STEM Teacher Training and Professional Development

The course is certified by the New York Academy of Sciences. It develops core competencies required for effective teaching and implementation of STEM curricula. Among the topics covered are the following topics: Fostering Inclusivity, Assessment of Student Learning, Teamwork, Data Literacy, Fundamentals of Science, Critical Thinking Skills, and other topics covering the main competencies required for effective STEM teaching. The hands-on activities included in the course help students master useful skills based on the knowledge of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.

Course Admission Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in one of the STEM fields

Required Text:

• US ORT STEM Teacher Training and Professional Development, US ORT Operations, 2022

Suggested Readings:

• National Research Council (NRC). (2012). A Framework for K-12 Science Education: Practice, Crosscutting Concepts, and Core Ideas. Washington, DC: National Academic Press.
• Brunsell, E., Knesser, D.M., Niemi, K.J. (2014). Introducing Teachers and Administrators to the NGSS. A Professional Development Facilitator’s Guide. Arlington, VA: National Science Teachers Association.
• Bybee, R.B. (2013). Translating the NGSS for Classroom Instruction. Arlington, VA: National Science Teachers Association.
• Carnegie Corporation of New York and Institute for Advanced Study. (2009). The Opportunity Equation: Transforming Mathematics and Science Education for Citizenship and the Global Economy. New York: Carnegie Corporation of New York.
• National Science Board. (2006). Science and Engineering Indicators. Arlington, VA: National Science Foundation. www.nsf.gov/statistics/seind06
• Guide: Understanding Team Effectiveness. www.rework.withgoogle.com
• NGSS High School. (2015). Edited by Ted Willard. Arlington, VA: National Science Teachers Association

Equipment:

• Any Desktop or Laptop

Method of Instruction:

• This course utilizes a combination of lecture, demonstration methodology, and practice exercises including study questions and problem-solving cases.
• Multiple activities in science, engineering, technology and math are embedded in the learning process.  These activities will be performed in teams, or individually, based on the study topic.

Testing:

• Class Participation in Tasks and Activities
• Homework
• Final Project

Grading:

• Class Participation in Tasks and Activities – 50%
• Homework – 20%
• Final Project – 30%

Attendance Requirement:

• Students are expected to attend 85% of the course time
• No make-up option for missed class time

Student Behavior Expectations

It is expected that each student will:

• Participate actively in class discussions
• Complete assignments by the assigned date
• Keep current with assigned reading work
• Be prompt to class
• Conform to expected rules of behavior during class
• Follow the ICC’s Student Code of Conduct

Academic integrity will be expected and dishonesty (cheating of any type) is strictly prohibited.

Graduation Requirements:

• To pass the course, students are expected to obtain an average C grade (GPA of 2.0)