1. Curriculum Development and Alignment: TEIs and DepEd work collaboratively in developing and aligning the curriculum for pre-service teacher education programs. DepEd, as the governing body responsible for education in the country, sets the standards and guidelines for teacher education, including curriculum content and structure. TEIs then design their pre-service programs based on these guidelines, ensuring that their graduates meet the required competencies and knowledge.
2. Accreditation and Quality Assurance: DepEd is responsible for accrediting TEIs that offer teacher education programs. This involves evaluating the institutions' curriculum, faculty qualifications, facilities, and overall quality of education. Accredited TEIs are recognized by DepEd as meeting the necessary standards, ensuring a certain level of quality in pre-service teacher education.
3. Practice Teaching and Internships: Pre-service teachers gain practical experience through practice teaching or internship programs. TEIs collaborate with DepEd in identifying suitable schools and teachers for these placements. Practice teaching allows future educators to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world classroom settings, gaining hands-on experience in teaching and classroom management.
4. Feedback and Evaluation: DepEd provides feedback to TEIs on the performance of pre-service teachers during their practice teaching or internships. This feedback helps TEIs in evaluating their programs and making improvements to ensure that their graduates are well-equipped for teaching.
5. Licensure Examinations and Certification: DepEd administers the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET), which is a requirement for all aspiring teachers to obtain a professional teaching license. TEIs prepare their students for the LET by providing them with the necessary knowledge and skills. Successful completion of the LET and meeting other requirements set by DepEd lead to the issuance of professional teacher licenses.
6. Continuing Professional Development: TEIs and DepEd work together in providing continuing professional development opportunities for in-service teachers. These opportunities may include workshops, seminars, conferences, and other forms of training to help teachers enhance their skills and knowledge throughout their careers.
7. Research and Collaboration: TEIs and DepEd collaborate in conducting research related to teacher education and teaching practices. This research informs the development of pre-service teacher education programs and helps improve the overall quality of teacher preparation.
In essence, the relationship between TEIs and DepEd is integral to ensuring that pre-service teacher education programs meet the needs of the education system and produce qualified teachers who are effective in their roles. Effective collaboration and communication between these entities are essential for the continuous improvement of teacher education and the advancement of quality education.