Journal Article: Using Scientists and Real-World Scenarios in Professional Development for Middle School Science Teachers

Journal Article · Sun Apr 01 04:00:00 EDT 2007 · Journal of Science Teacher Education, 18(2):165-184

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1007/s10972-006-9034-3· OSTI ID:941000

Morrison, Judith A; Estes, Jeffrey C

Middle school science teachers were involved in a problem-solving experience presented and guided by research scientists. Data on the teachers’ perspectives about this professional development and any impact it may have had on their teaching practices were collected through interviews, surveys, and classroom observations. The findings show that the professional development experience was positive, although one concern expressed by teachers was their lack of understanding of the scientists’ vocabulary. Using scientists and real-world scenarios was shown to be an effective strategy for encouraging middle school teachers to teach science as a process and help them strengthen their science content understanding.

• Research Organization: Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), Richland, WA (US)
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• DOE Contract Number: AC05-76RL01830
• OSTI ID: 941000
• Report Number(s): PNNL-SA-62978
• Journal Information: Journal of Science Teacher Education, 18(2):165-184, Journal Name: Journal of Science Teacher Education, 18(2):165-184 Journal Issue: 2 Vol. 18
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

99 GENERAL AND MISCELLANEOUS
EDUCATION
EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES
PERSONNEL
Professional Development for Middle School Science Teachers
TRAINING