Investigating Essential Characteristics of Scientific Practices in Elementary Science Learning Environments: The Practices of Science Observation Protocol (P-SOP)

• In Event: Poster Session 13
  In Poster Session: Investigations of Science Learning

Abstract

We employ a newly-developed observation protocol, the Practices of Science Observation Protocol (P-SOP), to investigate essential characteristics of scientific practices in which early learners engage in elementary classrooms. This research is part of a multi-year professional development program designed to support elementary teachers (K-6) in a large, urban school district to learn to better engage students in scientific practices. Project teachers videorecorded enacted science lessons (n=124) which were used as data. Findings illustrate essential features of scientific inquiry and scientific practices observed in elementary classrooms, as well as establish the P-SOP as a valid and reliable observation protocol. These findings have important implications for the design of elementary science learning environments and associated research and development efforts in the field.

Authors

• Cory T. Forbes, University of Iowa

• Mandy Biggers, The Pennsylvania State University - University Park

• Laura Zangori, University of Missouri - Columbia