This specialty provides an appropriate second career avenue for individuals who are aspiring to teach after having had a first career or who have not been able to complete a teacher education program as part of an undergraduate program. A specific program audit form outlines the required and elective courses within the Four Pillar Framework, allowing for the certification and then the final degree work within the Professional Development Plan (PDP) process.
Certification areas include early childhood, elementary, secondary and wide range education (for special subject areas). To teach in specific content areas on the secondary level or wide range education areas, candidates must possess an earned major in that content field. Any deficiencies in that subject area must be met outside of this program to obtain the licensure. In all cases, a transcript review must be conducted to establish the appropriate credential eligibility. Teacher licensing at WLC follows the Wisconsin State DPI approved program guidelines as described in the Teacher Education Handbook where additional standardized tests and program requirements are identified.
The curriculum focuses the learner on research into best practice for academic achievement of diverse learners, teacher preparation and experience, practical instructional models, and data-driven decision-making within the context of a Christian world view. Technological applications are integrated throughout the program and specifically, in the required clinical and practicum experiences.
Special Requirements
Graduate students must come to campus for many of the methods courses in face-to-face formats and also have the ability to schedule clinical hours for observation and teaching in a K-12 classroom during the school year. Each methods course has specified hours and expectations assigned. At completion, clinical experiences must represent the range of the licensure program. The practicum in this specialty entails a full K-12 semester in a teacher candidacy position approved by the Director of Teacher Education and the Dean.
At least 36 credits is required for certification:
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