IMPROVING EARTH SCIENCE COMPETENCIES THROUGH TEACHER-SCIENTIST COLLABORATION

One approach to enhancing K12 teacher competency and student performance in science involves programs in which practicing scientists or university faculty model methods of inquiry for participants. Geologic aspects of evolution were addressed using this approach in a teacher professional development program for 6th–8th grade science teachers. Lessons developed during the workshop were implemented in classrooms. Assessments indicated increased comprehension for both participant teachers and their students.