Alternative Conceptions in Biology-Related Topics of Integrated Science Teachers and Implications for Teacher Education |
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| Authors: | Mak Se Yuen Yip Din Yan Chung Choi Man |
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| Institution: | (1) Department of Curriculum and Instruction, Faculty of Education, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong |
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| Abstract: | This paper reports a study of the alternative conceptions held by junior secondary science teachers enrolled in an in-service teacher training program. The subjects completed a written instrument which probed their understanding of biological concepts in the integrated science curriculum. The subjects, particularly the nonbiology graduates, were found to show serious misunderstanding in concepts concerning diversity of life, photosynthesis and respiration, reproduction, and detecting the environment. This finding supports the assertion that our science teachers, being graduates in specific areas, are inadequately prepared to teach a broad and balanced junior science curriculum. To strengthen the subject matter knowledge and pedagogical skills of prospective and practicing junior science teachers, a number of provisions are suggested for teacher training programs, undergraduate science courses, and school-based activities. |
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| Keywords: | Alternative conceptions subject matter knowledge science teachers biological concepts |
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