Document: CHI-3-99-102

College science teacher beliefs and influence on helping preservice biology teachers to do science.

YEN, C.F.* ¹ and S.C.HUANG ²

Providence University, Taiwan ¹
National Changhua University of Education, Changhua, 50058 Taiwan ²

Abstract:
This study sought to provide a in depth understanding of a college instructor's belief and conception of the progress of science while supervising an open-inquiry research program focused upon the ecological physiology of a tree frog, Chirixalus eiffingeri. The project involved 10 students in two spring semesters. Multiple data sources were established including classroom discussions, group meetings, weekly reflective essays, interview transcripts with instructor and students, and instructor- produced artifacts. All laboratory discussions were audio-taped and field notes during discussion and experiments were taken. We described a college-based researcher/teacher educator's belief about an authentic learning environment based on designing and implementing more authentic science in an eco-physiological laboratory. The ways in which the instructor's previous research experience changed his views about science and science teaching, and the interaction between instructors and students that impacted on his practice were discussed. Finally, student cases were taken to illustrate over time, our understandings of students' views and the authentic learning environment.

Keywords: education

This abstract is being presented at: 9:15 AM in session:
Oral Session #24: Ecological Learning Activities.