| Abstract: | This research exercise, employing an action research model for curriculum improvement, explored the factors influencing science program delivery at an elementary school in New Zealand. Using a validated science program delivery evaluation tool, the Science Curriculum Implementation Questionnaire (SCIQ), as a foundation for data collection, staff discussion and collaborative decision-making, a school embarked on a self-review process and, first of all, identified factors influencing science program delivery and, secondly, identified strategies for improvement of science delivery. After a school-wide cycle of focused science delivery improvement, the evaluation was repeated and further emerging trends and strategies for improvement were collaboratively discussed and implemented. Implications of this self-review process on science program delivery improvement are discussed, especially within the context of the role of the principal in influencing curriculum delivery. |
