In this program , you'll learn how to teach science using a hands-on, experiential approach that helps students to construct their knowledge while enriching their content background. The program is offered to cohort groups who proceed through the program over a two- to three-year-period. ICN classroom sites are determined by the geographical groupings of students throughout the state. The program also requires class attendance on-campus at UNI and/or at Lakeside Laboratory on West Okoboji Lake in northwest Iowa during two summers.
Iowa Communications Network (ICN)
Courses in this program are offered primarily via the ICN. Delivery of ICN programs is limited to the state of Iowa.
WebCT
Courses in this program have an online component utilizing WebCT, a computer conferencing program requiring Internet access and a web browser — no additional software is required. Students may need access to someone who can assist with computer set-up.
UNI campus
Summer sessions in this program may involve some on-campus or central site study.
The program also requires class attendance on-campus at Iowa Lakeside Laboratory on West Okoboji Lake in northwest Iowa during two summers.
820:294 Developing Science Curriculum, 2 credit hours
Analysis and design of science curricula, with attention to articulation K-12.
820:113g Techniques for Science Teachers, 1-3 hours
Spectrum of options to help science teachers improve their teaching. Topics may include teaching strategies, laboratory techniques, or learning psychologies that apply to teaching various science disciplines and age levels.
820:290 Trends in Science Education, 2 credit hours
Compares contemporary reform movements to past trends in science education from the late 1800s to the present.
820:200 The History and Philosophy of Science, 2 credit hours
Examination of the nature of science and major philosophical developments of science throughout history, and the implications to the science classroom.
250:205 Educational Research, 3 credit hours
Evaluation of educational research concepts, including purposes, hypotheses, principles of research design, data collection and interpretation of results.
820:213 Teaching-Learning Models in Science Education, 2 credit hours
Survey of learning theories from behaviorism to constructivism and the way those theories are translated into practice through various pedagogies.
Plus 14 - 16 credit hours in elective content courses at UNI and/or at the Iowa Lakeside Laboratory**
* The number of hours from this listed program will very depending on allowable transfer credit. MA students may pursue either a thesis or non-thesis option. Research hours (6 or 3 respectively) may be taken at various times in the latter portion of the program and can be taken completely at a distance.
** The Iowa Lakeside Laboratory is a field station of restored prairie, wetland and gallery forest along the west shore of West Okoboji Lake in northwest Iowa. The laboratory is run cooperatively by the University of Northern Iowa, the university of Iowa and Iowa State University. Lakeside offers students a unique educational experience: small, full-immersion, field-oriented courses. Because courses meet all day (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.), five days per week, students take only one course at a time. Detailed information about courses, housing and registration is available on the Iowa Lakeside Laboratory web site.