EDUC 230 - Science and Engineering Practices and Pedagogy for the Elementary Teacher

Science and Engineering Practices and Pedagogy for the Elementary Teacher is a half-semester course designed for those seeking Pre-K through 3rd grade and/or 3rd through 6th grade elementary certification bands. During the course, teacher candidates will gain understanding of relevant professional standards set forth by the Michigan Department of Education Standards for the Preparation of Teachers that focus on learner-centered supports, scientific sense-making, and pedagogical strategies used in the science classroom, inquiry-based learning. Candidates will also understand how to interpret and use the Michigan K-12 Science Standards and Next Generation Science Standards to engage learners using three-dimensional instruction. Specifically, teacher candidates will gain experience choosing rich scientific phenomena for instructional units as they develop understanding of the science and engineering practices and recognize cross-cutting concepts and how they apply to quality science teaching and learning. Moreover, candidates will gain experiences with MDE Core Teaching Practices including leading group discussions, explaining and modeling, and eliciting and interpreting student thinking. Finally, candidates will learn about research-based strategies involving culturally-relevant pedagogy and promoting equity in the science classroom.

Credits: 2
Terms Offered: Fall, Spring
Prerequisites: Declared education major