School self evaluation
I think the 6 step process for school self evaluation is an efficient and targeted way for a school to find out what is their starting point for Science learning and STEM activities across the school. From gathering data to analysing results and then formulation of targets for the school to work toward.
This SSE process could be completed as a staff as part of Croke park hours where teachers can work in class groups to define the scientific skills that can be attained at each class level. In our school there is a Science committee who work to implement the targets set out by school for Science and STEM learning. As per the SSE steps it is very important to have focused SMART targets for the staff to work toward together.
I think nowadays there can be many competing initiatives and programmes being implemented in primary schools and there is often a feeling of overwhelm and curriculum overload at trying to achieve many goals across many curricular subjects among teachers.
I think the Curious Minds awards gives a structured and focused way for schools to improve science teaching and learning and also means that teachers know they are engaging in best practice and keeping development of science skills as core learning as they can use the resource lesson plans plans on curiousminds.ie and have the framework of enquiry there as record.
It would add to the sense of achievement to display children’s investigations, artwork, learning logs in school and hall and invite parents in to see all the work and have children explain it to them.
I think the curious minds awards are a very clear and accessible tool to progress science teaching within a school