Cultural Science Night with Korean Science Teacher Candidates

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session Three
  In Roundtable Session: Teaching Science for Culture Relevance and Justice (Table 4)

Abstract

Cultural competencies and confidence in teaching diverse students are needed to close achievement gaps between mainstream and minority students in science. An online teacher education program, Cultural Science Night was designed to help retain teacher candidates’ science affinities and cultural competency during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thirty-two Korean teacher candidates were selected as culturally responsive instructors who were able to reduce their cultural bias and preferences about Korean culture and develop culturally responsive instruction. Pre- and post-survey results show that Cultural Science Night increased the teacher candidates’ cultural proficiency and interest in science. Guidelines for research on designing online programs to enhance teacher candidates’ science affinities and cultural competencies are provided.

Authors

• Jiyoon Yoon, University of Texas - Arlington
  Presenting Author

• Yeonjoo Ko, Ewha Womans University
  Presenting Author

• Hyunju Lee, Ewha Womans University
  Presenting Author