Field-Based Experience

All candidates participating in an alternative certification program within Texas are mandated to fulfill 50 hours of Field-Based Experiences (FBE) as outlined in the Texas Administrative Code. These FBEs constitute introductory experiences for candidates, involving interactive and reflective observations of certified teachers in the classroom.

State Requirement

Candidates enrolled in a Texas alternative certification program must complete 50 hours of Field-Based Experiences (FBE) before starting their internships, clinical experiences or residences, as required by the Texas Administrative Code. These FBEs provide candidates with foundational experiences, where they engage in reflective and interactive observations of certified teachers within classroom settings.

Field-Based Experiences serve as initial preparation for classroom teaching certification, integrated with coursework, and include reflective observations and interactions with Early Childhood through Grade 12 students, teachers, and school staff in authentic educational settings.

At least 25 of these clock-hours must involve the candidate actively participating in instructional or educational activities under the EPP’s guidance.

Program Benefits

TAC RULE §228.43

Pre-Service Field-Based Experiences for Classroom Teacher Candidates

Criteria for FBE

FBEs must take place in settings that meet the following criteria:

  • Authentic school environments within public schools accredited by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) or other TEA-approved schools, including all Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) schools and Texas Private School Accreditation Commission (TEPSAC) accredited schools.
  • Instruction led by certified teachers in the content area.
  • Classrooms with actual students, ensuring secure identity verification.
  • Classrooms or instructional settings aligned with specific content areas or grade levels.

Candidates may complete up to 25 clock-hours of FBE through electronic means, including video or other technology-based options. These hours may include service as a teacher of record, educational aide, or substitute teacher and must be conducted under the EPP’s direction.