We have designed a learning community which incorporates two required general education courses, Tennessee History and Science. Learning occurs 'through' a focus on complex problems of civic consequence. This approach is defined by SENCER (Science Education for New Civic Engagement and Responsibilities) as applying the science of learning to learning of science, through civic issues. (www.sencer.net) Students in this class use a variety of pedagogical techniques such as collaborative learning, applied laboratory activities and a case study which involves data collection and analysis as well as writing reports and presentations to the class. In this learning community, we also introduce our students to valuable resources on and off campus. Students learn to work as a team and help each other understand concepts in both subjects. We strongly feel that the SENCER approach to learning of science and history makes both disciplines more real, accessible, and 'useful' to our students.

Tennessee history and science: An innovative learning community

244th National Meeting (2012)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.