Welcome to the Field Experience component of the Teacher Education Program (TEP) at Western New Mexico University’s College of Education. Our program is designed to provide a structured pathway toward acquiring a teaching license, integrating progressively challenging field experiences at every stage.
Levels of Field Experience
- Duration: 10 hours in Early Childhood Education, 24 hours in Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education
- Description: This initial level allows students to observe curriculum and program development across various educational settings including Infant/Toddler, Preschool, Elementary, Middle, High School, Special Education, and College and Career Readiness Education. The focus is on multilevel and multidisciplinary observations without direct student interaction. Students will engage in reflection, documentation, and collaborative activities.
- Requirements: Documentation, reflection papers, and collaboration with peers.
- Duration: 60-hour hands-on classroom experience
- Description: In this level, teacher-candidates interact directly with students from Infant/Toddler to PreK-12, actively participating in classroom activities. Depending on the classroom teacher’s discretion, candidates may engage in teaching small groups or the entire class.
- Requirements: Co-requisite with curriculum courses, completion of a Teaching Event.
- Duration: 60-hour hands-on classroom experience
- Description: Building on previous experiences, candidates deepen their engagement with students across various educational levels. Like Curriculum Field Experience I, candidates actively participate in classroom activities and teaching under supervision.
- Requirements: Co-requisite with curriculum courses, completion of a Teaching Event.
- Option 1: Practice Teaching (1 semester)
- Option 2: Teacher Residency (2 semesters)
- Description: Practice Teaching serves as the culminating experience where candidates assume full-time teaching responsibilities under the supervision of a clinical faculty or cooperating teacher. This intensive phase lasts for 17 weeks (680 hours) and includes an Exit Teaching Event. Candidates must participate in the Affirmation Ceremony to showcase their practice teaching experiences.
- Requirements: Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75, passing the Exit Teaching Event for licensure. For candidates in Alternative Licensure Programs, specific field experience assignments are tailored. Please consult with the College of Education graduate advisor for details.
The field experience component
The field experience component of the WNMU Teacher Education Program is designed to progressively develop your skills and understanding, preparing you for a successful teaching career. Each level builds upon the last, providing opportunities for observation, interaction, and teaching experience across diverse educational settings. Through structured coursework and hands-on practice, you will gain the necessary competencies to excel as an educator.
Forms
Contacts
For more information, please get in touch with the COE Clinical Education Offices or use the form below.