EDUC4724 Science and Design Technology in the Early Years

2016

4.5

1 x 1-hour lecture weekly
2 x 2-hour workshops weekly

1 Admission into BEDECBA-Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood), Bachelor of Arts
1a Admission into MTEC-Master of Teaching (Early Childhood)
1b Admission into BEDECSEBDS-B Education (Early Childhood & Special Ed), B Disability Studies
Must Satisfy: ((1 or 1a or 1b))

EDUC3607 has been successfully completed

This topic provides opportunities for students to examine the place of science and technology in the daily lives of children 0-8 years. Using inquiry processes, students are supported to identify the early signs of children developing concepts, skills and positive attitudes towards science and technology.

The topic is designed to engage students with the processes involved in planning, implementing and evaluating programs of science and technology for children birth-8 years. The topic emphasises the pre-service teachers' acquisition of scientific literacy and knowledge through experience based science in the areas of Earth and Space, Energy and Force, Life Systems and Matter. The topic introduces students to the design, making and critiquing processes involved in Design Technology. Strong inter-curricular links with other learning areas are made through examining science and technology in the media and the history of science.

This topic is designed to:

• enhance student confidence, knowledge and skills in science and design technology learning and teaching
• enable students to develop an appropriate program in science and technology for children aged birth-8 years
• enhance students' personal approach to science and design technology teaching based on their critical analysis of practical experiences in light of theoretical perspectives

Upon completion of this topic pre-service teachers will:

• plan, provide and assess a balanced, sequential program in science and design technology for children aged birth-8.
• demonstrate scientific process skills, literacy and knowledge
• integrate science and technology across the curriculum in ways that encourage children's curiosity and play as they investigate their natural and built environments
• describe and develop children's awareness of specific safety procedures related to science investigatory play
• recognise and value the role of families and culture in developing attitudes and knowledge regarding the use of technology and science in everyday life