Breaking the Cycle: Supporting Elementary Teachers' Understanding and Ability to Apply the 5E Model

Research shows that teachers fail to grasp the 5E Learning Cycle, even after extensive training. We designed a professional development program with an embedded teaching experience that provided K6 teachers an opportunity to practice implementing the 5E model with the support of peers and program staff. Assessment of teachers’ (N=23) understanding of and ability to apply the 5E model was evaluated pre and post-program using: (1) a modified 5E version of the Test of Understanding of the Learning Cycle (ULC); (2) a 5E Learning Cycle Card Sort; and (3) teachers’ lesson plans. Using a mixed methods (triangulation) analysis, pre-test findings, across all data sources, pinpointed teachers’ greatest difficulty was in relation to lesson initiation (early phases of the 5E model), and post-assessments revealed favorable growth on all measures. Furthermore, differences found between new program attendees and returning participants suggests a value-added in multiple-year participation in the program.