Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/1959.11/5453
Title: Improving Elementary Science Education in a Developing Country: A Case Study From Fiji
Contributor(s): Taylor, Neil  (author)orcid ; Maiwaikatakata, Tema (author); Biukoto, Emele (author); Suluma, Wili (author); Coll, Richard K (author)
Publication Date: 2008
Handle Link: https://hdl.handle.net/1959.11/5453
Abstract: Improved science education is seen as an important goal for many developing countries. The role of elementary science is of particular importance, given that research has shown a high correlation between economic growth and the time spent on elementary science education. However, the teaching of science in many developing countries is dominated by a highly traditional didactic approach that many researchers believe fails to develop the understanding of scientific concepts in learners. The project discussed in this article formed part of much wider reforms aimed at improving science education in Fiji. We report on efforts to improve teacher education in elementary science in Fiji, using an innovative teaching approach consisting of pedagogy based on a constructivist-informed view of learning. The study indicated that a constructivist-based teaching approach could be effective in supporting science learning and enhancing students' enjoyment of this subject. The findings may have implications for other science-based teacher education projects undertaken in the context of developing countries, especially when considering that this initiative will articulate with changes to the system of assessment in elementary schools.
Publication Type: Journal Article
Source of Publication: International Journal of Educational Reform, 17(2), p. 133-152
Publisher: Scarecrow Press, Inc
Place of Publication: United States of America
ISSN: 2631-9675
1056-7879
Fields of Research (FoR) 2008: 130212 Science, Technology and Engineering Curriculum and Pedagogy
Socio-Economic Objective (SEO) 2008: 930202 Teacher and Instructor Development
Peer Reviewed: Yes
HERDC Category Description: C1 Refereed Article in a Scholarly Journal
Publisher/associated links: http://www.rowmaneducation.com/Journals/IJER/Spring08.shtml
Appears in Collections:Journal Article

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