Courses & Units
Introduction to Primary Science Education EPR150
Introduction
The unit will explore the theoretical basis considered best practice in science teaching and aims to develop pedagogical content knowledge required for planning and delivering authentic science learning experiences for early childhood and primary education students. The unit is presented in two modules. Module one allows students the opportunity to investigate the Australian Curriculum: Science and the Early Years Learning Framework as determined by specialisation requirements. In addition, module one allows students to identify and explore useful teacher and student resources as they develop pedagogical content knowledge and required curriculum content. Module two examines science specific pedagogy and the application of teaching strategies to plan for and deliver a science inquiry based lesson to an individual or small group. A focus will be on theoretical approaches to science teaching, lesson planning and the collection of evidence of student learning. Both modules offer students the opportunity to reflect on their conceptual development. The content will be studied through interactive learning processes including discussion, experimentation, skill development and collaboration both in the face-to-face and online formats. The practical and reflective nature of this unit has, based upon previous student feedback, provided students with a deeper understanding of interpreting the Australian Curriculum Science and the Early Years Learning Framework. It has allowed students to gain confidence in teaching science in the classroom both in their Professional Experience school placements and as they enter the classroom as beginning teachers.
Summary
| Unit name | Introduction to Primary Science Education |
|---|---|
| Unit code | EPR150 |
| Credit points | 12.5 |
| College/School | College of Arts, Law and Education Faculty of Education |
| Discipline | Education |
| Coordinator | Doctor Connie Cirkony |
| Available as an elective? | Yes |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
Availability
| Location | Study period | Attendance options | Available to | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Launceston | Semester 2 | On-Campus | International | Domestic | |
| Cradle Coast | Semester 2 | On-Campus | International | Domestic | |
| Online | Semester 2 | Off-Campus | International | Domestic | |
Key
- On-campus
- Off-Campus
- International students
- Domestic students
Note
Please check that your computer meets the minimum System Requirements if you are attending via Distance/Off-Campus.
Units are offered in attending mode unless otherwise indicated (that is attendance is required at the campus identified). A unit identified as offered by distance, that is there is no requirement for attendance, is identified with a nominal enrolment campus. A unit offered to both attending students and by distance from the same campus is identified as having both modes of study.
Key Dates
| Study Period | Start date | Census date | WW date | End date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semester 2 | 22/7/2024 | 16/8/2024 | 9/9/2024 | 27/10/2024 |
* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).
Unit census dates currently displaying for 2024 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2024 will be available from the 1st October 2023. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).
Learning Outcomes
- identify and utilise scientific concepts and pedagogies appropriate for primary and early childhood teaching.
- incorporate science PCK through the ability to plan, deliver and reflect on an inquiry based lesson that aligns with the Australian Curriculum and/or EYLF.
- extend and develop student thinking and conceptual understanding while recognising and addressing students alternative conceptions.
- identify ethical, safety and student management issues when selecting, demonstrating and/or conducting science based activities.
- reflect and communicate in a scholarly manner.
Fee Information
The 2024 Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) rates are still being finalised by the Government and we will update the domestic fee information as soon as we have more details.
Teaching
| Assessment | Reflection (7.5%)|Test (7.5%)|Presentation (40%)|Lesson Plan (45%) |
|---|---|
| Timetable | View the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable |
Textbooks
| Required |
Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes. |
Links | Booktopia textbook finder |
|---|
The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.