Tucson, Arizona

Science Teacher Preparation Program

The College of Science Teacher Preparation Program (TPP) was established at the University of Arizona in 1999 to provide preparation for prospective middle and high school science teachers within the College of Science. Faculty members in the program are affiliated with various content departments, including physics, chemistry, molecular and cellular biology, and biochemistry, and function as members of an interdisciplinary program in managing the program, teaching its courses, and advising students. Students in the program have two different degree options that lead to eligibility for teacher certification. They may remain in their science-degree programs, and take an additional 33 credits of coursework in science teaching, or they may enroll in a B.S. degree in Science Education, with concentrations available in biology,
chemistry, earth science, or physics. Each of the concentration options includes the 33 credits of science-teaching coursework, and at least 45 credits of science coursework.

The PhysTEC efforts at the University of Arizona focused on reform of the
introductory physics courses and the work of the PhysTEC Teacher in Residence (TIR). The introductory courses were revised to make the lecture portion more interactive, and the laboratory portion more inquiry-oriented. The PhysTEC TIR assisted with this course reform, co-taught science teaching courses, and supervised field experiences.

Work on the PhysTEC project at this institution is funded by the National Science Foundation.

Institution URL

http://scied.mcb.arizona.edu/TPP_home.html