Zooming in on Socio-Scientific Issues: Exploring Science and Social Studies Integration with Preservice Teachers

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Wednesday 1:45pm
  In Poster Session: Supporting Sensemaking in Science Teaching and Learning

Abstract

Given the marginalization of science and social studies in P-6 classrooms, integrating these subjects offers an effective alternative to promote both. One integrated approach involves using socio-scientific issues (SSI). This mixed-methods study investigated changes in 25 early childhood and elementary preservice teachers’ understanding, confidence, and competence in designing SSI lessons after a learning module. We conducted pre- and post-surveys and collected preservice teachers’ SSI lesson plans and reflections. Findings reveal that all participants gained new insights into the importance and application of SSI and developed confidence in integrating it. However, the quality of the lessons varied. We also found that when preservice teachers related personal experiences to SSI, they were more likely to incorporate SSI into their teaching.

Authors

• Soo Won Shim, Illinois State University

• Xiaoying Zhao, Illinois State University

• Sung Eun Jung, University of Arizona