The course will examine issues associated with curriculum planning and enactment. Issues such as representations of chemistry concepts, the nature of chemistry, the role of models and the effect of socio-cultural issues on the teaching and learning of chemistry will be examined.  In addition, in order to integrate their learning with their professional practice the participants will undertake research in their own chemistry classrooms.  A core goal of the course is to establish and maintain a community of learners of chemistry and chemistry education.

Each class will consist of laboratory activity, seminar/discussion and lecture. Laboratory activity will provide an environment for the examination of specific issues related to the teaching and learning of chemistry and will require both written pre-lab and post-lab reports. Discussion and lecture will provide contexts for examination of broader issues associated with the teaching and learning of chemistry. Participants may be expected to contribute to and to lead the discussions using their written analysis of the readings.

Participants are required to demonstrate the methods that they are using to integrate their social, cultural and conceptual understandings in their own classrooms by organizing site visits.