What are professional field experiences? 
Professional field experiences include direct and simulated activities which demonstrate principles of practice and involve the application and testing of teaching and learning theory.  They may include initial experience working with children and youth, simulation situations and microteaching.

How many hours of professional field experiences are required prior to student teaching?
Each student must have on record in the Office of the Director of Field Experiences a minimum of 80 clock hours of professional field experience before he or she can do student teaching.

The following requirements must be met:

• 100 hours of school-related activities
• 25 hours of community and church-related activities
• 25 hours of professional activities/development

The following requirements must be met by evening/part time students:

• 50 hours of school-related activities*
• 10 hours of community or church-related activities*
• 20 hours of professional development activities*

How are professional field experiences reported/recorded?
Each student is expected to complete the Report of Professional Field Experience form at the end of each experience.  These forms are available from Dyla Gutierrez, Undergraduate Assistant at 132 Malloy Hall and are to be distributed as follows:

• Both copies (the original and carbon copy) should be given to Dyla Gutierrez, Undergraduate Assistant, 132 Malloy Hall.
• Upon approval (please allow 5-7 days), students may pick up the carbon copy to retain for their records.

What are some of the professional field experiences?

School Related Activities

• Working in small groups or one to one
• Assisting teachers
• Reading to children
• Oral telling or recalling of stories
• Assisting students in the library
• Helping students with computer work or tutoring
• Tutoring students (K-12)
• Directing arts and crafts
• Assisting with Science/Math fairs
• Directing speech and drama activities
• Directing physical education or athletic activities

Community & Church related Activities

• PTA activities
• Fund-raising activities
• School and church carnivals
• After school or night programs
• Saturday tutoring programs
• School related activities or functions
• Summer programs dealing with students

Professional Activities

• BESO – Bilingual Education Student Organization
• ATPE – Association of Texas Professional Educators
• KDP – Kappa Delta Pi (Education Honor Society)
• Professional conferences, meetings or workshops at the local, state or national level
• Membership and participation in professional organizations
• Region IV or other educational organizations that provide preferred activities
• CEC – Council for Exceptional Children