Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

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Unit Overview

Description

This unit is part of the science specialisation and will assist preservice primary teachers to develop an advanced understanding of research-informed advanced pedagogical practices and content knowledge so that they can become future school leaders in the curriculum area of science. Preservice primary teachers will investigate the practices of science in both formal classroom and informal settings (eg science centres, universities and industry). Using historical and contemporary examples, they will build on their prior science education learning to understand how scientific knowledge is constructed. They will consider how scientific knowledge can be used ethically and responsibly to address global issues such as climate change, and food and water security. Preservice primary teachers will deepen their understanding of scientific careers across the physical, natural and medical sciences. Finally, they will understand how to develop a whole school science plan for P-Year 6 that encompasses safety, respect for living organisms and the environment, and inclusivity.

Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationModeFirst year of offer
Not available in 2024UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 3 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) communicate an awareness of the history and nature of science as a discipline and practice; (2) demonstrate an awareness of contemporary science careers and factors that limit participation by some groups of school students; (3) analyse the implications of the way that science is represented in digital and non-digital media; (4) construct a whole school science plan taking account of inclusivity, safety and resource availability; and (5) synthesise international research evidence in science education to teach science to P-Year 6 students in a variety of educational settings.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) whole school (P-6) plan; (2) oral presentation; and (3) media analysis. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Professor Vaille Dawson
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Unit(s) EDUC1017 Teaching Early Years Science Unit(s) EDUC3012 Teaching Primary School Science
Co-requisites
Enrolment in
Unit(s) SCOM2205 Science Presentations
Contact hours
3 hours per week for 12 weeks
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.