When comparing education degrees, how can I tell how much classroom observation and direct practice each placement includes?
Check each degree’s official course specification, placement handbook and module descriptions for the number and timing of placement days or hours, how much is spent observing versus teaching or assisting, and the level of supervision. Also check whether practice is continuous or in separate blocks, and whether expectations increase across placements. Contact the course team if the documents do not give a clear breakdown.
Key points
- Look for terms such as observation, assisted teaching, independent teaching, school experience, practicum or professional placement.
- Compare the year or stage of each placement, the age groups or settings involved, and who assesses your practice.
- Check whether classroom observation is structured, with required observation tasks or records, rather than simply being time spent at a school.
Things to check
- The balance between observation and direct practice can vary by university, programme, placement provider, academic year and student progress, so confirm details in current official information.