This dissertation investigates how teaching in a hands-on science center contributes to re/shaping one's teaching identity. Situated at the New York Hall of Science (NYHS) in Queens, New York, my research approach is to conduct a critical ethnography where the focus is on improving the teaching and learning of science for all involved. In…

GIFTED SCHOOL CHILDREN WORKED FOR A PERIOD OF SEVERAL MONTHS IN SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING SITUATIONS IN A RESOURCE ROOM WITHOUT TEACHER-IMPOSED DIRECTION. THEY HAD OPPORTUNITIES TO EXPLORE AREAS OF INTEREST (DURING TWO CLASS PERIODS PER DAY) IN READING, SOCIAL STUDIES, AND SCIENCE IN THE MANNER AND DEPTH WHICH THEY CHOSE. PRE- AND POST-TESTS WERE…