Spring semester, 2017. Meets Mondays 2:15 – 3:50, with additional observation hours in local schools for 1.5 – 3 hours/week. Meets the Civic Engagement core requirement. 2 credits.

Course description

Many schools have established school gardens that they use both for both academic and co-curricular activities. Although school gardens provide an amazing opportunity for students to learn about the process of science, there are few published materials available that focus on this use. In this course, we will develop one or more publishable inquiry science modules for elementary schools that use school gardens as laboratories. To frame our modules, we will review science standards for elementary students, existing garden curricula, and best practices in engaging students in learning the process of science. To understand how such modules would fit into existing classrooms, students will partner with local schools and teachers, observing and collaborating in activities related to school gardens and science education. Students must pass a background check to work in local schools. Students must register as volunteers with schools to complete the practicum.