Science Education
Science Education
The Research in Science Teaching and Learning Program Area is a master's and doctoral program designed for individuals desiring to pursue advanced degrees with an emphasis in science education. Four strands of inquiry are woven into each graduate course. These strands emphasize faculty members' expertise and interests while reflecting the current research agenda of the program area. Strands include models of science teaching and learning, models of science learning environment design, models of teacher preparation and renewal, and models of engagement with scientists. Many of the science education courses use innovative technologies in their design, including web-based community portals, distance technologies, and hand-held data-collection devices. The program offers MS and MED degrees. PhD degrees are available for students seeking degrees with a research emphasis, and Ed.D degree are available for students at a distance who seek advanced degrees emphasizing exemplary practice. Students work closely with their advisors to develop an individualized program of courses that best suits the graduate student's career goals while satisfying the core requirements of the Department. Funding opportunities exist to teach undergraduate teacher preparation courses, to do research with individual professors in shared areas of interest, and to work on sponsored projects offering professional development experiences to in-service teachers.
Courses in Science Education
EDCI 663. Advanced Methods of Secondary Science Education.
Strategies for teaching elementary school science; design and evaluation of elementary school science instruction; recent developments in elementary school science teaching.
EDCI 664. Advanced Methods of Secondary Science Education.
Strategies for teaching secondary school science; design and evaluation of secondary school science instruction; recent developments in secondary school science teaching.
EDCI 665. Science Curriculum.
Critical exploration of the trends and issues in school science programs; consideration of the foundations and strategies for the design, selection and evaluation of science curriculum.
EDCI 666. Laboratory Methods and Management in Science Teaching.
Foundations, procedures and techniques associates with effective laboratory science teaching; planning, conducting and evaluating laboratory activities, facilities management and safety.
EDCI 667. Research and Foundations of Science Education.
Analysis of research in science education which relates the historical and philosophical basis of science and science teaching; emphasis on implications for improved instruction, especially on the nature of science, its relation to other disciplines, and student understanding of the scientific way of knowing.
Science Education Faculty Members
