Modifying Program Implementation and Addressing Sustainability Issues to Improve Research Experiences for Teachers
Abstract
"The recruiting strategies and implementation of a year-long professional development program using authentic research experiences to promote explicit nature of science instruction in the classroom evolved to better address the needs of program participants, and the partnering school system, as well as, lay the groundwork for future program sustainability. Changes to the recruiting strategy included broadening accessibility of the program, encouraging repeat participation, and encouraging development of cohorts within individual schools. Changes to programmatic implementation led to developing enrichment and extension activities for repeating participants, and providing and encouraging leadership opportunities for repeating participants. Additionally, relationship building with the partnering school system helped guide program modifications to create a useful product for both teachers, and the system as a whole."
