Engaging Future Teachers in Having Wonderful Ideas

Leslie J. Atkins, Irene Y. Salter

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

This chapter describes a course in open scientific inquiry for preservice teachers. The course uses neither a textbook nor a lab manual, but instead engages students in developing models of puzzling phenomena through an iterative process of designing experiments, crafting models, debating, and refining ideas. We outline strategies for planning such a course, including materials and classroom setup. We discuss basic structures in the class, including introducing an initial question or phenomenon, engaging in small-group investigations, leading whole-class conversations, and assessing students’ work. Included are a range of examples of student ideas and student work, and results of surveys on students’ progress.
Original languageAmerican English
Title of host publicationRecruiting and Educating Future Physics Teachers: Case Studies and Effective Practices
StatePublished - 2015
Externally publishedYes

EGS Disciplines

  • Science and Mathematics Education

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