9725525 Lee This research investigates ways to promote scientific inquiry with elementary students from three ethnolinguistic backgrounds. The research centers on two issues which are investigated with teachers from different linguistic backgrounds: (1) alternative instructional approaches for student centered, open-ended exploratory approach in which teachers encourage students to generate their own questions about natural phenomena and find answers on their own and (2) teacher-directed approach in which teachers provide students with instruction to develop skills and concepts as building blocks for further learning. The study focuses on professional development of teachers through meetings, extended interventions, and collaborative efforts of teachers. Through this process, teachers will become instructional leaders. The research will be a comparative study of 4 intervention conditions. The analysis will include statistical and qualitative approaches using observation and interviews. -
