Office of Experiential Learning in Teacher Education
“For the things we have to learn before we can do them, we learn by doing them.” — Aristotle
The Office of Experiential Learning in Teacher Education (OELTE) is the unit within the College that administers the placements of clinical field experiences for graduate and undergraduate candidates.
Working collaboratively with the program faculty in the college, the OELTE (1) maintains proper documentation for clinical field experiences; (2) works with the Director of Assessment and Evaluation to ensure that program evaluation is systematic; and, (3) establishes and maintains partnerships with local schools and school districts.
The Office of Experiential Learning in Teacher Education (OELTE) connects teacher preparation coursework with meaningful experiences in P–12 schools and classrooms. In collaboration with program faculty and school partners, OELTE coordinates clinical experiences for undergraduate and graduate teacher candidates that support the development of professional knowledge, skills, and dispositions.
Through field experiences and internships, candidates apply coursework in authentic P–12 settings, engage with diverse learners, and connect theory to professional practice. OELTE coordinates placements, maintains required clinical experience documentation, and supports the collection of data used for program evaluation and continuous improvement.
OELTE also develops and maintains strong partnerships with P-12 schools and school districts. Through collaboration with teachers, school leaders, district personnel, and other educational partners, the office works to strengthen clinical experiences, support educator preparation, and contribute to the development of a strong regional educator workforce.
OELTE serves as a bridge between teacher preparation and professional practice, creating meaningful experiences and partnerships that prepare future educators for success.