Changes in Elementary Preservice Teachers' Attitudes About Science During Courses Following the 5E Instructional Model

• In Event: 15.043 - Approaches to Accessing Learning Environments

Abstract

This study involved the attitudes towards science of elementary preservice teachers at a large public university in Texas. A version of the Test of Science Related Attitudes (TOSRA) was used to assess teachers’ attitudes before and after completing a teaching methods course. The coursework involved an integrated science curriculum and centered on the 5E lesson cycle. Statistical analyses showed significant improvements in attitudes towards science in four of the seven TOSRA scales. In contrast, for two TOSRA scales, there was a deterioration in attitudes. Overall, the science method instruction seemed to have a positive effect on elementary preservice teachers’ attitudes.

Authors

• Christopher Sean Long, University of North Texas

• Barry J. Fraser, Curtin University

• Karthigeyan Subramaniam, University of North Texas

• Pamela E. Harrell, University of North Texas