Science: A Work in Progress

Course Description

Embark on an enlightening journey through the world of science education with "Science: A Work in Progress," an innovative online workshop developed by the Smithsonian Science Education Center (SSEC) and FableVision Studios. This course, part of the "Science of Teaching Science" series, is designed to revolutionize how K-12 science educators approach the teaching of scientific methods and practices.

What students will learn

  • A modern understanding of scientific investigation beyond the traditional step-by-step method
  • Strategies to incorporate scientific practices into classroom science
  • Techniques for sharing the Nature of Science (NOS) with students
  • Innovative instructional strategies for science education
  • Application of new concepts to instructional planning

Pre-requisites

No prior knowledge or skills are required. This workshop is the third in a series of four, but each can be taken independently and in any order. It's suitable for all K-12 science educators, regardless of their experience level.

Course Content

  • The evolving concept of scientific methods in education
  • The role of Nature of Science (NOS) in classroom teaching
  • Integration of Science and Engineering Practices (SEP) into lessons
  • Flexible application of science practices in investigations
  • New references and concepts describing the process of scientific discovery
  • Instructional strategies for effective science teaching
  • Practical tips for sharing NOS with student groups
  • Application of learned strategies to lesson planning

Who this course is for

This course is ideal for K-12 science educators, curriculum developers, educational administrators, and anyone interested in improving science education. It's particularly beneficial for teachers looking to update their understanding of scientific methods and practices in line with current standards like the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).

Real-world application of skills

The skills and knowledge gained from this course will enable educators to:

  1. Design more engaging and authentic science lessons
  2. Foster critical thinking and scientific inquiry in students
  3. Prepare students for real-world scientific challenges and careers
  4. Align their teaching methods with current science education standards
  5. Improve students' understanding of how science works in practice
  6. Create a more dynamic and interactive classroom environment

Syllabus

While a detailed syllabus is not provided, the course structure includes:

  1. Introduction to the concept of science as a work in progress
  2. Observing Ms. Reyes's classroom and her teaching methods
  3. Exploration of flexible science practices vs. the traditional scientific method
  4. Discussion of the Nature of Science (NOS) and its importance
  5. Strategies for incorporating scientific practices into lessons
  6. Practical applications and lesson planning
  7. Reflection and assessment of learning

This online workshop offers a unique blend of animated content, practical examples, and self-paced learning, making it an invaluable resource for science educators seeking to enhance their teaching methods and stay current with best practices in science education.