Module
05
Choosing resources and supporting teachers
4+ hrs
This module leads on from Program 1, Module 4 [Data Literacy] and uses the Inquiry Model introduced in the previous module to focus on STEM planning.
You will begin your learning with the 'big picture', in terms of data that is available to raise key issues and enable decisions about STEM education and teacher capability development. By the end of the module, you will be more knowledgeable about both how to use data to inform STEM planning, and how to evaluate teachers' needs.
RECOGNITION OF DIVERSITY
We recognise that each person who accesses this module brings with them a diversity of understandings and experiences of STEM and STEM education (both in terms of STEM practitioner practices and leadership of STEM initiatives and/or whole school approaches).
The design of all PASL modules respects and aims to accommodate this diversity by seeking to draw from the perspectives and experiences of others working their way through the materials.
We do not aim to ‘tell you how it is’, but to provoke thought and discussion. If you are leading others through the module, it is important to listen and respond to participants’ needs and interests as appropriate.
What you will learn from this module
- What data about STEM learning and teaching tell us and how they help with planning.
- Planning for effective STEM teaching:
- Developing curriculum link;
- Exploring resources that are available to assist in planning; and
- Incorporating key aspects for integrated learning units.
- Evaluating STEM resources.
READINGS AND RESOURCES
You will find a selection of supporting readings recommended throughout the module. These have been chosen for their relevance to the topic and because they are freely accessible through open access.
It is important that you read relevant documents as you progress through the module in order to understand their key points, before moving on to new ideas. We encourage you to explore other identified literature when time allows. Visit the resources section to view the list of resources referred to in this module.
RECOMMENDED PRE-READING
Participants are encouraged to download and read the following publications prior to undertaking the module. You will need to open the accordions located on the web page in order to access the various documents suggested.
- Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority [ACARA]. (2016b). ACARA STEM Connections Project Report.
- Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority [ACARA]. (2016c). STEM planning and critiquing, STEM Connections Workbook.
- Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority [ACARA]. (2016d). STEM Dimensions Critiquing Checklist.
OFFLINE LEARNING
Download the entire module materials onto your device and study offline at your own pace.
MODULE CONTENT PREVIEW
Browse through some of the key concepts presented in this module.
You can download the module at any time to access the complete professional learning materials.
STATE-BASED RESOURCES FOR INTEGRATED STEM
There is a plethora of resources available for teachers interested and/or required to teach STEM subjects. At your leisure, we recommend that you:
- EXPLORE the Australian Curriculum (ACARA) website in more detail and follow any links that seem interesting.
- CONDUCT your own search online for resources that are useful and explore those provided by your own state/territory/jurisdiction.
- REVIEW the PASL Desktop Audit, which is a resource that can contribute well to your exploration.
As you make your way through the PASL professional learning programs, keep reflecting on the following questions:
- How might you make decisions about the usefulness of these resources for your school?
- How might your teachers use them and/or start their foray into STEM teaching?
ACTIVITIES PROPOSED IN THIS MODULE:
- Activity #1: What can data tell us? Use the Inquiry Cycle model.
- Activity #2: STEM resources - spoiled for choice!
- Activity #3: STEMCrAfT - A meta-resource for planning.
- Activity #4: Planning for whole-of-school integrated STEM.
- Activity #5: Explore ACARA resources for STEM.
- Activity #6: Planning for whole-of-school STEM integration.
DOWNLOAD MODULE MATERIALS
Has any of the content showcased piqued your interest?
Click the tile below to get access to the complete suite of materials related to this module (Program 1 - Module 5).
WHAT NEXT?
You may want to explore these interesting online resources
- Check out the STEM Connections Workbook (planning tool) developed by the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA, 2016).
- Download the F-10 Australian Curriculum: Science Elaborations for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cross-curriculum priority (ACARA, 2016).
- Discover the STEMCrAfT Project by the University of Tasmania (2014).
Continue your professional learning
- Go to next Module
- Explore PASL Program 2 - Whole of School Development through STEM
- Explore PASL Program 3 - Equity, Diversity, Aspirations for, and sustainability of STEM initiatives
GENERAL DISCLAIMER
PASL is provided to you on an 'as is' and 'as available' basis and you use it at your own risk.
While the information contained on this website has been presented with all due care, the Department of Education, Skills and Employment does not make any representation or warranty as to the suitability or compatibility of the PASL materials to any computer system, or that PASL is free of error or defect.
While the information is considered to be true and correct at the date of publication, changes in circumstances after the time of publication may impact the accuracy of the information presented. Please note that links to third-party websites are for information only. Care has been taken in providing these links as suitable reference resources; however, due to the changing nature of online content, it is the responsibility of the users to make their own enquiries and decisions about the information retrieved from other Internet sites. The provision of these links does not imply any endorsement, support, and/or commercial gain by the Commonwealth of Australia.
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