The main goal of TDTS is to improve teachers' delivery of science lessons by introducing more, and higher quality, classroom talk as well as more investigations, problem-solving and practical work. It is anticipated that this will enhance Key Stage 2 (KS2) pupils’ higher order thinking skills and subsequently their outcomes in science.
This study has been designed not only to re-evaluate TDTS but also to inform scale-ups more generally, with particular reference to those using a train-the-trainer model. As such, the study has a substantial initial component that evaluates the train-the-trainers model for efficacy and fidelity of delivery. The trial will then focus on the training of the main trial teachers and the experience, attitudes and performance of their Year 5 pupils.
We aim to recruit 180 primary schools in six regions of England. In the main trial (2022/23) Year 5 teachers in schools randomised to TDTS will receive 4 one-day CPD sessions spread over the first two school terms of the academic year (2022/23) and a further half-day in the school summer term. The following ‘legacy’ year will follow a new Year 5 cohort of pupils to examine any effects of embedding of the TDTS practices.
The primary outcome is expected to be a Science Knowledge Questionnaire being developed specifically for Year 5 pupils by the Centre for Industry Education Collaboration (CIEC) and York Trials Unit, University of York. Pupils will also complete a Science Attitudes Questionnaire.
More information about the trial can be found here.
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Funder: | Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) |
Start Date: | December 2019 |
End Date: | March 2025 |