Earth Science
Undergraduate Macon Campus Residential
The products of science permeate our world. To function now and in the 21st century, scientific literacy is a necessity for everyone. Knowledge and understanding of important issues such as science and technology, bioethics, workplace skills, and problem solving are essential for the continued participation in a global society.
The Secondary Science Teacher Certification Program works in collaboration with the science departments in the College of Liberal Arts to facilitate the goal of scientific literacy. For teachers to create the environment where scientific literacy for everyone will become a reality, they must have a strong background in science content, in the processes of scientific inquiry, in the nature and needs of adolescents, and in effective ways to engage all students in the learning process.
In a combination of science content classes, educational theory, methodology classes, and field experiences, students will develop the skills to successfully blend theory with practice.
Program Objectives
Content and Process: To Know
- To understand the nature of scientific inquiry, its central role in science, and the use of the skills and processes of scientific inquiry.
- To understand the fundamental facts and concepts in major science disciplines.
- To be able to make conceptual connections within and across disciplines, as well as to mathematics, technology, and other school subjects.
- To use scientific understanding and ability when dealing with personal and societal issues.
Application: To Do
- To select science content and adapt and design curricula to meet the interests, knowledge, understanding, abilities, and experiences of students.
- To select teaching and assessment strategies that support the development of student understanding and nurture the community of science learners.
- To orchestrate discourse among students about scientific ideas.
- To use inquiry, reflection, interpretation of research, modeling, and guided practice to build understanding and skill in science teaching.
Attitude: To Be
- To recognize and respond to student diversity and encourage all students to participate fully in science learning.
- To encourage and model the skills of scientific inquiry, as well as the curiosity, openness to new ideas and data, and skepticism that characterize science.