Loretta Donovan, Ph.D
Professor, Department of Elementary and Bilingual Education
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What is your favorite subject/course/project in this program, and why?
I like all the courses, but I think my favorite is 502H. I should like 502G the most because I also run the M.S. in Educational Technology in our college, but I love 502H because it is the most empowering. I find that new teachers often feel they do not have a lot to contribute to a school because they do not have the same experience (in years) as their colleagues. 502H is an opportunity for new teachers to show their colleagues and, more importantly, themselves that every member of a school community adds value.
What are some of the highlights of CSUF’s Teacher Induction Program?
We are student-centered! As the program coordinator, it’s my job to ensure both the candidate and their mentor feel supported. The Teacher Induction Program at CSUF follows a cohort model, so candidates will be with the same group for each course. Being an online program, candidates have a level of flexibility when working on coursework, but at the same time, each course is structured to support the candidate and mentor each week.
What is the Early Completion Option (ECO), and what are the advantages of the ECO program?
The Early Completion Option (ECO) is for educators who have sufficient teaching experience and have been recommended by their administration to take the “express train.”The ECO is a three-semester (Summer, Fall, Spring) program that starts in summer instead of the traditional four-semester program that does not include summer and starts each Fall.
How does this program help students balance their job as a teacher with program assignments?
The great thing about being in the Teacher Induction Program at CSUF is that all of the professors have also been K-12 educators. We understand that teachers are busy. Each course is designed to support your development as a busy teacher. Coursework will have you reflecting on your teaching and trying new things in your classroom. Each module has the same structure: engaging with content that you can apply to your teaching, trying new things, meeting with your mentor, and sharing with fellow induction candidates. Deadlines are reasonable, and you know from day one what to expect so you can plan ahead.
How does this program prepare students for successful careers?
When you graduate from the CSUF Teacher Induction Program, you will be well-positioned to be a leader in your school, a candidate for an M.S. degree, and a lifelong learner and educator. Each semester of the program, you complete an inquiry project: a project that supports your unique professional growth goals. You will gain confidence in your ability to meet the needs of all your learners using innovative pedagogy.
What advice do you have for students entering the CSUF Teacher Induction Program?
The biggest piece of advice I have for any student is to not suffer in silence. Your professors, fellow induction candidates, and mentors are here to support you! If you are confused, reach out. If you are falling behind, reach out. Given the program is online, it’s easy to put things on the back burner. Don’t do this. Each class is structured to keep you on track while working as an educator. Set yourself a schedule so you can meet deadlines. Many educators opt to “stay after school” a few days a week to work on coursework. You will need to make (not find) approximately 4 hours per week.
What are the demographics of a program cohort?
Each cohort includes teachers from all grade levels and all types of schools. This way, you can see education as a bigger community than your grade level of school.
How much interaction is there among program participants?
Much of your interaction in the program is with course content, your mentor, and, of course, your own learners. The program is designed so all learning activities are meaningful and productive. Each module includes an activity that is completed with other program candidates. This might be a group project or a discussion.
What are some common career paths for graduates?
Graduates of the Teacher Induction Program typically stay in their classrooms as educators.
Visit the Teacher Induction Program page to learn more about the program—including dates, cost and application information.
Teacher Induction Program
