CREDITS: 3

Instructors: R. Lindgren & TBA
Office: 302
Phone: 804-982-2691
E-mail: ral5q@virginia.edu

DESCRIPTION:
This course is the curriculum enhancement or pedagogy and leadership component of the RECET program for high school physics and middle school physical science teachers . This course includes a series of computer-based laboratory experiments using sensing devices and a series using low-cost apparatus that you can take home. You will also construct apparatus for you to use in your class room and conduct an inservice for other teachers. Lesson plans will be developed. An assessment of local teaching needs will be performed. Course activities will continue until May 15, 2001. See below.

GOALS:
1. Improve computer and laboratory skills with sensing devices.
2. Invent and construct low-cost apparatus and develop write-ups.
3. Learn about important discoveries in physics and engineering.
4. Study student misconceptions and develop inquiring learning.

COURSE ACTIVITIES and DEADLINES:
1. Participants will construct demonstration apparatus and develop a write-up for dissemination by August 4, 2000. (5 %)
2. Participants will give a ten-minute talk on their plans to transfer the teacher-research- experience into more effective classroom instruction by August 4, 2000. (5 %)
3. Participants will complete a 10 page, double-spaced, font size 12, Instructional Unit Plan on the teacher-research experience, illustrating how you have incorporated new information into your teaching by May 15, 2001. (30 %). See guidelines.
4. Participants will conduct an in-service workshop using RECET apparatus for at least three non-participating teachers and write-up a report using the in-service to assess hands-on teaching methods in local schools by May 15, 2001. (15 %) See guidelines.
5. Participants will present their work at the Virginia Association of Science Teachers (VAST) 5%
6. Day-to-day participation in inquiry-based laboratory lab exams (40 %)

EVALUATION:
A letter grade will be given based on the meritorious completion of all the above course activities using the weights in percentage given above in parenthesis.