EDN 548
Inquiry - The Method of Science
King Hall, Room 212 Dr. Richard A. Huber
M-TH 8:00 - 9:55 King Hall, Room 106-c
395-3561
I. This course will focus on the conceptualization and rationale for using the inquiry method of teaching science.
II. The purpose of this course is to provide you with:
1. A conceptual framework that
- addresses the current goals of science education
- identifies characteristics of exemplary inquiry programs, and
- examines various inquiry teaching alternatives
2. Ideas for teaching science through inquiry and to enhance your expertise in the following
- the selection, development and/or implementation of materials and resources for inquiry teaching
- the development and selection of strategies for inquiry teaching
- the evaluation and assessment of students and teachers using inquiry teaching
III. After completing this course, you should be able to:
1. Present and defend a philosophy for teaching science using the inquiry method.
2. Use instructional strategies that focus upon the acquisition of process skills and conceptual change/development.
3. Compare and evaluate the major curricular alternatives for teaching inquiry science.
4. Apply your knowledge of instructional strategies to your teaching of inquiry science.
5. Assess your effectiveness as an inquiry science teacher.
IV. Course Readings: Selected journal articles, laboratory guides, and curriculum/reference materials.
V. Professional Development (beyond the scope of EDN 548)
1. It is recommended that you join the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) at the special student membership rate ($16/yr.). I will provide you with a membership form.
2. You may also wish to purchase selected special publications available through NSTA, such as
- Safety in the Science Classroom
- Focus on Excellence
- What Research Says to the Science Teacher
Write to: NSTA Publications, 1742 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20009-1171.
3. An outstanding resource for teacher demonstrations is:
Liem, T.L. (1987). Invitations to Science Inquiry (2nd Ed.). ($40.00) See me for order forms.
VI. Attendance: Your promptness and active participation is expected at every class. Each anticipated absence must be discussed with the instructor in advance. Each unanticipated absence must be discussed with the instructor immediately upon return to class.
VII. Exams: A midterm and final exam will be administered to assess the extent to which you have mastered the concepts and principles outlined in the lab and lecture/discussion sessions.
Midterm = 100 points
Final = 100 points
VIII. Course Assignment
You will be expected to teach (facilitate) a 45 minute inquiry lesson. After completion of the lesson, 15 minutes will be set aside for the class to discuss the merits of this inquiry lesson for various grade levels. Extensive discussion of this assignment will take place in class.
IX. Grading Procedures: During this course it will be possible to earn a total of 300 points. Your final letter grade will be determined as follows:
- H+ 285-300
- H 270-284
- P 240-269
- L 210-239
Richard Huber
Last Updated 3/30/97