Field experiences are a vital part of teacher education preparation programs. The Pennsylvania Department of Education requires P4 certified teachers to complete specified hours related to four different types of field placements:
- Stage 1 (observation);
- Stage 2 (exploration);
- Stage 3 (pre-student teaching); and
- Stage 4 (student teaching).
Each stage allows the candidate to develop knowledge and skills through observations and hands-on experiences under the close guidance of a mentor teacher.
