Purpose of the SEAT Practicum

Student:

  1. To engage in a minimum of 40-60 hours of practical experiences geared to his or her level of expertise, which will offer a chance to apply principles, skills, and techniques that have been acquired during the SEAT Course (see Core Competencies).
  2. To help the student learn how to assume professional roles in a variety of practice settings while becoming accustomed to a range of organizational structures, working relationships, and job expectations.
  3. To help the student develop professional identification as a Special Education Advocate and gain experience in fulfilling his or her role as a team member working with other professionals in the special education advocacy process.

Supervisor:

  1. To provide or agree to review a minimum of 40-60 hours of practical experiences geared to the student’s level of expertise, which will offer the student a chance to apply principles, skills, and techniques that have been acquired during the SEAT Course (see Core Competencies).
  2. Provide the opportunity for input into the SEAT Training program and, thereby, allow staff to share in the development of future Special Education Advocates.
  3. To serve as a growth experience for the sponsor’s staff through interaction with the students.
  4. To provide an opportunity to recruit employees and reduce the time needed for on-the-job training of any students who, upon graduation, are hired.

COPAA:

  1. To provide COPAA with a formative assessment of the student’s ability to function as a Special Education Advocate.
  2. To serve as a means of continually evaluating the relevance and effectiveness of the SEAT Training Program.

General Notes

  1. The exact activities and practical experiences are at the discretion of the supervisor and trainee.
  2. The student should keep a record of time. COPAA will not request that record to be submitted, however, the supervisor will record the final numbers on the evaluation form.
  3. The Supervisor must sign the MOU. As State law varies regarding the necessity for workman’s compensation and liability insurance, that information is included in the MOU to assure that the trainee and supervisor are aware that such may be required. If the trainee is not working directly for the supervisor and at the supervisors practice or work location that may affect whether such is required.
  4. The supervisor should fill out the evaluation form on the student (attached) at the end of the practicum. Please review the form with the student prior to submitting to COPAA. Email the form to
  5. Please feel free to contact with any questions or concerns at any time.