SV-412 Didactics in Social Science, part 2 (8-13)

The course is connected to the following study programs

• Advanced Teacher Education level 8-13, 5-year Master's Programme
• Post-Graduate Certificate in Education

Teaching language

Norwegian

Prerequisites

A passed grade in SV-144 Didactics in Scoial Science in Advanced teacher Education.

Course contents

The course is part of the Advanced teacher Education, consisting of didactics in two subjects, pedagogy and practice.

The course in didactics in social science studies is divided into three main areas:

Schools in the soceity and the subject in the school

Knowledge of the pupil and role of the teacher

Teaching and Learning

Schools in the soceity and the subject in the school deals with social science as a subject with its own special traits, development and legitimisation as a school subject in secondary schools, curriculum and other governing documents. Analysis and critical reflection on didactic issues are central. Teaching is based on research and the main area will be based on the foremost classic and newer didactic research.

Knowledge of the pupil and role of the teacher revolves around the role of social science teacher in secondary schools, the multicultural school, youth culture and the diversity of students' backgrounds and abilities. Practical pedagogical skills in classroom management, communication and building good relations and constructive learning environment is also essential.

Teaching and Learning focuses on didactic theories, diverse ways of working and learning strategies, as well as various print and digital educational materials that are suitable for different levels and in various educational programs in secondary schools. The main field of focus is on the basic skills and interdisciplinary work, and adapting the common part of the subject social sciences to be relevant for different vocations. Based on the students' expertise and insight into the subject didactics, the course will also focus on didactic reflection and practical exercise in terms of planning, implementation, customization and evaluation of social science teaching in secondary schools.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge

After completing the course, students will:

• have in-depth didactic knowledge in social sciences aimed at grades 11 to 13

• have knowledge of the curricula for the various social sciences in secondary schools, as well as knowledge of current legislation and plans for professional practice in general on the secondary school level

• have thorough knowledge of different models and theories of class management, relationship building and learning environment

• have thorough knowledge of different learning strategies, working methods and learning arenas that are appropriate in social sciences at the various different levels of education

• have knowledge of the how Social Sciences can be relevant for different vocations

• have knowledge of the role education has in developing values and a democratic mind set.

• have knowledge of the multicultural school and the opportunities and challenges this entails for social studies teaching

• have thorough knowledge about youth, about youth development and their political awareness and interest in the subject.

Skills

After completing the course, students will:

• use their digital skills, as well as academic and didactic knowledge in the social sciences in a way that promotes good academic and social learning processes

• plan, implement, adapt, document and evaluate teaching in social studies on various education programs in secondary education based on scientific knowledge in subjects and didactics

• analyze curriculum and prepare clear and relevant learning objectives at different levels

• be able to describe and convey the characteristics of competence, give feedback that promotes learning and evaluate and document the pupils' skills and help pupils to reflect on their own learning and academic development

• be a distinct class leader

• use and justify varied working methods and learning strategies adapted to level and education program

• assess and adopt different learning aids and learning arenas in teaching adapted to level and education program

• facilitate pupil participation and discussion, and promote pupil engagement as well as ability to think abstract critically.

General competence

After completing the course, students will:

• be able to make the connection between subjects, didactics, pedagogy and practice out in the school

• be able to discuss and disseminate scientific and didactic issues at an advanced level

• be able to utilize the results of scientific, didactic and pedagogical research, and initiate professional methodical development

• possess a professional attitude and be able to critically reflect on academic, professional ethics and education policy issues

• be able to develop their academic and didactic skills, and contribute to cooperation on education and school development with partners both inside and outside school

• be able to discuss and legitimize the social sciences as a school subject and as key subjects in the development of values and formation of a democratic mind set

Examination requirements

Compulsory attendance (80%).

For students taking social studies as a course 1 (master course), the following graduation requirements are to be fullfilled: Passed interdisciplinary R&D-work of pedagogy and didactics. A more detailed description of the R & D work in separate instructions.

For students taking social studies as a course 2 (one-year programme), the following graduation requirements are to be fullfilled: Passed practice related task.

Practice must be passed in order to take the exam.

Teaching methods

Teaching will be characterized by a variety of work, and will take the form of lectures, practice and guidance, excursions, conversation, reflection, role play, interviews, presentations, preparation of educational programs and other practical exercises. Practical testing of different forms of work related to social sciences and the teacher's role will be central.

In addition to formal teaching, students are expected to do work, both individually and in groups. A significant part of students' learning and maturation will occur through such private efforts.

Since the course is part of the profession subject, it requires the students' actual participation in practical exercises that are part of the teaching. Therefor compulsory participation is practised. 

Students taking social sciences as a course 1 (master course) will have to complete a multidisciplinary task in pedagogy and didactics.

Students taking social sciences as a course 2 (one-year programme) shall submit a written practice related task (implemented in preparation for practice).

Students will have six weeks practice.

Expected scope of the course is about 200 hours.

Evaluation

The study programme manager, in consultation with the student representative, decides the method of evaluation and whether the courses will have a midterm- or end of term evaluation, see also the Quality System, section 4.1. Information about evaluation method for the course will be posted on Canvas.

Assessment methods and criteria

4-hour graded individual written examination