Program Policy | THE TEXAS INSTITUTE FOR TEACHER EDUCATION

PROGRAM POLICIES

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PRIVACY STATEMENT

The Texas Institute for Teacher Education web site will not require the use of cookie files or cookies to view public information. A cookie file is an electronic record containing unique information a web site can use to track such things as passwords; lists of pages visited; and the date when a specific page was accessed; or to identify a user session at a particular web site. A cookie is often used in commercial sites to identify the items selected for a specific shopping cart or web portal. The Texas Institute for Teacher Education website may require the use of cookies to facilitate applications that display user-specific web pages. Information gathered using cookies will only be used by The Texas Institute for Teacher Education web site to facilitate the display of information to the web user.

If you send us an electronic mail message with a question or comment that contains personally identifying information or fill out a form that transmits this information to us, we will only use the personally identifiable information to respond to your request and analyze trends. We may redirect the text of your message to another government agency or person who is in a better position to answer your question. While doing this, however, we are bound by procedure to withhold your identifying personal information from the forwarded email.

We may direct you to personally contact another agency or person.

For site management functions, information is collected for analysis and statistical purposes. This information is not reported or used in any manner that would reveal personally identifiable information. We use log analysis tools to create summary statistics, which are used for purposes such as assessing what information is of most interest, determining technical design specifications, and identifying system performance or problem areas.

HYPERLINKS

Any links outside The Texas Institute for Teacher Education web site are provided as a convenience to our viewers. The Texas Institute For Teacher Education has no control over the content of these linked sites. The Texas Institute for Teacher Education does not necessarily endorse any products or services sold by any of these linked sites. The Texas Institute for Teacher Education will link to sites only if they are determined to be aligned with the Institute's own goals and positions. If you discover an error on one of the sites, contact the webmaster of that linked site.

DISPUTE RESOLUTION

Any dispute or disagreement between us of any kind, if it cannot be resolved by negotiation, shall be resolved by arbitration in accordance with the then current rules of the American Arbitration Association. A single arbitrator engaged in the practice of law shall conduct the arbitration, whose decision and award shall be final and binding and may be entered in any court with jurisdiction.

Stakeholder complaints must be filed in accordance with this complaint policy, except as required by the policies listed below. Use the ELECTRONIC COMPLAINT FORM to submit your complaint. Some of these policies may require appeals to be submitted in accordance with the complaint policy:

Complaints alleging discrimination or harassment based on race, color, gender, national origin, disability, or religion.
Complaints concerning retaliation related to discrimination and harassment.
Complaints concerning identification, evaluation, or educational placement of a candidate with a disability within the scope of Section 504 or ADA.

Informal Process:

The Program encourages stakeholders to discuss their concerns with the Academic Director who has the authority to address the concerns. Concerns should be expressed as soon as possible to allow early resolution at the lowest possible level. Informal resolution shall be encouraged but shall not extend any deadlines, except by mutual written consent.

Formal Process:

A stakeholder may initiate the formal process described below by timely filing a written complaint form. Even after initiating the formal complaint process, stakeholders are encouraged to seek informal resolution of their concerns. A stakeholder whose concerns are resolved may withdraw a formal complaint at any time.

The process described in this complaint policy shall not be construed to create new or additional rights beyond those granted by law or program policy, nor to require a full evidentiary hearing or “mini-trial” at any level.

Filing:

Complaint forms and appeal notices may be filed by hand-delivery, by electronic communication, including e-mail and fax, or by U.S. Mail. Hand-delivered filings shall be timely filed if received by the Academic Director by the close of business on the deadline date. Filings submitted by electronic communication shall be timely filed if they are received by the close of business on the deadline date, as indicated by the date and time shown on the electronic communication. Mail filings shall be timely filed if they are post-marked by U.S. Mail on or before the deadline and received by the Academic Director no more than three days after the deadline date.

Scheduling Conferences:

The Academic Director will make reasonable attempts to schedule conferences at a mutually agreeable time. If a stakeholder fails to appear at a scheduled conference, the Academic Director may hold the conference and issue a decision in the stakeholder’s absence.

Response:

At Levels One and Two, “response” shall mean a written communication to the stakeholder from the appropriate Academic Director. Responses may be hand-delivered, sent by electronic communication to the stakeholder’s e-mail address of record, or sent by U.S. Mail to the stakeholder’s mailing address of record. Mailed responses shall be timely if they are postmarked by U.S. Mail on or before 3 days of the conference.

Days:

“Days” shall mean business days. In calculating time lines, the day a document is filed is “day zero.” The following business day is “day one.”

Representative:

“Representative” shall mean any person who or organization that is designated by the stakeholder to represent the stakeholder in the complaint process.

The stakeholder may designate a representative through written notice to the Academic Director at any level of this process. If the stakeholder designates a representative with fewer than three days’ notice to the Academic Director before a scheduled conference or hearing, the Academic Director may reschedule the conference or hearing to a later date, if desired. The Program may be represented by counsel at any level of the process.

Untimely Filings:

All time limits shall be strictly followed unless modified by mutual written consent.

If a complaint form or appeal notice is not timely filed, the complaint may be dismissed, on written notice to the stakeholder, at any point during the complaint process. The stakeholder may appeal the dismissal by seeking review in writing within ten days from the date of the written dismissal notice, starting at the level at which the complaint was dismissed. Such appeal shall be limited to the issue of timeliness.

Costs Incurred:

Each party shall pay its own costs incurred during the complaint.

Complaint and Appeal Forms:

Complaints and appeals under the complaint policy shall be submitted to the EPP.

Copies of any documents that support the complaint should be attached to the complaint form. If the stakeholder does not have copies of these documents, copies may be presented at the Level One conference. After the Level One conference, no new documents may be submitted unless the stakeholder did not know the documents existed before the Level One conference. A complaint or appeal form that is incomplete in any material aspect may be dismissed but may be refiled with all the required information if the refiling is within the designated time for filing.

Level 1:

Complaint forms must be filed:

Within 15 days of the date the stakeholder first knew, or with reasonable diligence should have known, of the decision or action giving rise to the complaint or grievance: and
With the Academic Director who has the authority to remedy the alleged problem.

The Academic Director shall investigate as necessary and schedule a conference with the stakeholder within ten days after receipt of the written complaint. The Academic Director may set time limits for the conference.

Absent extenuating circumstances, the Academic Director shall provide the stakeholder a written response within ten days following the conference. In reaching a decision, the Academic Director may consider information provided at the Level One conference and any other relevant documents or information the Academic Director believes will help resolve the complaint.

Level 2:

If the stakeholder did not receive the relief requested at Level One or if the time for a response has expired, the stakeholder may request a conference with the EPP Advisory Board to appeal the Level One decision.

The appeal notice must be filed in writing, on a form provided by the Program, within ten days of the date of the written Level One response or, if no response was received, within ten days of the deadline.

After receiving notice of the appeal, the Academic Director shall prepare and forward a record of the Level One complaint to the EPP Advisory Board or designee.

The Level One record shall include:

The original complaint form and any attachments.
All other documents submitted by the stakeholder at Level One.
The written response issued at Level One and any attachments.
All other documents relied upon by the Academic Director in reaching the Level One decision.

The EPP Advisory Board or designee shall schedule a conference within ten days after the appeal notice is filed. The conference shall be limited to the issues and documents considered at Level One. At the conference, the stakeholder may provide information concerning any documents or information relied upon by the Academic Director for the Level One decision. The EPP Advisory Board or designee may set reasonable time limits for the conference.

The EPP Advisory Board or designee shall provide the stakeholder a written response within ten days following the conference. In reaching a decision, the EPP Advisory Board or designee may consider the Level One record, information provided at the Level Two conference, and any other relevant documents or information the EPP Advisory Board or designee believes will help resolve the complaint.

Recordings of the Level One and Level Two conferences, if any, shall be maintained with the Level One and Level Two records.

If the stakeholder is not satisfied with the complaint process or out-come, the stakeholder may file a complaint against the Program with the Texas Education Agency. The official Texas Education Agency complaint process can be found at http://tea.texas.gov/About_TEA/Contact_Us/Complaints/Complaints/.

Consumer report information may be found at https://tea.texas.gov/Texas_Educators/Preparation_and_Continuing_Education/Consumer_Information_about_Educator_Preparation_Programs.aspx

GOVERNING LAW

The Texas Institute for Teacher Education is a United States corporation and is in the State of Texas. Our Policy shall be governed under the laws of the State of Texas, United States of America without regard to its conflicts of law provisions.

PERSONAL DATA COLLECTED

Some of the information collected from our visitors is given freely to The Texas Institute for Teacher Education via internet inquires sent to TXITE, admission applications, surveys, and telephone conversations with our representatives. This data is collected only on a voluntary basis and is at the option of the website user.

NON-PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION

TXITE utilizes “cookies” and other standard web technology to collect non-personally identifiable information from our website visitors. This data is automatically collected data includes such data as: type of web browser you use, your IP address, the operating system on your computer, the links you follow within our website, and the links you follow when entering and/or leaving our website.

USE OF INFORMATION

The personally identifiable information is only used internally to TXITE and every effort is made to ensure that it is not released outside of the TXITE to a third party without your consent. Data that you provide voluntarily such as your name, address, telephone number, and email address is collected and used by the TXITE to respond to your inquires and to provide you with information concerning future products and/or services. TXITE utilizes the non-personally identifiable information that is collected via cookies to ensure that our webpage is usable by most of its visitors. The information allows TXITE to update and modify its webpage, so it reflects the features most often requested and used by its visitors.

SECURITY OF INFORMATION

The Texas Institute for Teacher Education utilizes best efforts to protect and secure personal information that is collected through its website. All financial and application transactions that require the use of personal data are submitted through the website using the encrypted Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) protocol.

WEBSITE USER OPTIONS

You have several options that will allow you to opt out of providing information to The Texas Institute for Teacher Education. First, you may opt out of providing non-personal information collected using cookies by disabling or rejecting cookies for TXITE’ website. For more information on cookies, including how you can delete or reject cookies, please refer to your Web browser’s help file. Disabling or rejecting cookies may impact your user experience as they are necessary to provide you with the ability to maneuver through the website and view various data files. Regarding personal information collected through the website, you may opt out of The Texas Institute for Teacher Education’s marketing solicitations at any time by contacting us through our admission representatives or sending an email to admin@txite.today. The email should contain a statement saying that you wish to be removed from TXITE marketing solicitations and providing TXITE with the spelling of your name, your address, and your email address. You will promptly be removed from our solicitation lists.

FAMILY EDUCATION RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)

The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974 provides, generally, that (1) teacher candidates shall have the right of access to their educational records, and (2) educational institutions shall not release educational records to non-college employees without consent of the teacher candidate. Written consent of the teacher candidate is required before The Texas Institute for Teacher Education can release information concerning the teacher candidate to prospective employers, government agencies, credit bureaus, etc. Teacher candidates and alumni applying for jobs, credit, etc., can expedite their applications by providing The Texas Institute for Teacher Education with written permission to release their records, specifying which records and to whom the release should be made. For further details on and exceptions to the policies affecting disclosure of teacher candidate records, contact the Administrative Office.

COMPUTER REQUIREMENTS

Your computer access should support the following minimum features:

Your computer access should be stable, and the computer should run Windows 10 or higher, or Mac OS X or higher.

You will need to have stable and reliable access to the Internet at a speed higher than a dial-up connection.

You will need headphones or working speaker connected to the computer.

A working microphone is required when taking any proctored exams.

You will need a webcam with at least 640×480 pixel resolution or higher when taking any proctored exams.

You will need to be able to allow video and screen-sharing connections with your computer when taking any proctored exams.

All course content is delivered electronically to you through links in the online classroom. All assignments must be submitted electronically, and all exams are taken online. Please be aware that your assignments must be submitted in Microsoft Office file format (.doc or .docx, .xls or .xlsx, .ppt or pptx), or PDF file format. Audio or video assignments can be submitted in .mp3, .wav, .mov, or .mp4 file format. When selecting applications, please be sure they can save in one of these appropriate file formats.

You will need access to one application from each of the following categories to complete your online studies.

Web Browser: Microsoft Internet Explorer, Microsoft Edge, Apple Safari, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or a similar browser. Please be aware that our website and LMS/SIS is optimally viewed using Google Chrome on a personal computer.

Word Processing Application: Microsoft Word, Apple Pages, Google Docs, or similar word processor. The application you choose must be able to save files to Word .doc or .docx file format.

Spreadsheet Application: Microsoft Excel, Apple Numbers, Google Sheets, or similar spreadsheet application. The application you choose must be able to save files to Excel .xls or .xlsx file format.

Presentation Application: Microsoft PowerPoint, Apple Keynote, Google Slides, or similar slideshow application. The application you choose must be able to save files to PowerPoint .ppt or .pptx file format.

PDF File Viewer: Adobe Reader or Adobe Acrobat. Adobe Reader is a free application from Adobe that allows you to view PDF files. Adobe Acrobat is a paid application that allows you to edit PDF files. Some applications allow you to save documents as PDF files.

Audio and Video Viewer: Microsoft Media Player, Apple QuickTime or Apple iTunes, VLC Media Player, or similar media viewer. Courseware audio files are in .mp3 or .wav file format. Video files are in .mov or .mp4 format. Adobe Flash video files are not used so courseware is viewable on virtually any mobile device.

LEARNING ASSESSMENTS

Your learning is assessed within courses in a variety of ways. Examples of assessments include course discussion forums, performance-based assessments, professional reflections, formative/summative assessments, and open-response quizzes. TXITE requires proctored final examinations for each course. Videos recorded during the exam session contain full-length webcam views, audios, and desktop recordings. Videos are stored and available to TXITE administrators for review. The course syllabus will indicate any unique exam rules that may apply. Videos will be reviewed with these rules in mind and violations will be reported to TXITE administrators. Teacher candidates must have an operational webcam/video, computer, high-speed internet connection and allow the third party proctor service (if needed) to access their webcam and microphone during the proctored examination. Teacher candidates are required to identify themselves with a valid government-issued photo ID. Teacher candidates may only have one internet browser window open while taking their proctored exams unless otherwise specified. The use of internet-accessible devices, such as smartphones and tablets, are strictly prohibited during the exam. Teacher candidates may not bring removable media of any type during the proctored exam (e.g., flash drives, etc.). Teacher candidates are not allowed to converse with anyone other than their proctor during the proctored assessment. Proctors are prohibited from assisting with the exam except for procedural or administrative issues. No one, at any time, is permitted to assist the teacher candidate logging in or setting up the proctoring system. This will be flagged as a test violation. Therefore, if one is unable to operate the system, the teacher candidate should immediately contact their course instructor.

Administrative or Academic Practices: Teacher candidates are subject to identity verification using personally identifiable information provided by the teacher candidate upon application to the TXITE. Teacher candidates must provide their assigned Teacher candidate ID Number, along with other requested sources of personally identifiable information when contacting the TXITE via email or phone. In addition, faculty and staff may commence verification of teacher candidate identity following a review of teacher candidate work. Noticeable changes in academic performance and/or writing style will be monitored and an identity verification process could be initiated if unexplained changes in teacher candidate performance are detected.

MONITORING ACADEMIC ENGAGEMENT

Proctored Exams: Throughout a teacher candidate’s program of study, assessments from select graduate courses will be proctored. Proctored exams serve as an additional identity verification process used by TXITE to ensure academic integrity and meet accreditation requirements. Teacher candidates are required to complete proctored exams throughout their program as a requirement for graduation. Proctored exam information and rules are provided in each course syllabus where a proctored exam is required. Taking proctored exams is mandatory, without exception, and is not subject for appeal. Failure to complete the proctored exam could result in, but not limited to: a failing grade (F) for the course or future enrollments for that teacher candidate could be canceled until that course has been taken and the proctored exam completed.

MONITORING SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY

Teacher candidates sharing common traits with other TXITE teacher candidates will be reviewed for suspicious activity. Common traits that will be reviewed include, but are not limited to:

Physical address

IP addresses

Telephone numbers

Personal references

Email addresses

Teacher candidates that are determined to be in violation of this policy will be immediately withdrawn from the TXITE and / or possibly reported to the appropriate authorities.

The Texas Institute for Teacher Education reserves the right to update or modify this policy and any privacy notice, at any time and without prior notice, by posting the revised version of the policy or privacy notice on this website. If TXITE modifies this policy or any privacy notice, the modifications will only apply to the personal information the TXITE collects after the new policy or privacy notice is posted to this website. Your use of this website following any change to the policy or privacy notice is posted constitutes your agreement that all information collected from or about you after the revised policy is posted will be subject to the terms of the revised policy. You may access the current version of this policy at any time by clicking on the link marked "Privacy Policy" at the bottom of each page of the public areas of this site.

ACADEMIC RECORDS

Academic records are stored primarily in digital form on secure web servers. Digital back-up copies of your records, paper documents such as your transcripts, printed copies of your digital records (when required), and your other records are maintained by TXITE. Your records include but are not limited to documents and files related to academics, admissions, advising, discipline, payment, credit, and placement. Original documents and digital files submitted to TXITE become a permanent part of your file and will not be returned to you or sent elsewhere.

TEACHER CANDIDATE IDENTIFICATION VERIFICATION

Before TXITE staff can discuss or release information about a teacher candidate over the phone, we will need to verify the teacher candidate’s identity. The teacher candidate will need to accurately confirm their address, telephone number, and email address on record. TXITE has a significant responsibility to ensure that the academic integrity of the institution is intact. We must take steps necessary to ensure that teacher candidates are academically engaged and that the teacher candidate who earns academic credit is, in fact, the person doing the work.

VERIFYING TEACHER CANDIDATE IDENTITY

All teacher candidates must submit a copy of a valid government-issued photo identification during the admissions process to the TXITE.

IDENTITY VERIFICATION METHODS

Teacher candidates enrolled in courses or programs are subject to one or more of the following teacher candidate identity verification methods: Secure, Individual Login and Passcode for LMS: Teacher candidates are provided a Username and Password for Populi LMS. These assigned identifiers are used to access the Populi LMS to view course grades and related information and to complete coursework. Upon acceptance to the TXITE, new teacher candidates will gain set up access to Populi using the email associated with the teacher candidate during the admissions process.

TRANSFERRING CREDITS TO TXITE

Teacher candidates may transfer credits successfully completed at other EPPs by submitting a Transfer Form completed by the previous EPP.

TRANSFERRING CREDITS FROM TXITE

Should a teacher candidate wish to transfer TXITE course credits to another institution or to pursue a graduate degree at another institution, it should be noted that the acceptance of TXITE’s credits is discretionary on the part of the receiving institution. TXITE is not a degree-granting institution of higher education.

INTERNATIONAL VISITORS

The Texas Institute for Teacher Education is operated and managed on servers located within the United States. If you are a citizen of the European Union or other regions of the world and choose to use request information about TXITE or become a teacher candidate, you then acknowledge that TXITE will transfer your personal data to the United States to provide you with the requested information and/or provide educational service. The only other sharing of your data will be for purposes where you provide written informed consent.

EUROPEAN UNION DATA PROTECTION

Citizens of the European Union are entitled to certain rights with respect to personal information that TXITE holds about them:

Right to object. The right to object, on grounds relating to your situation, to the processing of your personal information, and to object to processing of your personal information for direct marketing purposes, to the extent it is related to such direct marketing;

Right to data portability. The right to obtain access to your personal information, along with certain related information, and to receive that information in a commonly used format and to have it transferred to another data controller;

Right to be forgotten. The right to obtain the erasure of your personal information without undue delay in certain circumstances, such as where the personal information is no longer necessary in relation to the purposes for which it was collected or processed;

Right to ask for incorrect data to be corrected. The right to have your personal information corrected without undue delay if that personal information is inaccurate or incomplete; and

Right to restriction. The right to obtain the restriction of the processing undertaken by us on your personal information in certain circumstances, such as where the accuracy of the personal information is contested by you, for a period enabling us to verify the accuracy of that personal information. You may also have the right to make a complaint to the relevant Supervisory Authority. A list of Supervisory Authorities is available here: http://ec.europa.eu/justice/data-protection/bodies/authorities/index_en.htm.

POLICY ON ACADEMIC INTEGRITY AND PLAGIARISM:

At The Texas Institute for Teacher Education, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of academic integrity and fostering a culture of honesty, fairness, and ethical conduct among our students, faculty, and staff. As part of our dedication to excellence in education, we have established the following policy on academic integrity and plagiarism:

Definition of Academic Integrity: Academic integrity is the cornerstone of our educational community, encompassing principles of honesty, responsibility, and respect for intellectual property. It involves the commitment to uphold the highest ethical standards in all academic endeavors, including coursework, examinations, research, and professional conduct.
Prohibited Behaviors: The Texas Institute for Teacher Education prohibits all forms of academic dishonesty, including but not limited to:

Plagiarism: Presenting someone else's work, ideas, or words as one's own without proper citation or acknowledgment.
Cheating: Using unauthorized materials, resources, or assistance during examinations or assignments.
Fabrication: Falsification or invention of data, information, or citations in academic work.
Collusion: Collaborating with others to engage in academic misconduct, including sharing or submitting work done by others as one's own.

Consequences: Violations of academic integrity will result in disciplinary action in accordance with institutional policies. Consequences may include, but are not limited to:

Academic penalties, such as a failing grade on the assignment or examination.
Academic probation, suspension, or dismissal from the program.
Notification to relevant academic/certification authorities and inclusion of the violation in the student's academic record.

Reporting Procedures: Faculty members who suspect or identify instances of academic dishonesty are required to report the violation following the designated procedures outlined by The Texas Institute for Teacher Education. Reports should include documentation of the evidence and a detailed description of the alleged misconduct. Investigation Process: Upon receiving a report of academic dishonesty, The Texas Institute for Teacher Education will conduct a thorough investigation to determine the validity of the allegations. The investigation may include gathering evidence, interviewing relevant parties, and providing the accused student with an opportunity to respond. Appeals Process: Students have the right to appeal decisions related to academic dishonesty in accordance with institutional policies and procedures. The appeals process ensures fairness and due process for all parties involved. Support Services: The Texas Institute for Teacher Education provides support services to students to promote academic success and prevent instances of academic dishonesty. These services may include academic advising, tutoring, and educational workshops on academic integrity and plagiarism prevention.

By adhering to this policy on academic integrity and plagiarism, we reaffirm our commitment to excellence, integrity, and professionalism in teacher education. Together, we strive to create a community where honesty, respect, and accountability are valued and upheld in all academic pursuits.

As stewards of knowledge and role models in the field of education, our teacher candidates are entrusted with upholding the highest standards of academic integrity. Plagiarism, in any form, is viewed as a serious breach of trust and ethical conduct within our academic community. Whether intentional or unintentional, plagiarism diminishes the authenticity of one's work and compromises the integrity of the educational process.

It is imperative for teacher candidates to understand the various forms of plagiarism, which may include:

Direct Plagiarism: Presenting someone else's work, ideas, or words as one's own without proper citation. Example: Copying and pasting verbatim text from a source without attribution.
Mosaic Plagiarism: Piecing together phrases, sentences, or paragraphs from different sources without proper attribution, creating a mosaic of borrowed content. Example: Paraphrasing multiple sources without acknowledging the original authors.
Self-Plagiarism: Recycling one's own previous work without proper citation or permission. Example: Submitting a paper previously submitted for another course without acknowledgment.

To combat academic dishonesty and plagiarism, The Texas Institute for Teacher Education employs proactive measures to educate and support our teacher candidates. These measures include:

Educational Workshops: Providing workshops and resources on academic integrity, proper citation methods, and avoiding plagiarism.
Clear Guidelines: Offering clear guidelines and expectations regarding citation, referencing, and the use of sources in academic work.
Technology Tools: Introducing technology tools and software to detect plagiarism and promote originality in writing assignments.
Supportive Environment: Creating a supportive environment where teacher candidates feel encouraged to seek guidance and clarification on academic matters.
Consequences: Outlining the consequences of academic dishonesty, which may include disciplinary action, academic probation, or dismissal from the program.

By fostering a culture of academic honesty and integrity, we not only uphold the reputation of our institution but also prepare our teacher candidates to embody these principles in their future classrooms. Together, we commit to promoting original thought, scholarly inquiry, and ethical conduct as foundational pillars of excellence in education.

PLAGIARISM: UNDERSTANDING THE ISSUE

Plagiarism poses a significant challenge for both educational institutions and students alike. But what exactly constitutes plagiarism? Is it merely copying someone else's work or taking credit for something you haven't authored? While these are indeed aspects of plagiarism, the concept encompasses a broader spectrum of behaviors.

Is it Plagiarism?

Question: If you collaborate with a friend on an assignment and both submit the same work, is it considered plagiarism?

Answer: Yes, technically.

Collaborating with a friend on an assignment and submitting identical work is one of the most prevalent forms of plagiarism among students. While it may not seem illicit, submitting work that is not entirely your own constitutes plagiarism. At its core, plagiarism entails claiming credit for work you did not create. Therefore, if you attach your name to an assignment that you did not complete independently, you are essentially taking credit for work you did not do.

Exceptions exist, such as group projects assigned by professors where work is collectively graded. However, unless explicitly instructed otherwise, each assignment you submit must reflect your individual effort and originality. To avoid unintentional infractions, always consult your professor regarding their policies on collaborative work.

TESTING INTEGRITY:

To uphold the integrity of our testing environment and ensure the highest standards of academic honesty, the following consequences are established for teacher candidates who violate the Proctorio proctoring guidelines. These measures reflect our commitment to ethical conduct and aim to maintain a culture of accountability within our program.

First Violation – Academic Probation for the Duration of the Program and Integrity Counseling:
- Academic Probation: Upon the first violation, the candidate will be placed on academic probation for the entire duration of their enrollment in the program. This probation serves as a formal warning and underscores the importance of adhering to testing protocols and maintaining ethical standards. The probationary status will be noted in the candidate’s academic record and may impact eligibility for program benefits, future assessments, course registrations, or graduation.
- Integrity Counseling Session: The candidate will be required to attend a mandatory integrity counseling session with their instructor, academic advisor, or a designated program official. This session will include a detailed review of the violation, an explanation of the Proctorio monitoring alerts, and a discussion of the expectations for academic integrity within the program. A personalized action plan will be developed, focusing on creating an appropriate exam environment, minimizing distractions, and strategies to uphold integrity during all assessments.
Second Violation – Immediate Program Dismissal and Reporting to the Texas Education Agency (TEA):
- Program Dismissal and Removal from ECOS: A second violation is regarded as a severe breach of the program’s ethical standards and will result in immediate dismissal from the teacher preparation program. Dismissal includes removal from the Educator Certification Online System (ECOS), which will terminate the candidate's status within the program and revoke any progress towards certification. This action is final and not subject to appeal.
- Professional Reporting to the Texas Education Agency (TEA): The dismissal will be reported to the Texas Education Agency (TEA) as a violation of the Code of Ethics and Standard Practices for Texas Educators. This report ensures that ethical breaches are formally documented with the certifying body, reinforcing the critical expectation that all educators maintain the highest standards of professional conduct. Reporting such violations may have severe implications for the candidate’s future eligibility for certification and participation in any other educator preparation programs within Texas.

These consequences are designed to protect the integrity of our program and emphasize the foundational importance of honesty, responsibility, and ethical behavior. They serve as a reminder that integrity is essential not only within the academic setting but in every aspect of the professional responsibilities of educators.

Any candidate in violation of the Code of Ethics and Standard Practices for Texas Educators are subject

to immediate program dismissal and reported to the Texas Education Agency.

AI Use Policy

Purpose
This policy is designed to guide teacher candidates at the Texas Institute for Teacher Education (TXITE) in the responsible and ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI). The goal is to ensure that AI technologies are used effectively in assignments and educational activities, particularly where AI is essential for training and enhancing teaching practices.

Responsible Use of AI in Assignments
Educational Enhancement: Candidates are encouraged to use AI tools to enrich their learning experiences. When incorporated into assignments, AI should serve as a tool to deepen understanding, inspire creativity, and cultivate innovative teaching practices. It should not be used to merely generate work for submission.

Ethical Considerations: The application of AI in assignments should align with TXITE’s values and ethical standards. Candidates must ensure that AI-generated content is used thoughtfully, with their work remaining original and reflective of their own comprehension.

Transparency: When AI is utilized in an assignment, candidates must clearly disclose the extent of its contribution. This includes identifying which elements were AI-assisted and which were completed independently.

Required Use of AI in Training
Skill Development: In specific courses, candidates will be required to use AI tools as part of their training to develop skills in enhancing teaching practices. These assignments are intended to familiarize candidates with AI technologies applicable in educational settings.

Guidance and Support: TXITE provides training and resources to help candidates effectively and ethically use AI in their assignments. Instructors will offer guidance on integrating AI tools into teaching practices, enabling candidates to confidently apply these skills in real-world scenarios.

Reflection and Application: Candidates are expected to reflect on their use of AI in assignments and consider how these tools can be applied in their future teaching careers. Assignments may require candidates to evaluate the effectiveness of AI in educational contexts and its impact on student learning.

Academic Integrity and AI
Originality and Authorship: While AI can be a valuable tool for generating ideas and supporting research, candidates must ensure that their work remains their own. Unacknowledged use of AI-generated content is a violation of TXITE’s academic integrity policy.

Proper Citation: If AI tools contribute to an assignment, candidates must provide appropriate citations, specifying the AI tool used and its role in creating the content.

Avoiding Misuse: AI should not be used to bypass the learning process or complete assignments without proper understanding. Instead, it should enhance critical thinking, problem-solving, and other essential academic skills.

Continuous Learning and Improvement
Ongoing Education: TXITE is committed to providing continuous education on the ethical and effective use of AI. Candidates are encouraged to stay informed about advancements in AI and its potential applications in education.

Feedback and Adaptation: Candidates are encouraged to provide feedback on their experiences using AI in assignments. This feedback will help TXITE refine its AI-related training to better meet the evolving needs of candidates.

Support Resources: TXITE offers resources, including workshops and tutorials, to help candidates master the use of AI tools in their academic work. Candidates are encouraged to take full advantage of these resources to enhance their learning.

Policy Enforcement
Violations of this AI Use Policy, including misuse of AI in assignments or failure to adhere to academic integrity standards, will be addressed according to TXITE’s disciplinary procedures. Candidates found in violation may face consequences, including loss of access to AI tools, academic penalties, or other disciplinary actions.

Policy Review and Updates
This policy will be reviewed regularly to reflect new developments in AI technology and education. Changes to the policy will be communicated to candidates, with all updates taking effect immediately upon approval.

Contact Information
For any questions or concerns regarding this AI Use Policy, candidates should contact their course instructor.

Using AI to Enhance Professional Development

Understanding Texas Teacher Standards
AI tools can be invaluable in helping candidates understand the Texas Teacher Standards, which are critical for both passing the TExES exams and excelling in the classroom. Here’s how AI can support this learning:

Personalized Learning Plans: AI platforms can analyze learning outcomes and progress, offering tailored study plans focused on areas that need improvement, particularly in mastering the Texas Teacher Standards.
Interactive Simulations: AI-driven simulations allow practice in applying the Texas Teacher Standards in real-world scenarios, providing instant feedback to refine understanding and approach.
AI-Generated Quizzes and Flashcards: Regular use of AI-generated quizzes and flashcards can reinforce knowledge of the standards, with adaptive difficulty levels ensuring continual challenge and improvement.

Preparing for the TExES Exams
The TExES exams are rigorous, and AI tools can be instrumental in preparation:

Practice Tests: AI can generate practice tests that mimic the format and difficulty of the TExES exams, helping identify weak areas and focus studies accordingly.
Content Review: AI-powered summaries can condense key concepts from textbooks and study guides, making the review process more efficient.
Targeted Feedback: AI systems can provide detailed feedback on practice test performance, pinpointing specific standards or competencies that require further review.
Time Management: AI tools can track progress and suggest study schedules to ensure all necessary content is covered before the exam, including timed practice exams to help manage time effectively during the actual test.

Preparing for the First Day of Teaching
Transitioning from student to teacher can be challenging, but AI can assist in making the first day and subsequent teaching days successful:

Lesson Planning: AI can suggest lesson plans aligned with the Texas Teacher Standards, tailored to specific subject areas and grade levels, and customizable based on student needs.
Classroom Management: AI-driven simulations offer practice in managing classroom behavior through various scenarios, helping develop effective strategies for maintaining a positive learning environment.
Student Engagement Strategies: AI can recommend engagement strategies based on current educational research, suggesting interactive activities, differentiated instruction techniques, or technology integration ideas that resonate with diverse student populations.
Assessment Tools: AI can assist in creating formative and summative assessments aligned with the Texas Teacher Standards, helping evaluate student learning effectively from day one.
Reflective Practice: AI can aid in reflective practice by analyzing lesson data (e.g., student performance, engagement levels) and providing insights on what worked well and what could be improved, invaluable as teaching practice is refined.

Integrating AI in Continuous Professional Development

Stay Updated on Standards: AI tools can help stay informed about updates to Texas Teacher Standards and best practices in education, ensuring teaching methods remain current and effective.

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Requirements for: Gate-Based Structure

1. Enrollment and Program Completion Timeline:

Teacher candidates at TXITE can enroll at any time during the year.
Candidates have two calendar years from the date of enrollment to complete the entire program, which includes 12 modules and one full school year as an intern/probationary teacher.
Successfully completing the program within this timeframe qualifies candidates to earn the Texas Standard Teacher Certificate.

2. Program Gates and Module-Specific Requirements:

Gate 1: Orientation to Module 7

Modules Covered:
- Orientation
- Module 1: Texas Teacher Standard 1: Instructional Planning and Delivery
- Module 2: Texas Teacher Standard 2: Knowledge of Students and Student Learning
- Module 3: Texas Teacher Standard 3: Content Knowledge and Expertise
- Module 4: Texas Teacher Standard 4: Learning Environments
- Module 5: Texas Teacher Standard 5: Data-Driven Practice
- Module 6: Texas Teacher Standard 6: Professional Practices and Responsibilities
- Module 7: Teaching Students with Diverse Cultural, Linguistic, and Exceptional Learning Needs
Requirements:
- Candidates must complete all assignments, assessments, and participation requirements in each module with a minimum grade of 70% (C-).
- Successful completion of all modules in Gate 1 is required to advance to Gate 2.
Outcome:
- Advancement to Gate 2, which prepares candidates for TExES exams.

Gate 2: Module 8 - TExES Exams Preparation and Statement of Eligibility (SOE)

Modules Covered:
- Module 8: TExES Exams Preparation and Statement of Eligibility (SOE)
Requirements:
- Candidates must engage in comprehensive TExES exam preparation, including practice exams, study sessions, and content reviews.
- Submission of the Statement of Eligibility (SOE) as a prerequisite for TExES exam registration.
Outcome:
- Candidates must demonstrate readiness to take the TExES exams through successful completion of Module 8, leading to Gate 3.

Gate 3: Module 9 - Pre-Teaching Field Observations

Modules Covered:
- Module 9: Pre-Teaching Field Observations
Requirements:
- Completion of pre-teaching field observations in a Texas public school, including observation reports, reflective journals, and mentor feedback.
- Successful completion of all field observation requirements is necessary to advance to Gate 4.
Outcome:
- Progression to Gate 4, which involves the professional internship and certification defense.

Gate 4: Modules 10-12 - Professional Internship and Certification

Modules Covered:
- Module 10: Pre-Internship Preparation
- Module 11: Professional Internship for One Full School Year
- Module 12: Certification Defense and Review
Requirements:
- Completion of a full school year as an intern/probationary teacher, with ongoing assessments from mentor teachers and school administrators.
- Submission of a reflective teaching portfolio, lesson plans, and other required documentation.
- Successful defense of the candidate's teaching experience and readiness for certification during the Certification Defense and Review.
Outcome:
- Candidates who successfully complete all requirements in Gate 4 will be eligible to apply for the Texas Standard Teacher Certificate.

3. Academic Performance Standards:

Candidates must achieve a minimum grade of 70% (C-) or higher in each module to demonstrate satisfactory academic progress.
Candidates must meet all requirements within each gate to advance to the next stage of the program.

4. Weekly Course Interaction Requirement:

Teacher candidates are required to actively participate in course activities each week. This includes:
- Engaging in online discussions and forums.
- Attending live or recorded webinars and lectures.
- Submitting weekly assignments, quizzes, or reflections.
- Interacting with instructors through office hours, emails, or other communication tools.
Candidates must interact with their course instructors at least once per week through direct communication or participation in instructor-led activities.
Weekly participation and interaction will be monitored by instructors and program advisors. Consistent failure to meet this requirement may result in an academic warning, probation, or other corrective actions as outlined in the SAP policy.

5. Academic Probation and Program Termination:

If a candidate fails to meet the requirements of any gate, they will be placed on academic probation and must work with their advisor to develop a remediation plan.
Failure to adhere to the remediation plan or to meet the requirements within the specified timeline may result in termination from the program.
Termination will also occur if a candidate fails to complete the entire program, including the internship/probationary teaching module, within the two-year timeframe.

6. Appeals Process:

Candidates who are placed on academic probation or terminated from the program have the right to appeal the decision.
Appeals must be submitted in writing within 10 days of the probation or termination notice, detailing the circumstances that contributed to unsatisfactory progress and outlining a plan for successful program completion.
The appeal will be reviewed by the SAP committee, and candidates will receive a decision within 15 days.

7. Re-Enrollment Policy:

Candidates who have been terminated from the program may apply for re-enrollment.
Re-enrollment is not guaranteed and is subject to approval. It may include conditions such as additional tutoring, a revised timeline for completion, or other support mechanisms to ensure success.

8. Certification Eligibility:

Upon successful completion of all 12 modules and the full school year as an intern/probationary teacher, candidates will be eligible to apply for the Texas Standard Teacher Certificate.
All program requirements, including academic performance standards, weekly course interaction, and completion of all gates, must be met within the two-year completion timeline to qualify for certification.

Program Policy: About