Course overview
The aim of this course is to extend preservice teachers' critical understanding of the nature of scientific knowledge and the purpose of teaching science in the secondary school context. Students will critically examine learning theories, evaluate research on science education and curriculum frameworks, and design, justify and evaluate inquiry-based and laboratory learning experiences for diverse learners across the secondary years.
- The Nature of Science
- Introduction to Planning
- Planning for Prior Knowledge
- Sequencing Learning Experiences
- Explaining Scientific Ideas
- Scientific Inquiry
- Questioning
- Differentiating Learning
- Assessment Sequencing
- Science as a Human Endeavour
Course learning outcomes
- Critically examine personal and disciplinary assumptions about the nature of science, drawing on science education research and theoretical perspectives to inform curriculum thinking
- Critically evaluate and apply strategies for teaching science in the middle years, justifying pedagogical choices in response to learner needs and contexts.
- Analyse the origins and persistence of alternative conceptions in science, developing evidence-informed strategies to identify and address them.
- Observe, analyse and interpret science teaching practice, connecting observed approaches to evidence on student learning and providing informed feedback to peers.
- Design, justify and evaluate science learning experiences that are contextually appropriate, inclusive and grounded in principles of inquiry and safe laboratory practice.