Classroom Experiences

Clinicals

Clinical experiences begin early through observation hours in schools. After observations, teacher candidates in the Department of Special Education (SED) become more involved in student learning. Before these interactions take place, candidates must complete required coursework and obtain a valid TB test and criminal background check.

• Practicum

  SED 246

  Is a supervised clinical experience with consistent teaching responsibilities. Placements are either two days per week for half days (within 1 hour commute of ISU campus) or one day per week for full days (within 1.5 hour commute of ISU campus).

• Field Based Experience

  SED 253.01 and SED 253.02

  Is completed following the practicum semester. Field based placements most often take place at the Illinois School for the Visually Impaired in Jacksonville, IL. Depending on availability, placements may also take place in Central Illinois or in the Chicagoland area. All SED Field Base and Student Teachers are responsible for transportation to and from their assigned placements. The commute may exceed one hour. Placements are not always assigned based on an ISU or permanent home address. 

• Questions?

  The purpose of clinical experiences is to provide students with opportunities to apply theory to practice. These experiences help to make Illinois State teacher candidates among the best and most sought after educators in the field. For additional information, visit the Teacher Education Center site.

Student Teaching

STT 399.64 sec 01 and STT 399.64 sec 02 the capstone experience of teacher education at Illinois State. During student teaching, students steadily increase classroom responsibilities and demonstrate competency in planning, assessment, and instructional tasks. Student teaching requires one 16-week placement. All SED Field Base and Student Teachers are responsible for transportation to and from their assigned placements. The commute may exceed one hour. Placements are not always assigned based on an ISU or permanent home address.

Resources:

• Chicago Teacher Education Pipeline (CTEP)
• Illinois School Districts & Cooperatives Approved for Clinical Experiences
• SED Student Teaching Handbook (2025-2026 version)

• Questions?

  The purpose of student teaching is to provide students with opportunities to apply theory to practice. These experiences help to make Illinois State teacher candidates among the best and most sought after educators in the field. For additional information, visit the Teacher Education Center site.