This course is offered only through a two-week intensive course conducted in Singapore in June (jointly with the National University of Singapore).

This course will deal with issues relating to the communication of science to various audiences including the general public and students. It will explore cultural issues in science and implications relating to the dynamic and uncertain nature of science and scientific methods. The current international focus on public awareness and science literacy will be explored and critiqued.  This course will include aspects of modern classroom practice, including recent research into communication of science and methods for effective, creative teaching. In particular, strategies for translating research-based science into effective curriculum materials will be addressed. There will be a strong emphasis on practices, hands-on classroom experiments and demonstrations. The intensive course will be run as a workshop, with candidates being required to participate actively in discussions and activities designed to promote creative and confident science teaching and learning.

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Understand and describe the public awareness movement, its problems and current directions
2. Describe and address specific problems attached to teaching science
3. Develop and evaluate creative activities to enhance classroom teaching
4. Translate current research into relevant curriculum materials

Assessment will be based on:

• Evidence of learning portfolio - 5 iterations, plus goals and summary (30%; LO 1, 2)
• Two written assignments (2x 15% each; LO 1, 4)
• Activities during workshop (10%; LO 3)
• Group project during workshop (30%, LO 2, 3)

Bachelor degree in science or Bachelor of Education with science teaching experience.

Student admission is through NUS and ANU.