Pat Friedrichsen is a Professor of Science Education at the University of Missouri in the Department of Learning, Teaching & Curriculum. Friedrichsen’s research focuses on secondary science teacher learning across the professional continuum. Her current research focuses on designing tools and strategies to support teachers in learning to use a socio-scientific issues based approach to teaching science. She uses a variety of frameworks in her research, including pedagogical content knowledge and skills, teacher beliefs, communities of practice, and core science teaching practices. She has also conducted research on science teacher recruitment, supports and challenges during induction years, educative mentoring, and the practices of exemplary master teachers. Within biology education, Dr. Friedrichsen’s research focuses on evolution education. Dr. Friedrichsen’s research has been supported by grants from the National Science Foundation.

Areas of Expertise

• Science Teacher Learning
• Biology Education
• Secondary Pre-Service Science Teacher Education