Students

EDST8203 – Teaching Mathematics, Science and Technology in the Primary School 1

2023 – Session 1, In person-scheduled-infrequent, North Ryde

General Information

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Unit convenor and teaching staff Unit convenor and teaching staff Convener, Lecturer and Tutor
Dung Tran
dung.tran@mq.edu.au
Contact via Email
29 Wally's Walk Room 233
By appointment
Convener, Lecturer and Tutor
Anne Forbes
anne.forbes@mq.edu.au
Contact via Email
29 Wally's Walk Room 240
By appointment
Credit points Credit points
10
Prerequisites Prerequisites
Corequisites Corequisites
EDST8200
Co-badged status Co-badged status
Unit description Unit description

This unit develops teacher education students’ pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) and understanding of the aims, content and pedagogy of the NSW Mathematics K-6 and Science and Technology K-6 syllabi. Within the context of the Australian Curriculum in Mathematics, Science, and Digital Technologies, the unit focuses on the scope and depth of appropriate teaching and learning content and pedagogies. Using relevant contexts (including sustainability), teacher education students develop their numeracy and scientific literacy through the processes of Design and Production, Working Mathematically and Working Scientifically. A research-based approach supports teacher education students’ understanding of primary students’ conceptual and developmental stages of learning and learning progressions, and builds the ability to interpret research findings both in science and mathematics education.

Important Academic Dates

Information about important academic dates including deadlines for withdrawing from units are available at https://www.mq.edu.au/study/calendar-of-dates

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

  • ULO2: Articulate and critique pedagogical principles for developing students' mathematical, scientific and computational thinking skills with reference to educational research and practice.
  • ULO1: Critically analyse and evaluate the current research foundations of the mathematical, scientific, design and computational thinking of students.
  • ULO3: Interpret and evaluate key concepts/ principles/ approaches/ developmental progressions in NSW syllabuses for mathematics, science and technology.
  • ULO4: Critically reflect upon the efficacy of learning resources and research-informed approaches to develop mathematical, scientific and technological skills and concepts.
  • ULO5: Develop strategies to plan research-informed classroom learning experiences that respond to the diversity of student learners.
  • ULO6: Engage in reflexive practice in relation to teaching Mathematics, and Science and Technology in the Primary School.

General Assessment Information

  • Students should be aware of and apply the University policy on academic honesty (see: https://policies.mq.edu.au/document/view.php?id=3)
  • Unless a Special Consideration (see: https://students.mq.edu.au/study/assessment-exams/special-consideration) request has been submitted and approved, a 5% penalty (of the total possible mark) will be applied each day a written assessment is not submitted, up until the 7th day (including weekends). After the 7th day, a mark of‚ 0 (zero) will be awarded even if the assessment is submitted. Submission time for all written assessments is set at 11.55pm. A 1-hour grace period is provided to students who experience a technical issue.
  • This late penalty will apply to non-timed sensitive assessment (incl essays, reports, posters, portfolios, journals, recordings etc). Late submission of time sensitive tasks (such as tests/exams, performance assessments/presentations, scheduled practical assessments/labs etc) will only be addressed by the unit convenor in a Special consideration application. Special Consideration outcome may result in a new question or topic.
  • Please format assessments using 12-point font and 1.5 spacing. · All assessments are submitted electronically. Turnitin plagiarism detection software is used to check all written assessments.
  • Students can use Turnitin’s Originality Report as a learning tool to improve their academic writing if this option is made available in the unit.
  • Students should carefully check that they submit the correct file for an assessment as no re-submissions will be accepted after the due date and time, including instances where students upload an incorrect file in error.
  • Word limits are strictly applied. Work above the word limit will not be marked.
  • All assessments are marked using a rubric. · Marking of all assessments is moderated by the Unit Convenor.
  • Applications for extensions must be made via AskMQ (https://ask.mq.edu.au/).
  • It is not the responsibility of unit staff to contact students who have failed to submit assessments. If you have any missing items of assessment, it is your responsibility to make contact with the unit convenor.

University policy on grading

Criteria for awarding grades for assessment tasks

Assignments will be awarded grades ranging from HD to F according to guidelines set out in the University's Grading Policy. For Professional Experience units the PE Report is marked as satisfactory or unsatisfactory and the Teaching Performance Assessment (in final PE units) is marked as not meets, meets or exceeds. The following descriptive criteria are included for your information.

Descriptive Criteria for awarding grades in the unit 

In order to meet the unit outcomes and successfully pass this unit, students must make a genuine attempt at all assessment tasks. Where any submitted assessment task is considered to be unsatisfactory in this regard, the highest possible final grade that can be awarded for the unit will be 45.

Grade  Descriptor
HD (High Distinction) Provides consistent evidence of deep and critical understanding in relation to the learning outcomes. There is substantial originality and insight in identifying, generating and communicating competing arguments, perspectives or problem solving approaches; critical evaluation of problems, their solutions and their implications; creativity in application as appropriate to the discipline.
D (Distinction) Provides evidence of integration and evaluation of critical ideas, principles and theories, distinctive insight and ability in applying relevant skills and concepts in relation to learning outcomes. There is demonstration of frequent originality in defining and analysing issues or problems and providing solutions; and the use of means of communication appropriate to the discipline and the audience.
Cr (Credit) Provides evidence of learning that goes beyond replication of content knowledge or skills relevant to the learning outcomes. There is demonstration of substantial understanding of fundamental concepts in the field of study and the ability to apply these concepts in a variety of contexts; convincing argumentation with appropriate coherent justification; communication of ideas fluently and clearly in terms of the conventions of the discipline.
P (Pass) Provides sufficient evidence of the achievement of learning outcomes. There is demonstration of understanding and application of fundamental concepts of the field of study; routine argumentation with acceptable justification; communication of information and ideas adequately in terms of the conventions of the discipline. The learning attainment is considered satisfactory or adequate or competent or capable in relation to the specified outcomes
F (Fail) Does not provide evidence of attainment of learning outcomes. There is missing or partial or superficial or faulty understanding and application of the fundamental concepts in the field of study; missing, undeveloped, inappropriate or confusing argumentation; incomplete, confusing or lacking communication of ideas in ways that give little attention to the conventions of the discipline.

Note: If you fail a unit with a professional experience component, the fail grade will be on your transcript irrespective of the timing of the placement.

Withdrawing from this unit

If you are considering withdrawing from this unit, please seek academic advice via https://ask.mq.edu.au before doing so as this unit may be a co-requisite or prerequisite for units in the following sessions and may impact on your course progression.

Results

Results shown in iLearn, or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit ask.mq.edu.au.

Assessment Tasks

Name Weighting Hurdle Due
Portfolio for teaching mathematics 50% No 23:55 03/04/2023
Reviewing, evaluating and contextualising digital resources for learning science in the primary school. 50% No 23:55 05/06/2023

Portfolio for teaching mathematics

Assessment Type 1: Portfolio
Indicative Time on Task 2: 40 hours
Due: 23:55 03/04/2023
Weighting: 50%

 

a. Explain and justify how students effectively learn the concepts and processes in the NSW Mathematics K-6 syllabus by drawing upon mathematics education research and theory.

b. Create a multimedia presentation that evaluates the most effective ways for students from diverse contexts to learn the concepts and processes in the Mathematics K-6 syllabus.

 
On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Articulate and critique pedagogical principles for developing students' mathematical, scientific and computational thinking skills with reference to educational research and practice.
  • Critically analyse and evaluate the current research foundations of the mathematical, scientific, design and computational thinking of students.
  • Interpret and evaluate key concepts/ principles/ approaches/ developmental progressions in NSW syllabuses for mathematics, science and technology.
  • Critically reflect upon the efficacy of learning resources and research-informed approaches to develop mathematical, scientific and technological skills and concepts.
  • Develop strategies to plan research-informed classroom learning experiences that respond to the diversity of student learners.
  • Engage in reflexive practice in relation to teaching Mathematics, and Science and Technology in the Primary School.

Reviewing, evaluating and contextualising digital resources for learning science in the primary school.

Assessment Type 1: Report
Indicative Time on Task 2: 40 hours
Due: 23:55 05/06/2023
Weighting: 50%

 

a. For a chosen schooling Stage (Early Stage 1, Stage 1, Stage 2, Stage 3) and Content Strand/s (LW, MW, PW, E&S) prepare a report which evaluates and justifies the use of one educational app, website or other digital resource, that involves the learning and/or application of science knowledge and/or skills and/or values, as identified in the NSW K-6 Science and Technology syllabus.

b. Describe a science investigation suited to the selected stage where the resource could be used (e.g., to help research, understand or gather or analyse data to answer a ‘testable question’) and detail specifically how you would use the resource, and the knowledge/skills it would support.

 
On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Articulate and critique pedagogical principles for developing students' mathematical, scientific and computational thinking skills with reference to educational research and practice.
  • Critically analyse and evaluate the current research foundations of the mathematical, scientific, design and computational thinking of students.
  • Interpret and evaluate key concepts/ principles/ approaches/ developmental progressions in NSW syllabuses for mathematics, science and technology.
  • Critically reflect upon the efficacy of learning resources and research-informed approaches to develop mathematical, scientific and technological skills and concepts.

1 If you need help with your assignment, please contact:

  • the academic teaching staff in your unit for guidance in understanding or completing this type of assessment
  • the Writing Centre for academic skills support.

2 Indicative time-on-task is an estimate of the time required for completion of the assessment task and is subject to individual variation

Delivery and Resources

Required texts

Reys, R., Lindquist, M., Lambdin, D., Smith, N., Rogers, A., Cooke, A., Bennett, S., Ewing, B., & West, J. (2022). Helping Children Learn Mathematics (4rd Australian Edition). Wiley.

Skamp, K. & Preston, C. (Eds.) (2021). Teaching Primary Science Constructively (7th ed.). Cengage.

Information about the unit iLearn site

This unit has a full web presence through iLearn. Students will need regular access to a computer and the Internet to complete this unit. Weekly access to iLearn is compulsory for all students. Important assessment information will be posted here, as will other relevant unit notices and materials.

Various activities and materials for discussion and critical reflection are included and external students especially are encouraged to use this web component. Electronic links and suggested references will be included in the Resources section. Please check the iLearn unit regularly.

Weekly lectures are available on the web through the ECHO360 lecture component. You must listen to all lectures if you do not attend these ‘live’.

PowerPoint slides are available in iLearn in advance of the weekly lecture and/or are available in the Active Learning Tool.

Access and technical assistance

Information for students about access to the online component of this unit is available at https://ilearn.mq.edu.au/login/index.php. You will need to enter your student username and password.

Please do NOT contact the Unit Convenor regarding iLearn technical help.

Assistance is available from IT Helpdesk

Ph: 9850 4357 or 1800 67 4357

Email: help.mq.edu.au.

On Campus: Ground floor at 18 Wally’s Walk 

Structure

The unit structure can be found in the university timetable https://timetables.mq.edu.au/2023/ In the tutorial students will discuss issues and questions arising from the lectures and prescribed readings. They are expected to base their arguments/discussions on evidence from published research and other relevant material. There will be a supporting iLearn site for the unit providing additional readings, links and materials.

The weekly program for the course with the accompanying readings/ preparation is available on the unit iLearn site https://ilearn.mq.edu.au/course/view.php?id=68452.

Unit Schedule

Please see the iLearn site.

Policies and Procedures

Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central (https://policies.mq.edu.au). Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:

Students seeking more policy resources can visit Student Policies (https://students.mq.edu.au/support/study/policies). It is your one-stop-shop for the key policies you need to know about throughout your undergraduate student journey.

To find other policies relating to Teaching and Learning, visit Policy Central (https://policies.mq.edu.au) and use the search tool.

Student Code of Conduct

Macquarie University students have a responsibility to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct: https://students.mq.edu.au/admin/other-resources/student-conduct

Results

Results published on platform other than eStudent, (eg. iLearn, Coursera etc.) or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit ask.mq.edu.au or if you are a Global MBA student contact globalmba.support@mq.edu.au

Academic Integrity

At Macquarie, we believe academic integrity – honesty, respect, trust, responsibility, fairness and courage – is at the core of learning, teaching and research. We recognise that meeting the expectations required to complete your assessments can be challenging. So, we offer you a range of resources and services to help you reach your potential, including free online writing and maths support, academic skills development and wellbeing consultations.

School of Education Procedures

In addition, the following policies and procedures of the School of Education are applicable in this unit.

Attendance for Master of Teaching (Primary and Secondary) units

Attendance at all synchronous activities, completion of non-synchronous formative/diagnostic class tasks and involvement in professional forums is compulsory as the Master of Teaching is a professional qualification. All students must meet the 80% attendance requirement. Activities completed during tutorials or on campus days are essential for building the core knowledge and/or skills required to demonstrate the learning outcomes of this unit and to meet the AITSL Graduate Teacher Standards. Attendance at all tutorials or on campus days is expected and the roll will be taken. Students are required to attend the tutorial in which they are enrolled. Any changes to tutorial enrolments must be completed officially through e-student. Please do not contact the unit convenor requesting a change.

Electronic Communication

It is the student’s responsibility to check all electronic communication on a regular weekly basis. Communication may occur via:

● Official MQ Student Email Address

● The Dialogue function on iLearn

● Other iLearn communication functions

Infrequent Attendance Students

Information about the dates if the on-campus sessions can be found in the university timetable. https://timetables.mq.edu.au/2023/

● The on-campus sessions are essential to student engagement and learning and attendance on all days is expected. Failure to attend or to have an approved Special Consideration may result in a Fail grade for the unit. Please see attendance requirements in this unit guide.

● Prior to the on-campus sessions, you should have read the prescribed readings and listened to the lectures. Summarise the main points and make a note of the key terms and definitions. Prepare any discussion questions of your own that you wish to share.

● Please make effective use of the online component of the unit and access iLearn regularly. Keep up to date with listening to the lectures on a weekly basis.

● Further specific details and any updates about times and locations will be posted on iLearn as an Announcement during first half of the semester.

Student Support

Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students. For details, visit http://students.mq.edu.au/support/

The Writing Centre

The Writing Centre provides resources to develop your English language proficiency, academic writing, and communication skills.

The Library provides online and face to face support to help you find and use relevant information resources. 

Student Services and Support

Macquarie University offers a range of Student Support Services including:

Student Enquiries

Got a question? Ask us via AskMQ, or contact Service Connect.

IT Help

For help with University computer systems and technology, visit http://www.mq.edu.au/about_us/offices_and_units/information_technology/help/. 

When using the University's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use of IT Resources Policy. The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students.

5Rs Framework

The 5Rs Framework, developed by the School of Education at Macquarie University, is embedded throughout your teacher education course. Your use of the 5Rs Framework will help you develop the capabilities that will make your teaching career sustainable and fulfilling. In this unit, you will learn using the 5Rs framework in the following important ways:

  • Doing research to build up your professional knowledge
  • Reflecting on the research to make informed decisions about student learning.

 

Changes since First Published

Date Description
08/02/2023 None
03/02/2023 Another text change for Science and Technology ... Now using: Forbes, A. (2023). Primary Science Education: A Teacher’s Toolkit. Melbourne: Cambridge University Press. ISBN 978-1-009-26105-0

Unit information based on version 2023.01R of the Handbook