Technical, political and cultural barriers to science education reform

Administrative support is essential for reform efforts to take place at the building and district level. This study explored barriers teachers encountered while implementing science education reform and the impact those barriers had on change in instructional practices and reform. Findings in this study reveal that support from administration is not ideal, nor is it sufficient to support teacher efforts. Effective science instruction, defined by the National Science Education Standards, has been demonstrated to have a positive impact on student achievement. Administrators must support teachers engaging in reform efforts to enable teachers to overcome barriers and implement effective practice.