A Workshop Approach: Instructional Strategies for Working Within the Constraints of Field Experiences in Elementary Science

Abstract

This paper describes an existing early field experience program and discusses strategies implemented by the instructor working within the constraints of the program design. The workshop approach presented provides a structure for implementation of teaching strategies learned by preservice teachers during their methods course, and serves as a springboard for dialogue on pedagogical issues and theories. Student feedback on their experience over the semester with the workshop approach is included to illustrate the kinds of cognitive and affective outcomes achieved.