2010-2011 Undergraduate & Graduate Catalog
Integrated Science - Program Description
For additional information about opportunities your college offers, please refer to the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences section in this catalog.
Coordinator: Burton.
Program Faculty: Associate Professors: Ambrose, Burton, Dobson, Golden, Goossen, Henderleiter, Joseph, Mattox, Soman, Vail, Vigna; Assistant Professors: Herrington, Oliver, Yezierski.
Web site: www.gvsu.edu/isci
The Integrated Science major is designed for students seeking certification to teach at the elementary and/or middle school level. It provides the student with broad exposure in all the sciences and emphasizes the connections between the scientific disciplines, their relationship with technology, and their relevance to society. In addition, a significant amount of time is dedicated to different teaching and learning styles, some of which are modeled in various courses. In order to be certified students must complete this major with at least a 2.7 GPA, the Elementary Teaching minor, and the College of Education professional program.
Integrated Science majors are prepared for teaching using National Science Standards guidelines for professional development of teachers. Our students learn essential science content through the perspectives and methods of inquiry; integrate knowledge of science, learning, pedagogy, and apply that knowledge to science teaching. On completion of this cohesive and integrated program, preservice teachers understand the importance of lifelong learning.
Career Opportunities
Students enrolled in the program have numerous opportunities to grow as professionals. Students generally join the Michigan Science Teachers Association and GVSU's student chapter of the National Science Teachers Association. There are many opportunities to attend regional and national meetings as part of coursework requirements and/or independently. Integrated Science majors are also active in the community and heavily involved in service learning in area schools. Our graduates are also encouraged to participate in the programs of the Regional Math and Science Center housed at GVSU.
Associated Programs
The Integrated Science Program faculty collaborates with colleagues in the College of Education to place our students in classrooms with experienced science teachers. Our graduates have a unique combination of skills and experiences that are highly valued by most school districts.
The Science (SCI) designation describes courses or workshops that are interdisciplinary in nature and relate to more than one science and/or mathematics discipline. They are primarily for pre-service and in-service elementary and middle school teachers. These courses are offered by the faculty in Grand Valleys academic departments and/or in conjunction with the Regional Math and Science Center.