Fieldwork

Within the Liberal Studies program, students have the opportunity to gain experience in the classroom embedded within several courses of the required curriculum.  Courses that have fieldwork hours embedded in the curriculum are considered to have "clinical practice" hour requirements, to help prepare students for both curriculum and experiences in the classroom. 

CED Update Regarding COVID-19

Throughout the pandemic in 2020 and 2021, the College of Education determined that fieldwork for all Clinical I, II and SERVE initial credential program courses would be conducted through alternative assignments (online).   Students at CSULB were not permitted to complete any portion of their clinical practice (fieldwork) hours at a school site, or to work with students either virtually or in person during this time. Instructors for each course provided students with alternative assignments at the start of the semesters.  

For the start of Fall 2022, the College of Education is planning to return to traditional, in-person fieldwork for all Clinical I, II, and SERVE initial credential program courses. More details will be sent to students by email prior to the start of the Fall term, with further directions and updates regarding the fieldwork requirement.

For details on fieldwork within the program and what to expect for in-person hours, review the following information below.

Clinical Practice refers to fieldwork experiences associated with specific course work for Liberal Studies and Teacher Credential programs. 

There are 4 Levels of Clinical Practice Fieldwork in the College of Education: 

  • SERVE [EDEL 200, EDEL 300]: Involves working with students individually and in small groups to provide academic support and encourage personal growth.

  • Clinical I [EDEL 100, EDSP 355A, EDSP 454, ART 300]: Involves mostly observation with some work directly with students in small groups.

  • Clinical II [Pedagogy or Methods Classes]: Typically requires candidates to work with small groups of students or possibly teach a lesson to a full class. 

  • Clinical III [Student Teaching]: The candidate is in the classroom for a full semester working along a mentor teacher. 

For more information on the specific details or courses referenced, refer to the Clinical Practice webpage. 

The SERVE (Service Experiences for ReVitalizing Education) Program creates an opportunity for students at the undergraduate level, in particular for those who are considering careers in K-12 education, to learn about the realities of urban classrooms and the needs of the diverse K-12 student population. SERVE students work with students individually and in small groups to provide academic support and encourage personal growth. It is through this involvement that CSULB students assess their careers goals and provide direct service to students and teachers in grades K-12 and their communities. SERVE Students are required to participate in 40-45 hours of fieldwork in these courses, within any of these SERVE Partnering Districts.

SERVE is a requirement embedded into the following courses within the Liberal Studies Program: EDEL 200 and EDEL 300.