Concepts of Human Biology and Ecology and their Didactics
Course Code (in greek): ΘΠ0309
ECTS Units: 5
Semester: 6
Professor: Ampatzidis Georgios
Course description
The course is centered on developing knowledge about humans and nature. It aims to introduce basic concepts of human biology and ecology so that students can develop an explanatory model for (a) the functioning of the human body, and (b) the interactions between organisms and their environment. The course also seeks to support students in designing teaching activities related to the human body and basic ecological knowledge in kindergarten. The course aims to: (a) familiarize students with key scientific concepts of human biology and ecology, (b) highlight the importance of children’s pre-existing conceptions in teaching and learning related concepts, (c) support students in designing teaching activities concerning fundamental concepts of human biology and ecology in kindergarten.
Expected outcomes
During the course, students are expected to:
- understand the functioning of basic systems of the human body (digestive, respiratory, circulatory, reproductive),
- relate genes to protein synthesis and the expression of human traits,
- understand the interaction of organisms in nature,
- understand the flow of energy and matter in ecosystems,
- recognize the importance of children’s conceptions of the human body and of organism relationships in teaching and learning,
- understand the basic principles of teaching related concepts and phenomena in kindergarten.
Assessment
The course assessment consists of a written exam at the end of the semester.
