Open AccessUsing GLOBE as a simulation lab to prepare STEM ready pre-service environmental science teachers: a liberal arts university’s approach
Author(s) -
G Morewell,
G Timothy
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
iop conference series. earth and environmental science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.179
H-Index - 26
eISSN - 1755-1307
pISSN - 1755-1315
DOI - 10.1088/1755-1315/612/1/012032
Subject(s) - globe , service learning , service (business) , liberal arts education , mathematics education , engineering , computer science , engineering management , psychology , pedagogy , higher education , business , political science , marketing , neuroscience , law
To prepare Pre-service teachers to meet the demands of an increasingly technological society, a GLOBE (Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment) simulation lab was infused into one of the pre-service teachers’ science courses. This course was designed to support and engage pre-service teachers in understanding how to incorporate meaningful STEM activities into their own learning experiences, and how ultimately to infuse this learning experience into their future classrooms. Organized as a research project, the course emphasizes integrating inquiry-based teaching approaches to the learning environment for pre-service teachers to develop a holistic understanding of basic Earth Science concepts. The GLOBE simulation laboratory is equipped with computers, interfaced LabQuest probes and traditional laboratory equipment that enhance interactive learning and hands-on experiences. A major component of the course is the ability to develop activities into long-term research projects. Data for a 12-months period is highlighted in this paper. Results from an end of course survey indicated that pre-service teachers valued their experiences in the simulation lab and were more confident in their ability to incorporate Geoscience ideas into the learning environment.