Course overview
This course will develop preservice teachers' critical understanding of the goals, purposes and methods of teaching Science in the middle years of schooling. In this course preservice teachers will consider the nature of scientific knowledge and discuss the purpose of teaching science in the secondary school context. The course examines the impact of learning theories on teaching of science and explores approaches to assessment and teaching methodologies appropriate for secondary science. Preservice teachers will encounter ways of using the laboratory in science teaching and gain a comprehensive understanding of the Australian Curriculum and how it informs science teaching and learning.
Course learning outcomes
- Critically reflect on personal and professional assumptions of the nature of science taught in schools.
- Identify and illustrate methods of teaching that are appropriate for teaching science in secondary schools.
- Develop strategies to identify and challenge students' alternative conceptions in science
- Apply skills of lesson observation, analysis and reflection.
- Effectively plan science lessons that are appropriate for particular contexts and purposes, including safe and appropriate use of laboratory equipment.