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Using Global Learning to Enhance the Preparation of Elementary Teachers in the Teaching of Mathematics and Science: What We Learned

Gibson, Kay and Alagic, Mara and Haack, Connie and Watters, James J. and Rogers, Geoffrey A. (2003) Using Global Learning to Enhance the Preparation of Elementary Teachers in the Teaching of Mathematics and Science: What We Learned. In Proceedings of the World Conference of the Society for Information Technology and Teacher Education 14, 1433-1436, Albuquerque, New Mexico.

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Abstract

Structured reflections and metacognitive thinking of elementary teacher education students provide powerful opportunities for students’ self-efficacy growth, and the development of both mathematics and science related pedagogical content knowledge (PCK). Guided student-instructor reflections were already a part of an integrated mathematics and science methods class for preservice elementary teachers. A global learning dimension was added to further develop the reflective practice through cross-cultural discussions between students, as well as faculty, with their counterparts at a collaborating overseas university. The discussions were conducted using e-mail and were guided by a series of questions upon which students were to reflect with their 'e-mate’. The pilot of this project revealed problems with the establishment of dependable communication between the students. It also revealed the need for a more structured communication process, more guidance for students in online etiquette, and reconsideration of how students would be assessed for global learning activities.

Item Type:Conference Paper
Status:Published
Keywords:global learning; electronic forums; discussion forums;science education; elementary education; preservice education
Subjects:Subjects UNSPECIFIED
ID Code:1687
Deposited By:Watters, James J
Deposited On:13 October 2005
Alternative Locations:http://site.aace.org/
Copyright Owner:Copyright 2003 (please consult author)