Students learn physics and about the nature of science by participation in model inquiry-oriented lessons. Students take this course during the spring semester of the junior year. This course is designed to bridge the gap between educational theory and practice. It provides students with a chance to apply their knowledge of physics, adolescent psychology, and pedagogical theory to teaching high school physics. Students continue to learn basic physics through participation in inquiry-oriented lessons.
Students also learn about resources and special considerations relating to physics teaching.
Students take this course during the autumn of the senior year. This course provides an overview of the development of classical scientific thought relating to physical phenomena with applications to pedagogy. Intense focus is placed on historically-oriented inquiry teaching, demonstrations, laboratory activities, and discussion leadership. Students take this course prior to but during the same semester as student teaching that occurs during the spring semester of the senior year. Biweekly meetings during student teaching provide candidates with an opportunity to share experiences and reflections.