History
The Science Education Program trained teachers under the
name "Department of Science Education" between 1994 and 1997. From
1997 to 2016, it operated as the "Department of Science Education"
within the Primary Education Department. Since the 2016-2017 academic year,
based on the decision taken at the Higher Education Executive Board meeting on
June 15, 2016, the program has continued to train teachers as an undergraduate
program under the Department of Mathematics and Science Education, as part of
the restructuring of faculties of education in terms of departments and
divisions. Additionally, a master's program in Science Education is offered
under the Department of Mathematics and Science Education at the Graduate
School of Natural and Applied Sciences at Manisa Celal Bayar University.
About Us
Our program offers undergraduate education with the primary
goal of equipping prospective science teachers with foundational knowledge and
skills in the field and teaching pedagogy necessary for teaching at the middle
school level. For practical courses, the program has four fully equipped
laboratories: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Science Teaching Laboratories.
Students gain hands-on experience through internships at
middle schools affiliated with the Ministry of National Education as part of
courses such as Teaching Practice I, II, and School Experience. Graduates of
the program are eligible to work as teachers in public and private schools
under the Ministry of National Education and can pursue academic careers
through master’s and doctoral studies.
Mission
The mission of the Science Education Program is to serve as
a well-established teacher training program that produces and shares knowledge
in science and science education based on contemporary paradigms at
undergraduate and graduate levels. It aims to contribute to the scientific
literacy of society and future generations, excel in innovative teaching
methods, and address the need for qualified teachers in institutional,
academic, and professional contexts. Moreover, the program is committed to
fulfilling its responsibility to prepare teacher candidates in alignment with
the national education and science-technology policies of the country.
Vision
The vision of the Science Education Program is to become a
nationally leading and impactful institution that fosters collaboration among
teachers, teacher candidates, and academic stakeholders in education. It aims
to integrate interdisciplinary perspectives, prioritize self-actualization in
science education, adapt to evolving professional and lifelong learning needs,
and provide instructional leadership in its field. The program aspires to meet
international academic standards at undergraduate and graduate levels and
establish itself as a recognized and prestigious institution.