EDF5107

Primary science and technology education ( 6 points, SCA Band 0, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader:

Offered:
Not offered in 2005.

Synopsis: The students will be introduced to the relevant science and technology curriculum and standards framework with historical and contemporary changes in the teaching of science and technology being considered in the context of a range of teaching strategies used in the primary school and early childhood settings. Students will explore ways of stimulating and enriching children's natural curiosity by presenting a broad range of learning experiences through the design, development and practice of integrating science and technology curricula using a variety of media and learning environments. Teaching and assessment strategies will be an important aspect of the course.

Objectives: Upon successful completion of this unit students should have acquired a sound understanding of key theoretical and pedagogical perspectives and issues in the teaching of science and technology with children; translated conceptual ideas and processes about science and technology into classroom learning activities for children; developed understandings of the variety of assessment techniques available to evaluate student learning in science and technology education; explored ways of stimulating and enriching children's natural curiosity by presenting a broad range of learning experiences; designed, developed and practiced integrating science and technology curricula using a variety of media and learning environments; evaluated and reflected on their past and present science education experiences; developed through the exploration and experience of a variety of learning and teaching strategies, a personal approach to teaching science and technology.

Assessment: Group science lesson presentation to peers, complete with lesson plan, resources and a means of assessing student learning (1000 words); 25% o Children's science: small study of children's responses to "Is it living or non-living?" (1000 words); 25% oCommunity Project: Authentic technology task, including a design brief, the design and construction of a product and its evaluation (2000 words): 50%