Preservice Teacher Learning of Interdisciplinary Controversial Issues: Linking Social Studies and Science in the Elementary Curriculum

• In Event: Roundtable Session 17
  In Roundtable Session: Novel Instructional Approaches to Develop Preservice Teachers' Pedagogical Practice

Abstract

With an increasingly inter-disciplinary curriculum in the elementary grades, pre-service teachers require exposure to such a curriculum in methods coursework. Exposure to integration not traditionally considered in pre-service coursework provides pre-service teachers with powerful learning experiences that require a reconsideration of previously held beliefs and practices. In this paper, the authors explore student learning within a two-week unit on inter-disciplinary instruction that links social studies and science through controversial issues in two semesters of an elementary social studies methods course. Findings show a shift in beliefs regarding the teaching of controversy and inter-disciplinary lessons, but the impact a limited exposure to controversy in prior education experiences has on pre-service teachers’ ability to develop a curriculum that reflects shifting beliefs.

Authors

• Brandon M. Butler, Old Dominion University

• Stephen Burgin, University of Arkansas at Fayetteville

• Mark M Diacopoulos, Old Dominion University

• William McConnell, Old Dominion University