EDUC Outline ?

http://www.educ.sfu.calu dprogs/Outlines/Educ4l6cummings2006...

EDUC 416-4

EDUC 476-4

DESIGNS FOR LEARNING: ELEMENTARY SCIENCE

MICHAEL CUMMINGS

EMAIL: cummings@sfu.ca

TUESDAY & THURSDAY 8:30-12:20 EDB 7500F

PREREQUISITE:

EDUC 401/402

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Teaching and learning through inquiry sets the tone for EDUC: 416/476-4 Designs for Learning:

Science (Elementary & Secondary). Across its many forms, Inquiry-based teaching emphasizes

immersing learners in an experientially rich curriculum. The teacher provides a carefully chosen hook to

peak the student's interest and calls on them to build on each other's invested interest to make sense of

the experience. This science methods course will model a similar approach with how we individually

come to understand our role as teachers in our own science classrooms. Guided by the British Columbia

Ministry IRPs, we come together in a community of practice to explore learning and teaching through

key concepts of activity theory, dialogue, as well as other contemporary reform initiatives with teaching

science. Of particular interest will be issues of how we, as humans, genuinely come to make sense of

our world and how such a practice may closely mimic what scientists do. For this course, this will mean

doing hands-on activities, weekly readings (mostly from the web), low stakes writing to learn

responses, class discussion and in-class presentations. A final unit plan will constitute a large portion of

the grade.

Although to a great extent this course will move in the direction you find most useful for your level and

needs (i.e. activities, readings and assignments will be open to negotiation), attendance will be

mandatory. You must be prepared to actively take part in every class as well as agree to have all

assignments completed on time.

Return to Education's Undergraduate 2006-2 Course Outlines Main Page.

1 of 1 ?

3/23/06 10:45 AM