Supervising the School Psychology Practicum

Book excerpt: The only book to focus specifically on the supervisory role for the school psychology practicum Field and university-based practicum supervisors required to mentor school psychology students are often poorly equipped to fulfill this role with expertise and confidence. This is the first-ever guide for such supervisors who are overseeing school psychology students throughout the course of their practicum. Brimming with practical information, the book explains how to develop, implement, document, and supervise a range of field experiences. It offers resources to support student growth over the course of the practicum experience, including step-by-step information about supervision models, evaluation systems, on-site support, and ways to address common graduate student difficulties. The book is organized around the chronological experience of the trainee, beginning with orientation through transition to internship. Each chapter focuses on three key supervisory roles: student skill development, supervision, and advancement and evaluation. The guide also addresses how university supervisors can communicate and collaborate with each other for additional support. Content aligns with the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) training standards. The guide includes resources for developing and maintaining placements within the school including recruitment, maintenance activities, retention, and support. Useful tools to document and support candidates, including forms, checklists, and other resources for supervisors and trainers, are included in an easy-to-reproduce format. Key Features: Provides plentiful resources for providing trainees with a quality practicum experience Targets the distinct supervision requirements of this practicum with developmentally appropriate activities Explains how to develop, implement, document, and supervise a range of field experiences Describes supervision models, evaluations systems, on-site support, and how to address common student problems Includes useful guidelines, tools, forms, and checklists