Course Title: Discovering Science

Part A: Course Overview

Course Title: Discovering Science

Credit Points: 12


Terms

Course Code

Campus

Career

School

Learning Mode

Teaching Period(s)

TCHE2446

Bundoora Campus

Undergraduate

360H Education

Face-to-Face

Sem 2 2015,
Sem 2 2016,
Sem 2 2017

TCHE2503

Brunswick Campus

Undergraduate

360H Education

Face-to-Face

Sem 2 2015,
Sem 2 2016,
Sem 2 2017

Course Coordinator: Grant Cooper

Course Coordinator Phone: +61 3 9925 7851

Course Coordinator Email: grant.cooper@rmit.edu.au

Course Coordinator Location: 220.04.08


Pre-requisite Courses and Assumed Knowledge and Capabilities

None


Course Description

In this course you will be introduced to key science concepts in the primary curriculum and will develop an appreciation of how science can be taught in ways that engage and motivate children. The course structure is designed around a collaborative, participatory learning environment that reinforces the inquiry-based, learner-centred pedagogies it promotes. You will engage with science education at a theoretical level and will also be supported as you explore science and teaching concepts for yourselves through practical activities in ways that facilitate critical reflection on the nature of science and science learning.
 


Objectives/Learning Outcomes/Capability Development

Your learning in this course is focused on development of the following program level capabilities.

  • Develop and apply theoretical and practical knowledge and skills to your professional practice and development in curriculum, pedagogy and assessment
  • Demonstrate creativity, critical thinking and innovation when identifying and solving problems in diverse educational contexts


At the conclusion of this course you will be assessed on the following learning outcomes:

  • Explain selected science concepts, skills and processes
  • Describe theoretical rationales and pedagogical approaches that support primary science
  • Design lessons that reflect inquiry-based, learner-centred approaches to science
  • Critically evaluate how individual lessons and activities act together to support a science unit based on constructivist principles
  • Apply the skills and knowledge necessary for planning, implementing and assessing a science investigation.


Overview of Learning Activities

You will be engaged in learning activities that include but are not limited to: lectures, tutorials, workshops, on-line material,  practical science, group activities, collaborative work with peers,  investigations, reading, and web-based research.


Overview of Learning Resources

RMIT will provide you with resources and tools for learning in this course through our online systems. A list of recommended  learning resources will be provided by your lecturer, including  books, journal articles and web resources. You will also be  expected to seek further resources relevant to the focus of your  own learning.

You will be provided with resources in this course that enable  you to undertake the practical science component. Additionally  you will be provided through our online systems with readings  and other material. A list of other learning resources will be  provided by your lecturer including books, journal articles  and web resources. You will also be expected to seek further  resources independently.


Overview of Assessment

You will be assessed on how well you meet the course’s learning outcomes and on your development against the program capabilities.

Assessment will cover both theoretical and practical aspects of your learning. You will be assessed on both your science understanding and your appreciation of science pedagogical approaches. The assessment tasks will include both individual and group work. Assessment tasks are directly linked to the stated course objectives and outcomes.

Feedback will be given on all assessment tasks.

If you have a long term medical condition and/or disability it may be possible to negotiate to vary aspects of the learning or assessment methods. You can contact the program manager or the Equitable Learning Services if you would like to find out more.

The Student Charter www.rmit.edu.au/about/our-education/supporting-learning-and-teaching/student-charter/ summarises your responsibilities as an RMIT University student as well as the responsibilities of the university.

Your course assessment conforms to RMIT assessment principles, regulations, policies and procedures which can be found on the RMIT University website at: www.rmit.edu.au/browse;ID=qwxbqbg739rl1