Shared Vision to Practice: Early Lessons Learned from Developing a Partnership with Higher Education STEM Faculty
Abstract
"The development of a shared vision among the stakeholders in our National Science Foundation (NSF-MSP) innovative partnership is important for achieving the goal of improving middle school science achievement. In the initial phase of our project, we explore how STEM faculty navigate the challenges and view inherent benefits while developing a shared vision in preparing science teacher leaders. Guided by design-based research and analyzing a range of data sources, we assert that despite recognition of the mutual benefits, the bureaucratic structures within school districts and the university, and the need to maintain perceived rigor in university classwork, present unique challenges to partnerships, and the development and implementation of science courses that embrace current practices and beliefs in science education."