MN TAPP is delivered in two phases. Phase 1 begins in the summer with candidates taking an intensive "The Nuts and Bolts of Effective Teaching" course based on the Minnesota Standards of Effective Practice, and Danielson's Framework. During this phase candidates are introduced to best practices and information about professional roles and responsibilities of educators, professional and ethical responsibilities of educators, parent communication, the inclusive classroom, and technological competencies. Phase 2 has candidates teaching in the classroom supported by intensive mentoring and supervision and monthly seminars.
"The Nuts and Bolts of Effective Teaching" is required for all candidates in MN TAPP, before they start teaching. This 150 hour course is based on the Minnesota Standards of Effective Practice (MN SEP), and Danielson's Framework, and introduces candidates to best practices, information about professional roles and responsibilities of educators, professional and ethical responsibilities of educators, parent communication, the inclusive classroom, and technology competencies. Each component has corresponding competencies in which candidates must demonstrate proficiency in order to pass the course.
During the summer, all candidates are required to participate in a field-based practicum in a school that is culturally and socio-economically different from the candidate's home school. Multiple site visits will be prearranged for the entire cohort to attend. Some possible sites (but not limited to) may be Mankato, Faribault, Chaska and Sleepy Eye. During this time candidates will observe instructional strategies, procedures related to discipline, parental involvement, community support, classroom organization, and other areas of interest. Discussion and reflection will occur after each visit.
Instructional training continues during the nine month internship. This instructional training consists of both on-line pedagogical course work and seminars. The on-line pedagogical course work consists of aligning curriculum with the Minnesota Standards of Effective Practice, creating online activities and performance-based assessments, and demonstrating appropriate reading and writing across the curriculum.
The seminars are professional learning workshops designed to meet individual needs of the candidates. For example, if a candidate's mentor, supervisor, or the candidate self-reports that he or she is having difficulty in managing students; a "Classroom Management" seminar may be recommended. Candidates are required to attend a minimum of six seminars during the fall semester, and four seminars during the spring semester.
Note: Candidates needing to address their content deficiencies will need to make scheduling arrangements as to when and where the courses are being offered.
For additional information about the Minnesota Teacher Alternative Preparation Program (MN TAPP) contact Dr. Daria Paul Dona (507-389-2915 or 389-1965), e-mail: daria.dona@mnsu.edu or visit our the KSP departments web site: http://ed.mnsu.edu/ksp/.
Admission does not guarantee continuation in the Library Media Education program, admission into field-based courses and experiences, internship, or graduation. As part of the admission process and throughout the program, the student's knowledge, skills, and disposition as well as professional potential are evaluated. Formal and informal reviews are conducted throughout the program and at each transition point.
Students must complete a minimum of 50% of all graduate credit at the 600 level, excluding thesis or APP credits and must maintain a grade point average of "B" or above in all coursework.
College of Education
Gail Orcutt, Licensure Coordinator
118 Armstrong Hall
507-389-1216
Licensure does not occur automatically through graduation and the awarding of a diploma. The university recommends Minnesota licensure upon completion of all program and licensure requirements. Candidates must successfully complete the Praxis II content (library media) examination. Minnesota state law requires that all students applying for initial licensure in this state be fingerprinted for national background checks. A conduct review statement will also need to be completed and signed. There is a fee for the criminal background check. The fee is for issuance of a State of Minnesota teaching license.
Students need to make application for a Minnesota license at the close of the term in which they graduate. The College of Education, 118 Armstrong Hall, coordinates the licensure process.
A limited number of graduate assistantships are available for full-time students within the Department of Educational Studies: K-12 and Secondary Programs. Contact the department administrative assistant at 507-389-1965 for more information.
