The main objective of this study was to explore the experiences of two novice elementary school teachers for factors related to self-efficacy and motivation to teach science. The experiences were analyzed for evidence of: (1) successful performance, vicarious experience, verbal persuasion, and emotional arousal as contributors to the development…

This paper is a progress report on an ongoing, longitudinal study of the preparation of preservice elementary teachers in science. The study builds on previous work and explores the experiences of an intake of preservice students in 1994. These students were required to take a core course in science content in their foundation and subsequently a…

The implementation of effective science programs in primary schools is of continuing interest and concern for teacher educators. Recent Australian national initiatives have been designed to foster the teaching of science in primary schools. At the provincial level in Queensland, decisions concerning the planning and introduction of a new primary…