Preparing Teachers to Use Problem-centered, Inquiry-based Science: Lessons from a Four-Year Professional Development Project
Abstract
Calls for reform in science education stress the need for inquiry-based, integrative methods that provide students with opportunities to solve authentic problems. Project INSITE, a four-year professional development effort in Indiana, was designed to help teachers integrate problem-centered science methods in their classrooms. This approach was characterized by use of a meaningful driving question anchored in a real-world context; student-conducted investigations that resulted in the creation of products; collaboration among students, teachers, and the community; and use of technology as a tool for gathering and sharing information. Quantitative and qualitative evaluations of the project suggest that it was generally successful in promoting positive teacher perceptions, fostering learner-centered classroom approaches, and leading to implementation of inquiry-based science in many classrooms.
Recommended Citation
Lehman , James D. ; George, Melissa ; Buchanan, Peggy ; and Rush, Michael
(2006)
"Preparing Teachers to Use Problem-centered, Inquiry-based Science: Lessons from a Four-Year Professional Development Project,"
Interdisciplinary Journal of Problem-based Learning:
Vol. 1: Iss. 1, Article 7.
Available at: http://docs.lib.purdue.edu/ijpbl/vol1/iss1/7
Download
