Academic Journal
Elementary Science Indoors and Out: Teachers, Time, and Testing
| Title: | Elementary Science Indoors and Out: Teachers, Time, and Testing |
|---|---|
| Authors: | Carrier, Sarah J., Tugurian, Linda P., Thomson, Margareta M. |
| Source: | Research in Science Education. Oct 2013 43(5):2059-2083. |
| Abstract: | In this article, we present the results from a mixed-methods research study aimed to document indoor and outdoor fifth grade science experiences in one school in the USA in the context of accountability and standardized testing. We used quantitative measures to explore students' science knowledge, environmental attitudes, and outdoor comfort levels, and via qualitative measures, we examined views on science education and environmental issues from multiple sources, including the school's principal, teachers, and students. Students' science knowledge in each of the four objectives specified for grade 5 significantly improved during the school year. Qualitative data collected through interviews and observations found limited impressions of outdoor science. Findings revealed that, despite best intentions and a school culture that supported outdoor learning, it was very difficult in practice for teachers to supplement their classroom science instruction with outdoor activities. They felt constrained by time and heavy content demands and decided that the most efficient way of delivering science instruction was through traditional methods. Researchers discuss potentials and obstacles for the science community to consider in supporting teachers and preparing elementary school teachers to provide students with authentic experiential learning opportunities. We further confront teachers' and students' perceptions that science is always best and most efficiently learned inside the classroom through traditional text-driven instruction. |
| Language: | English |
| Availability: | Springer. 233 Spring Street, New York, NY 10013. Tel: 800-777-4643; Tel: 212-460-1500; Fax: 212-348-4505; e-mail: service-ny@springer.com; Web site: http://www.springerlink.com |
| Peer Reviewed: | Y |
| Page Count: | 25 |
| Publication Date: | 2013 |
| Document Type: | Journal Articles Reports - Research |
| Education Level: | Grade 4 Intermediate Grades Elementary Education Grade 5 Middle Schools |
| Descriptors: | Science Instruction, Mixed Methods Research, Outdoor Education, Grade 5, Elementary School Science, Accountability, Standardized Tests, Knowledge Level, Student Attitudes, Environmental Education, Scientific Attitudes, Principals, Elementary School Teachers, Interviews, Observation, School Culture, Teaching Conditions, Teacher Attitudes, Administrator Attitudes |
| DOI: | 10.1007/s11165-012-9347-5 |
| ISSN: | 0157-244X |
| Abstractor: | As Provided |
| Number of References: | 100 |
| Entry Date: | 2014 |
| Accession Number: | EJ1039211 |
| ISSN: | 0157-244X |
| DOI: | 10.1007/s11165-012-9347-5 |
| Database: | ERIC |