Professional Development Opportunity in Science

Course Specifics

Thank you for your interest in this research study examining how online professional development in high school biology supports teachers' understanding of concepts and practice in the classroom, as well as their students' achievement. For general information about participation in the study, please refer to the General Overview.

Course Description

• This online professional development course will focus on teaching genetics and evolution using inquiry-based approaches. Some teachers will receive additional modules on teaching science.
• The course covers biology topics and teaching practices using a wide range of online resources, including video segments, interactive activities, readings, and other multimedia materials. The online resources are from Teachers' Domain, WGBH's digital library service. Teachers' Domain provides educational media to teachers and their students, for use in schools, libraries, and homes.
• The course presents pedagogical practices that are designed to foster student interest, involve students in the research process, advance critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and develop conceptual understanding of biology topics.

Course Information

• The course is scheduled to take up to 45 hours, over the course of 7 weeks.
• In order to participate in the study, teachers must:
• Have access to a computer with Internet access;
• Have a working email account; and
• Be willing to download free computer applications once the course commences (e.g., Quicktime, an Internet browser, Real Player, etc.).

Course Requirements

Teachers will be expected to:

• Complete short writing assignments and a final assignment (writing a biology class lesson plan);
• Keep a personal notebook to take notes, complete exercises, and record reflections;
• Actively participate in discussions with fellow learners;
• Be self-directed and self-motivated; and

Ask for assistance if needed. 

Click to download a Course Specifics pdf.

For more information, please contact:

Alice Anderson

ABE-NY Study Coordinator

EDC/Center for Children and Technology

ABE-NY@edc.org