3.1.1.4 Teaching Practicum (RS-951)
Following completion of the Foundations of the Craft of Teaching course (HRS-950b), students complete a 1-3-credit Teaching Practicum (RS-951). This course provides mentored teaching experience. Students are paired with an experienced teaching mentor in their field of expertise (typically a University faculty member) and participate in their mentor’s course in activities such as developing the syllabus and instructional materials, teaching selected session(s) of the course, developing/refining grading rubrics, hosting review sessions, and preparing and grading assessments and discussions. The RS-951 Practicum Coordinator (typically the Associate Director) supports students in identifying an appropriate course/mentor and guides the development of the Teaching Practicum Contract, which outlines the practicum plan and objectives. RS-951 has two types of objectives: 1) objectives relevant to every student, and 2) individualized objectives unique to each student. Each student, in consultation with the practicum mentor, the RS-951 Practicum Coordinator, and the research mentor, develops 4-5 individualized objectives to be met in the teaching practicum. Students should be in contact with the Practicum Coordinator during/after completing HRS-950b to solidify a plan. Students typically complete Teaching Practicum within one year of finishing HRS-950b. Students are expected to attend course sessions across the semester (for 3 credits, at least two hours per week over a 14-week semester onsite or the equivalent commitment for a shorter, intensive or online course). To ensure adequate time for research, the time commitment for Teaching Practicum should not exceed the equivalent of 6 hours per week across a 14-week semester (84 hours). RS-951 is managed through D2L. Please see the course syllabus for additional information and for time commitments associated with 1 and 2 credit practicum experiences.