Dr. David Steele recently presented his research (Symmetry in learning: Using science methods courses to model justice-centered science education approaches for pre-service teachers) at the 2023 NARST International Conference, held in Chicago, IL.

The research sought to empirically show how the design (scope and sequence) of science methods courses assisted secondary pre-service teachers in expanding their conceptualization of justice-centered science pedagogy. The findings suggest that the pre-service teachers view of the purpose for science teaching and learning evolved to include using science as a vehicle to disrupt systemic oppression. To do so, pre-service teachers believed the following to be important pedagogical stances and moves: teaching science through the lens of social justice science issues, preparing students critically question policies that lead to disparate outcomes, ensuring academic achievement for students, and positioning students as producers of knowledge and culture.

The presentation can be found here.