University of Phoenix Citizen Science Discussion

Develop a Problem-based instructional unit to support student learning and is linked to a local or regional issue. Review the directions from Unit 3. Develop an authentic assignment that would engage your students and let them see how to be citizen scientists.

To do this you will design a PBL that focuses on a new citizen science topic that is aligned to your standard.

Starting with your standard, identify the content, skills and concepts you plan to cover. Then think about how your students could use this knowledge in the real world. Ask the “so what? why?” questions. Think of an assignment that is authentic and relevant for the class and will engage the students. Develop a driving question that is open-ended and has a potential product that can be shared with a wider audience. Describe the types of potential audiences. Be sure to share in your directions that it will be evaluated for content and well as engagement.

Ask yourself…

Did you design an authentic assignment that provides a problem related to your standard’s content that will engage the students in solving the problem? Were the essential components included in your PBL (Culturally Responsive Teaching and has the essential components: a driving (or essential) question that does not have a right or wrong answer, is self-directed so has clear instructions, has some description of the group roles, and has a culminating project/product that will be shared with a wider audience)?

See the additional resources below to help with ideas regarding Citizen Science topics.

https://www.nationalgeographic.org/idea/citizen-science-projects/

https://www.nationalgeographic.org/article/unlocking-educational-potential-citizen-science/?utm_source=BibblioRCM_Row

https://www.nationalgeographic.org/education/classroom-resources/