Teaching in University Science Laboratories (Developing Best Practice)

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/developing-university-lab-education

Introduction

**Course Review: Teaching in University Science Laboratories (Developing Best Practice)** In the ever-evolving landscape of higher education, particularly in the realm of scientific study, effective teaching practices are crucial to fostering student engagement and comprehension. The Coursera course "Teaching in University Science Laboratories (Developing Best Practice)" offers educators an opportunity to enhance their teaching methodologies for the laboratory environment. This review aims to detail the course's content, evaluate its strengths, and recommend it to those seeking to improve their teaching effectiveness in science labs. ### Course Overview The primary objective of this course is to transform laboratory classes in higher education by equipping teachers with practical strategies that foster active learning. It recognizes the diverse backgrounds of students and aims to enhance teachers' abilities to engage them meaningfully. The course is structured into six comprehensive modules, each building upon the previous to create a robust framework for improving laboratory teaching. ### Syllabus Breakdown **Module 1: Welcome and Introduction** The course begins with an introduction to various types of laboratory sessions and effective strategies for enhancing student engagement. This module sets the stage for the rest of the course, allowing participants to establish personal goals tailored to their specific teaching contexts. **Module 2: The Good Laboratory Teacher - Tips and Strategies** This module focuses on the essential qualities of an effective laboratory teacher. Participants will learn best practices for fostering an inclusive atmosphere and your role in guiding students through complex experimental processes. **Module 3: Learning Theories in Practice** Understanding learning theories is crucial for effective teaching. This module introduces practical applications of various theories that can help improve the teaching of laboratory work, emphasizing methods that cater to different learning styles. **Module 4: Giving Instructions and Questioning Skills** Clear communication is key in a laboratory setting. Here, participants will explore various strategies for delivering instructions succinctly and engaging students through questioning techniques. This module also addresses the importance of avoiding information overload, ensuring that students grasp concepts without feeling overwhelmed. **Module 5: Assessment and Feedback** Assessment is an integral component of the learning process. This module covers the use of rubrics for providing constructive feedback aligned with learning goals. Participants will learn to create constructive alignment between learning outcomes, teaching activities, and assessments. **Module 6: Reflection** In the final module, participants will have the opportunity to reflect on their learning journey. They will devise a personalized action plan aimed at implementing course improvements in their laboratory teaching, thereby promoting continuous development. **Optional additional week** For those needing extra time to finalize assignments and receive their certificates, an additional week is generously provided, ensuring that every participant has the opportunity to complete the course successfully. ### Course Evaluation The strength of this course lies in its systematic approach to enhancing laboratory teaching practices. Each module is thoughtfully designed, providing a blend of theory, practical tips, and self-reflective elements. The focus on active learning strategies and student engagement ensures that educators can foster a more interactive and enriching laboratory experience for their students. Moreover, the inclusion of a reflection phase allows participants to synthesize their learning and create actionable plans for their unique teaching environments. This blend of theory and practical application empowers educators to implement change effectively. ### Recommendations I highly recommend "Teaching in University Science Laboratories (Developing Best Practice)" to current and aspiring educators involved in universities or higher education institutions. Whether you are new to teaching or looking to refresh your skills, this course provides valuable insights and strategies that can greatly impact your effectiveness as a laboratory teacher. In conclusion, this course not only advances educational practices but also contributes to the overall goal of improving student learning outcomes in science laboratories. By investing your time in this course, you'll be taking a significant step towards becoming a more effective and impactful educator. Good luck, and happy learning!

Syllabus

Module 1: Welcome and introduction

In this module you will learn about different types of laboratory sessions and get acquainted with strategies that can improve student’s engagement in lab sessions. You will get an introduction about this course as a whole and set your personal goals for it.

This module is about qualities needed to be a good laboratory teacher.

This module is about the learning theories that can be applied to ensure effective teaching of laboratory work.

This module is about giving instruction in a lab session. We present different strategies how to support learning by questioning and how to prevent information overload.

In this module we present the rubric, a tool which can be used for assessing and giving feedback to students on their learning goals. We also consider the concept of constructive alignment of learning outcomes, teaching and learning activities and assessment.

In this module we ask you to look back on what you have learned in this online course and to make your own plan about the improvements of the laboratory course in which you teach.

This is an additional week for the ones who need it to finish all the assignments and get the cetificate of the course. Good luck!