EDF4252 - Integrated approaches to science learning and teaching - 2017

This unit focuses on the role of science as an authentic context for learning and teaching across the curriculum in primary and secondary school settings. Students are provided with opportunities to explore integrated approaches to learning and teaching which utilise overarching ideas to link conceptual understandings and skills from a range of curriculum areas. This builds their capacity to develop innovative teaching practices that enable diverse student populations to meaningfully engage with science alongside other discipline areas. This unit emphasises the nature of science as a particular way of thinking about, interacting with and making sense of phenomena. It explicitly connects this endeavour with the philosophical, moral and political dimensions of whole-school, community practices and global concerns. By drawing on contemporary curriculum developments and theoretical perspectives nationally and internationally, students develop understanding of the possibilities, potential and challenges inherent in using integrated approaches to science education. In association with their professional experiences in schools, students are required to imagine, develop, critically evaluate, and apply integrated approaches to curriculum to enhance their teaching of science and to engage learners with science in meaningful ways.

Upon successful completion of this unit students should be able to:

1. develop critical perspectives to analyse and understand the theoretical educational values underpinning integrated approaches to science learning and teaching
2. understand the implications of using an integrated approach as a way of connecting with science as a discipline, across disciplines and communities
3. understand the range of practical pedagogical considerations associated with utilising an integrated approach to curriculum development and implementation
4. apply these understandings by developing, implementing and evaluating integrated approaches to curriculum to enhance science learning and teaching.

Research project: Comparison of integrated approaches using science in primary and secondary settings (2000 words, 50%)

Program evaluation: Analysis of an integrated approach to science learning and teaching (2000 words, 50%)

Minimum total expected workload equals 144 hours per semester comprising:

1. Contact hours for on-campus students:
   • 24 hrs over the semester
2. Additional requirements (all students):
   • Independent study to make up the required minimum hours during the semester

See also Unit timetable information

Primary and secondary education

Primary and secondary inclusive education

EDF3035