Particulate nature of matter, self-efficacy, and pedagogical content knowledge: Case studies in inquiry

CHED 151

Kathryn Nafziger, nafzigkm@muohio.edu and Stacey Lowery Bretz, bretzsl@muohio.edu. Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Miami University, 369 Hughes Laboratory, Oxford, OH 45056
Providing meaningful learning experiences for students within the elementary grades is essential as Americans strive for academic excellence. Unfortunately in this age of standards-based instruction, many elementary teachers focus extensively on literacy, in the process marginalizing science education for their students. To help reverse this trend, the Talawanda School District recently implemented inquiry-based learning cycles specifically designed to link the teaching of science and literacy through science-themed trade books. Case studies were conducted with three elementary teachers who were involved in the implementation of the inquiry-based learning cycles. Results regarding teacher knowledge about the particulate nature of matter, self-efficacy, and pedagogical content knowledge will be presented.
 

General Posters
7:30 PM-9:30 PM, Sunday, April 6, 2008 Morial Convention Center -- Hall A, Poster

Division of Chemical Education

The 235th ACS National Meeting, New Orleans, LA, April 6-10, 2008