Preparing for Your Special Education Field Experiences
It's important for teacher candidates to know what is expected of them before they begin their clinical experiences because it provides clarity, fosters growth, and ultimately prepares you for a successful career in teaching.
TO DO ASAP:
1. Criminal Background Check 2. TB Test 3. Mandated Reporting Training
NLU requires all candidates in programs that include time spent in an Illinois school to have an Illinois State Police criminal background fingerprint check, a TB test, and a Certificate of Completion with the Department of Children and Family Services Mandated Reporter Training. Only teacher candidates with a) “no record,” b) a negative TB test, and c) a Certificate of Completion may be placed in a school. Refer to the Office of Field Experience Information Guide (Appendix C) for specific details and instructions regarding the 1. Criminal Background Check, 2. TB Test, and 3. Mandated Reporter Training The Special Education M.A.T. Program requires that a minimum of 125 clock hours of observation and/or Internship experiences to be completed prior to Student Teaching. These classroom observations are designed to provide candidates with opportunities to develop and refine teaching skills. Most instructors require additional assignments related to these field experiences. Focusing observations on effective teaching strategies and taking thorough notes will enable the candidate to connect the field experiences to the topics of study within the course. Notes: • We incorporate observation hours into specific courses that are required for licensure in Special Education. See the Course of Study chart above for courses requiring field experience hours. Pre-Clinical Experiences Pre-Student Teaching Experience Hours
23 / MAT Special Education Handbook
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