Science Math Education

SMED 5301 Science, Mathematics, and Society (3 semester credit hours) Exploration of the state of the world as informed by STEM issues in society. Students make connections to global STEM topics as they explore the importance of universal citizen involvement in the learning, teaching, and application of science and mathematics. International topics include current research into sustainability, development, climate change, security, resources, and innovation. (3-0) Y

SMED 5302 Teaching and Learning of Science and Mathematics (3 semester credit hours) Includes the history of science and mathematics education with emphasis on the continuing struggle to improve classroom practice. Learning theories are explored with a focus on cognitive studies and application in the classroom. The importance of learning environments, problem solving, and assessment strategies are also emphasized. Teaching strategies and the research behind those strategies will be evaluated. (3-0) P

SMED 5303 Introduction to Research and Evaluation in Science and Mathematics Education (3 semester credit hours) Expansion of students' knowledge and application of STEM education research including research approaches to evaluation of curricula and student achievement. Focus on designing research questions concerning current understanding in science and mathematics education and questions for future investigations. For the major project, students explore the appropriateness of action research in answering practical questions. Prerequisite: SMED 5302. (3-0) F

SMED 5304 Research Methods in Science and Mathematics (3 semester credit hours) Explore the nature of science and mathematics and implications for classroom instruction in these disciplines through projects, discussions, and investigations. Conduct open-ended, inquiry projects grounded in authentic disciplinary research related to teaching field involving critical and logical thinking, observations, investigation planning, data, analysis, generating explanations and predictions, and peer-review. Results will be conveyed through papers and presentations appropriate for a professional forum. Inquiries are developed and pursued based on original ideas, literature research, discussions with experts, and via trial and error. Through individual and group work, explore authentic engagement with science and mathematics and applicability to a classroom context. (3-0) P

SMED 6V98 (MTHE 6V98) Thesis Research (3-6 semester credit hours) Thesis development. May be repeated for credit (9 semester credit hours maximum). Only 6 semester credit hours may apply for credit toward the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT). Instructor consent required. ([3-6]-0) R

SMED 6V99 Individual Research in SMED (1-9 semester credit hours) Pass/Fail only. May be repeated for credit. Instructor consent required. ([1-9]-0) R