It is expected that participants in the program will include two groups, science teachers and teachers credentialed in other curriculum areas who wish to become qualified teachers of science. Emphasis will be placed on implementation of the 1990 revision of the Science Framework for California Public Schools. Satisfactory completion of the science content courses will provide the participants with the opportunity to apply directly to the state for the General Science or Life Science Supplementary Credential Authorization. This would allow K-8 teachers already credentialed in other areas to teach science in the middle school or junior high school. If participants already have a secondary credential in a field other than science, they can apply for the General Science of Life Science Supplement to teach in grades 9-10.
Goals Extend and reinforce science content in the life, physical, and earth science areas.
Develop the ability to teach science by active learning using the constructivistic approach, discovery learning, hands-on activities, manipulatives, and other appropriate strategies. Acquire knowledge of current technological trends in science education. Integrate curriculum areas as prescribed in the California Science Framework. Thirty-six units are required in the program. Participants may broaden their science content knowledge in such subjects as zoology, botany, human anatomy and physiology, ecology, chemistry, physics, or earth science.