ERIC Number: EJ1456662
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2025
Pages: 25
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0950-0693
EISSN: EISSN-1464-5289
Elementary Teachers' Knowledge of Using Language as an Epistemic Tool in Science Classrooms: A Case Study
International Journal of Science Education, v47 n2 p232-256 2025
Language is a fundamental tool for learning science. This study highlights the importance of teacher knowledge in utilising language as a tool for knowledge generation in the classrooms. This case study examines elementary teachers' development of declarative, procedural, and epistemic knowledge related to using language, particularly focusing on how a three-year professional development programme centred around the Science Writing Heuristic (SWH) approach influences the development of these knowledge bases. Our findings indicate that the SWH PD positively influenced the teachers' knowledge development while there were disparities in knowledge development across individual teachers and knowledge aspects. We further discuss the changes in the teachers' knowledge and provide implications for future professional development and research regarding language use in science classrooms.
Descriptors: Elementary School Teachers, Epistemology, Knowledge Level, Elementary School Science, Language Role, Teaching Methods, Classroom Environment, Science Instruction, Science Teachers, Scientific Concepts, Pedagogical Content Knowledge, Faculty Development, Heuristics, Content Area Writing
Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 530 Walnut Street Suite 850, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Tel: 215-625-8900; Fax: 215-207-0050; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Elementary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: National Science Foundation (NSF)
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: 1812576