This study questioned whether there is a difference between Maryland Collaborative for Teacher Preparation (MCTP) teacher candidates and non-MCTP teacher candidates in the science content knowledge, beliefs, and perceptions they bring to their science classes, and in whether they complete the science methods course in their teacher education program. The study evaluated student teachers according to content preparedness to teach elementary students, their vision of an appropriate science learning environment for elementary students, and the rationale for and intent to make connections between science and mathematics in elementary education. (Contains 11 references.) (YDS)