Examines factors that influence personal science teaching efficacy and science teaching outcome expectancy in elementary teachers. Data collection methods included questionnaires and interviews. Results indicate that preservice and inservice experiences, such as success in high-quality science courses and workshops, access to resources and time,…

Reports a study designed to assess the correlation of science knowledge and science attitude of third-year preservice elementary teachers (N=92) using Christman's Science From Concepts Achievement Test (SFCAT) and Shrigley's Science Attitude Scale for Preservice Teachers. A low positive correlation was found to exist between science attitude and…

Science educators have recently begun to enact and study new, collaborative forms of professional development. Yet, few recognize that doing so requires contesting historical meanings of "university-school collaboration" and "professional development," both of which may operate to sustain a hierarchy model of collaboration. The hierarchy model…

Science teachers must adapt curriculum materials, so preservice teachers must develop beginning proficiency with this authentic task of teaching. What criteria do they use when they critique these materials in preparation for adapting them, when they develop the criteria themselves and when they are given a set of criteria from which to choose?…

Compared the effect of a film-mediated model to the effect of a self rating, written model in developing trainees' ability to ask appropriate classroom questions. Showed no significant difference between the two methods. (PR)

Describes the extent to which an elementary teacher used teaching principles based on constructivism after attending an inservice program. Use of the new principles was influenced by his views of science and of learning, how he usually planned his teaching, and his confidence in his own understanding of the topic. Describes inservice program based…

Interviews and surveys using the Science Teaching Efficacy Beliefs Inventory of (n=120) preservice elementary teachers' science teaching self-efficacy before and after planning and teaching a cooperative elementary science lesson at a local public school found evidence that early cooperative field experience had a positive influence on the…

Assesses elementary school teachers' needs through use of the Moore Assessment Profile. One hundred and seven K-6 teachers responded to the survey. Factor analysis revealed that the sample perceived four need areas: (1) providing realistic science experiences; (2) developing basic science skills; (3) developing an understanding of the relationship…

Determined if listing thoughts evoked after exposure to arguments presented in a two-sided persuasive communication serves to enhance attitude change and if the number of favorable thoughts listed by preservice elementary teachers following exposure to persuasive communication are related to their changed attitudes toward energy conservation. (JN)

Describes the development of six science teaching attitude scales, using the procedures similar to those of the Scientific Attitude Inventory. Included are field test results obtained from the elementary teachers of an inservice summer project. (CC)

Professional development (PD) for primary science teachers is recognized as an important activity which can support improved science education for students. Analysis of interviews with practicing primary science teachers is used to identify the range of PD experiences of a sample of teachers from Western Australia. Teachers' reasons for attending…

Examines the prevailing system for the training of science teachers, particularly for the primary and secondary levels. Outlines the entrance requirements and curriculum for each level. Analyzes the system and offers suggestions for general improvement. (GS)

Describes the major topics and discussions presented at a bi-national (United States-Japanese) seminar. Concludes that the overriding problem in both countries is the fact that available in-service training is reaching only a very small percentage of the practicing teachers. (MLH)

Discusses development of courses in general oceanography at university levels. Designed for preservice elementary and secondary school teachers and general education students, the suggested courses are appropriate for inland as well as coastal universities and for instruction in the social and cultural impact of science. (JM)