Field-Based Research Experience in Earth Science Teacher Education

Abstract

A pilot of a field-based, research experience in Earth Science teacher education program was conducted for a cohort of secondary science teachers from Prince George's County, Maryland. The goal of this M.Ed. degree program at Loyola College in Maryland was to produce well-prepared, scientifically and technologically literate Earth Science teachers, through a teaching- and research-oriented partnership between in-service teachers and a university scientist-educator. Program participants were exposed to a broad background in field-based instruction in physical, historical, and environmental aspects of Earth Science content and teaching methods, followed by participation in an authentic, technology-rich field research project. Attrition rates were initially high, as some participants had difficulty with the logistics and conditions of working in field settings. The pilot program was successful, however, in achieving its goal of preparing quality Earth Science teachers through field research experiences. Participants have become confident and innovative in their Earth Science teaching and have developed effective field-based curricula for their own classrooms. The participants have published and presented the results of their societally-relevant geologic study at national and international conferences, contributing to the body of Earth Science knowledge, locally and globally.