Student teachers' entry perceptions about teaching primary science: Does a first degree make a difference? |
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| Authors: | Associate Professor Keith Skamp |
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| Institution: | (1) Southern Cross University, PO Box 157, 2480 Lismore, NSW, Australia |
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| Abstract: | It is problematic whether primary teachers benefit by completing a first degree especially when the teaching of specific subjects,
here science, is the focus of attention. This study reports the comparative results of interviewing thirteen Canadian and
ten Australian student teachers, both about to commence their Bachelor of Education. The Canadian students had completed an
initial degree while nine of the Australian students were school leavers. The interviews, which explored views about teaching
primary science, were analysed with this factor in mind. Student teacher perceptions reported include: how to recognise a
“good” primary science teacher; perceptions of self as a “good” primary science teacher; expectations of how the teacher education
program could assist their science teaching; and whether (for the Canadian students) the initial degree will help in becoming
a primary science teacher. Analysis of the interviews suggests possible influences a first degree (among other factors) may
have on perceptions related to primary science teaching and raises questions about what is the best general approach for preparing
primary teachers to teach science effectivly. |
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