An Innovative Course Featuring Action Research Integrated with Unifying Science Themes
Source: Journal of Science Teacher Education, Volume 20, Number 6 / December 2009, pages 537-552.
In this article, the authors describe an innovative capstone course for preservice K-8 teachers integrating action research and a unifying theme in science (AAAS, 1989; NRC, 1996).
The goals of the capstone course are to increase student knowledge of the unifying theme, improve written communication skills, and introduce students to educational research.
The authors provide evidence that each of these goals is met.
Student growth in theme knowledge is demonstrated through concept maps, questionnaires, and previously reported assessments.
Improved writing ability is demonstrated using the spelling and grammar checking feature of Microsoft Word.
The analysis of action research reports demonstrates that students are able to connect their action research project results to previous research.
References
AAAS in Science for all Americans. Oxford University Press, New York, 1989.
NRC in National science education standards. National Academy Press, Washington, DC, 1996.