What is subject matter competence and how does it differ from a teacher preparation program?
While teacher preparation is knowledge of HOW to teach, subject matter competence is knowledge of WHAT is taught. Subject matter competence is a requirement for all multiple subject, single subject, and special education credentials (with the exception of Early Childhood Special Education), which assess the prospective teacher’s knowledge in the academic subject area that she or he will be teaching. This requirement is met either by completing specific examinations or by taking courses (in addition to the teacher preparation courses) in the academic subject area through a California college or university that has a Commission-approved subject matter program for that area.
Whereas teacher preparation is knowledge of HOW to teach, subject matter competence is knowledge of WHAT is taught. Subject matter competence is a requirement for all multiple and single subject credentials which assesses the prospective teacher’s knowledge in the academic subject area that she or he will be teaching. This requirement is met either by completing specific examinations or by taking courses (in addition to the teacher preparation courses) in the academic subject area through a California college or university which has a Commission-approved program for that subject area.
Related Questions
- What subject areas can I receive certification in with the Bennington MAT program? Which states have teacher certification reciprocity with Vermont?
- What is subject matter competence and how does it differ from a teacher preparation program?
- Who Should Enroll in the CSUMB Multiple Subject Teacher Credential Program?
