Graduate Course Description

Overview

Examines the methods, strategies, and curriculum of of a successful middle school science education. Participants will investigate the unique characteristics of middle school learners and become familiar with a variety of techniques to involve those students in a meaningful educational experience in science. Topics will include effective planning, integrating technology in science, managing and organizing the classroom, utilizing appropriate assessments, questioning and communication strategies, meeting the needs of diverse learners, and connecting the science classroom to the real world.

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Target Audience: All Middle School educators; Prerequisite: entry-level technology skills.

Time Requirement: 6-8 hours per week

Course Format: Eight-week, facilitator-led with weekly assignments, and 24/7 online access

Graduate Credit: 3 semester hours or 4.5 quarter hours

Technology Requirements
In addition to a computer, Internet connection (high-speed preferable), and a working email account, PLS courses have the following technical requirements:

• Preferred Operating Systems: Windows XP, Windows Vista, or Mac OS X
• Required Software: Microsoft Excel or OpenOffice Calc AND Microsoft Powerpoint. OpenOffice Calc can be downloaded for free from the OpenOffice site: http://www.openoffice.org/.
• Preferred Browsers:For an optimal experience use Internet Explorer 7 (PC), or Mozilla Firefox (PC or Mac).
  Updated versions of Web browsers are free from the following links:
  Internet Explorer , Firefox
• Required Web Browser Plug-In: Adobe® Acrobat® or Adobe® Reader™ This plug-in is required to view any of the PDFs within a course. Adobe® Reader™ may be downloaded for free using the following link: Adobe

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