EMS450 Science and Technology (8)

CSU Discipline Area: Curriculum Studies (CURIC)

Duration: One session

Abstract:

This subject is designed to give students a detailed understanding of what is involved in the teaching of science and technology in Ontario. An emphasis on developing notions of authentic technology education will be a strong part of this understanding. Practical models of pedagogy and assessment will be explicated throughout this subject. Students will experience and observe exemplars of good Science and Technology. The students will then be guided in the construction of their own practice and planning so that they will become confident and independent practitioners in elementary Science and Technology. Clear links to other curriculum areas will be made with particular emphasis on language and mathematics.

+ Subject Availability Modes and Locations

Term 1
Internal	Canada

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: EMS450

Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Enrolment restrictions:

Students enrolled in stream 3 of the Bachelor of Primary Education Studies for Ontario.

Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

* be familiar with the content and process knowledge required for the range of topics in the Ontario Science and Technology grades 1-6 Curriculum and relevant expectations in the Ontario Kindergarten Program;
* be able to understand the relationship between content knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge in science teaching;
* be able to understand and apply the 'Design, make and test' approach to technology teaching in the Science and Technology curriculum grades 1-6;
* be able to link the concepts of Science and Technology in the curriculum to authentic situations and the world outside the classroom;
* be able to design and evaluate practical Science and Technology activities suitable for use in elementary classrooms;
* be able to use relevant assessment and evaluation procedures in science and technology;
* be able to appreciate the role and nature of Science and Technology in the elementary curriculum and its links with other curriculum areas (especially Language and Maths);
* be able to create learning environments that are relevant, realistic, richly situated and authentic;
* be able to appreciate the relevance of a range of information and communications technologies in relation to Science and Technology.

Syllabus:

The subject will cover the following topics:

1 The Curriculum a. The Ontario expectations for Science and Technology in the primary/junior division as articulated in The Kindergarten Program and The Ontario Science and Technology Curriculum, Gr. 1-8. 2 How do children develop scientific and technological knowledge? a. Understandings of the way in which children acquire Science and Technology concepts, particularly the way in which children construct their own scientific knowledge. b. Appropriate learning processess through which children develop Science and Technology concepts. 3 A theoretical model of science education and working scientifically. a. Constructivism. b. Inquiry as experimentation, research, and technological problem-solving. 4 Teaching and learning Science and Technology. a. Creating learning environments that are inclusive, relevant, realistic, and authentically situated. b. The teaching and learning cycle. c. Planning Science and Technology lessons d. Instructional strategies appropriate to the teaching of Science and Technology content areas. e. Assessment strategies which meet the needs of all learners. f. Special needs in Science and Technology and how to create an inclusive environment. 5 Science and Technology content strands a. Understanding Life Systems b. Understanding Structures and Mechanisms c. Understanding Matter and Energy d. Understanding Earth and Space Systems. 6 The relevance of a range of information and communications technologies in relation to Science and Technology education.

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