Examining elementary science education teachers disposition after reform

The purpose of study was to examine the disposition of in-service teachers at the primary level. 412 science teachers from 72 primary schools, participated by filling out the “Teacher Disposition Index” questionnaire. After factor analyzing the data, Turkish in-service teachers did not fail, but they had doubts in some disposition skills. They were not sure how to maintain and develop their professional skills. They were not seeking out professional growth opportunities, especially in regard to keeping up with current research on teaching practices. Moreover, they had ethical and communication problems with students and parents and their colleagues. Finally they had difficulties selecting proper (relevant and interesting for students) materials for lessons. The most probable reason for these problems is that in-service teachers do not know students both formally (pedagogically) and informally.