Investigating the Roles and Responsibilities of District Science Coordinators

• In Event: Roundtable Session 12
  In Roundtable Session: Expanding Roles in Professional Development

Abstract

This mixed-methods study explored roles and responsibilities of district science coordinators. Surveys (n=122) and interviews (n=15) were administered to a national sample of science education leaders. Results demonstrated the majority of coordinators identified themselves as Caucasian, female, and served in their position less than 10 years. Most coordinators had a science degree, were former science teachers, and wanted coordinator-focused professional development. Respondents without science degrees tended to be at smaller, rural school districts and were responsible for multiple content areas. Respondents working in larger, urban school districts tended to have science backgrounds, more professional responsibilities, with less content areas. Interviews revealed barriers and difficulties associated with the position. Results provide practical implications to support science instruction in public school districts.

Authors

• Brooke A Whitworth, Northern Arizona University

• Jennifer L. Maeng, University of Virginia

• Jennifer L. Chiu, University of Virginia