EDF5458

Methods and Practice of Teaching General Science education A ( 6 points, SCA Band 0, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Mr S Keast (Clayton), Ms A Ryan (Gippsland)

Offered:
Clayton First semester 2005 (Day)
Gippsland First semester 2005 (OCL)

Synopsis: An introduction and preparation for teaching General Science in Secondary Schools (Years 7 - 10). Particular emphasis is placed on the nature of science and on looking at students' prior views and how students' learn science concepts and construct their own meanings. Issues of student supervision and safety in the classroom and during laboratory work will also form part of this unit. In addition, this unit is concerned with an examination of curriculum documents such as the Victorian Curriculum and Standards Framework and Victorian Essential Learnings and how to use these to develop interesting, engaging and effective lesson plans.

Objectives: Upon successful completion of this unit students should have: 1. acquired a sound understanding of key theoretical and pedagogical perspectives and issues in the teaching of science; 2. translated conceptual ideas and processes about science into classroom learning activities for students; 3 increased their knowledge about the role of the science curriculum documents in the planning, implementation and evaluation of classroom processes; 4. designed, developed and practiced teaching science using a variety of media, learning environments and approaches; and 5. evaluated and reflected on their past and present science education experiences.

Assessment: Assignments: 100% (Clayton and Gippsland students) + 80% Attendance and participation in the workshops is also a requirement for Clayton students.

Contact Hours: 3 hours per week

Prerequisites: A minor sequence in General Science which includes at least two of Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science/Geology and Physics or A minor sequence in Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science/Geology and Physics together with a part in another of these areas