Rate My Professor Kate Rice

Dr Kate Rice serves as a Facilitator in the Education Support Services at the University of Otago College of Education in Dunedin. In this role, she acts as the National Coordinator for Sciences and a dedicated Science Adviser, supporting educators through professional development opportunities and facilitation services. Her contributions focus on strengthening science education across primary and secondary levels, including the design of resources and workshops that integrate scientific concepts with core curriculum areas such as reading, writing, and mathematics.

Kate Rice earned her Doctor of Education (EdD) from the University of Otago College of Education in 2012. Her doctoral thesis, 'Building Nature of Science: Professional development model to enhance teaching practice,' investigated practitioner perspectives on professional development in science education. Supervised by Associate Professor Mary Simpson, the study emphasized models for incorporating the Nature of Science into teaching practices and was approved by the University of Otago Human Ethics Committee. Rice has presented her findings at international conferences, such as the World Conference on Science and Technology Education, and continues to disseminate results through university channels. She collaborates on funded projects, including a University of Otago initiative on curriculum leadership by middle leaders in secondary schools with Susan Sandretto. With more than 12 years of experience working directly with primary school teachers, Rice promotes engaging methods to encourage reluctant learners in recording observations, explanations, and scientific language. Her efforts extend to initiatives like BEANZ Level 3 regional workshops and Primary Science Hui, enhancing teacher capabilities in science education.