Attitudes Towards Science and Science Teaching -- Understanding How Coursework and Practicum Affect Preservice Elementary Teachers

Abstract

The purpose of this research project is to gather information on the attitudes and experiences of preservice teachers in science,science teaching, the science methods course, and the practicum experience. A review of the data revealed trends as to how the preservice teachers’ attitudes have changed positively, negatively, or not at all, as well as how the experiences influenced their attitudes. The findings will inform the science methods course as to what occurs during the practicum and how to better align course outcomes to the practicum experience.