Are you curious about teaching science but do not know if it is right for you?
This course is a highly rewarding way to test the waters without having to leave campus or declare the BSNS major. NSCI 200 meets on Friday mornings to help facilitate the STEM Friday program where a different class comes to campus each week to do a hands-on STEM lab. You will also gain experience teaching science in the field at our GetWET site, networking at the Colorado Science Conference (Fall only), or comparing STEM research projects at the Colorado Science and Engineering fair (Spring only)! The course is taught by the staff of the Natural Sciences Education and Outreach Center and a group of master Teachers-in-Residence.
Course Description
Practical and logistical strategies for teaching scientific inquiry through hands-on student-centered discovery. Includes: facilitating the CSU STEM Friday program with middle and high school students and networking with Colorado teachers.
Instructors: Dr. Andrew Warnock and Ms. Courtney Gooding Butler
Guest Instructors: NSEOC master Teachers-in-Residence: Mike Viney, Vicky Jordan, Mary Richmond, and Dave Swartz
Semester: Fall & Spring, in person only
Grade Mode: S/U only
Prerequisites: None
Enrollment Cap: 6
Credits: 1
Day and Time: Fridays, 9 am – 12 pm
Location: The Natural Sciences Education and Outreach Center, B302 Natural and Environmental Sciences Building
Course Learning Objectives (CLO)
After successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Identify inquiry components within lessons and use guided discovery-based teaching with secondary science students in either formal or informal educational settings.
- Recognize and address student misconceptions using experiential learning techniques.
- Apply questioning techniques that facilitate inquiry learning and higher levels of thinking.
- Guide students in the use of science notebooks as a tool to help construct deeper learning and reflection.
- Confidently perform the necessary classroom management aspects of hands-on, guided discovery-based learning, including: planning, preparation of materials, lab safety, awareness of available mini-grants, procurement of materials, and time management.
Assessment Components
- STEM Notebook- Lesson planning and preparation, pedagogical analysis, and reflections on facilitating the lesson will be required for STEM Friday lessons. Most of the work will be done in class. (75% of grade)
- Class participation. (25% of grade)
Course Expectations
- If possible, give us reasonable notice of expected absences so that we can adjust classroom management plans accordingly. Make-up work may include general help around the center with kit development and maintenance.
- Wear professional attire when leading and assisting STEM Fridays.
- Follow university COVID-19 guidelines.
- Read the CSU Protection of Minors Policy
