ERIC Number: EJ862503
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2009-Dec
Pages: 16
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1046-560X
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
An Innovative Course Featuring Action Research Integrated with Unifying Science Themes
Otto, Charlotte A.; Luera, Gail R.; Everett, Susan A.
Journal of Science Teacher Education, v20 n6 p537-552 Dec 2009
In this article, we describe an innovative capstone course for preservice K-8 teachers integrating action research and a unifying theme in science (AAAS in Science for all Americans. Oxford University Press, New York, 1989; NRC in National science education standards. National Academy Press, Washington, DC, 1996). The goals of the capstone course are to increase student knowledge of the unifying theme, improve written communication skills, and introduce students to educational research. We provide evidence that each of these goals is met. Student growth in theme knowledge is demonstrated through concept maps, questionnaires, and previously reported assessments. Improved writing ability is demonstrated using the spelling and grammar checking feature of Microsoft Word. The analysis of action research reports demonstrates that students are able to connect their action research project results to previous research.
Descriptors: Concept Mapping, Educational Research, Action Research, Writing Ability, Communication Skills, Elementary School Teachers, Preservice Teacher Education, Preservice Teachers, Science Teachers, Science Education, Science Instruction, National Standards, Teacher Education Curriculum, Writing Improvement, Instructional Effectiveness
Springer. 233 Spring Street, New York, NY 10013. Tel: 800-777-4643; Tel: 212-460-1500; Fax: 212-348-4505; e-mail: service-ny@springer.com; Web site: http://www.springerlink.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A