FAQ
I think I would like to teach at the college level. Would the Minor in Science Education or the Minor in Mathematics Education be useful for me?
Definitely. In the courses you will explore how students learn concepts at many levels, from the very elementary to the kinds of things you are studying in your college courses. Also, keep in mind that many of the difficulties your college students may have will be rooted in concepts they studied in high school or even earlier, so it is very important to know where your students are coming from.
Are the math and science education minor courses useful for people considering other careers?
Absolutely. We think everyone should take at least one of the science or math education courses in the minors. Communicating ideas effectively is essential in nearly every profession. Effective communication of scientific and mathematical ideas has multiple components. It begins by taking stock of one's own understanding. This is not simple. It means learning how to ask good questions of oneself. Once one is satisfied that one's own understanding is solid, the next step is deciding what ideas to get across and how. This step depends on the audience. Thus learning how different people learn is essential to good communication in any setting. These are the kinds of things you will explore in the math and science education courses in the minors.
Do I have to be a science or math major to sign up for the Minor in Science Education or the Minor in Mathematics Education?
No. They are open to any majors. However, note that Calculus 10C or 20C is a prerequisite for two courses in the Minor in Mathematics Education, and Chemistry 6C is a prerequisite for two courses in the Minor in Science Education. Also, for the 129/139 courses, preference may be given to students with a strong science, math or engineering background because without it, students will not be competitive for UCSD’s M.Ed./Single Subject Credential Program in Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, Biology or Geosciences.
Of course, you can’t have a major and minor in the same thing, so Mathematics Secondary Education Majors can’t also minor in Mathematics Education. Similarly Chemical Education Majors and Physics Secondary Education Majors can’t minor in Science Education.
I’m not sure if I want to be a teacher, but I’d like to get some experience working with K-12 students. Are there any other courses suitable for me?
Yes. In addition to CHEM 96/MATH 95 + EDS 39, you should check out the Partners At Learning program offered by Education Studies. These classes are open to all majors, and give you the opportunity to work with students in under-served schools.
I think I want to be a teacher, but my schedule is already so full that I don’t know if I have room for many education courses. Should I consider dropping something so I can fit them in?
You don’t have to. You can opt for the two year Master of Education degree/Credential Program after you get your Bachelor’s. Of course, it is good to get at least some experience working with K-12 students, through volunteer work or an Education Studies class, to make sure teaching is the right career for you. Relevant is experience is also important for you application to a credential program.