Compares science and mathematics experience of prospective elementary teachers (n=96) and other nonscience arts and sciences majors (n=179). Results revealed that on the average both groups received equal training in each subject area. However, data suggest that elementary teachers' attitude toward science warrants concern. (ZWH)

Survey results contrast teachers' (n=159) knowledge and understanding with the understanding levels expected by England's science National Curriculum. Teacher's understanding with respect to the concepts of force, energy, and changes in materials are discussed. (Contains 29 references.) (MDH)

Presents the results of a survey study conducted to identify the status of science education in the elementary schools (K-6) of Illinois during the 1975-1976 school year and to establish a data base. Implications of the findings are also included. (HM)

Seeks to identify the differences that may exist between teachers' and research scientists' perceptions of the nature of science, scientific method, and related aspects of science education. Suggests that the differences recognized may be the result of three factors: (1) processes of teachers' construction of their knowledge about how children…

Female elementary school teachers (n=42) were asked to identify the scientific skills that each student in their class displayed to determine differences in their perceptions of the scientific ability of girls and boys. Teachers perceived boys to be more cognitively intellectual and girls to be more cognitive process in their scientific abilities.…

Examined elementary and secondary education students' attitudes and understanding of science processes prior to taking methods courses, immediately after completing the courses, and upon completing their practice teaching experiences. Implications based on differences in attitudes between the two levels (including negative attitudes for secondary…

The impact of field experience on attitudes toward science and science teaching of 80 prospective elementary teachers at East Carolina University was investigated. (HM)

Investigated is the impact on attitudes of prospective elementary school teachers of pragmatic, success-oriented courses in science as prerequisites for entry into science methods courses. A need for exposing prospective teachers to instructional strategies and experiences which are consistent with teaching practices and curricula employed in a…

Reports on a study which gathered demographic data about New England elementary science methods faculty. Summarizes findings about each faculty member's professional preparation, related work-load responsibilities, and elementary teaching experience as well as other demographic data. Discusses criteria for a model elementary science methods…

Discusses a study which was designed to examine if spatial-visual skills are related to learning the volume concept and if a particular mode of presentation for teaching volume is preferable for students of differing spatial ability. Results indicate that students of low visual orientation benefit if volume is taught before area and length. (ML)

Reports a study designed to gather demographic data about New England teacher education institutions concerning science content, science processes and methods, science teaching techniques, effectiveness of science preparation, and general preparation of elementary science teachers. Compares findings with a nationwide survey. (ML)

Reviews research conducted between 1966 and 1978 dealing with changing the attitude of preservice elementary teachers toward science and science teachers. Categories of research discussed include elementary science methods courses, micro-teaching, audio-tutorial and self-paced learning, various approaches (humanistic, inquiry, inductive-deductive,…

Investigates and substantiates the effectiveness of the peer teaching approach on the ability of preservice elementary teachers (N=60) to acquire concepts selected from the Elementary Science Methodology Course and on their attitudes towards science and elementary school science. (CS)

This case study documents an example of inquiry learning and teaching during a summer institute for elementary and middle school teachers. A small group constructed an explanatory model for an intriguing optical phenomenon that they were observing. Research questions included: What physics thinking did the learners express? What aspects of…

Elementary and middle school teachers in urban schools in India provided responses to the science efficacy instrument (STEBI-A). These responses were evaluated using Rasch analysis and parametric tests. Rasch fit statistics and person-item maps were evaluated. It was found that the instrument worked well for the two groups of teachers, but the…