Accreditation

The Oklahoma Commission for Teacher Preparation, working with the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education (OSRHE), and representatives from teacher education programs has developed an exemplary system for the approval and accreditation of teacher education institutions and programs. This new approach emphasizes performance-based criteria and assessments, focusing on what candidates can do in the classroom.

The demonstration of candidates' knowledge, skills, and dispositions represents a shift in focus from previous program guidelines. Earlier, the primary focus was on which classes candidates passed rather than what they could do or how they applied knowledge. Under the new system, candidate performance and the ability to integrate knowledge in meaningful ways are the keys to licensure. In addition, the move from a course-based to a competency-based system allows institutions latitude in developing programs that meet state and national standards without compromising an institution's unique mission and purpose.

Based on 15 general teacher competencies plus subject area competencies consistent with national guidelines, the new system requires secondary candidates to have a major in their field, and early childhood, elementary and special education candidates to have subject area concentrations. In addition, candidates must have field experiences beginning early in their programs and in a variety of settings. These experiences must provide opportunities for candidates to interact with parents, families, and peers. Assessment of candidate skills must occur systematically throughout the program so that at completion, candidates can demonstrate their ability to develop instructional strategies and create meaningful learning experiences for a diverse student population.

First Year Teacher Survey Results

2010

2011

2012

Administrator Survey Results

2011

2012