The Essential Science for Teachers courses are designed to help k - 6 teachers gain an understanding of some of the bedrock science concepts they need to teach standards-based curricula. Earth and space science consists of eight one-hour video programs accompanied by print and Web materials that provide in-class activities and homework explorations. Real-world examples, demonstrations, animations, still graphics, and interviews with scientists compose content segments that are intertwined with in-depth interviews with children that uncover their ideas about the topic at hand. Each program also features an elementary school teacher and his or her students exploring the topic using exemplary science curricula. Use the complete course for teacher education or professional development, or individual programs for content review.
This course and accompanying material consisst of 8 sessions in the field of Earth and Space Science. Each session contains an overview, video, activities, investigations, and homework. Those who wish to participate in a workshop around the site/materials can do so for college graduate credit purchased through Colorado State University. The site and materials were developed by experts in the fields of education and science; information about the developers can be accessed on the site.
Type of Material:
Animation
Course
Recommended Uses:
Teacher Development in the field of Earth and Space Science
Graduate credit in teacher education
Home-school parents looking to improve and expand upon their knowledge in the field
Use materials in class to supplement instruction
Use as an example for graduate students to develop their own course sites
Technical Requirements:
Internet access, PDF reader for course material download and access.
Identify Major Learning Goals:
Enhance understanding of scientific knowledge in the sub field of earth and space science
Identify possible questions or misunderstandings students might have in the classroom and how to address these
Apply ideas and course materials appropriately in the K-6 classroom
Identify activities that can be used with K-6 students in the topic areas addressed in the course
Target Student Population:
Middle School, High School, College General Ed, College Lower Division, College Upper Division, Graduate School, Professional, Grade School; K-6 parents, teachers, professionals who work with children, tutors, graduate students in education.
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:
Basic computer skills, including ability to download and open a PDF. Basic understanding of earth and space science and elementary and secondary education.
Content Quality
Rating:
Strengths:
Content is supported by research and contribution of experts in the fields of education and earth and space science
In-depth coverage of concepts in varying forms (text and video)
Application of concepts through activities reinforces understanding
Could be used at a variety of levels
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool
Rating:
Strengths:
Objectives are identified for the overall course and within each session
Each session can be viewed alone or in conjunction with the rest of the course, allowing students to attend to the course in chunks.
Allows for easy integration into teacher’s curriculum
Concerns:
none
Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty
Rating:
Strengths:
Course is well-organized into session and materials for quick and easy access.
Visually appealing and well-written to be approachable as well as informative
Some areas allow those taking the course to attempt responses to common student questions/misunderstandings and then “check” their work.
Concerns:
none
Creative Commons:
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