An instructional framework, model lessons, and professional learning program for science standards-aligned computing in 4th-12th grade classrooms

Abstract

This Innovative Practice, Work in Progress paper outlines an Instructional Framework for integrating computing into science instruction in 4th-12th grade classrooms. It presents a model lesson example and results from two years of implementing a Professional Learning (PL) program for teachers developed and offered by the STEM Education Office of the College of Science at San José State University and teachers from eight high need school districts. The program model focuses on increasing teachers’ skills and improving practices related to Scientific Computational Modeling as the Next Generation Science Standards and Science and Engineering Practices 2 (develop and use models), 4 (analyze and interpret data), and 5 (use math and computational thinking) are implemented.