School science review · 1999 · 24 citations · 0 references
EducationScience EducationTeacher EducationPedagogyScience InstructionScience Teacher EducationBiology ConceptsBiology CurriculumBiology InstructionScience PedagogyScience Teacher KnowledgeBiology PedagogyConceptual Change In BiologyIn-service Science Teacher Professional DevelopmentNature Of Science ConceptsScientific Concept LearningScientific Conceptual UnderstandingStudent IdeasSubject Matter Knowledge
Subject knowledge is a key issue in teacher training. In science it is a particular problem since most graduates specialise in a relatively narrow area of science. The research described here assessed subject knowledge of science student-teachers at the beginning and end of their one (year Post Graduate Certificate of Education (PGCE)) course. Understanding of a selection of biological concepts was tested through the use of concept maps. Little improvement was found in subject knowledge following training in or teaching of the concepts during the PGCE year. Suggestions for ways forward, including subject knowledge audits and independent study towards better understanding, are discussed.