Science iSTEM

How science powers STEM learning and future innovation

Science is central to innovation and national prosperity and plays a key role in STEM education. The study of science strengthens critical thinking and problem-solving capability and knowledge of science is also essential for informed and critical citizenship. Education in science is, for example, vital in responding to disruptive phenomena such as COVID-19 and climate change. Research-informed approaches to science education are important for effective instruction in STEM. Science and STEM education have a pivotal role in preparing young learners for tomorrow’s workforce, nationally and globally.

What will you achieve?

By the end of the course, you'll be able to:

• Demonstrate discipline knowledge and capabilities for science in STEM.
• Understand the interconnectedness of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in contributing to a holistic approach to solving complex real-world problems.
• Apply creative and innovative STEM solutions in response to socio-scientific issues.
• Communicate research-informed approaches to teaching science within STEM contexts.
• Demonstrate an understanding of evidence-based teaching, and learning practices that promote science discipline knowledge within the context of STEM education.
• Evaluate science teaching and learning practices that are appropriate for specific school or classroom STEM contexts.
• Identify the capabilities required for effective leadership of science teaching and learning within STEM contexts, including how to support the professional learning needs of the school community.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of school science active STEM initiatives in schools.

What topics will you cover?

• Science in STEM
• Science in STEM and responses to global issues
• Innovation with Science in STEM
• Planning, teaching and learning for Science in STEM contexts
• Building leadership in STEM education
• Essential capabilities for science leadership within the context of STEM education
• Developing a shared understanding of the S in STEM
• Leading planning and teaching the S in STEM

Assessment

• Assessment Task 1: Quiz (25%)
• Assessment Task 2: STEM Solution (25%)
• Assessment Task 3: Short answers (25%)
• Assessment Task 4: Professional Learning Plan (25%)

Students undertake short answers that show knowledge and understanding of content and practice from Part A, Modules 1 to 2.

University level expertise

Dr Tania Leach is an expert in educational leadership at the University of Southern Queensland. Her research focuses on the contemporary challenges of system leaders, and what that this means for how we can better support schools and their leaders to achieve whole of system growth. She has a particular interest in the interconnection between system and school leadership and the skills and knowledges that are needed to successfully lead systems and schools. Tania has 18 years of leadership experience across the schooling and university sector, including Associate Dean - LTSS, Principal Education Advisor and Head of School. Her expertise as a system leader was formally acknowledged in 2017 through the Australian Council of Educational Leadership’s Queensland Excellence in Leadership Award. She now works with current leaders, policy makers, and international researchers to highlight the important and complex work of educational leadership today.

Course Credit