Leveraging Learning Progressions to Enhance Pedagogical Content Knowledge in Science Education

Abstract

This chapter explores how learning progressions can enhance Pedagogical Content Knowledge (PCK) in science education. By providing a structured sequence of concepts and skills, learning progressions help educators align teaching strategies with students' cognitive development. This alignment offers deeper insights into student understanding and engagement with scientific concepts, improving PCK. The chapter examines the theoretical foundations of learning progressions and PCK, discusses strategies for integrating progressions into classroom practice, and uses case studies to show how they aid in addressing misconceptions, scaffolding learning, and promoting conceptual understanding. It emphasizes the importance of learning progressions in refining PCK and improving science education, ultimately preparing students for advanced inquiry and problem-solving.