EDST1200

Social and Environmental Studies Curriculum

10 Units 1000 Level Course

Not available in 2014

Previously offered in 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004

Introduces students to the social and environmental studies curriculum area and contemporary practices in inquiry-based learning are explored. The significance of a syllabus with embedded values will be explored. The concept of inquiry-based learning will be developed, with some brief historical background. The implications for teaching and learning of a values-based area are introduced. Students will reflect critically upon contemporary issues in social and environmental studies, including the new National Curriculum initiatives, particularly in history K-10. They will investigate their own values and beliefs and examine appropriate contemporary practices for programming, implementation, assessment and evaluation in social and environmental studies.

Objectives By the completion of this course successful students will be familiar with:
1. the historical/political setting of social and environmental studies;

2. the scope of the content area in social and environmental studies;

3. and use teaching and learning approaches appropriate to an inquiry process;

4. contemporary issues associated with the values and perspectives base of this area; including the new National Curriculum initiatives, particularly in History K-10;

5. be able to explain the links between values development and knowledge and skills acquisition in social and environmental studies and other learning areas;

6. critically analyse attitudes and practices in contemporary documentation.
Content * The political, historical and educational context for the teaching of social and environmental studies including discipline bases, values, skills, perspectives and assessment and evaluation.

* Programming and planning considerations.

* Relationship between social and environmental studies and other learning areas.

* Contemporary issues and strategies appropriate for teaching the NSW Human Society and its Environment K-6 syllabus.

* Approaches to critiquing resources for social and environmental studies learning.
Replacing Course(s) NA
Transition n/a
Industrial Experience 0
Assumed Knowledge N/A
Modes of Delivery Internal Mode
Teaching Methods Lecture
Tutorial
Assessment Items
Essays / Written Assignments Critical review of contemporary issues influencing policy and curriculum development in social and environmental studies. 30%
Examination: Formal Addressing all aspects of the course. 30%
Other: (please specify) Syllabus planning. Utilising contemporary syllabus documents and data gathered by observation of the teaching strategies used during a HSIE lesson, develop a unit overview and lesson plans for a five-week period, indicating the major focus and integrative opportunities with other learning areas. 40%
Contact Hours Lecture: for 1 hour(s) per Week for Full Term
Tutorial: for 2 hour(s) per Week for Full Term