Science in Education Program
Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need to know a lot of science to take this course?

A: No. This course was designed to assist educators who might not have a strong background in science to understand the fundamentals, and put inquiry-based science into practice in their own classrooms.

Q: How are classes actually conducted? Do I need to be online at certain "class" times?

A: No. This is an asynchronous course. You do not need to be online at a particular time. That means you arrange your study times to fit your personal schedule. We ask that participants login at the beginning of the week to pick up the assignments, and then participate in the discussion forums twice during the week (again, asynchronously).

Much of your coursework will be offline and completely away from your computer. You will carry out investigations (perhaps in your kitchen or outdoors), try ideas in your classroom or with children, read related articles about science or teaching, and do searches on the web or in the library for additional information.

Q: Do I have to be a master's degree candidate to enroll in the Try Science course?

A: No, you can take the course without being a master's degree candidate.

Q: What kind of computer equipment will I need to take this course?

A: The computer equipment you need is fairly standard. First, you will need a MAC or PC-based computer with a CD-ROM or DD drive, an email account, a web browser (either Netscape 4.0 or higher or Internet Explorer 4.0 or higher) and internet access. That's it.

Q: How are study groups formed?

A: We are interested in enrolling two to five people from the same geographic area in the Try Science course. The reason for creating local study groups is so participants can meet face-to-face and support each other in their learning.

If you are interested in enrolling, we encourage you to share this information with colleagues from your school or district who also may be interested in taking the course. Don't worry if you aren't able to create a local group. Participants who do not have local colleagues in the course will become part of virtual study groups.

Q: Is there financial aid for the Try Science course?

A: By registering for Try Science, you are registering as a non-matriculated student. Unless you are a matriculated, or enrolled, student in a degree program, Lesley University cannot offer you financial aid. For more information on financial aid as a master's degree candidate please contact the financial aid office at finaid@lesley.edu or visit their website at http://www.lesley.edu/financial.html.

Q: What is the tuition for the Science in Education online master's degree program?

A: he cost-per-credit for courses beginning in the Summer, 2005 semester in the Online Master's Degree program is $450. Additional materials fees, ranging from $60 to $140, cover materials that are necessary for the program. A $30 per semester registration fee will also apply. Students are responsible for registration and payment on a semester by semester basis.

Q: How do I apply for the Science in Education online master's degree program?

A: You may download a graduate application [pdf] from the Office of Graduate Admissions website. Or you may call 1-800-999-1959 x8300 (or 617-349-8300 in the Boston/Cambridge area) to request an application.

Q: Can I earn CEUs and/or Professional Development Points (PDPs) by taking Science in Education courses?

A: You will earn graduate credits for these courses (for example: Try Science is a three credit course). Therefore, we will not be issuing PDPs or CEUs for your involvement.