Instructional Issues in Teaching Science

Catalog description

Teacher candidates seeking secondary science certification must enroll in an advanced science methods course focusing on contemporary issues in science education. This course will provide candidates with the opportunity to learn the conceptual foundations of current approaches to science instruction and professional development especially as related to student learning at the secondary level. Contemporary issues central to the course include but are not limited to: science education standards, science education reform efforts, equity in science education, teaching through inquiry and assessment strategies in science education. The course will offer students opportunities for active learning and reflection and the construction of new understanding regarding science teaching and learning. This course will also require students to take part in a research component focusing on a particular science education issue of their choice. They will begin a literature review and propose a research project which they may complete if they chose the Master's thesis option.