Correlated Science & Math: A New Professional Development Model for STEM Education Sandra West, Ph.D. Texas State University-San Marcos Sandra Browning, Ph.D. University of Houston - Clear Lake Link Fuller, M.Ed. Retired Asst. Superintendent, Principal, Trainer & Motivational Speaker

Middle School Science I

Goals Improve content & pedagogy of Grades 5-8 science & math teacher teams Improve student performance in science & math Train principals how to identify and support effective science & math instruction Establish a Community of Practice among science & math teachers & their principals

Significant gains in Math & Science (F=27.9,df n =1,df d =526,p<0.001) Statistically significant gains for students of Mix teachers over control teachers MathScience

Mix It UP Project Directors West & Browning, proposed a new continuum for linking science & math in PD West & Browning PD Continuum (2010)

CSM Program Description Science led course– Correlated Geology & Math Math led course– Correlated Geometry & Science Instructional Team –Experts in science content & pedagogy –Expert in math content & pedagogy Astronomer Math

Professional Development Grades 5-8 teacher teams Always together during both science & math instruction Teachers & Principals Breakfast/lunch Books, etc. Daily stipends Teachers –iPads (if remain for 2 yrs) –Equipment: distributed if in attendance (density cylinders, etc.) –Monthly observations/debriefing Math Teacher Science Teacher

2. Proper language Ex. Fractions –Science teacher typically tell/have students “reduce” the fraction – CSM trained Science teacher uses proper math language: “simplify” instead of misleading term “reduce” which implies a reduction in value 3. Uses standards-based learning objectives –TEKS –Framework for K-12 Science Education & Next Generation Science Standards Correlated Science & Math 1. Conceptual understanding Not rote memorization Deep understanding Assess /w demonstration with application of concept in new context

5. Identifies confusing language -Distance Science” distance” refers to “displacement” Math” distance” refers to the “linear length point A to point B” - Motion Math– movement Science – moving from point A to point B Correlated Science & Math 4. Identifies natural links Ratio & proportions, percent, graphing, positive & negative numbers, measurement & units, estimation, precision, reading charts & graphs

7. Inquiry (when appropriate) –Uses 5 E (or some version) Inquiry for concepts –Direct instruction for processes or skills Correlated Science & Math 6. Identifies parallel ideas (when possible) Behave the same or share characteristics Positive & negative numbers Skills or processes; measurement & units, solve for ratios

Gains in Teacher Performance Year 1 –Community of Practice –Content –Able to plan & implement integrated lesson –Implementing some best practices on a limited basis Questioning 1 concept/lesson Inquiry Year 2 – > 170 hrs –Significant increase in # of integrated lessons Use of best practices Leadership

CSM Program Description Teams of Science & Math middle school teachers & their principal 105 hrs. (long term intense training) May 24 – 1 st session (Intro & pretests) July Tx State AY Saturdays –Meet at various schools –Field trips – Bracken Bat Cave, Natural Bridge Caverns, Canyon Lake Gorge & dinosaur tracks) Optional paid training: – Safety (June 17-19) –CAST, CAMT (daily rate)

Daily schedule Teachers –Am : Collaborative learning w/ principals –Lunch: Collaborative team time –PM: Lesson planning Lesson Debrief Principals Am: Collaborative learning w/ teachers Lunch: Collaborative team time PM: STEM Principal Lesson Debrief

Principals Effective STEM Leadership Experience effective STEM learning w/teachers Collaborative time w/ teachers Breakfast & lunch Principals

Agreements District: ID, recruit, support, pay travel Program Evaluation Agreement: Aggregate data TQ TQ ID #s for each teacher – statewide program evaluation, aggregate data –Mix : Teacher Pre/post tests, surveys, interviews –Observations of integrated lesson & debriefing Student work samples (high, medium, low) –Sample integrated lesson plans –Student pre/posttests (20 items, Sept & May, Aggregate data) Experimental (Mix) Controls Video agreement

Correlated Science & Math Funded in part by: –Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board –Texas Space Grant Consortium –Texas State University –Participating districts

Correlated Science & Math: A New PD Model for STEM Education Additional information Questions ?