They are present at the beginning, when new teachers open their first kits. Scientists and engineers can become involved in all phases of planning and implementing an inquiry-based elementary science program. Pairing teachers and scientists in the classroom can be a mutually satisfying learning experience. Such relationships, however, cannot be forced. They work best when they develop naturally over the course of working together.
Teachers can benefit from the opportunity to work in small groups to develop assessment tools.
Many teachers find that focusing on assessment enables them to better understand the scientific princi- ples in a curriculum module.