TPCK
Chapter 9
Science, technology, and teaching:
The topic-specific challenges of TPCK
In science
Kim Fuller
3/22/09

Science and technology have always seemed to come as a pair. Throughout time all science disciplines have used technology to explore questions, make observations, record data and prove theories.
For teachers in the classroom technology and science go hand in hand, but the challenges of TPCK are always present. Teachers need to know their subject, students and how to best integrate technology. Again, as in all subject areas some teachers are more versed in a specific science area or like most elementary teachers, have a broad or varied understanding of science due to each individual’s background.
I have been fortunate to work with a science curriculum that is very hands-on and comprehensive. I teach three science units each year and the materials/technology is included in a kit format. For example, we do a unit on electricity and all students create circuits that run lights and motors. We have some Internet sites that compliment the unit as well. But as I am learning from the content presentations, I need to explore more technology opportunities for my students and match their needs more specifically.
The last part of this chapter spoke about how pre-service teachers need to be exposed to the best pedagogical and technical practices and experience them through their courses while in college. This is essential and I see how this model can work effectively to prepare future teachers for the TPCK classroom. But… We can’t know it all. We need to be willing to learn and grow because education and learning are on going.