Learning Beyond the Classroom

It is essential for any individual preparing to start a career in education to engage in an extended period of practice teaching. Prior to senior year, education students have two 30-hour Pre-practica experiences, where they observe and assist in the classroom. The culminating field experience, the Practicum, is the capstone activity of the program’s sequence of educational opportunities in teaching and learning. Through a variety of field experiences, students gain valuable contacts which serve to optimize their job search after they graduate.

• The Practicum (12 credits) is an intense experience in which the student/teacher-trainee applies the theory and knowledge gained in course work and endeavors to demonstrate competency in five state-initiated standards:

                a) Plans Curriculum and Instruction; 
                b) Delivers Effective Instruction; 
                c) Manages Classroom Climate and Operation: 
                d) Promotes Equity; 
                e) Meets Professional Responsibilities.

• In addition to the Pre-practicum and Practicum field experiences, numerous education courses include service learning components. All education students at Merrimack do a professional ethics project for which they must familiarize themselves with the NEA (National Education Association) statement of ethical principles for educators.

Lawrence Math & Science Partnership

Students may assist at the Bellesini Academy, located in Lawrence, Mass. This Merrimack-sponsored middle school offers opportunities for students to tutor in all academic subjects.