College of Education
Candidate Dispositions

Upon completion of educator preparation programs in the College of Education, candidates possess professional dispositions based on the unit’s Conceptual Framework, institutional goals, national and state standards, and principles of best practice. Each candidate:

1. Demonstrates the characteristics of life-long learning by reflecting, seeking constructive feedback, and learning from others and past experiences.

2. Participates as a reflective practitioner in professional growth activities within and outside the school.

3. Practices standards of professional and ethical behavior and decision making.

4. Exhibits a commitment to planning, teaching, reflecting, assessing, and learning as on-going processes.

5. Collaborates with other professionals to improve overall student achievement.

6. Demonstrates competence in the discipline(s)/content taught, keeps abreast of new ideas and developments in the field, and seeks connections to everyday life.

7. Promotes the cognitive, emotional, social, and physical well-being of all students.

8. Uses students’ unique prior knowledge, life experiences, and interests as part of the context for teaching and learning.

9. Promotes achievement of students at all levels by aligning curriculum, instruction, and assessment.

10. Adapts instructional strategies to students’ responses, ideas, and needs in order to facilitate their critical thinking, independent problem solving, and performance capabilities.

11. Creates classroom environments that promote excellent and equitable learning opportunities which motivate all students to learn.

12. Establishes a democratic and just environment, with respect for diversity, through culturally responsive teaching.

13. Incorporates a wide variety of resources in the school, family, and community to facilitate student learning.

14. Uses appropriate technologies and effective communication skills necessary to serve all students.