Alternative Certification: Effectively Preparing Teachers

This study addresses questions related to teacher preparation through online supported learning in an alternative certification program, CalStateTEACH. Specifically, this study analyzes and reports survey responses of 130 teachers and 84 supervisors related to preparedness of program completers to teach in a multiple subject classroom. The question asked is: Can online supported teacher credentialing programs prepare effective teachers? Data for the analysis were extracted from the Deans' Report. This paper summarizes the responses of teacher graduates and their site supervisors to the questions of teacher effectiveness. Additionally, a comparison between traditional and online teacher preparation is conducted.