This chapter presents findings from several investigations connected to the preparation of secondary-level science teachers, comparing two secondary science teacher preparation programs (undergraduate and graduate) at a large Midwestern university. The different program designs resulted in a greater use of reform-based science instructional practices by graduate level candidates with science degrees.
Teach (STEM)3: A Clinical Residency Model for Preparing Effective STEM Teachers
The University of Indianapolis Teach (STEM)3 awards a MAT degree with licensure in Chemistry, Biology, or Math. UIndy TS3 consists of multiple layers of support, including a clinical residency, integrated and scaffolded coursework, and two years of in-service mentoring. Evaluation and retention results indicate that candidates are well-supported in their high-need classrooms by these program components. The 3-year retention rate of 93% over eight cohorts is higher than the national average.
Developing STEM Teachers through Both Informal and Formal Learning Experiences
This article highlights the impact of teachHouston on students’ pursuing STEM teaching careers. Both informal and formal learning opportunities were created and implemented to better prepare preservice STEM teachers and to build self efficacy. The outcomes indicate that formal and formal experiences can impact self-efficacy which may lead to increased production and retention of STEM teachers.
Recruiting, Preparing, and Retaining High Quality Secondary Mathematics and Science Teachers for Urban Schools: The Cal Teach Experimental Program
This article focuses on the design of the Cal Teach program compared to the traditional pathway through which teachers are prepared. It focuses on challenging issues in recruiting strong candidates (i.e., STEM majors) and how they are addressed, the preparation of candidates, problematic aspects of traditional teaching education programs and how Cal Teach is modeled and designed to overcome these problems. Mechanisms used to help retain graduates in the teaching force are described.
Models are a “Metaphor in Your Brain”: How Potential and Preservice Teachers Understand the Science and Engineering Practice of Modeling
This research study explored beginning secondary science teachers' understandings of the science and engineering practice of developing and using models. The team conducted interviews and used grade-level competencies outlined in the NGSS to analyze the beginning teachers' understandings.
