An Innovative Approach to Improving Science Instruction in a Rural Community Through University Partnerships

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Saturday 9:50 am Four Seasons Ballroom 2-3
  In Roundtable Session: Varied Ways to Advance STEM Education in Schools (Table 12)

Abstract

This instrumental case study describes the steps to establish and implement a university-school partnership to improve rural science teachers’ content knowledge and teaching practices, and students’ achievement in elementary science and high school biology courses. Our research questions explored the impact of professional development and place-based learning on student outcomes, with the study's methodology involving needs assessments, teacher training, and continuous support through modeling and coaching. The findings include gains in achievement and substantial gains in science education. The findings have implications for designing, implementing, and evaluating university-school partnerships designed to build teachers’ capacity to deliver high-quality science education and improve student success in rural school districts.

Authors

• Venicia Ferrell, Old Dominion University

• Alexis Tharpe, Old Dominion University