Master of Arts and Master of Science Core Courses

BIO 611 (3) SCIENCE EDUCATION SEMINAR

This course involves discussion and integration of seminal papers in the area of science education with particular attention given to biology education. Predominantly on-line courses.

BIO 633 (3) HISTORY/PHILOSOPHY OF SCIENCE

This course involves discussion of seminal works in the history and philosophy of science as a way of thinking. From this perspective, the course explores current interest in the nature of science as an integral part of the study of science.

BIO 643 (3) RESEARCH DESIGN IN SCIENCE EDUCATION

This course promotes understanding of both qualitative and quantitative research design in science education, with a focus on current trends in the field.

BIO 663 (3) Cell Biology and Biochemistry: TEACHING AND LEARNING IN BIOLOGY

See BIO 674

BIO 664 (4) Ecology and Evolution: Teaching and Learning in Biology

See BIO 674

BIO 673 (3) Physiology and Development: Teaching and Learning in Biology

See BIO 674

BIO 674 (4) Genetics and Molecular Biology: TEACHING AND LEARNING IN BIOLOGY

Fundamental concepts in each of the four areas are addressed from the perspective of teaching for conceptual understanding. Particular emphasis is placed on content within each module that has been identified by the science education research community as being particularly difficult for students to understand clearly. These courses are taught using a combination of lecture and inquiry-based lab activities.

BIO 682 (1) RESEARCH PROPOSAL AND PILOT STUDY

Students identify a research problem in Biology education, then prepare a brief literature review and research design, followed by carrying out a pilot study with abbreviated analysis.

Master of Science Courses

BIO 683 (1-6) THESIS

Students write a thorough literature review and bibliography related to their chosen Biology education problem, then design, conduct the research to address the problem, analyze the results of their original research, draw conclusions, and propose implications of their findings. This process culminates with the completion of the student’s written thesis, as well as a public presentation of the research. For projects not completed within one semester, an extension fee is charged each semester (fall, spring, and summer) until finished and approved. Graded Credit/No Credit.

Master of Arts and Master of Science Electives

BIO 601 (1-6) GRADUATE INTERNSHIP IN BIOLOGY

This course is an elective option allows students to gain research/ lab experience through internships at a variety of local businesses/organizations. The course may be repeated up to a total of six units. Graded Credit/No Credit.

BIO 692 (2) Perspectives on Science

Perspectives on Science is a monthly seminar series with speakers from research institutions and universities which address current research in their fields, including chemistry, biology, physics, astronomy, and geology. This course is designed to promote translation of these lectures to the science classroom, especially to the biology classroom. May be taken up to three times to a total of six units.

SCI 672 (2) SEASAND

SEASAND is a two-week intensive summer workshop designed for secondary teachers. The content is taught at an advanced level, and the pedagogy is targeted for middle school teachers. The topics rotate between biology, chemistry, physics, and geology with two topics offered each year. Acceptance is by application and priority is given to teachers from state-designated low-performing schools. May be taken up to three times with different content for a total of six units.