A Model for a Physical Education and School Health Education Student Teaching Center.

Overview & Synopsis

A model student teaching center in physical education was developed in Minneapolis-St. Paul by representatives of the local school district and the University of Minnesota. Twelve advantages resulting from the student teaching program at the center are identified: (1) the curriculum is enriched through the improvement of equipment and resources; (2) student teachers brought new ideas to the center's staff; (3) many student teachers had areas of expertise which improved the center's program of instruction; (4) a more flexible program was offered due to the additional staff; (5) intramural and interscholastic athletic programs functioned more effectively due to additional coaching from the student teachers; (6) interaction with the student teachers encouraged the staff to reexamine their own teaching methods; (7) student teachers enhanced the teaching staff's enthusiasm and spirit; (8) seminar speakers kept the staff up-to-date on current issues and ideas; (9) the involvement with three levels of education enabled the staff to view curriculum in terms of progression and total content; (10) the student teaching program kept the staff in closer contact with the teacher education program at the University; (11) the center's physical education and health education department gained respect and recognition; and (12) the student teachers brought to the staff skills and expertise in new areas. Benefits to the University include: (1) excellent supervision for the student teachers; (2) a progressive program for the student teachers to become acquainted with on a first-hand basis; (3) observational opportunities for sophomore and junior education majors; and (4) assistance for seminars and speakers for curriculum classes. (MM)