Problem Based Learning: Effective Strategies for Increasing Student Engagement in STEM - EDC-X758H

Course Description

Credit Validation for STEM Center Participants Only

This course teaches practitioners how to more effectively develop Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) lessons with high student engagement. Participants will review pertinent research for Problem Based Learning (PBL) explore the engineering design process, experience math strategies firsthand and apply them to student learning. Educators will have opportunities for peer observations and self-reflection to apply course content to their current practice. Class assignments are designed to be applied techniques for immediate use.

Learner Outcomes

• Use problem based learning techniques
• Review pertinent research for problem based learning
• Create action plan to incorporate STEM activities into student learning
• Investigate and research methods for modeling and coaching on brain research for educators

Course Details

Number of Units: 3.0 graduate level extension credit(s) in semester hours

Course Format: Online, as follow up to USNA SET Sail Summer Workshop 

Audience: K-12 teachers enrolled in USNA SET Sail Summer Session will complete the follow-on course offered through USD to receive credit. 

Instructors:

Dr. Sarah Durkin, Associate Director, USNA STEM Center

CAPT (ret) Joseph McGettigan, Director, USNA STEM Center

Dr. Mark Murray, USNA, Mechanical Engineering Dept

University of San Diego – Graduate-Level Extension Credit Information

The University of San Diego partners with this program to offer graduate-level extension credit(s) in semester hours through the Credit Validation Program. To earn units, participants must register for and successfully complete coursework through the external program provider.

Credits earned through USD’s Credit Validation Program are widely accepted by many school districts and universities across the United States for purposes such as license renewal, required professional development hours, short-term skill building, salary advancement, credentialing, and potential advanced degree pathways. These units do not apply toward a master’s or higher degree program at the University of San Diego; however, they may be transferable to advanced degree programs (e.g., MA, EdD, PhD) at other institutions that accept external graduate-level credits.

Participants are responsible for confirming acceptance, transcript requirements, deadlines, and applicability of units with their employing district or intended institution prior to enrollment.

Testimonials

"The STEM course offered through USNA really boosted my confidence to offer STEM activities in my classroom. My curriculum is extremely vague with little background or guidance in labs. However, two labs were similar to what we did at the USNA and I plunged in because of my experience there." -- Kimberly Coard