Practice teaching is an introduction to the classroom and a key component of our teacher education program. As an Associate Teacher, you'll play a vital role in supporting and guiding our Teacher Candidate(s) as they prepare to one day teach in their own classrooms.
Together, you’ll work on planning lessons, selecting materials, and creating assessments that meet the needs of the students and the classroom. You’ll also help them develop effective classroom management and organizational strategies. As part of your mentoring, you'll review and approve their lesson plans to ensure they align with your expectations and the needs of the students.
As a host associate, you will also receive an honorarium and a discount for University of Windsor AQ courses as a token of our appreciation.
This collaborative partnership will have a lasting impact on their development as future educators and we thank you for your continued support!
Program Schedule
Our teacher candidates are required to take part in a minimum of 80 days of observation and practice teaching.
Practicums are available in both the fall and winter semesters:
- Fall Practicum: November/December
- Winter Practicum: March/April
*Exact dates will vary depending on University of Windsor and School Board schedules.
Note for Tech Sudies Associate Teachers: Teacher Candidates complete 80 full days (400 hours) of practice teaching in their technological teaching subject between September and April in the current academic year.
Associate Teacher Responsibility
As an Associate Teacher, you can support your Teacher Candidate(s) by:
- Continuing to perform professional duties and obligations in accordance with the Ontario College of Teachers Standards of Practice, Ethical Standards, and the Duties of Teachers;
- Welcoming and orienting your Teacher Candidate(s) to the school and classroom;
- Sharing and familiarizing your expectations with your Teacher Candidate(s);
- Modelling your best classroom pedagogical practices and discussing them with your Teacher Candidate(s);
- Assisting your Teacher Candidate(s) in planning teaching strategies, and in selecting and designing appropriate materials, lessons, and assessments;
- Guiding your Teacher Candidate(s) in developing sound classroom organization and management strategies;
- Expecting and approving written lesson plans to ensure that the needs of your classroom and students, as well as your own expectations, are being met;
- Supporting your Teacher Candidate(s) using The 3Cs of Mentoring; and
- Providing feedback that is continuous, constructive, and realistic for the purpose of strengthening your Teacher Candidate(s)’ strategies, professionalism, and performance.
We also ask that you please read and review the Field Experience Handbook.
Sonia Access and Resources
Sonia is the University of Windsor’s placement management software that supports the Faculty of Education’s Teacher Candidate placement program.
Sonia ensures a seamless transition of data, records management, plus time-saving automation, communication, and workflow mapping. It also allows key stakeholders (Teacher Candidates, Practicum Advisors, Associate Teachers, School Principals and Administrative Staff) to view all things practicum-related, complete important forms and submit required documents.
Sonia is where you will complete your Formative/Summative Assessments for your Teacher Candidates.
On the Training and Resources page, you can access valuable resources as well as register for learning sessions to support your role with the Faculty of Education.
How to Sign Up
For this role, we welcome elementary and secondary school teachers. To apply, please speak to your school administrator about becoming an Associate Teacher.
*Teacher candidates will be matched with Associate Teachers to reflect both division and subject areas of expertise.
Have a question about the feild placement process?
Please contact us at educfieldexperience@uwindsor.ca.