Field experiences are a time for teacher candidates to learn from professionals in the field and to engage intensively with new expectations and cultures. Given the intensity and newness of the experiences, it is not unusual for difficulties and challenges to emerge in relationship to both learners and instructional coaches. Typically, difficulties and challenges are worked out without a change in placement and through open and honest dialogue among teacher candidates, Roosevelt faculty and cooperating teachers in the schools.
Any teacher candidate with concerns about a field experience should discuss the situation with their Roosevelt University instructor. In most cases, the instructor will be able to resolve any problems that might exist. Under no circumstances should teacher candidates unilaterally remove themselves from an assigned placement; doing so will necessitate a failing score on the Educator Disposition Assessment (EDA) and therefore an intervention consistent with the Department of Teacher Preparation – Educator Disposition Assessment Policy.
Should the concerns remain significant and unresolved, a Roosevelt University instructor can request a change in placement. Requests should be directed to the Director of Clinical Experiences. The Director of Clinical Experiences will review the request and make a decision about it in consultation with appropriate faculty and administrators. Appeals of decisions made by the Director of Clinical Experiences should be directed to the Chair of the Department of Teacher Preparation within two weeks of the decision. The Department Chair will consult with the parties involved, before making a decision. The appeal process ends with the decision of the Chair of the Department of Teacher Preparation.