The portfolio will evaluate your progress toward meeting the program outcomes of the AAT.  The completed project will be divided into five sections.  Teacher candidates must coordinate their selected items with the appropriate section. In addition, a reflection form should be included with each course item displayed describing the contents as well as a brief analysis explaining how these items provide evidence of growth and development toward your increasing competence as a teacher candidate. A sample page is provided in this booklet. While there are specific requirements for each section as well as the portfolio as a whole, teacher candidates are encouraged to be individualistic and creative throughout the process.

Section I:  Introduction

This section introduces the teacher candidate to the reviewer.  This section also provides an overview and clarifies the motivation for becoming a teacher.  Section I must include the following:

·        A biographical sketch (not to exceed two pages)

·        A personal philosophy of education

·        A resume’

·        A professional qualities inventory (completed by the teacher candidate)

·        A professional qualities inventory completed by one of your instructors

·        A narrative comparing the two inventories (include a plan for improvement if necessary) 

Section II:  Content Knowledge

This section provides evidence of the acquisition of knowledge for content areas required within the degree program.  Each item displayed in this section should be accompanied with a reflection regarding why each piece was chosen and what it represents.  Section II must include the following:

           ·        Written response to the following questions:

o       What is your strongest content area? Why? How do you study for these particular courses? What resources are available to locate information in this discipline?

o       What is your weakest content area? Why? What can you do to increase your comfort level and knowledge base in this area? Why might it be important to do this prior to beginning a career in education?

o       What do you know about yourself as a learner? What implications does this information have for you as a student as well as a future teacher?

            ·        Two pieces of expository writing

·        Two pieces of narrative writing

·        Your GPA for the Content Areas (this would include all courses except Education requirements and you may calculate this yourself)  

Section III:  Pedagogical Knowledge

This section requires you to reflect on pedagogical knowledge you have learned in the education department (EDU 101, EDU 210, PSC 220, EDU 214, and the Field Experience courses).  While it is understood that this knowledge will continue to grow and be refined, it important to begin examining what has already been learned toward an effort to enhance your teaching capabilities. Section III must include the following: 

·        Write a reflection in response to the following questions:

o       What have you learned about “how” children learn?

o       What have you learned about educational theory and practice? (curriculum, materials, resources, child development, diversity, social constructivism, classroom management, children with special needs and the role of parents in education.)

o       What have you learned about yourself as a teacher? 

·        You should include two items from any education courses completed and explain why you chose those items and how they provide evidence of pedagogical knowledge. 

Section IV:  Technological Competence

Each teacher candidate must prepare a 5-7 minute Power Point presentation based on your portfolio.  This requirement further demonstrates technological competence and provides an opportunity to celebrate accomplishments.  The presentation may be viewed by members of the Education Department, additional college faculty, members of the public education community and your peers.  The presentation will be part of the overall portfolio evaluation.  The following should be considered while preparing the presentation: 

·        What are your strengths in regards to reflective thinking?

·        Are you able to employ the use of multiple resources?

·        What evidence exists that you are seriously working to prepare yourself as an educator?

·        What content / pedagogical areas do you feel you need to extend knowledge in order to feel competent?

·        What were the comparisons between the two required professional qualities inventories?

·        Use at least 32 point font and select colors commensurate with a professional presentation. 

IN ADDITION, INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING IN THIS SECTION: 

·        Include in this section two items that provide evidence of technological capabilities beyond the Power Point Presentation and E-portfolio.  

·        A copy of the portfolio (E-portfolio) on CD 

Section V:  Professional Gains / Personal Goals

This section provides an opportunity to display necessary information and share personal goals.  The following items must be included in Section V: 

·        Praxis I Scores

·        Field Experience Log Sheets (should have one for each field experience course)

·        Any additional field experience completed (including tutoring, etc.)

·        Records of community service completed

·        A list and short description of 5 goals [may be both personal and professional] you have for the next two years of your Teacher Education program.  These goals are not required to be all-encompassing of the skills and dispositions required for success as a teacher, but should display evidence of a clear commitment toward growth and development accordingly.