Elementary Science Teaching Methods: Developing and Measuring Student Views about the Nature of Science

Conclusions

Given the time constraints on the one-semester elementary science methods course, instructors must be selective about what they teach to best prepare students to teach science. Developing student understandings of the nature of science is one of many areas to be addressed. The results reported here indicate that students begin their methods course with understandings of the nature of science which are largely incomplete. The results also indicate the potential of developing more complete understandings about the nature of science as a result of integrating teaching strategies throughout the semester. The students enrolled in this elementary science methods course develop significantly greater understanding about the nature of science throughout the semester, providing a sound foundation upon which students can continue to develop their understandings. These newly-acquired understandings increase the potential that these prospective teachers will assist their own students in developing authentic understandings and beliefs related to the nature of science.