MGUNA102 Natural Science 1, module 1 - The living nature 1

Contents and structure

Natural Science 1 consists of two modules, each worth 15 credits:

• The Living Nature
• The Non-Living Nature

Through Natural Science 1, students engage with essential scientific and science education themes relevant to teaching science in primary school and lower secondary education for grades 5-10. The focus of this module is on the living nature and key didactic perspectives related to science teaching for grades 5-10. Ecology, biodiversity, and human biology are overarching scientific themes. In science-teacher education, the central focus is on exploratory methods through practical work and dialogue.

The course plan follows the progression in practice and interdisciplinary themes as outlined in the study program plan and the practice course plan for the current year.

The course can be taught in English in the case of three or more exchange students choosing the course.

Learning Outcome

Upon completion of this module, students will have fulfilled the following learning outcomes:

Knowledge:

The student:

• Has fundamental knowledge of scientific methods and ways of thinking as a basis for critical thinking and exploratory work methods.
• Possesses basic knowledge of cell biology.
• Has knowledge of various types of nature, and about species and groups of organisms commonly found in Northern Europe.
• Understands ecology and can explain interactions between the different factors in ecosystems.
• Has knowledge of the human body's organ systems and their interconnections.
• Has knowledge of and can discuss connections between lifestyle and public health.
• Knows about how pupils learn natural science and how to facilitate conceptual development and the development of pupils' scientific language.
• Knows how to facilitate students' learning through inquiry based learning activities, including practical work and dialogue.
• Understands how work with natural science in schools can contribute to basic literacy.

Skills:

The student:

• Can facilitate and conduct varied learning activities indoors and outdoors using relevant equipment.
• Can facilitate the development of pupils' sensing, wonder, and joy of nature.
• Can facilitate the development of pupils' oral and written skills in science.

General Competence:

The student:

Understands the importance of science as a general subject and its role in interdisciplinary themes such as sustainable development, public health, and life skills.

Can conduct science teaching in accordance with the current curriculum for grades 5-10.

Entry requirements

None

Recommended previous knowledge

It is advantageous to have had science (biology and any other relevant subjects) from high school.

Teaching methods

Teaching methods will vary between lectures, discussions, demonstrations, fieldwork, excursions, problem-solving, and teaching exercises.

Fieldwork is a mandatory part of the study, and students are expected to participate. Fieldwork and excursions may involve overnight stays. Students should be prepared to pay a contribution of up to 2000 NOK, which will be specified at the beginning of the semester. This contribution will vary at different campuses. Provision for compensatory activities will be made for those unable to participate.

Parts of the curriculum need to be worked on through self-study. It is recommended that the learning material is processed through colloquia.

Compulsory learning activities

Throughout the semester, students must complete obligatory learning activities that document the development of academic and didactic competence. These activities include:

• At least 3 learning activities based on participation in fieldwork and other practical work, such as journaling or digital products.
• Species knowledge test
• Work related to practice (only applicable for students in practice)
• Participation in excursions and fieldwork

Detailed guidelines for the obligatory learning activities will be provided at the start of the semester. Those unable to participate in excursions and fieldwork must complete alternative tasks. Obligatory learning activities must be completed and approved by the specified deadlines to be eligible for examination.

Assessment

Oral exam, 30 minutes.

Graded on a scale from A - F, where F is a fail.

Examination support material

None

More about examination support material