The Research Experience for Preservice Teachers (REPT) Program in COSEE Florida 2011 Results for Ocean Scientists Patti Bourexis, The Study Group Inc. Brenda Cetrulo, Indian River State College Ocean Sciences Meeting ∙ February 20, 2012

REPT Program Priority Ocean scientists and preservice middle grade teachers work together on ocean science research. Evaluation Priority Provide evidence with which to refine the REPT approach.

REPT Core Elements Ocean Scientists & Interns Ocean ScientistsInterns 7 week commitment Supervise a finite and relevant research project for two interns Actively engage in “real” science 20+ hours of research per week at lab/field Provide a mentor team of 2-3 staff Participate in 5 hours/week of support meetings Produce scientific research poster and Florida Aquatic Science Hero (FLASH) video Host a 1.5 hour lab tour Learn strategies to apply the experience to classroom teaching Attend a 1.5 hour science symposium Work in pairs

2011 REPT Evaluation – Experiences – Clarity of expectations – Goal attainment – Personal outcomes – Program improvement – Value of REPT experience Interview study of REPT quality and value for participants

Results for Ocean Scientists

1.Discovered working with preservice teachers as a way to influence science education on a broad scale. I found hope! I do outreach because I want to improve science training that impacts classrooms. This is the first time I have been convinced that training can make a difference. Seeing their fears go away was exciting for me. I’d never thought of working with preservice teachers as a way to impact thousands of K-12 students. I will continue to mentor preservice teachers.

2.See their science from a preservice teacher perspective. I got outside of my own thought patterns and looked at my research differently. I learned how to communicate science to a prospective teacher; how to make it relevant to their context and purpose. I learned to appreciate different ways of teaching. I learned that they certainly don’t want lectures!

3.Made progress with their own research. Together we completed a key experiment in our lab and reported on it to the team and to other scientists. Their contribution was no different than any other undergraduate interns we have in our lab. Everyone should intern in their field.

4. Continue the relationship with their interns. Presenting posters at other scientific meetings Giving lectures to interns’ and other school groups Continuing their research together Communicating about research online & social media

Next Steps 1.Retain (and strengthen) the REPT Program 2.Investigate long term impacts 3.Repeat our design/develop/test cycle

Continue the Discussion: Poster Session Monday, February 20, :00 – 18:00, B0685 Connecting Ocean Scientists with Future Educators COSEE Florida’s Research Experience for Pre-Service Teachers Connecting Ocean Scientists with Future Educators COSEE Florida’s Research Experience for Pre-Service Teachers