The document summarizes the science course and methods course requirements for elementary education programs at three universities. At Chaminade University, students must take a minimum of two science courses and one environmental education course that takes a holistic approach to Earth's systems. At Brigham Young University, students must take a minimum of two science courses and one science methods course designed to develop investigations relevant to elementary students. At University of Hawaii at Manoa, students must take a minimum of two science courses, one science lab course, and one science methods course focusing on enhancing student skills and using interdisciplinary approaches.

1. Jeff Piontek

7. From The 2000 National Survey of Science and Mathematics Education: Status of Elementary School Science Teaching by S.L. Fulp (2002), Chapel Hill, NC: Horizon Research.

8. University Science Content Course Requirements Science Methods Course Requirements Course description (taken from the course syllabus) Chaminade University Students entering the program must take a minimum of 2 science courses Students are required to take a 3 semester hour Environmental Education course The course will emphasize a holistic approach to understanding our Earth’s systems, and will approach the history of our planet (and our solar system) in a chronological and topical manner in terms of zoological, botanical, geological, atmospheric, and cultural studies. The history of humanity and ecological issues surrounding that history will also be addressed. Brigham Young Univeristy Students entering the program must take a minimum of 2 science courses Students are required to take a 3 semester hour Science Methods for the Elementary Teacher The course is designed to be an introduction to the teaching of science and technology in the elementary school. Students will be able to teach contextual content and unlock the creativity of their own abilities. Students will discuss in depth science processes and develop investigations which are both relevant and understandable to the students in the class. University of Hawaii at Manoa Students entering the program must take a minimum of 2 science courses and 1 semester credit of a science laboratory course Students are required to take a 3 semester hour Science Methods for the Elementary Teacher Also offers a 1 semester hour practicum in Curriculum Development: Natural Science This course focuses on the teaching of science at the elementary level. Students will explore the purposes of science education, the scope of science education, typical curriculum sequences, fundamental skills, effective teaching methodologies, and a range of available resources and materials. Emphasis will be placed on how to enhance students’ science knowledge and skills, critical thinking skills, and laboratory skills. Emphasis will be placed on teaching to the standards and interdisciplinary approaches to science education. Practicum is for in-service teachers to upgrade subject matter and develop teaching methods and materials for instruction