Why Study 6-12 Earth Science
Students who wish to combine their CoSTEM earth science knowledge and skills with the COE pedagogy in education courses can learn best science practices that engage 6-12 students to conduct more of an inquiry-based approach in the classroom. Earth science education major needs to know how to engage 6-12 students to take a more active role in learning about natural events that affect them and their community.
A student’s academic interests include a serious and sincere commitment to wanting to teach relevant everyday events as a basis of science instruction that will foster interest and curiosity. Academic interests include understanding the process of conducting hands-on science experiments in a 6-12 classroom. As a result, 6-12 students are encouraged to develop exploratory questions and hypotheses to explain events or science phenomena. Possible hobbies as a science teacher might include enjoying nature and the outdoors.
The earth science education program concentrates on investigating how the planet works and why. It is highly relevant to the welfare of humanity, as it allows people to predict and prepare for natural disasters such as tornadoes and flash flooding. Agriculture relies on understanding locations and soil types to grow crops. We need to train more science teachers to help 6-12 students explore the world of science in everyday lives.
Today in Tennessee, over 7,000 teachers are already eligible to retire and by 2024. A teacher shortage in math and science is a continued issue in the state and nation. The new streamlined program allows the College of STEM students to complete the College of Education pedagogy courses in a four-year period with a bachelor’s of science degree.
Students will benefit from both the College of STEM sciences and the College of Education pedagogy courses in earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. The collaboration between both colleges provides unique expertise and practical insight for earth science students to learn how to implement strategies that can engage 6-12 students to learn Earth Science.
The Earth Science Program is an advanced degree appropriate for those seeking teaching licensure along with the required science courses in their undergraduate degree program. The program will equip teachers to become proficient leaders in science education, and align with state and Next Generation Science Standards, as well as the national frameworks for earth science education.
What will I learn
- Students will learn the 5E model of instruction-Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, & Evaluate.
- Students will learn how to write a lesson plan using the edTPA lesson plan template
- Students will learn the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
- Students will learn how to integrate core subjects such as math and reading with Earth Science.
- Students will learn the required sciences in chemistry, geology, and biology to help them have a well-rounded understanding of earth science
