STEM Certificate draft

Program Overview

The University of Indianapolis' STEM Certificate is an online program designed for K-12 teachers to enhance their STEM teaching skills. The program covers topics such as project-based learning, STEM methods, engineering, and technology integration. Delivered asynchronously online, the program consists of 12 credit hours and prepares teachers to meet Indiana's goal of proficiency in problem/project/inquiry-based learning approaches by 2025.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview: The University of Indianapolis' STEM Certificate is an online program designed to prepare K-12 teachers with the skills and knowledge necessary to enhance their teaching of STEM subjects.
The certificate program is aligned with the Indiana Department of Education's goal of having 100% of K-12 teachers proficient in problem/project/inquiry-based learning approaches by 2025.
• Objectives:
• Deepen teachers' knowledge of STEM subject matter
• Enhance teachers' skills in utilizing technology, science and engineering practices, and STEM strategies in their classrooms.
• Prepare teachers to use the new Indiana science and computer science standards to teach, assess, and advance learning in STEM areas.
• Program Description: The STEM certificate program consists of 12 credit hours of coursework delivered in an asynchronous online format.
Courses delve into topics such as project-based learning (PBL) design and implementation, STEM methods, engineering through Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and integrating technology into STEM instruction.

Outline:

• Program Content: The STEM Certificate program covers a range of topics essential for effective STEM teaching, including:
• Designing and implementing PBL units in STEM fields
• Exploring and addressing implicit biases that influence student behaviors and interactions with STEM
• Creating inclusive STEM learning environments
• Integrating engineering principles and projects into the classroom
• Utilizing technology to empower and engage students in STEM learning
• Structure: The program is structured into four consecutive semesters.
• Course Schedule:
• Semester 1:
EDUC 654: Design & Implement STEM PBL
• Semester 2:
EDUC 655: STEM Methods
• Semester 3:
EDUC 656: STEM Engineering through UDL
• Semester 4:
EDUC 653: Integrating Tech into STEM
• Modules: Each course within the program is further divided into modules that cover specific topics and include interactive learning experiences.
Some module topics include:
• The nuts and bolts of designing an effective PBL unit
• Research-based practices for implementing high-quality PBL
• Strategies for creating inclusive school practices and learning environments
• Principles of UDL and embedding inclusive design into classroom projects
• The role of technology in STEM education as educational/instructional technology, coding or computational thinking, and content-specific tools

Assessment:

• Assessment Methods: The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:
• Written assignments and projects
• Quizzes and exams
• Class participation
• Portfolio development

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program is delivered primarily through asynchronous online learning.
However, some courses may include synchronous orientation sessions and open office hours.
• Faculty: The program is led by experienced faculty members with expertise in STEM education and instructional design.
• Unique Approaches: The program emphasizes hands-on learning and project-based activities to engage participants and promote the development of practical skills.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: The STEM Certificate prepares teachers for careers in STEM education, including:
• Teaching STEM subjects at the elementary and secondary levels
• Curriculum development and leadership roles
• STEM program coordination and administration