We present an inquiry-based, aquatic science professional development (PD) for upper-elementary, middle, and high school teachers and examine changes in student outcomes in light of participating teachers' characteristics and the grade band of the students. Our study lends support to the assertion that inquiry- and content-focused PD, paired with…

This study explored whether early childhood preservice teachers' concerns about teaching nature of science (NOS) and their intellectual levels influenced whether and how they taught NOS at the preschool and primary (K-3) levels. We used videotaped classroom observations and lesson plans to determine the science instructional practices at the…

Composite profiles of textbook-centered teachers (n=3) and multiple-centered teachers (n=3) and their classroom environments were constructed using data collected during classroom observations. The nature of teachers' textbook use and the relationship between factors indicative of the biology education "desired state" or "actual…

Examines the development and usefulness of the Elementary Science Teachers' Preferences (ESTP) test. Findings suggest that this instrument is useful and valid in determining differences between teaching preferences of teacher-centered and student-centered teachers. Findings also indicate that polarized labeling of teachers is inappropriate. (MA)

Reported is a study which investigated reasons responsible for the lack of enthusiasm among junior high teachers in implementing a new biology curriculum in Israel. Identified variables related to high expectations set at the ideal level, the greater role given to verbalization, and mechanical or routine implementation approaches. (ML)

Analysis of data taken from three qualitative studies, reveals that three secondary science teachers' classroom literacy practices were influenced by their philosophies and beliefs regarding teaching and discipline knowledge. (Contains 47 references.) (ZWH)

This study reports on a survey in Minnesota designed to provide a picture of the instructional styles that are used by seventh- and eighth-grade science teachers (n=139). Although relationships exist, it appears that seventh- and eighth-grade teachers are individualistic and diverse in their reported teaching technique preferences. (PR)

Presents study findings which explored the effect of teacher reasoning level and teaching style preference on improvement in student-reasoning ability. Reports that students of concrete operational teachers and of inquiry teachers showed greater gains in reasoning ability than students of formal operational teachers and of expository teachers. (ML)

Reports a study involving interviews with 20 physics teachers to determine their awareness of student alternate conceptions in the areas of force and gravity. (PR)

Investigated dynamics of change at the classroom level by identifying factors influencing change perceived by administrators, teachers, pupils, and investigator-observer. Results are reported as facilitating/hindering factors affecting adoption of individualized instruction, including teacher, course of study, facilities/materials, administration,…

Both teachers believe that the most important student outcome is factual knowledge, middle-grade students learn through repeated drill and practice, and these students require a great deal of direction. Their beliefs differ from the philosophy of an intended curriculum, thus hampering its successful implementation. (PR)