 3500: Professional Semester I
When the Student Teacher is failing to meet practicum expectations, the University Consultant
will immediately notify the Assistant Deans of Student Program Services and Field Experiences.
• The University Consultant will notify the Student Teacher in writing that the Teacher
Associate(s) and/or University Consultant have serious concerns which put the Student
Teacher at risk of receiving a failing grade in the practicum.
• The University Consultant and Teacher Associate will develop a written plan that
describes the areas of concern, sets goals, and gives suggestions for improvement, as
well as dates by which expectations must be met. A copy of the plan must be submitted
to the Assistant Deans of Student Program Services and Field Experiences and copies are
to be retained by the University Consultant and the Teacher Associate
• Prior to the date determined in the written plan, the University Consultant and Teacher
Associate will meet with the Student Teacher to discuss whether or not the student will
successfully complete the practicum. The decision will be shared in writing with the
Student Teacher and the Assistant Deans of Student Program Services and Field
Experiences.
Supplementary Supervision
The University Consultant and Assistant Dean, Field Experiences, will ascertain whether it is
appropriate to have a second university supervisor provide supplementary supervision. The role
of the supplementary supervisor is consultative to the University Consultant regarding
evaluation of Student Teacher performance in respect to the PS I competencies (based on the
TQS). The role may include assistance to the University Consultant in the development and
implementation of the plan as described above and/or determination of grade.
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University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education v Education 3500: Professional Semester I
Termination of Placement
If the Teacher Associate or School Administrator requests termination of the placement, the
request will be respected, and the Student Teacher immediately removed. After removal, the
Student Teacher, University Consultant, and the Assistant Deans of Student Program Services
and Field Experiences will meet to determine an appropriate course of action. Each case is
handled on an individual basis.
A student will be withdrawn from the Faculty of Education if the following occurs:
• After consultation with the University Consultant and Teacher Associate (s), the
Assistant Dean of Student Program Services will document the difficulties that the
Student Teacher experienced in the practicum placement.
• The student will be provided with a written document that describes the areas of
concern and recommendations about how to remediate those difficulties.
• To be considered for readmission, the student will be expected to present evidence of
their remediation activities. This will be presented to the members of the
Undergraduate Student Program Committee, who adjudicate applications for
readmission on behalf of the Faculty. Readmission is not assured. (see University
Calendar: Education - Readmission After Withdrawal).
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University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education v Education 3500: Professional Semester I
APPENDICES
APPENDIX A:
Faculty of Education: Standards of Professional Conduct
As a Faculty within the University of Lethbridge, the Faculty of Education is committed to
maintaining its students’ freedom of thought, belief, opinion, and expression. As a professional
Faculty, the Faculty of Education is committed to assisting students to become professionals. The
Faculty, then, has the dual responsibility of fostering the academic freedom of students within the
context of professional standards of conduct. The standards describe professional characteristics and
behaviors students are expected to develop and demonstrate during field experience components
and field related courses within the Teacher Education Program. Appropriate demonstration of these
professional standards will be judged by on-campus instructors and school personnel.
• The student acts in a manner that respects the dignity and rights of all persons without
prejudice as to race, religious beliefs, colour, gender, sexual orientation, physical characteristics,
age, ancestry, or place of origin.
• The student treats pupils, peers, school personnel, and faculty members with dignity and
respect and is considerate of their circumstances.
• The student acts in a responsible manner which includes being punctual, dependable,
trustworthy, consistent, and reliable.
• Recognizing that attendance in practicum courses and Professional Semesters is a professional
responsibility, students apprise appropriate personnel at the University and/or school in
advance of unavoidable absences.
• The student demonstrates empathy for others by showing concern for and understanding of
others’ feelings and/or ideas.
• The student responds to feedback by listening to, evaluating, and responding to suggestions.
• The student maintains positive interpersonal relationships with peers, faculty, school personnel,
and pupils, by contributing, cooperating, participating, and working with others in a flexible and
adaptable way.
• The student shows enthusiasm and initiative by being actively involved as a participant while
encouraging the involvement and participation of others.
• The student shows maturity and judgment.
• The student demonstrates a commitment to teaching through interest in learning about
teaching, consulting, questioning, reading, and discussion.
• The student criticizes (verbally or in writing) the professional competence or professional
reputation of others only in confidence to proper officials and only after the other person has
been informed of the criticism.
• The student respects the confidentiality of information about pupils, peers, school personnel, or
faculty, received in confidence or in the course of professional duties.
• The student acts in a manner which maintains the honor and dignity of the profession and the
University of Lethbridge.
• The student does not make representations on behalf of the Faculty of Education, the
University of Lethbridge, the school, or the profession.
In addition to Professional Conduct, students are expected to meet expectations set out in other
University and Faculty of Education policies, and to adhere to expectations set out by The Alberta
Teachers’ Association, Alberta Education, and School Jurisdictions
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APPENDIX B:
Alberta Teachers’ Association: Code of Professional Conduct
CODE OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
T
he Code of Professional Conduct stipulates minimum standards of professional conduct of teachers but is not an exhaustive
list of such standards. Unless exempted by legislation, any member of The Alberta Teachers’ Association who is alleged to
have violated the standards of the profession, including the provisions of the Code, may be subject to a charge of unprofes-
sional conduct under the bylaws of the Association.
Approved by the 2018 Annual Representative Assembly pursuant to the Teaching Profession Act.
Please note:
• Items 13 and 14 of the Code of Professional Conduct do not pertain to reporting to the Association on the possible unprofessional
conduct of another member.
• The Teaching Profession Act, section 24(3), requires members to report forthwith to the executive secretary on the unprofessional
conduct of another member.
IM-4E 2018 07
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University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education v Education 3500: Professional Semester I
APPENDIX C:
Alberta Education: Teaching Quality Standard
TQS delineates six competencies that must be demonstrated to qualify for interim professional
certification and later, permanent professional certification in the province of Alberta.
“Competency” means an interrelated set of knowledge, skills and attitudes, developed over time and
drawn upon and applied to a particular teaching context in order to support optimum student learning.
Each competency in the standard includes several indicators designed to provide illustrative examples of
competent practice.
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APPENDIX D:
Faculty of Education: Non-Academic Standards
u Empathy: as concern for the welfare of others – the ability to care beyond oneself;
u Acceptance and Respect: of individual differences, i.e., looks, attitudes, life styles,
viewpoints;
u Imagination and Creativity: by escaping from rigidity, structures, and the hum-drum;
u Poise and Self-Confidence: as a sense of fair play and justice; treating each person
according to his/her needs; and
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University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education v Education 3500: Professional Semester I
APPENDIX E:
Attendance Policy: University Sanctioned Activities
For students participating in University sanctioned activities during PS I, PS II, and PS III.
Preamble
The Faculty of Education recognizes opportunities afforded students who participate in
university-sanctioned activities such as athletics* or fine arts**. While all effort will be to
accommodate the schedules of students involved in these endeavors, such demands cannot
compromise the integrity of the Faculty of Education program.
Participants
This policy refers to University of Lethbridge sanctioned participation. Students who are
involved in out-of-sequence coursework, community or other public performances, coaching,
or non-sanctioned athletics will be governed by standard Faculty of Education attendance
policy. That is, students are required to attend all classes and activities on campus as well as
fulfill all before and after school practicum responsibilities.
Guidelines
Permission may only be granted to miss class or practicum time for participation in regular
competition, dress rehearsals, or performances. Students will not be excused from class or
practicum for team practices, rehearsal, or other such preparatory activities. Pre-season and
exhibition competition will also be considered lower priority.
It is the student’s responsibility to discuss, with the appropriate faculty members, conflicts
between classes/practicum and scheduled competitions or performances. This should be done
as soon as a schedule of sanctioned activities has been confirmed.
After considering the overall impact of the schedule on the student’s attendance, faculty
members will come to a reasonable agreement regarding absences. It is the responsibility of
the student to complete all work, activities, and materials missed during the absence.
While all efforts will be made to reach a reasonable compromise, the Instructor or Teacher
Associate is NOT obligated to excuse a student if doing so would unduly compromise the
student’s academic success.
* Varsity sports teams that are funded by the University and participate in the C.I.S.
** Music ensembles are not required during Professional Semesters. Students may not receive credit for
participation in ensembles during PS I, II, or III without written permission from the Assistant Dean of
Student Program Services. Students may not receive credit for participation in Theatre and Dramatic
Arts productions during PS I, II, or III without written permission from the Assistant Dean of Student
Program Services.
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University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education v Education 3500: Professional Semester I
APPENDIX F:
Expectations on Student Teacher Orientation Day
The following checklist will help Student Teachers make the most of Orientation Day:
Preparation
• dress professionally
• arrive at least 20 minutes early
• report to administrator's office
School Personnel
• meet administration, other teachers of same grade, teacher assistants, school secretary
• establish telephone and message routines with your Teacher Associate (email addresses, cell phone
and other as appropriate).
School Facilities
• staff room location and routines (lunch, coffee-fund)
• washroom location
• library/resource centre routines (media & technology equipment, photocopier, fax, internet, email)
• login processes for Course Management software and other password protected school technology
• parking regulations
• materials and supplies availability
• first aid/sick room locations
School Routines
• schedule of classes and bells
• time of teacher arrival and leaving
• schedule of special events
• discipline policies and behaviour expectations
• dress code
• student supervision (gym, playground, lunchroom)
• co-curricular activities participation expectations
• emergency procedures (fire evacuation, lock downs, etc.)
Classroom
• class schedule – ask Teacher Associate for a copy
• seating plan/name tags – learn a few names
• student alerts/medical/custodial – ask if these apply to your classes
• management routines and policies – observe Teacher Associate
• location of resources and supplies – what are routines for storing etc.
• space for Student Teacher desk/table – where will you sit?
Curriculum and Instruction
• review of ongoing studies/topics/projects – students and Teacher Associate can explain to you.
• overview of initial teaching expectations – what will you teach?
• supply of Program of Studies, teaching resources etc. – can you share with Teacher Associate?
• review of program modifications for special needs students – ask Teacher Associate and observe closely.
Communication
• review of professional portfolio (goals and personal attributes) with Teacher Associate.
• time for planning, feedback, and assessment conferences – plan daily time with Teacher Associate
• procedures regarding absence – how to notify Teacher Associate and school.
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University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education v Education 3500: Professional Semester I
APPENDIX G:
Expectations by Practica
EDUC 2500 EDUC 3500 (PS I) EDUC 3600 (PS II) EDUC 457X (PS III)
Description
• Orientation to • General teaching skills • Subject major teaching • Introduction to first year
teaching teaching
Developmental Focus
• Assist teacher • Plan and teach lessons • Plan and teach organized • Engage in all teaching and
with learning and sequences of units of instruction teaching related activities
activities lessons • Demonstrate competence in • 1/2 time teaching assignment
• Evaluate student subject area • Long range, unit, and lesson
learning (lesson focus) • Evaluate student learning planning
(unit focus) • Long range assessment of
student learning
Course Background Concurrent to Practicum
• Seminars • Curriculum and • Curriculum and Instruction • Academic Study
• Pedagogy Instruction (generic) (in major area) o Seminar series on
• Ethics • Evaluation of Learning • Psychology of Exceptional educational issues
• Contexts of • Language in Education Learners o Professional Inquiry Project
Education and • Educational Psychology • Social Context of Schooling o Growth plans
Teaching • Teaching Seminar • Evaluation of Student • Professional Portfolio
• Professional • Communications Learning Development
Responsibilities Technology
• Observe and assist • 5-week practicum • 6-week practicum • Approximately 1/2 time
• May engage in • 1/3 time assisting • 2/3 time teaching teaching assignment
minimal planning • 1/3 time teaching • 1/3 time assisting • Engage in all professional
under Teacher • 1/3 time observing/ • If appropriate, progress to school activities including
Associate planning 3-5 days of full time district/site-based professional
guidance • Written lesson plans for teaching development days and
all lessons taught • Written lesson and unit Teachers’ Convention
• May teach from plans plans, including assessment • All levels of planning
prepared with/by and evaluation components • Unit and long-range plans
Teacher Associate • Plan, conduct, and research prepared in advance of
• Plan for assessment and evaluation of pupil work internship
informal evaluation • Individual Professional Growth
Plan (aligned with school goals)
• Professional Inquiry Project
(PIP Symposium: voluntary)
• Complete the descriptive report
section of Final Report
Professional Portfolio Expectations
• Orientation to Begin to develop: Continue to develop: • Complete Professional Portfolio
Professional • Goals • Goals • Present to Teacher Mentor,
Portfolio • Personal and • Personal and professional Administrator and/or University
development professional attributes attributes and competencies Consultant
and competencies • Record of progress with (ideally in final Intern Teacher-
• Record of progress with evidence led conference)
evidence
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University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education v Education 3500: Professional Semester I
EDUC 2500 EDUC 3500 (PS I) EDUC 3600 (PS II) EDUC 457X (PS III)
Teacher Associate/Teacher Mentor and Administrator Expectations
• Direction to • Observation of most • Observation of most lessons TEACHER MENTOR
EDUC 2500 lessons taught taught • Interact as knowledgeable,
student • On-going assessment and • On-going assessment and supportive, experienced colleague
• Communication coaching coaching and coach
with University • Supervision and written • Supervision and written • Actively monitor Intern Teacher
Consultant feedback of at least one feedback of at least one lesson based on classroom observations
• Evaluation of lesson daily daily • Complete the Teacher Mentor
EDUC 2500 • Final conference with • Final conference with section of Final Report
student University Consultant University Consultant
ADMINISTRATOR
• Final conference
• Supervision and classroom
with University
observation consistent with
Consultant
transition to first year teaching
(based on the Teaching Quality
Standard)
Evaluation of Teaching Performance
• Self-evaluation • Self-evaluation and • Self-evaluation and reflective INTERN TEACHER
and reflective reflective practice practice • Self-evaluation using the Formative
practice • Collaborative process • Collaborative process Assessment form and Professional
• Mid-practicum including: including: Portfolio Development
Formative ~ Formative ~ Formative Assessment and • Contribute to Final Report (based
Assessment Assessment and Summative Report by on TQS).
(checklist) to be Summative Report by Teacher Associate and • Intern Teacher-led final conference
completed by Teacher Associate University Consultant
Teacher Associate TEACHER MENTOR
and University ~ Professional Portfolio
and the • Review goals set by Intern Teacher
Consultant development
EDUC 2500 • Provide feedback on Professional
~ Professional Portfolio
student Inquiry Project and Professional
development
• Summative Report Portfolio
completed by • Provide guidance based on
Teacher Associate classroom observation
in consultation • Contribute to Final Report (based
with University on TQS) and participate in final
Consultant conference
ADMINISTRATOR
• Contribute to Final Report (based
on TQS) and participate in final
conference
UNIVERSITY CONSULTANT
• Review goals set by Intern Teacher
• Provide feedback on Professional
Inquiry Project and Professional
Portfolio
• Provide guidance based on
classroom observation(s)
• Contribute to Final Report (based
on TQS) and participate in final
conference
• Assign grade of Pass or Fail
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University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education v Education 3500: Professional Semester I
APPENDIX H:
Field Experience Reports/Seminar Reports
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University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Education v Education 3500: Professional Semester I
APPENDIX I:
Map of Zone 6 Placement Area
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