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A substantial achievement gap between K-12 English learners (ELs) and non-ELs in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) content areas exists, as indicated by national assessments of student outcomes. Considering the expected steady increase in students who are ELs in the U.S., determining methods for addressing this achievement gap is of immediate concern. Research has indicated this gap may be exacerbated by lack of adequate teacher preparation, specifically in STEM fields, to effectively teach students who are culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD). Founded in previous research about effective teacher preparation, the current case study pilots and reports on a model of early STEM preservice teacher training that integrates: knowledge of language development for ELs, early experiences with CLD learners, and professional development activities that guide the implementation of STEM pedagogical methods. Five STEM preservice teachers participated in a year-long supplemental training program focused on adapting STEM instruction for ELs. Components of the supplemental program included: (a) coursework extending teacher knowledge of EL language development, (b) fieldwork providing early exposure to research-based teaching experiences with EL students, and (c) professional development guiding the creation of hands-on STEM curriculum for diverse learners. Five secondary preservice teachers experienced increases in self-efficacy, growth in STEM instructional practices, and greater motivation for teaching in high-need schools. Results will inform educational models for improving STEM-EL teaching, thereby addressing a crucial need to serve the growing national population of underserved students.
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Models and Impacts of Science Research Experiences: A Review of the Literature of CUREs, UREs, and TREs
In efforts to increase scientific literacy and enhance the preparation of learners to pursue careers in science, there are growing opportunities for students and teachers to engage in scientific research experiences, including course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs), undergraduate research experiences (UREs), and teacher research experiences (TREs). Prior literature reviews detail a variety of models, benefits, and challenges and call for the continued examination of program elements and associated impacts. This paper reports a comprehensive review of 307 papers published between 2007 and 2017 that include CURE, URE, and TRE programs, with a special focus on research experiences for K–12 teachers. A research-supported conceptual model of science research experiences was used to develop a coding scheme, including participant demographics, theoretical frameworks, methodology, and reported outcomes. We summarize recent reports on program impacts and identify gaps or misalignments between goals and measured outcomes. The field of biology was the predominant scientific disciplinary focus. Findings suggest a lack of studies explicitly targeting 1) participation and outcomes related to learners from underrepresented populations, 2) a theoretical framework that guides program design and analysis, and, for TREs, 3) methods for translation of research experiences into K–12 instructional practices, and 4) measurement of impact on K–12 instructional practices.
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- PAR ID:
- 10180840
- Date Published:
- Journal Name:
- CBE—Life Sciences Education
- Volume:
- 18
- Issue:
- 4
- ISSN:
- 1931-7913
- Page Range / eLocation ID:
- ar65
- Format(s):
- Medium: X
- Sponsoring Org:
- National Science Foundation
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- Free Publicly Accessible Full Text
-
Accepted Manuscript
- Journal Article:
- https://doi.org/10.1187/cbe.19-03-0069
