Bachelor of Education Honours in Science Education

Purpose

The Bachelor of Education Honours in Science Education has the aim of using classroom- based research to address contemporary issues in teaching and learning. The primary purpose of this qualification is to consolidate and deepen the teachers' expertise in Science Education, and to develop their research capacity in the methodology and techniques of Science, so as to produce quality Science teachers, who will be competent in Science Education and Classroom Research.

Rationale

The World Economic Forum reported that the current status of Science and Mathematics education in South Africa requires urgent attention. To improve the performance of learners in Science and Mathematics there is a need for quality teacher education qualifications in the fields of Science, Mathematics and Technology education. The qualification therefore provides an opportunity to improve the quality of Science and Mathematics education in South Africa.

The qualification will contribute to the scientific knowledge on the 'what' and 'how' of Science knowledge for teaching by ensuring teachers are engaged in substantive, on-going research about Science education. This will also deepen the knowledge base of research, policy and practice in the area of science education and teaching and develop appropriate/relevant pedagogies for teaching and learning of science in multilingual contexts. The aim of the qualification are to develop teachers to use learning opportunities outside the classroom as effectively as possible.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

This qualification may be achieved in part through the recognition of relevant prior learning and experience as per the University RPL policy. Appropriate assessment tasks and tools are designed to assess individual candidates against the module/course outcomes on a case by case basis, with detailed records maintained.

RPL may be used to grant

• Access to the qualification to learners who do not meet the minimum entry requirements.

Or

• Exemption from modules.

Entry Requirements

The minimum admission requirements for the Bachelor of Education Honours (Science Education) Degree, is

• A Bachelor of education, Level 7(in Senior phase and/or Further Education Training phase teaching).

Or

• A general Bachelor's Degree, Level 7 and a recognised professional teaching qualification (in Senior phase and/or FET phase teaching) in Physical or Life Science education.

The qualification comprises compulsory modules at NQF Level 8 totalling 180 Credits.

• Philosophy and Nature of Science Education.
• Research Approaches in Mathematics Science Technology Education (MST).
• Teaching, Learning and Assessment in Science Education.
• Contemporary Issues in Science Education.
• Research Project in Science Education.

1. A research inquiry is planned and conducted by choosing an appropriate research design, methods, techniques and technologies for the specific research problem.
2. Analyse and evaluate scientific investigation processes that contribute meaningfully to the classroom practice.
3. Demonstrate a critical understanding of concepts and approaches in Science Education to deepen knowledge in the discipline.
4. Review historical developments in Science Education.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Plan, conduct and reflect on Science Education Research.
• Exhibit understanding of different research methodologies.
• Critically analyse and evaluate relevant and current literature on a selected topic.
• Communicate findings through a presentation (visual) and in a written report.
• Write a research report on Science Education.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Provide sound arguments science teaching processes.
• Provide rigorous interpretation of theories, principles and phenomena in their appropriate context.
• Interpret and link theory to classroom practice.
• Identify issues that can be scientifically investigated.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Synthesise written scientific material succinctly and accurately.
• Provide well-founded interpretations based on a deep conceptual understanding and different approaches in Science Education.
• Construct mind and concept maps to link scientific concepts together.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Critically reflect on historical developments in the field of Science.
• Analyse philosophical bases on which scientific achievements were made.
• Analyse and evaluate the implications of scientific developments in the fields of Physics, Chemistry and Life Science.

Integrated Assessment

Learning and assessment will be integrated across Exit Level Outcomes within the qualification to ensure a well-structured cohesive qualification. Assessments will be based on formative assessments, which are in place to ensure continuous learning and feedback to candidates. Summative assessments will be used for assessing of the attainment of the Exit Level Outcomes.

Assessments should assess the candidate's ability to integrate the larger body of knowledge, competencies and attitudes that are represented by the Exit-Level Outcomes, either as a whole or as components of the qualification.