University of York: Primary Science Enhancement Programme (PSEP) - Children Challenging Industry
Aim
To develop and implement an innovative training methodology for teachers of primary science.
Background
The Primary Science Enhancement programme (PSEP) is carried out by the Chemical Industry Education Centre at the University of York. Teachers are trained to teach children how to carry out scientific investigations within realistic industrial contexts. The methodology has associated quality assurance procedures that are used alongside the training materials.
The programme offers:
- Improved children’s perceptions of the manufacturing industry, and its relationship with science
- Provision of practical training with supporting training materials (including a manual, CD-Rom, video and website) for teachers teaching the National Curriculum for science
- New support units for teaching and learning
- Interactive pupil areas on the website, to support the classroom activities
- Training areas of the website aimed at Key Stage 2-3 transition and trainee teachers (available from April 2005)
- A user-friendly quality assurance framework, consisting of on-line forms for teachers, forms on the CD-Rom for use by regional trainers and an evaluation questionnaire for children.
The programme continues to grow in all areas of England and Wales, with expected expansion in Northern Ireland and Scotland in 2005.
Contact
Joy Parvin
Tel: 01904 432523
Email: jp25@york.ac.uk