Understanding the Importance of Nature of Science Through Field-Based Experiences

• In Event: Science Teaching and Learning: Informal and Out-of-School Science Education

Abstract

Holding informed views of nature of science (NOS) is critical for elementary teacher candidates to move from a conceptual understanding to a practical application. For teachers to implement specific content or instructional method, however, they must believe it is valuable. Teacher candidates often improve their views of NOS outside the context of the classroom, during methods or content courses held during preparation programs, making it difficult to understand the importance. The current study explores the use of a field-based NOS assignment with young children as a method for improving teacher candidates’ views of NOS and understanding of its importance. Findings suggest working with children and NOS are effective in influencing how teacher candidates view the importance of NOS instruction.

Author

• Melanie Elizabeth Kinskey, Sam Houston State University