Research Symposium

BIO

I am a second-year student at Florida State University from Palm Beach, FL. I am currently pursuing a major in Nursing as a first-generation student of Haitian descent. With a commitment to making a difference in the community, I am an active participant in the CARE program, and am a proud member of SISTUHS INC. Dedicated to my studies and passion for healthcare exemplifies my aspirations to impact the lives of others positively.

Exploring Differential Instruction Strategies to Foster Students’ Sensemaking in Science Classroom

Abstract

In connection with a multi-year longitudinal professional development (PD) program, this research investigates science teachers’ learning to influence student sensemaking in the classroom so that they may more actively flourish in scientific thinking. Sensemaking in education involves the dynamic process of students actively constructing understanding through interaction with their peers and teachers. In science education, effective sensemaking occurs when teachers engage students in hands-on experiences and discourse to make sense of them and foster a holistic comprehension of concepts. This qualitative study uses teacher interviews and classroom video observations to explore how one secondary science teacher engages students in science experiences through differentiated instruction to support their sensemaking. The findings of this study seek to name teachers' changes in classroom practices following a professional development designed to help teachers facilitate and engage students in science talk and critical thinking in their classrooms.

Keywords: science education, professional development, science instruction