Standards for Clinical Practice

In preparation for my clinical practice, I must understand the standards used to observe, evaluate and reflect on my teaching during clinical practice. I will be using the TEACH-NOW Clinical Rubric based on the 10 InTASC standards to evaluate my teaching practice.

InTASC Standard 1 states: The candidate understands how learners grow and develop, recognizing that patterns of learning and development vary individually within and across the cognitive, linguistic, social, emotional, and physical areas, and designs and implements developmentally appropriate and challenging learning experiences. Paulina explains that incorporating more peer communication (which is required) and community-building activities which would meet the need they expressed in getting to know them. I believe that building a rapport with my students is a number one priority as I apply my lesson plans. It will allow me as a teacher to understand their needs and give them what they require from my attention to establish a healthy learning environment.

Standard #2 is discussing learning differences between students as it states: The teacher uses an understanding of individual differences and diverse cultures and communities to ensure inclusive learning environments that enable each learner to meet high standards. Andrew explained that it requires the teacher to assess, plan accordingly and provide appropriate resources. In my classroom, I will be obligated to adhere to this standard as it is vital to the total comprehension of my students. It seems like it is the backbone of any teacher’s pedagogy. Understanding and assessing those differences is only step one as you approach your class with the knowledge you need to deliver. The resources and tools provided to be able to do your inclusion vary on the nature of the students and their needs.

In Standard 4, we tackle Content Knowledge. The teacher understands the central concepts, tools of inquiry, and structures of the discipline(s) he or she teaches and creates learning experiences that make the discipline accessible and meaningful for learners to assure mastery of the content. James explained that a teacher considers their own knowledge of the content as a resource to be deployed in the class. Basically, it is applying and broadening your education and knowledge as an educator in your content. I strive for that as I seek to take courses in art and attend workshops. Personal development is a must during your time working as a teacher. James also mentions that a teacher may have to consider expanding their stockpile of content knowledge in order to create learning experiences that are engaging and meaningful for learners.

InTASC Standard 5: Application of Content states: The candidate understands how to connect concepts and use differing perspectives to engage learners in critical thinking, creativity, and collaborative problem-solving related to authentic local and global issues. Connecting the knowledge in the classroom to the outside world is critical as it keeps the class relevant and actually interesting to the students. It is not easy in an art classroom to connect drawing skills to the world. But I believe I can find a connection in delving deeper into what makes art, art. Beau says he challenges himself to be innovative and immediately relevant to his students. In TASC Standard 6, The teacher understands and uses multiple methods of assessment to engage learners in their own growth, monitor learner progress, and guide the teacher’s and learner’s decision-making. Cristina explains that in her classroom she will be assigning a reading, or a video, or instructed to do research on a specific topic in preparation for every class. At the beginning of the class, the students will complete a quiz about such assignments. Also, she will grade students’ class participation. Moreover, she will use Formative assessments in the form of a debate on a topic chosen by the students These are all solid strong ideas that inspire me to seek more from my students. I can’t wait to start to apply these ideas and more in my classroom.

The InTASC Standard 7 Planning for Instruction reads as follows: The candidate plans instruction that supports every student in meeting rigorous learning goals by drawing upon knowledge of content areas, curriculum, cross-disciplinary skills, and pedagogy, as well as knowledge of learners and the community context. Thomas says that it should be a standard that every educator understands and strives towards when creating unit and lesson plans. In my opinion, I agree with that as it ties everything together in cohesion.