Undergraduate Programs

Teachers are held to high standards. In order to provide the highest quality teacher force possible, Bemidji State University's Department of Professional Education has the responsibility to assess the effectiveness of prospective teachers. The professional dispositions for undergraduate education students are used for this purpose.

Download the Standard Reflection Summary document.

Professional Dispositions for Undergraduate Education Students

Dispositions are defined as the values, commitments and professional ethics that influence behaviors towards students, families, colleagues and communities and affect student learning, motivation and development as well as the educator's own professional growth. From research and experience, certain dispositions have emerged that nearly all good teachers have in common. These have to do with values such as professional commitment, communication skills, adaptability, caring and integrity. Dispositions are patterns of behaviors and actions that occur frequently and constitute habits of mind and heart.

The professional dispositions adopted by Bemidji State University's Professional Education Department were developed in conjunction with the Standards of Effective Practice and are incorporated throughout the teacher education program. The Professional Dispositions for Undergraduate Students Rubric reflects the competencies and indicators for meeting each competency.

Disposition Process for Students

The Professional Education Department has collaborated on dispositions expected of our teacher candidates. Dispositions are measured based on observable behaviors. Teacher candidates will complete self assessments twice during their educational coursework. During ED 3100, Intro to the Foundations of Education, students will complete the Professional Dispositions for Undergraduate Education Students Self Assessment. This initial self assessment form will be kept in the student's file in the Clinical Experiences Office and it is intended as a benchmark for the student's awareness and growth.

The second self assessment form will be completed by the student at the end of ED 4799 The Professional Teacher. It will also be kept in the student's file in the Clinical Experiences Office.

Goals and Action Improvement Plan

Any time a student scores a one or two on his/her self assessment, students complete a goals and action plan. Together, the student and his/her advisor will devise a plan for improvement. The improvement plan is placed in the student's file.

Disposition Process for Students and Faculty

Professional Dispositions for Undergraduate Education Students BSU Faculty Assessment Form may be used at any time by any instructor or cooperating teacher who may have a concern about a competency area that needs improvement. Observations resulting with a one or two rating on any question will be completed in written form, with a duplicate given to the student and the original forwarded to the Student Policy Committee. When needed, this committee will meet to review submitted forms and determine what, if any, action will be taken. The instructor will notify the student that an assessment form has been filed.