The premise of this presentation is that clinical experiences are superior to many traditional kinds of field placements. Four types of clinical experiences are described: participant observation in special education classrooms; a team planned cooperative teaching experience; participation in the activities of a college reading clinic; and participation in simulations. Each represents one of four roles of the teacher: teacher as researcher; as colleague; as nurturer; and as professional leader. It is noted that field experiences provide students with survival skills, but clinical experiences serve as models for change and provide forays into future practices. (JD)