Teaching Primary Science Constructively

Teaching Primary Science Constructively helps pre-service teachers to create effective science learning experiences for primary students by using a constructivist approach to learning. This best-selling text explains the principles of constructivism, the implications for learning and teaching and discusses core strategies for developing science understanding and science inquiry processes and skills. Part 2 provides research-based ideas for implementing a constructivist approach within a number of content strands. Throughout there are strong links to the key ideas, themes and terminology of the latest Australian Curriculum: Science.

About the Authors

Keith Skamp (Chapters 1, 2, 3, 10, 11, 12, 15) is an Adjunct Professor in the School of Education at Southern Cross University. He has held visiting scholar and professorial positions at Teachers College, Columbia University, New York; Durham University, England; University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada; University of Lethbridge, Canada; and Flinders University, South Australia. Keith has been a lecturer in undergraduate and graduate units in science education, environmental education and research methodology for many years, and has led or been involved in professional and curriculum development initiatives in primary science and environmental education at state, national and international levels. His research and consultancy in science, environmental and sustainability education has included major research reports for the Australian Academy of Science’s Primary Connections initiative, as well as for state and federal governments, and has resulted in numerous refereed journal articles and other publications. Keith has received distinguished awards for university teaching as well as for service to the Australian Science Teachers' Association and for his contributions to science education by the Australasian Science Education Research Association and environmental education by the Australian Association for Environmental Education.

Christine Preston (Chapters 1, 13, 14 and 15) is a senior lecturer in the School of Education and Social Work at The University of Sydney. Christine lectures in primary science education at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. She has been a primary specialist science teacher and maintains current classroom practice teaching Foundation Year science at Abbotsleigh Junior School, Sydney. Christine is a regular presenter including invited keynote speaker at state, national and international science education conferences. She is passionate about her mission of actualising high quality science learning for every child. Christine’s current research involves representations in science learning and teaching, Embodied Learning in Early Mathematics and Science, Learning by doing: Citizen Science as a tool for enriching science education, engagement and enjoyment. She has been involved in curriculum development initiatives at state and international level, and professional learning of science education with primary teachers. Her research and consultancy projects include evaluations of primary school science programs and teacher professional learning in effective science pedagogy. Christine has received distinguished awards for school science and university teaching including the Inaugural Rotary Club of Sydney award for Innovation and Excellence in the Vocation of Teaching, the NSW Minister of Education and Australian College of Education (NSW) Quality Teaching Award, and a Faculty Teaching Excellence award.