Portfolio and Resources for Learning

As a student passes through the four stages of the assessment system, formal evidence of learning and accomplishment is documented in a portfolio. Since each stage represents developmental growth toward initial educator licensing, students should challenge themselves to show evidence with increasing indications of what they know and are able to do as a result of what they have learned through courses, field experiences, standardized tests, and other opportunities for professional growth they encounter. A review of a student’s portfolio is required at each of the four stages of transition.

Courses, field experiences, standardized tests, and other opportunities for professional growth and enrichment are, thereby, resources for learning and accomplishment. While the ten Wisconsin Teacher Standards guide the systematic assessment of what a student knows and is able to do there are key areas of assessment that have varying influence on a student’s preparation depending on the stage in the preparation program.

The key areas are: Communication Skills, General Education, Human Relations, Professional Dispositions, Content Knowledge, Pedagogical Knowledge, and Teaching Practice. These all offer opportunities for learning and reflection and integration with the ten Wisconsin Teacher Standards.