UCLA

This paper presents the results of a study focused on physics and chemistry teachers at independent schools in the United States which employ a "Physics First" approach to high school science course sequencing. Data was collected via interviews, during which information was gathered regarding pedagogical practices and teachers' transitions to Physics First. Findings suggest that the implementation of inquiry-oriented pedagogy is influenced by teacher and department philosophy, but not necessarily by the Physics First approach. Further, teachers recognize the affordances of Physics First, but largely do not leverage these to create more coherent and connected science programs.