UAH: Department of Education

Candidate Competencies

Goal 1: A competent teacher candidate is a CONTENT EXPERT.

The teacher candidate knows the subject and structure of the discipline, organizes and creates learning opportunities that link the subject with other disciplines, and engages the learner in construction of meaning within the discipline.

Goal 2: A competent teacher candidate is a PEDAGOGICAL EXPERT.

The teacher candidate plans instruction that is aligned with state standards and instructional standards of profession discipline organizations. The teacher candidate plans instructional units that demonstrate pedagogical expertise, including the use of technology and the relationships between effective teaching and assessment.

Goal 3: A competent teacher candidate is a REFLECTIVE PRACTIONER.

The teacher candidate is expected to examine, establish, and reflectively revise his/her beliefs concerning subject matter, pedagogy, child welfare, student learning, one's own educational philosophy, one's own learning and understanding, and one's classroom teaching performance. The candidate repeatedly encounters the notion that reflective practice and the development of leadership skills are inextricably united.

Goal 4: A competent teacher candidate is a DEVELOPMENTAL PROFESSIONAL.

The teacher candidate builds their instructional knowledge and skills on a thorough understanding of human growth and development, including physical, cognitive, and emotional development. Candidates must also understand and leverage sources of student motivation.

Goal 5: A competent teacher candidate is a CRITICAL THINKER.

The teacher candidate models critical thinking patterns, problem solving approaches, effective questioning patterns, and by uses teaching strategies that encourage collaboration among students. Candidates must know how to develop metacognitive abilities in students.

Goal 6: A competent teacher candidate is an EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATOR.

The teacher candidate demonstrates effective oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.

Goal 7: A competent teacher candidate is a STUDENT ENABLER.

The teacher candidate values the benefits of a diverse population and is willing to serve a diverse student body, their families, and the community. The candidate demonstrates the teaching attitudes and skills that will enable them to teach all students.

Goal 8: A competent teacher candidate is a LEADER AND PROFESSIONAL.

The teacher candidate must develop a strong commitment to professional ethics, lifelong learning, professional development, and a commitment to exercise leadership in their classroom, school, and community.