FIELD EXPERIENCE INFORMATION

Field experiences are an integral part of initial teacher education at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale. We partner with 70 schools in 39 school districts located in 23 cities and towns within a 60 mile-radius of Southern Illinois University Carbondale for our on-campus programs and with a wide range of school districts for our four off-campus and Chicago-based programs.

Students are placed in a variety of public schools to ensure exposure to social-economic, racial, cultural and linguistic differences among students and teachers. Students are placed in different school districts with teachers who vary in teaching strategies and classroom organization. Every effort is made to secure a range of placements for each student to experience lower, middle and upper grade levels within their certification level. Students may also be selected as year-long interns for one of our professional development schools.

For advance certifications, practicum and internships are offered in partner schools according to program requirements. At all levels, critical analysis and reflective practice are core components in preparing effective educational professionals.