Understanding the Conceptual Model

The UNITE Conceptual Model illustrates the five components of the program: 1). Professional development, 2). mentor coaching, 3). virtual resource center, 4). networking events, and 5). research and dissemination. The three participant groups at the model's center are preservice teachers (residents), mentor teachers, and CSU faculty - representing the entire teacher pipeline. They are the learners within the program and are represented as overlapping figures to reflect their connections to one another and their interactions within the program.

The four circles surrounding the participants reflect the activities and experiences designed to support the learners. All participants will receive or access monthly professional development training, access the virtual resource center, and participate in networking events. In addition, residents and mentors will receive coaching and support through a train-the-trainer model. Within this model, mentor teachers will receive ongoing coaching through the Teacher Leadership Academy and will, in turn, use their knowledge and skills to mentor the teacher resident. See Program Components for more details about each of the supporting activities.