Reflective Practicum: In-School Immersion Part B

Reflective Practicum: In-School Immersion Part B represents the 3rd phase of practicum. Phase 3 is conducted during Semester 2 (January – May) of the student teacher’s final year at the University College. This course provides student teachers with the requisite field experience and an opportunity to apply theory to practice. Since the transformation of the educational landscape requires both individual and collective efforts, Reflective Practicum: In-School Immersion Part B is designed to create an environment in which practitioners are supported by and supportive of the constructive initiatives of themselves and others. 

Phase 3 lasts for 12 to 15 weeks (totalling 225 hours). There are 12 hours assigned for teaching per week (totalling 180 hours after 15 weeks) and 3 hours per week for Professional Learning Community and integration into the school community (45 hours in total). 

During this phase student teachers are assigned mentors/ coaches/ supervisors who provide support during this critical period of their growth and development. Student teachers are mentored in applying learner-centred pedagogical principles in alignment with the curriculum of their area of specialization. In addition, they engage in continuous reflection as they involve themselves in different aspects of school life. 

Additionally, there is an emphasis on the development of the art and science of teaching. Reflective Practicum: In-School Immersion Part B immerses student teachers into

• Maximum teaching hours
• Lesson Planning
• Special Events
• Workshops
• PTA meetings
• Clubs and Societies
• Professional Learning Communities
• Growth and Development Portfolios

There are many benefits of this course. During this 3-month phase of Practicum, student teachers become

• Reflective Practitioners
• Competent and Creative Communicators
• Content and Pedagogical Specialists and;
• Good Collaborators.

Student-teachers also improve their

• Organizational Skills
• Problem Solving & Decision-Making Skills and;
• Research Skills

Reflective Practicum: In-School Immersion Part B has three (3) main components for the assessment. These include

1. Teaching Episode
2. Growth and Development Portfolio and;
3. Professional Learning Community.

Important to note in this phase is that students act independently, in comparison to the previous pair teaching approach in Part A. Also, during the 3 months of teaching practice, three teaching episodes will be graded. Your supervisor will grade two episodes and the final teaching episode will be assessed by an external assessor or an internal designate. 

There are 5 credits awarded by the University to students who successfully complete Reflective Practicum: In-School Immersion Part B.