Department of Urban Education

STATE PROFICIENCIES

Each Student/Intern exiting the program must demonstrate proficiency in the following areas. Mastery of these objectives is mandated for all teachers by the Texas Education Agency. Assessment of Student/Intern proficiency is an ongoing process occurring throughout the three interdisciplinary blocks and the professional development courses. Types of assessment tools include end-of-semester departmental TExES exams, portfolios, classroom observation, reflection journals, etc.

Before a Student/Intern can be recommended for Texas teacher certification by the Department of Urban Education, the Student/Intern must successfully complete the state mandated TExES exam. This state-developed, criterion referenced test is to be taken at the end of the teacher education program. Testing dates are available from the Department of Urban Education. 

LEARNER CENTERED KNOWLEDGE

1. Exhibits strong working knowledge of subject matter.
2. Exhibits current knowledge in content area.
3. Understands the pedagogy of the discipline.
4. Organizes topics for practical application.
5. Integrates other disciplines into instruction.
6. Plans instruction in authentic contexts.
7. Integrates technological resources into instruction.

1. Varies mode of instruction.
2. Uses individual and group activities.
3. Selects appropriate pace.
4. Links new ideas to familiar ideas.
5. Makes connections to student experiences.
6. Involves students in planning.
7. Frequently checks for understanding.
8. Reteaches when necessary.
9. Relates instruction to current events.
10. Adapts instruction to emerging needs.
11. Involves all students in class activities.
12. Engages all students in critical and creative thinking.
13. Provides opportunities for student/teacher reflections.
14. Provides opportunities for problem solving.
15. Uses thematic units when appropriate.
16. Uses technology to enhance instruction.
17. Promotes appreciation of learning as a lifelong process.

1. Models and encourages appreciation for student diversity.
2. Delivers instruction appropriate to diverse cultures and populations.
3. Delivers instruction appropriate to diverse learning styles.
4. Delivers instruction appropriate to diverse background experiences, interests, and needs.
5. Applies or links curriculum content to community cultures.
6. Uses culturally diverse examples in classroom (e.g. bulletin boards, etc.)
7. Integrates subject matter from different cultures into course content.
8. Establishes climate in which learners work collaboratively in diverse groups.

1. Demonstrates effective verbal communication skills.
2. Demonstrates effective nonverbal communication skills.
3. Uses media effectively.
4. Expresses views clearly.
5. Establishes a climate which supports risk taking and/or innovative problem solving.
6. Fosters climate of respect/acceptance of other’s ideas.
7. Establishes an environment conducive to collaborative learning.
8. Incorporates questioning techniques that elicit different levels of thinking.
9. Uses technology as a resource for building communication skills.
10. Gives multimedia presentations.
11. Communicates effectively as an advocate for each learner.
12. Uses correct grammar in writing and speaking.

1. Has clearly defined professional goals.
2. Seeks opportunities to grow professionally.
3. Establishes positive, productive relationships with colleagues.
4. Engages in reflective analysis and self-evaluation.
5. Exchanges ideas with peers.
6. Encourages feedback from learners to guide self-improvement.
7. Makes use of the collaborative process to plan instruction, utilize materials and resources.
8. Participates in collaborative decision making and /or problem solving.
9. Exhibits high standards of professional dress and demeanor.
10. Uses school services and community resources.
11. Understands laws and guidelines relating to teacher responsibilities and student rights.
12. Knows how to work within the Texas education system to address issues.
13. Makes decisions in compliance with legal and ethical requirements.
14. Uses technology to engage in professional development opportunities.

For additional information contact
Phone: (713) 221-2759
Fax: (713) 226-5294
cohenm@uhd.edu