EDUC 310 - Secondary School Science Methods

Course Description:

The purpose of this course is to provide the knowledge and the skills needed to begin to teach science in secondary schools – the principles of teaching, planning, curriculum, methods and media. This will be done in the light of the theory that students do not simply learn what they are told, but instead construct an interpretation of their experience in class. The course is designed to help students understand the challenges associated with this “teaching science for understanding” – developing particular attitudes and skills, as well as conceptualizing ideas in the sciences within the contexts of four new dimensions: the benefits and processes of scientific inquiry, the essential interplay of science and technology, the role of science in our personal lives and social perspectives, and the rich legacy left by the history and nature of science. According to Science for All Americans and the National Science Education Standards, all are essential for scientific literacy and present a formidable challenge for science educators.

Course Objectives:

The purpose of this course is to provide the knowledge and the skills needed to begin to teach science in the secondary (and middle) schools. This is to be done in light of the theory that students do not simply learn what they are told, but instead construct an interpretation of their experience in class - which leads to you having an understanding of the Constructivist Learning and Teaching Model.

To achieve this intended outcome by the end of the semester you will:
(1) have a working understanding of the educational statements behind the pervasive national reform projects, the National Science Education Standards and Project 2061
(DECA 24:16:07:01 #3)
(2) have a clearer understanding of the true nature of science and the nature of learning science from a constructivist perspective
(DECA 24:16:07:01 #2)
(3) be able to plan instructional goals and outcomes
(DECA 24:16:07:01 #3)
(4) be able to select and organize science content and methods appropriate for students at various grade levels
(DECA 24:16:07:01 #3)
(5) be able to evaluate existing science curricula in light of current research
(DECA 24:16:07:01 #5)
(6) be able to adapt existing curricular and instructional materials for use in constructivist teaching environments – based on national standards and selected state standards
(DECA 24:16:07:01 #3, #5)
(7) be able to analyze students’ prior knowledge and problem-solving skills
(DECA 24:16:07:01 #3, #4)
(8) to use a variety of instructional techniques in a constructivist teaching environment, use questioning skills effectively, and plan appropriate assessment tools in order to manage a science classroom effectively.
(DECA 24:16:07:01 #1, #2, #4
(9) be able to reflect about what you do and why
(DECA 24:16:07:01 #7)