Field-Based Internship Models for
Alternative Certification of Science
and Mathematics Teachers: Views
of Interns, Mentors, and University
Educators
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1
University of Missouri-Columbia, MO, USA
2
Miami University, Miami, FL, USA
Publication date: 2007-10-23
EURASIA J. Math., Sci Tech. Ed 2007;3(3):191-201
KEYWORDS
ABSTRACT
In response to shortages of science and mathematics teachers in the U.S., many states have
promoted alternative routes to certification in which individuals with non-education
undergraduate degrees can become certificated in shorter timeframes than in traditional
programs. One consideration in designing alternative programs is how to arrange field-based
internships that help provide transformative pathways to non-traditional students in
becoming a teacher. The purpose of this study was to understand the views of interns, their
mentor teachers, and university personnel who participated in one alternative certification
program regarding the best structures for field experiences. Through an analysis of artifacts
collected in a meeting where we discussed the pros and cons of five different intership models
as well as interviews with individuals in each stakeholder group, we were able to understand
the various viewpoints. We found that, although perspectives were consistent within each
group, they differed across the three groups. These differences were grounded in the personal
needs and experiences of each group. Although our findings point to no “perfect” internship
model to support the transformation of alternative certification students into teachers, they
have implications for the design and enactment of field-based internships in such programs.