Unpacking the science kits

Purpose In this article, the authors explore one way that teacher preparation programs and elementary schools can collaborate to enhance science instruction for elementary school learners. This paper provides an overview of a project where a teacher candidate worked with six classroom teachers to organize science materials and prepare for science lessons. Design/methodology/approach This project included targeted assistance from a teacher candidate in “unpacking” a kit of science materials and a feedback survey given to classroom teachers after the project. Findings After the teacher candidate helped “unpack” the science kits, teachers reported that they were more confident in teaching lessons from the curriculum. The teacher candidate reported that she learned more about how materials can be used in science teaching and learning. Originality/value This project showed how PDS can involve teacher candidates in spanning boundaries to elementary science teaching to enhance outcomes for all stakeholders.