MAT in Science Education Curriculum

An overview of current theories concerning the brain, development, and learning. Analysis of developmental concepts from birth through adolescence and adulthood. Discussion of language acquisition, thinking and learning styles, multiple intelligence, and creativity. Topics include teaching, learning, and assessment issues related to cultural diversity, technology, and learning differences.

This course is one of the core offerings in the MAT in Science Education degree program. It is a supervised placement with a science or environmental agency that offers educational programming with student groups of various ages. Students will be required to assist in the development of programs, and teach and assess participant learning in these settings. Examples of such organizations include the Squam Lakes Natural Science center, N.H. Fish and Game Department, Squam Lakes Association, N.H. Audubon Society, PSU Mindflight Summer Program, N.H. Department of Environmental Services and the PSU Planetarium Program to name several.

This course is designed to be a core course offering in both the MS in Science Education and the MAT in Science programs. Several major themes such as learning theory, structure of the discipline (curriculum), teaching strategies, and nature of science and technology applications will be presented throughout the course. The course is structured to help students develop the proficiencies needed to become a successful science teacher. As an advanced learner, you will be given a great deal of independence in your learning about secondary school science teaching.

Current Issues, a core course in both the MS in Science Education program and the MAT in Science Education program, will provide the opportunity for classroom science teachers to identify and discuss practical issues that apply to their classroom as well as address state, national, and international issues. Current research findings will be used as the focus for seminar discussions, papers, and projects.

Analysis of models and dynamics involved in planning, teaching, and evaluating environments for special needs students. An overview of special education, characteristics of individuals with disabilities, individualized educational plans, functional behavior assessment, practical teaching strategies, and the New Hampshire Special Education Process and Policies. An observation component of 15 hours will be required of all students not presently in a school or teaching situation.

A supervised practicum experience in one of several cooperating institutions or agencies in New Hampshire. The purpose is to gain meaningful work experience through applying knowledge learned in previous course work to the on-the-job situation. Commitment includes a negotiated number of hours per week and participation in seminars. Supervision is by the institution or agency concerned, and by Plymouth faculty. Students anticipating more than three hours of credit should confer early in their program with the department chair to free up sufficient blocks of time. Permission of advisor, department chair and Associate Vice President is required.

Student teaching for students in the Master of Education Elementary or Secondary Education programs. Students must have all course work for the degree, including any required undergraduate prerequisites, completed before taking this course.