Preprofessional Benchmarks for the Accomplished Practices

Practice #1 -- Assessment: The preprofessional teacher collects and uses data gathered from a variety of sources. These sources will include both traditional and alternate assessment strategies. Furthermore, the teacher can identify and match the student’s instructional plan with their cognitive, social, linguistic, cultural, emotional, and physical needs.

Practice #2 -- Communication: The preprofessional teacher recognizes the need for effective communication in the classroom and is in the process of acquiring techniques which she/he will use in the classroom.

Practice #3 -- Continuous Improvement: The preprofessional teacher realizes that she/he is in the initial stages of a life-long learning process and that self reflection is one of the key components of that process. While her/his concentration is, of necessity, inward and personal, the role of colleagues and school-based improvement activities increase as time passes. The teacher’s continued professional improvement is characterized by self reflection, work with immediate colleagues and teammates, and meeting the goals of a personal professional development plan.

Practice #4 -- Critical Thinking: The preprofessional teacher is acquiring performance assessment techniques and strategies that measure higher order thinking skills in students and is building a repertoire of realistic projects and problem solving activities designed to assist all students in demonstrating their ability to think creatively.

Practice #5 -- Diversity: The preprofessional teacher establishes a comfortable environment which accepts and fosters diversity. The teacher must demonstrate knowledge and awareness of varied cultures and linguistic backgrounds. The teacher creates a climate of openness, inquiry, and support by practicing strategies [such] as acceptance, tolerance, resolution, and mediation.

Practice #6 -- Ethics: The preprofessional teacher adheres to the Code of Ethics and Principles of Professional Conduct of the Education Profession in Florida.

Practice #7 -- Human Development and Learning: Drawing upon well established human development/learning theories and concepts and a variety of information about students, the preprofessional teacher plans instructional activities.

Practice #8 -- Knowledge of Subject Matter: The preprofessional teacher has a basic understanding of the subject matter and is beginning to understand that the subject is linked to other disciplines and can be applied to real world integrated settings. The teacher’s repertoire of teaching skills include a variety of means to assist student acquisition of new knowledge and skills using that knowledge.

Practice #9 -- Learning Environments: The preprofessional teacher understands the importance of setting up effective learning environments and has techniques and strategies to use to do so including some that provide opportunities for student input into the processes. The teacher understands that she/he will need a variety of techniques and is working to increase knowledge and skills.

Practice #10 -- Planning: The preprofessional teacher recognizes the importance of setting high expectations for all students. The preprofessional teacher works with other professionals to design learning experiences that meet students’ needs and interests. The teacher candidate continually seeks advice/information from appropriate resources including feedback, interprets the information, and modifies her/his plans appropriately. Planned instruction will incorporate a creative environment and utilize varied and motivational strategies and multiple resources for providing comprehensible instruction for all students. Upon reflection, the teacher continuously refines outcome assessment and learning experiences.

Practice #11 -- Role of the Teacher: The preprofessional teacher communicates and works cooperatively with families and colleagues to improve the educational experiences at the school.

Practice #12 -- Technology: The preprofessional teacher uses technology as available at the school site and as appropriate to the learner. She/he provides students with opportunities to actively use technology and facilitates access to the use of electronic resources. The teacher also uses technology to manage, evaluate, and improve instruction.