EDF5124 · Science: Biology in secondary years B

Overview

This unit builds on EDF5123 Science: Biology in secondary years A by extending the opportunities for you to develop, implement and critically reflect upon your pedagogical practices in biology. In particular you will consider the importance and value of teaching Science as a Human Endeavor, which includes the nature of science, uses, benefits and limitations of science and how real-world science and science education compare. You will consider the types and ranges of assessment in biology and the ways in which these should inform student learning. An important component of this unit is an increased focus on the need for you as a biology teacher to think critically about your own practice and the degree to which it enhances the learning opportunities for all students. Throughout the unit, you will work collaboratively to develop team-planning skills while being expected to demonstrate an ability to operate independently in order to plan and implement curriculum and assessment strategies using appropriate pedagogies for teaching biology.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. demonstrate confidence and skill in generating solutions to complex problems in relation to teaching and learning
2. devise and implement a variety of assessment procedures to promote student learning in biology
3. plan for teaching and learning that fosters Science as a Human Endeavour
4. link the everyday world of learners in your classroom with biology in ways that are meaningful and relevant
5. engage in critical reflection as a professional teacher and understand contemporary trends in practice and research at the national and international level
6. demonstrate capacity to work collaboratively and autonomously as an adaptable and responsible professional practitioner.

Workload

The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per teaching period comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Usually, you can expect to engage with: • 24 hours* of scheduled learning delivered on campus via weekly/regular directed learning activities; and • the remaining hours to be allocated towards self-directed/independent study Scheduled learning activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement. *Subject to variation due to professional experience requirements.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.