Course content

Inquiry-based approaches to teaching and learning is an important goal for science in school, in order to give pupils a deeper understanding of science concepts, increased interest in science, and better insight and experience with using the methods of science. This course gives students advanced theoretical and practical knowledge on working inquiry-abased in science. The training of skills is central. Students will be trained in planning for and creating inquiry-based approaches to teaching and learning.

Learning outcome

KNOWLEDGE

The student

• has advanced knowledge on what characterises inquiry-based approaches to learning and teaching
• has advanced knowledge on how to plan and execute inquiry-based learning and teaching
• has deep knowledge on practical work and inquiry-based approaches in a historical and international perspective has in-depth knowledge on argumentation in science contexts

SKILLS

The student

• can plan and execute inquiry-based teaching and learning
• can assess pupils’ learning in inquiry-based processes
• can analyse and reformulate tasks for inquiry-based approach in school
• can promote pupils’ critical thinking through deliberate questioning
• can promote inquiry-based conversation
• can discuss which barriers and dilemmas exist in connection to the implementation of inquiry-based approaches in school

GENERAL COMPETENCE

The student

• can discuss the importance of inquiry-based approaches in science teaching and learning
• can use knowledge on and skills in the use of inquiry-based approaches for continuous improvement in teaching and learning science

Learning methods and activities

• Lectures
• Practical work
• Work on assignments, individually and/or in groups
• Student seminars with presentation of literature

Compulsory assignments

• Practical exercises with pupils and/or fellow students
• Presentation

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

Minimum 60 credits science and/or science education.

Required previous knowledge

Candidate must have successfully passed Natural Science 1 and completed Natural Science 2 to begin Cycle 2 courses. Passing is understood as the student completing the course and passing the examination. Completed is understood as having all obligatory coursework approved and qualifying the student for the course examination.

Course materials

The final reading list is posted on Blackboard before the course starts.

Credit reductions