Service Learning Opportunity for Undergraduate Science Students: Integrating Problem-Based Learning in the High School Science Curriculum

Abstract

A service learning course has been developed through which undergraduate science students create problem-based learning materials for use in high school science classes. Undergraduate students research active learning pedagogies with a specific focus on problem-based learning, create original materials to be used in grades 11 and 12 chemistry and environmental science classes, and work in coordination with secondary school teachers to facilitate the use of their original problems in high school classes. For many of the participating students, this is their first experience with self-directed learning and a rare opportunity to develop pedagogical content knowledge. Beginning through a partnership with a single high school teacher, this program has expanded to include nine teachers at five different schools, and interest continues to grow. This article presents the motivations and goals of the course for participating students, the structure and outline of the course, sample works that have been created by students, as well as some student outcomes from past sessions of the course.