Master of Science in Science Content and Process (M.S.S.C.P.)

Introduction
Benedictine University, in partnership with Brookfield Zoo, Fermilab, the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, The Morton Arboretum, and the Golden Apple Foundation, has developed a Master of Science degree in Science Content and Process.

The degree program provides K-8 teachers and other science educators integrated content knowledge in general science utilizing the resources of the local scientific community. Participants will use the pedagogy of inquiry-based learning and knowledge of technology to create an effective teaching/learning environment for science education. This program is intended for those teachers who want to increase their science knowledge and confidence in science teaching.

This program is unique in that courses are taught at Benedictine University and the partner organizations. Participants in the program are immersed in learning opportunities available at each of these sites and will complete research internships with scientists at the host organizations in order to better understand the process of science and the rewards for doing it well.

Designed for the working professional, the degree program is taught in a cohort model that meets evenings and some Saturdays during the academic year. Day courses will take place during the summer. Teachers can manage full-time employment while completing the degree in two years. Each cohort begins the third week of June.

There will be only one cohort of twenty-four students each year. Admission to the degree program must be completed before the first course begins in June. Applicants must hold a valid teaching certificate or work as a science educator.

Program Objectives:

• integrate general science content using themes of regional biodiversity and systems interactions
• provide content based on national and Illinois science learning standards
• develop inquiry-based teaching practices that promote learning of scientific content
• build self confidence in science knowledge and teaching
• understand and use technology in investigations and analysis
• increase the use of the educational facilities of the partnership organizations

Curriculum
The program requires 36 semester hours of graduate coursework.

Core
NTSC 501 Pedagogy of Inquiry Science Teaching
NTSC 502 Current Issues in Science and Teaching
NTSC 503 Nature of Science
NTSC 504 Research Internship

Content
NTSC 510 Zoology (Brookfield Zoo)
NTSC 512 Animal Behavior (Brookfield Zoo)
NTSC 514 Plant Functions and Adaptations (The Morton Arboretum)
NTSC 515 Field Ecology and Management (Forest Preserve District of DuPage County)
NTSC 518 Prehistoric Life (Forest Preserve District of DuPage County)
NTSC 520 Basic Physics (Fermi Lab)
NTSC 522 Astronomy (Fermi Lab)
NTSC 524 Human Biology and Nutrition (Benedictine University)

Faculty
John Mickus Professor, Biological Sciences, Benedictine University
Jim Effinger Golden Apple Fellow in Science
Bill Grosser Golden Apple Fellow in Science
Louise Huffman Golden Apple Fellow in Science
Scott Iliff Physical Science Chair, Glenbard South High School, Golden Apple Fellow in Science
Steve Leonard Manager of Youth Education, The Morton Arboretum
John Lewis Golden Apple Fellow in Science
Lanis Petrik Teacher Education Program, Brookfield Zoo
Ann Roth School and Group Program Manager, Brookfield Zoo
Carl Strang Naturalist, Forest Preserve District of DuPage County
Wayne Wittenberg Fermilab Physical Science Staff; Presidential Award Winner

Master of Science in Science Content and Process applicants...

• are teaching in an elementary or middle school or employed as an informal science educator
• have a computer and cable modem or DSL internet access in their home
• are able to attend Monday - Friday classes during the summer (third week of June and third week of July) and Evening and some Saturday classes during the school year.

Master of Science in Science Content and Process Applicants will need to supply:

• an official transcript of all college coursework. Transcript(s) must demonstrate satisfactory completion of a minimum of 1 semester of math and 1 semester of science. Also, you are expected to submit official transcripts for graduate degrees already held.
• a completed application form that includes
• Photocopy of teaching certificate
• Two (2) letters of reference (one from your principal or supervisor)
• A letter describing your professional goals and how this program will allow you to attain them.

Information Sessions
Information sessions will be held on April 12 and May 3, 2006 at 4:30- 6:30 PM in Kindlon Hall 145 A.