Background/Purpose
The effectiveness of teacher professional development programs is being questioned across the country. This study quantitatively assessed the effectiveness of an intensive six day instructional institute to enhance teacher content knowledge in Biomechanics.
Method
A unique instructional method, called Biomechanical Modeling, was utilized to enhance teacher content knowledge. Three Biomechanical Models were presented: (1) Linear Motion no Drag, (2) Linear Motion with drag, and (3) Angular Motion. Each model presents the essential Biomechanical Principals required to teach the Biomechanics of linear motion with no drag, linear motion with drag, and angular motion. On day 1, a pre-instructional assessment of Biomechanical content knowledge was administered. In addition, the Linear Motion No Drag Model was introduced. On days 2 through 5, teacher participants received instruction on the essential Biomechanical Principles that form the foundation for each Biomechanical Model and were provided with instructional strategies for incorporating these essential Biomechanical Principles into their class instruction. These instructional strategies were developed and presented by teacher leaders who had previously received instruction on using the Biomechanical Modeling method. On day 6, teacher participants presented final instructional projects based on their learning during the institute and a post-instructional assessment was administered.
Analysis/Results
Overall Biomechanical content knowledge improved from 25.89% to 57.44%. For each Biomechanical Model, specific content knowledge improved from 32.39% to 65.60% (linear motion no drag), 12.67% to 35.56% (linear motion with drag), and 17.98% to 53.34% (angular motion).
Conclusions
The Biomechanical Modeling method in conjunction with specifically designed instructional strategies significantly improved teacher content knowledge in Biomechanics.