Practical Work in Science

Aim

SCORE is the lead organisation for the practical work in science action programme in the STEM Framework. This project aims to improve the quality of practical work in science

Description

Working closely with other stakeholders, SCORE has developed its practical work in science strategy based on the report prepared by the ASE and the Royal Society.

SCORE's proposed strategy:

  1. improves the effectiveness of existing provision through improved dialogue and awareness of initiatives and an agreed definition of what is considered to be practical work in science;
  2. embodies a strong communications strategy for dissemination of information including details of support that is available to support practical work and to engage in debate about ways in which practical work in science can be further improved;
  3. strengthens support and professional development specifically focussed on improving practical work in science thereby building capacity and sustainability;
  4. is based on evidence which can better define the problems, support the monitoring and evaluation of the impact of the strategy during its implementation and influence existing and future policy making.

Informed by the science education community

SCORE's work in this area is informed by stakeholder. This group has been involved with the research report and the development of the ‘manifesto' and the practical work resources for primary and secondary school teachers. The third phase of the project will be informed by a management group and will include three strands; Professional Development Strand, Mapping Strand and Communications Strand.

These three strands work come together in the DCSF funded programme Getting Practical, hosted by the ASE and supported by SCORE. Getting Practical provides professional development events throughout England, designed to support teachers, technicians and high level teaching assistants at primary, secondary and post-16 levels. These free events encourage teachers and technicians to consider the way in which they teach practical science and to develop a key understanding in the purpose of practical work. Dates and locations of upcoming Getting Practical events are available here.