Publication Date

2007

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

First Advisor

Lieberman, Joyce M.

Degree Name

Ed.D. (Doctor of Education)

Legacy Department

Department of Teaching and Learning

LCSH

Elementary school teachers--Training of--Illinois--Chicago

Abstract

This study examines factors that prepare elementary teachers to teach science. The need for this study arose from a concern about the lack of science literacy in American students. An important factor in student science literacy is the science literacy and preparation of elementary teachers. Many components comprise what creates an effective teacher. In the area of science, elementary teachers must be knowledgeable about content, general pedagogy, science pedagogy, and students. These factors make up a teacher’s “pedagogical content knowledge” (PCK). This study investigates how preparation shapes teachers’ PCK. Focus groups and document analysis were conducted in this study. These qualitative research methods were chosen because each contributed to determining what teachers perceived helped prepare them to teach science both in their preparation programs and outside of their programs. This study suggested high teacher self-confidence in science results in more science being taught. This generates student interest and literacy in the field. Selfconfidence is linked with the construct of PCK. The PCK model suggests teachers with increased science PCK are more effective in the classroom. In order to enhance a teacher’s PCK, preparation programs must be reformed. Furthermore, this study discusses ways preparation programs and districts can help increase teachers’ science PCK.

Comments

Includes bibliographical references (pages 201-211).

Extent

xii, 246 pages

Language

eng

Publisher

Northern Illinois University

Rights Statement

In Copyright

Rights Statement 2

NIU theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from Huskie Commons for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without the written permission of the authors.

Media Type

Text

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