Science in school

This course aims at in-depth knowledge on how school-science is situated and managed in the Norwegian school context, and an in-depth understanding of the historical and current status of school-science in the Norwegian school system, and the position of the subject in international contexts. Different perspectives on learning science, and strategies to facilitate learning and assessment in the classroom will be addressed in detail. The importance of language and communication in science will be discussed from different perspectives. The course will give in-depth understanding of socio-scientific issues and education for sustainable development.

KNOWLEDGE

The candidate

• has in-depth knowledge on the status and history of school-science in Norwegian and international school contexts
• has knowledge on and can discuss different motivations for science as school subject
• has advanced knowledge on managing documents
• has in-depth knowledge on learning resources in science
• has good knowledge on pupils attitudes towards and interests in science
• has in-depth knowledge on language and communication in science
• has in-depth knowledge on education for sustainable development

SKILLS

The candidate

• can apply knowledge about learning theories for science teaching to tailor lessons for specific purposes and to reflect on the choice of assessment forms
• can use research on the importance of language to learn in and about science
• can develop and conduct science teaching activities about socio-scientific issues

GENERAL COMPETENCE

The candidate

• can justify science as one of the broad educational aims
• can visualize the connection between learning theories, goals for teaching and choice of teaching strategies in science

Block teaching and literature studies between the intensive blocks. Lectures, seminars, student presentations. Students are expected to participate actively in discussions.

Compulsory assignments

Submission of sketch and draft for term assignment. Oral presentation.