Real World Boston: Field Experience Options for First Year Students Moira Mannix, Director, Field Experience Office Hilary Sullivan, Senior Site Manager, Jumpstart Katie DeGuglielmo, Associate Site Manager, Jumpstart

Learning Outcomes  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

Human Growth and Development Field Experience

Human Growth & 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-5  Spring semester –age 8- lifespan in afterschool programs, shelters, adult day cares, homes for the elderly  First professional experience – observe minutes, help out, take initiative  Observations basis for papers and assignments  Theory and practice

First Professional Experience  Foundation of all placements at Wheelock  Gain valuable experience and skills while learning about development  Professional skills and competencies Interpersonal 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

Logistics  Requirements: CORI background check Government issued photo id Place of residence for the past 7 years Social Security Number  Wheelock College Entrance Health Certificate  Orientation to placement in the fall

Support  Field Experience Office Staff  HGD Instructor  HGD Tutors  Site Personnel

The Student Experience “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.”