The STEM Teacher Enhancement Project (STEP) at Wheelock College is designed to strengthen math and science instruction and to improve math and science content knowledge among teachers of elementary-age children. The program includes four graduate-level math courses and four graduate-level science courses, all of which are offered online.

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"As a learner, I would definitely recommend this course [Teaching and Learning Elementary Science] to any teachers who have little confidence in teaching science. It is the best money I've ever spent. The course is convenient and fun! I am extremely satisfied with the overall experience."
- Student Testimonial

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 Mathematics Courses
Science Courses

Mathematics Courses

EDU 622 Patterns, Functions and Algebra
3 credits
This online course explores algebraic thinking for the elementary classroom.  Uses tables, graphs, and rules to recognize, extend, analyze and describe linear and non-linear patterns.  Concepts of integers, variable, function, inequality and equation are developed through investigations using current technology and trends consistent with NCTM, Common Core, and MCFM.  Graduate.  No Prerequisite.

EDU 624 Number and Operations
3 credits

This online course offers participants an opportunity to build their own mathematical knowledge as well as pedagogical knowledge. Using a wide range of physical and virtual models, they will explore number theory and computational strategies that illuminate the NCTM Number and Operations content strand and Common Core Standards. Graduate. No Prerequisite

EDU 626 Data Analysis and Probability
3 credits
This online course focuses on data collection and organization; measures of central tendency and variance; subjective, theoretical, experimental, and conditional probability; simulation; counting principles; mathematical expectation. Includes techniques and technology in elementary teaching and learning of data analysis and probability developed by NCTM, Common Core and MCFM.  Graduate.  No Prerequisite.

EDU 628 Geometry and Measurement
3 credits
This online course extends and enhances both content knowledge and pedagogical knowledge for all participating teachers. Participants will use both physical and virtual modes as they analyze the characteristics and properties of geometric shapes; use coordinate geometry; apply transformations and use both visualization and geometric modeling to solve problems that illuminate both the NCTM and Common Core Standards. Graduate. No Prerequisite.

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Science Courses

EDU 630 Inquiry into Life Science
3 credits
This online course uses scientific inquiry in life science through hands-on investigations. Begins with characteristics of living things followed by examination of the various structures (and their function) found in plants and animals, adaptations in response to the environment, and how life science concepts are taught in the elementary classroom Graduate. No Prerequisite.

EDU 632 Teaching and Learning Physical Science
3 credits
This online course examines basic concepts of physical science including forces and motion of objects as well as the earth in space. Topics include ancient ideas of motion, Newtonian mechanics, gravity, and the teaching of these concepts in the elementary classroom. Implements hands on at home investigations. Graduate. No Prerequisite.

EDU 634 Teaching and Learning Elementary Science
3 credits
This online course examines the role of inquiry in science teaching and learning using some basic concepts of physical science, including properties of materials and motion of objects. Students will be engaged in at-home inquiry investigations with liquids, states of matter, and properties of materials. In addition, science inquiry will be intertwined throughout the course. Issues related to teaching and learning in elementary classrooms will be introduced. Graduate. No Prerequisite.

EDU 636 Science Inquiry in Action
3 credits
This online course addresses the teaching of inquiry-based science in elementary classrooms.  The course begins with review of inquiry in life and physical science and asks participants to apply knowledge of science concepts addressed in previous courses to the development of appropriate learning experiences in the elementary classroom. Graduate. Prerequisites: Teaching and Learning Elementary Science PLUS either Inquiry into Life Science or Teaching and Learning Physical Science.

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