Trust Projects - University of Stirling, Institute of Education Partnership in Primary Science

This project uses the theme of 'toys' to support the teaching of science and the integration of the use of ICT in the classroom. It involves nine schools around Stirling, working with teacher fellows and staff from Stirling Council, managed and co-ordinated by staff in the Institute of Education at the University of Stirling. An innovative aspect of the project is the involvement of local scientists linked with the schools and working with teachers to help develop subject knowledge. 

Overall, the Partnership in Primary Science Project aims to:

• encourage children's learning in science

• illustrate exemplary classroom practices and strategies involving the use of ICT to develop scientific understanding

• provide teachers with skills to select and use ICT confidently

• encourage them to use ICT to support effective teaching and assessment based on an understanding of the pedagogical issues involved

• develop communities of practice that help support teachers in classrooms.

The project consists of a series of one-day programmes rotating around the participating schools which will not only involve project team members and project teachers, but will be extended to local industry. Materials generated through these days will be used and evaluated and will eventually be compiled into a resource package to be made available to local schools and on-line. In order to keep schools in contact with one another, a WebCT site will be set up to which all those participating will have access to get information, and exchange ideas and good practice.

Over the first year of the project, teachers will have worked with nine different scientists, developed their effective use of ICT and generated curriculum materials which others will be able to use. They will also have become part of a community of practice which will include primary, secondary and tertiary teachers, scientists, local authority staff and pupils.

Contact

Susan Rodrigues, Senior Lecturer
s.g.a.rodrigues@stir.ac.uk