Senior Research Fellow (Natural Sciences and Science Education Department) [NIE]

The National Institute of Education invites suitable applications for the position of Senior Research Fellow on a 20-month contract at the Natural Sciences and Science Education Department.

This study delves into science learning in Primary 5 (P5) and Primary 6 (P6). The adoption and considered adaptations of the integrated suite of resources by P3 and P4 science teachers opens fresh opportunities for investigating science classroom practices in P5 and P6 in at least three domains.

• Examine and detail primary science learning interactions, trajectory, and adoption of integrated resources in P5/P6 and compare them with P3/P4 experiences. The P5/P6 study completes the documentation of classroom practices in primary science classrooms to offer a complete and comprehensive understanding of primary science teaching and learning in Singapore.
• Examine, detail, and compare adoption and adaptation of integrated resources in P5/P6 Standard and Foundation Science classes. Specifically, we seek to examine scaffolding, instructional approaches, and academic emotions of Standard and Foundation classes to inform review of curriculum and resources to make them more inclusive as well as explore differentiated learning approaches to cater to students of different learning progress.
• Examine and detail the development of Ways of Thinking and Doing Science (WOTD) in P5/P6 and compare them with P3/P4. Particularly, we examine how teachers support students to develop explanations from observations made and data collected during hands-on inquiry. We also will examine how students are supported to communicate their explanations. Strengthening students’ capacities to engage with all eight aspects of WOTD supports the development of E21CC such as critical, adaptive, and inventive thinking (CAIT) as well as communication in Science.

• PhD in Science Education or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience teaching science in K-12 schools.
• Demonstrated experience in the development of teaching resources at the national level.
• Strong academic publication record in the field of Science Education.
• Proficiency with mixed-method research approaches, including both quantitative and qualitative methodologies.

• →Coordinate the research team in data collection, analysis, and the preparation of research publications.
• →Conduct literature searches in the area of research.
• →Engage with schools and teachers to disseminate research findings.
• →Present research findings at international conferences.
• →Any other administrative duties as assigned by the Principal Investigator.

Applicants (external and internal) will apply via Workday. We regret that only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Closing date for advertisements will be set to 14 calendar days from date of posting.