Before entering into a pre-service education program, most students will have obtained a previous academic degree, either a general or honours, in a subject of their choice, (e.g. English, math, science, religion).
[3] In the US, students are often required to take a test prior to acceptance into an accredited program, and/or upon graduation in order to earn certification.
The practical nature of pre-service education training programs aligns with American philosopher John Dewey's theory of experience.
Donald Schon expanded upon Dewey's model by focusing further upon the importance of reflective practice in the learning process.
[4] Provincial and state territories across North America vary greatly in population, language, demographics, geography and other social factors.
[6] To complement the practicum, pre-service programs offer academic based courses, designed to expose teacher candidates to collaborative inquiry, current research, educational philosophy, theory, pedagogy and practical resources to provide a foundation for their work as educators.