Fieldwork
A student must complete a 35-hour pre-practicum while taking EDUC 391. Additionally, a student must complete a minimum of 25 hours of observation and/or tutoring in an independent fieldwork experience in a diverse setting, which can be completed as part of the student’s Sophomore Experience.
Practicum requirements
During the senior year, a student will complete a semester-long twelve-credit student teaching practicum (EDUC 496) plus a four-credit seminar in reflective teaching practices (EDUC 495). While student teaching, Wheaton students will be at the cooperating school for the entire school day and will follow the public school calendar. They may take only one additional Wheaton credit during the semester and this must be fulfilled after the regular school hours. A student must notify the department chair of any incomplete grade from the previous semester. An incomplete may disqualify the student from admission to the practicum. During the practicum, students are evaluated according to the seven standards that define the knowledge and skills required of all Massachusetts teachers. If students fail to meet one of these standards, they will not be eligible for licensure.
Additional information
Eligibility for EDUC 495/EDUC 496 (the student-teaching practicum) requires a CGPA of 3.0, a B- or better in EDUC 230 and a B or better in EDUC 391, a GPA of B or above in the subject area major, a 25-hour fieldwork experience in a setting with diverse learners, passing scores on the reading and writing subtests of the Communication and Literacy MTEL, taking the Biology MTEL, and good social standing according to the Dean of Students with no conduct hearings pending. Students must also demonstrate, to the satisfaction of the Wheaton Education Department, promise of fulfilling all Massachusetts Professional Standards for Teachers, including the Professional Culture Standard (which must be demonstrated by behavior such as, but not limited to, appropriate professional communication and appropriate professional conduct with classmates, students, fieldwork supervisors, community members, and faculty).
The secondary education program coordinator may grant waivers authorizing students to take alternative courses. These waivers are granted when students have taken a similar Wheaton course or a similar course at another institution. In extraordinary circumstances, the coordinator may grant waivers based on reading lists or assignments completed in multiple courses. Waivers may be granted for foundation courses or subject-matter courses, but not for EDUC 230 , EDUC 391 or EDUC 495/EDUC 496. Ordinarily, coordinators will grant no more than two waivers per student (exceptions are made for students who take relevant courses abroad).
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