The Center's mission is to improve science, mathematics, technology, and environmental education. Preparing K-12 teachers of science is an equally complex endeavor. In science, in teaching, in learning, and in the setting in which they plan to teach. Expertise in any single domain is necessary but not sufficient. Expertise in all four domains is sufficient, provided that extensive integration occurs among the domains.
Effective programs illustrate the integration of the aforementioned domains.
The concept of a Professional Development School is emerging as a context for building effective science teacher education programs. Professional Development Schools strengthen and integrate practical field experiences. They serve as sites to integrate theory and research from professional studies with practice in clinical settings. This allows novice teachers to construct a more holistic understanding of teaching within the naturally complex environment of the school. Professional Development Schools extend the knowledge base in teacher education by serving as sites for collaborative inquiry into teaching and learning.