EDF5301 - Introduction to STEM education - 2017

6 points, SCA Band 1, 0.125 EFTSL

Postgraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Faculty

Education

Coordinator(s)

Professor Deborah Corrigan

Unit guides

Offered

Clayton

  • First semester 2017 (Flexible)

Synopsis

This unit introduces the notion of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) and STEM education with respect to the variety of environments and systems in which it needs to operate. The local, national and global contexts of STEM and STEM education are explored, particularly in terms of how these contexts interplay with educational settings such as schools. The unit focuses on considering how STEM contexts have an impact on your thinking as both an educator and a leader in STEM education, and explores the opportunities and challenges that this notion brings, which may require a reframing of thinking and practice. Skills such as critical analysis, synthesis of complex information, problems and concepts will be developed in practitioner research contexts.

Outcomes

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

  1. develop a sound understanding of concepts and contemporary issues in STEM education, contexts and systems, locally and globally
  2. explore the major theoretical and professional debates in STEM education as located within contemporary research
  3. utilise enhanced research and leadership skills to develop sustainable action plans for the engagement of learners in STEM education.

Assessment

Examining a case (2000 words, 50%)

Multimedia presentation (2000 words equivalent, 50%)

Workload requirements

Minimum total expected workload equals 144 hours per semester comprising:

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

See also Unit timetable information

Chief examiner(s)