Reflective Practicum: Focus Observation

This is the introductory phase of the student teacher’s practicum experience at the University College. Reflective Practicum: Focused Observation takes place during Semester 1 of Year 2. During this phase, students are provided with authentic field experiences in different educational contexts (early childhood, primary, secondary, and special education). This phase is supported by in-house interactive, collaborative sessions and mentorship that provide students with the tools needed to maximize their field experience.

The course lasts for 13 weeks (totalling 75 hours), with 10 weekly 3-hour sessions allotted for in-house facilitation (totalling 30 hours). The remaining 45 hours are dedicated to fieldwork, which includes an observation period that usually lasts 9 hours per day for 5 days at the selected cooperating school. During this week, emphasis is placed on focused observation as a data-gathering tool for understanding diverse learning environments. The phase fosters critical reflection and continuous research to inform educational practice. In completing this phase, students are expected to make post-observation presentations and compile reports from journal entries and field observations, on their experiences and key takeaways. There are 3 credits awarded for completing this course.