Course Title: Discovering Science
Part A: Course Overview
Course Title: Discovering Science
Credit Points: 12.00
Terms
Course Code |
Campus |
Career |
School |
Learning Mode |
Teaching Period(s) |
TCHE2446 |
Bundoora Campus |
Undergraduate |
360H Education |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 2 2017, Sem 2 2018, Sem 2 2019, Sem 2 2021 |
TCHE2503 |
Brunswick Campus |
Undergraduate |
360H Education |
Face-to-Face |
Sem 2 2017, Sem 2 2018, Sem 2 2019 |
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