Methods and Theory of Discipline-based Education Research

Catalog description

This course is an introduction to major research themes, methodology, theories of learning, and research ethics relevant to discipline-based education research (DBER) in biology, chemistry, and physics. Research methods related to studying learning and development of expertise in science will include: the design of quantitative studies (surveys, assessments, and statistical analysis methods) and the design of qualitative studies (interviews, observations, coding). Relevant theories of learning will include cognitivist, developmental, and social/cultural perspectives. The course will use case studies from current literature on biology, chemistry, and physics education research to introduce these topics. Students will apply their understanding to develop and execute a semester-long research project in DBER.