Real World Boston: Field Experience Options for First

Year StudentsMoira Mannix, Director, Field Experience Office

Tom McGee, Jumpstart Site Manager

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Family members will understand the difference between Field Placement and the optional program Jumpstart

Family members will be able to support their student in making an informed decision about first year field placement

Family members will understand how field experiences enhance the academic program at Wheelock

Learning Outcomes

Human Growth and Development Field

Experience

Human Growth and Development Placement Overview

Requirement for Human Growth & Development (HGD) course – 1 credit

Ten weekly visits of 3 hours Fall semester –early education settings with children

ages birth-5Spring semester –age 8- lifespan in afterschool

programs, shelters, adult day cares, homes for the elderly

First professional experience – observe 20-30 minutes, help out, take initiative

Observations basis for papers and assignmentsTheory and practice

First Professional Experience

Foundation of all placements at Wheelock

Gain valuable experience and skills while learning about development

Professional skills and competenciesInterpersonal skills Communication skills Problem solving skills Self-management Diversity Skills Flexibility/Adaptability

Help inform career

Choosing a Site

FEO staff will guide your student through process tomorrow

Work with class schedule Types of sites for first semester:

• Preschools• Headstart Programs• Private/Independent Daycare Centers• Parent Co-ops• Employee Sponsored Daycares

Use HGD placement to:• Build on past experiences• Try something new

Sites● Sites are located in Boston, Brookline and Cambridge, all accessible via public transportation

● FEO provides directions to all sites

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Requirements: CORI background check Government issued photo ID Places of residence for past 7 years Social Security Number Possible fingerprints

Wheelock College Entrance Health Certificate

Orientation to placement in the fall

Logistics

Field Experience Office Staff

Site Personnel

HGD Instructor

HGD Tutors

SUPPORT

The Student Experience

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“I learned what I am going to experience when I enter the field. The experience has broadened my view on what age I want to teach. I used to only want to teach kindergarten but now I think I would be happy with older students.”

“It was a challenge and an incredible learning experience working with children in this circumstance.  It was extremely different which most definitely enhanced my learning and understanding of children.”

Questions to Consider Tonight

What do I want to get out of this experience? Do I want to:Explore a new area of the city or a familiar neighborhood?Gain experience with a particular population or kind of

setting?Do I work better in a structured or an unstructured environment?Am I a go-getter/explorer or does it take me longer to become comfortable in a new environment?Are there any special considerations to think about when choosing a placement?

FYIJune 18th-19th and June 21-22

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What is Jumpstart?

• Jumpstart is a national early childhood education organization that matches college students with preschoolers for an academic year

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Jumpstart at Wheelock College

• Dedicate approximately 12 hours per week in service to children

• Earn 2 credits in a service-learning Seminar course

• Serve on a team of 5-8 of their peers led by returning team leader

• AmeriCorps members must complete 300 hours of service over the course of the year

Requirements

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Jumpstart at Wheelock College

• Gain exceptional experience and training in working with preschool children

• Fulfills the mandatory field experience for first year Human Growth and Development course

• Gain the Department of Early Education and Care Teacher Certification through successful completion of Jumpstart.

• Make a difference in children’s lives!

The children are absolutely amazing, while you teach them they teach you2012-2013 Jumpstart Corps

Member

Benefits for students

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Jumpstart at Wheelock College

• Students receive an AmeriCorps Education Award once you complete 300 hours of service

• Counts as your Work Study job if you have been granted Work Study

• Build great friendships with a group of peers

Additional Benefits

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Jumpstart at Wheelock College

The Jumpstart program is a commitment that seeks passionate and motivated individuals. Here are a few things we asked students to think about in deciding if

Jumpstart is a good fit.

Do you value…• Making a difference in the lives of children• Community Service• Building Relationships• Leadership

Is Jumpstart the right fit?

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Chart Title Testimonial

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Jumpstart at Wheelock College

• Ask questions and come see us at the Campus Life Expo!

• Students need to let advising know tomorrow that you are applying to be in Jumpstart!

• We strongly encourage students to come see us tomorrow to learn more about the application process

Interested in Jumpstart?