ResultsStudent Survey:
Click Here to see graphs depicting the results of three of the student survey questions - Do you like Science? - What are some tools you use in science class? - What is your favorite subject? Results Summary of Student Survey. From the student survey it was determined that students in grade one and two do not understand that they are doing science in class. The primary classroom is often presented cross-curricular and therefore they couldn't distinguish between science and other subjects. After completing the student inquiry and 5 minute science activities daily, they could identify their interest in the subject and they could discuss science processes, tools and experiments. What is the most fun about science class? Summary Results: Picture of the Science Class:
When students were asked to draw a picture of what a science class looks like, their illustration changed from the beginning to the end of the project. Prior to the project their picture often displayed the teacher at the front of the room and little evidence of any hands on activity. After completing the project their pictures showed group work, hands on activities and sometimes the teacher was not even included. "I feel it's ok to not know it all about the science behind the experiments/activity and to allow myself to be comfortable in learning alongside my students" |
Teacher Reflections
Teacher Inquiry: We explored whether an inquiry based learning approach would affect our teaching practices. We became the facilitator in our classroom rather than the teacher-centred approach. We approached the outcomes with a different mindset. We thought about how we would get students to draw conclusion on the outcome we were hoping to achieve instead of giving them the content knowledge directly. Using scientific inquiry, our science lessons became more student centred and hands-on and a more positive experience for students and teachers. Being engaged in a process where we develop a question to address a need has allowed us to feel confident about teaching science. We no longer focused on the lack of science background and content knowledge. We became more aware of the scientific skills that seven year olds can use and apply to their science education. "I hope the kids in my class will realize the importance of asking questions and discover that they have the skills to discover possible answers to their questions. When they are engaged in these activities they will become thinkers and take ownership for their thinking. This will lead to them taking ownership for their science class and enjoying being a part of it!" -Quote from Lori's Reflection on Evernote Student Inquiry: Student Inquiry allowed our students to be more active participants in science class. There is less verbatim of content knowledge. Through their experiences, they have begun to think and use science skills such as predicting, observing and making conclusions. Through this skill process they weren’t intimidated and would eagerly respond in class. Their inquisitive nature was enhanced. They initiate conversations about science. They were excited to participate in science activities daily. "It was great to see the excitement in the students but also made me feel a little guilty about what I have NOT been doing for my students" |