Building Competence in Science and Engineering Content: Research to Inform Practice

• In Event: Roundtable Session 10
  In Roundtable Session: Building Science and Engineering Content Literacy

Abstract

NGSS science and engineering practices are ways of eliciting the reasoning and applying foundational ideas in science. Studies have revealed one major impediment to implementing the NGSS, namely, insufficient teacher preparation. We examined a program grounded in research on how students learn science and engineering pedagogical content knowledge and strategies for incorporating NGSS S&E Practices. The program provided guided teaching practice, content learning, and engineering design tasks. This mixed-methods, quasi-experimental design examined teacher outcomes in the program for 24 months. Findings revealed significant increases in teachers’ competence and confidence in integrating science and engineering practices. Findings and their specificity contribute to current knowledge and can be utilized when selecting PD to support teachers preparing to implement the NGSS successfully.

Author

• Susan Haag