Author

Megan Custer

Term

Summer 2021

Capstone

Capstone Project

Degree Name

MAT

Facilitator(s)

Jana Lo Bello Miller

Content Expert

Ryan Oto

Abstract

Custer, M. (2021). Developing a Science Curriculum with the Focus on Belonging The development of the year-long curriculum in this project is centered around the need for students to feel a true sense of belonging within their school and classroom. The project was developed using the learnings and literature of Gloria Ladson-Billings, Carol Goodenow, Nira Yuval-Davis, and many others who speak to the needs of students in having space and time for self-discovery within learning, and also feeling like an integral part of their own learning within the classroom. The specification to science curriculum within this project comes from the challenge that science in schools tends to be taught as a linear curriculum year in and year out, with very rigid parameters on how students should learn. Recognizing that inquiry is the base of science, this project allows students to choose their own research topics as they navigate scientific research and learn how to find valid sources while also choosing new topics to study throughout the year. As there are no limits on what can be studied, students maintain an interest, and also take ownership through leading lessons about their topics as a measurement of assessment. As students develop their own curriculum through their own interests during the year they see themselves reflected in their learning, and recognize that who they are belongs in the classroom.

Project Type

Curriculum

dc_type

text

dc_publisher

DigitalCommons@Hamline

dc_format

application/pdf

dc_source

School of Education Student Capstone Projects

Included in

Education Commons

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