Literacy-Based STEM Lessons to Improve Elementary Teacher Candidates' Views of Science Instruction

• In Event: Meeting Contemporary Challenges of K–8 Science Teaching and Learning

Abstract

As recent surveys concerning the climate of science education in the United States continue to highlight elementary educator’s lack of confidence with teaching science, specifically regarding STEM-based pedagogies, it is continually obvious formal preparation within STEM is needed. As elementary teachers continue to express higher levels of confidence with teaching reading, science teacher educators should consider STEM-infused lesson approaches within professional learning contexts. In this study the researcher explored how facilitating STEM-infused modules during a science methods course influenced elementary teacher candidates’ views of teaching science as they relate to cognitive beliefs, affective states, and perceived control. Findings reveal some constructs, such as affective states, showing more positive shifts than other constructs, such as cognitive beliefs.

Author

• Melanie Elizabeth Kinskey, Sam Houston State University
  Presenting Author