Delving Deeper: The Power of Deep Content Learning

Since science, technology and math are foundational for cumulative STEM learning, it’s never too early to provide enriched classroom lessons. However, in order for students to absorb, comprehend and get excited about STEM content, teachers need to have deep content understanding — yet studies show that elementary educators don’t feel as confident when teaching about subjects such as science.
 
The 2018 National Survey of Science and Mathematics Education found that only 31% of elementary educators felt very well-prepared to teach science, compared to 77% of teachers who felt confident teaching reading.
 
This lack of teacher confidence and deep content knowledge during the elementary years can become a missed opportunity to truly engage young minds in the vast world of STEM learning. But when teachers gain confidence in these content areas — and deepen their understanding of the subject matter — students achieve a boost in STEM literacy.
 
Here at the National Math and Science Initiative, we address this confidence and knowledge gap with deep content learning resources through our core programs: Laying the Foundation and the College Readiness Program.

Educator and Student Feedback

NMSI’s College Readiness Program has already reached 1,400 schools across the United States, which has given us the opportunity to assess its effectiveness. We recently surveyed teachers that participated in CRP and found that 57% believe the program contributed to a “major” improvement in their content knowledge, as well as instructional skills and strategies.
 
Students overwhelmingly agreed that their AP teachers “understand the content they are teaching,” with an average score of 3.78 on a four-point scale of agreement, while 73% of administrators said the program made a major improvement in teachers’ instructional skills and 61% indicated major improvement in their content knowledge.
 
With decades of research confirming that highly skilled teachers have significant impacts on student success, one of the main CRP goals is to increase educators’ capacity to effectively teach rigorous STEM courses. And that starts with deep content knowledge.
 
NMSI’s approach to teacher training is leveled-up professional development created by educators for educators. In addition to utilizing various training approaches to accommodate different learning styles, teachers work with a dedicated coach throughout the school year. We act as your partner – not a policy maker – and build an ongoing relationship with your school community.
 
Culturally responsive teaching is woven throughout our curriculum and resources, ensuring that we’re all working together to chip away at the educational disparities that currently exist. Our Teacher Villages, Teacher Libraries and 365 Days of Support help round out the comprehensive service and resources we offer.
 
If you’d like to learn more about how we provide educators with deep content learning as part of our professional development programs, download the NMSI guidebook for high schools.