Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®
- Keyword
- Publication Year
- Publication
- Publication Type
Articles 1 - 30 of 47
Full-Text Articles in Education
Investigating Prodigy Math Program To Improve Students' Success In Mathematics, Justin A. Bledsaw
Investigating Prodigy Math Program To Improve Students' Success In Mathematics, Justin A. Bledsaw
Masters Theses
This study investigates whether Prodigy improves student achievement in mathematics; whether Prodigy improves, specifically, math achievement of special education students, students of different ethnicities, and students of different genders. Further, the study wanted to explore student perceptions of Prodigy. The study was conducted in two fifth grade classrooms with a total of 31 participants. Two mathematics units were utilized to compare; one on multiplying whole numbers and the other on dividing whole numbers. In addition, participants completed a survey and a focus group interview to find out participant perceptions of Prodigy. Results reveal that the whole group scored higher in …
Using A Discursive Framework To Analyze Geometric Learning And Instruction, Peter Wiles, Rick Anderson
Using A Discursive Framework To Analyze Geometric Learning And Instruction, Peter Wiles, Rick Anderson
Faculty Research and Creative Activity
In this study we applied a discursive perspective of learning (Sfard, 2008) to a sequence of 21 geometry mini-lessons taught in a fourth grade classroom. From this perspective, learning is defined as changes in mathematical discourse. We first characterize and then compare discourse from the beginning and the end of the mini-lesson sequence. We identify shifts in the discourse that occurred during the sequence. We then discuss how the characteristics of the st geometric discourse informed task design and instruction. This perspective provided a useful means for linking instruction to student learning in an operationalized manner.
Examining 8th Grade Students Disciplinary Literacy Of Science Material, Chelsie P. Doughty
Examining 8th Grade Students Disciplinary Literacy Of Science Material, Chelsie P. Doughty
Masters Theses
Education standards are shifting to reflect a skills-based, rather than a content-centered, curriculum that focuses on students being literate across all disciplines. This study focuses on the skills of critical thinking, close reading, and text-based writing as it applies to the scientific and historical disciplines. Eighth grade students engaged in a text-based writing assignment that required evaluation of multiple sources to support their claims. Student responses were analyzed textually and verbally as it related to the content. Findings included the ability to identify students' struggles and successes with close reading, writing claims, evaluating evidence for importance, and connecting documents to …
Development Of Learning Objectives For An Undergraduate Computer-Aided Drafting And Design Animation Using The Delphi Technique, Gavin M. Wilk
Development Of Learning Objectives For An Undergraduate Computer-Aided Drafting And Design Animation Using The Delphi Technique, Gavin M. Wilk
Masters Theses
This study reflects on learning objectives created for an advanced computer aided drafting (CAD) learning module(s) or course with the emphasis on simulation and engineering animations. These objectives were derived by using the Delphi technique by access the support of a panel of subject matter experts (SME) from academia and industry that are interested in CAD. The results of this study are intended for the use of creating instructional modules for undergraduate studies.
A panel of experts were chosen through an electronic listserv of engineering and technology supporters. Two rounds of two different Delphi survey instruments were utilized to complete …
Holography In The Secondary Physics Curriculum, Stephen P. Hogan
Holography In The Secondary Physics Curriculum, Stephen P. Hogan
Masters Theses
This paper presents a unit plan for effective implementation of a holography learning activity in the secondary science physics classroom. The study of holography has traditionally been limited to collegiate optics courses due to financial and physical constraints. Recent developments in the technology of holographic film has eliminated these two limiting factors. Recent secondary educators who have introduced holography with their secondary science classes have completed the activities, without much discussion or explanation regarding the scientific principles that allow the phenomenon to occur. In this paper we develop a foundational unit plan that finishes with holography as the pinnacle activity, …
The Impact Of Homework On The Achievement Of Students With Varying Science Aptitudes In High School Physics, Matthew Deets
The Impact Of Homework On The Achievement Of Students With Varying Science Aptitudes In High School Physics, Matthew Deets
Masters Theses
When students in a high school physics class are separated into high, middle, and low aptitude levels, it was discovered that they do not all show the same benefits from completing homework assignments. The focus of this study was to analyze the relationship between the amount of homework that students complete and their performance on quizzes and exams. The results indicate that middle and high aptitude students benefit from completing greater amounts of homework, however, low aptitude students show no improvement by completing a greater number of problems.
Using Field Studies To Meet The Next Generation Science Standards, Amy Brown
Using Field Studies To Meet The Next Generation Science Standards, Amy Brown
Masters Theses
New science standards, the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), recently have been released which require students to use modeling and other process skills and cross-cutting concepts to show understanding of core concepts. Understanding by design approach was used to develop an ecology curriculum in line with the NGSS framework, using field studies to involve students in real science. A schoolyard habitat area on Neoga School District property was used for the field studies. Students were assessed with pre- and post-tests, traditional classroom grades on labs and projects and the Modified ATSI and Children's Science Curiosity Scale. All students showed significant …
Evaluating The Effectiveness Of The All Power Labs Power Pallet As A Training Tool For Biomass Gasification Education, Christopher Che Frederick
Evaluating The Effectiveness Of The All Power Labs Power Pallet As A Training Tool For Biomass Gasification Education, Christopher Che Frederick
Masters Theses
The purpose of this study was to provide a better understanding of classroom training with regard to renewable energies. A lecture series and survey were developed by the principle researcher and presented to students in the Alternative and Renewable Energy Systems class and Machine Design class at Eastern Illinois University. The lecture series introduced students to biomass gasification and its application at Eastern Illinois University. The survey analyzed participant's level of knowledge of gasification technologies. The survey's pre and post test scores were used to validate the effectiveness of the training.
The All Power Labs Power Pallet was utilized as …
Using Dragonflies As Common, Flexible, And Charismatic Subjects For Teaching The Scientific Process, Paul Switzer
Using Dragonflies As Common, Flexible, And Charismatic Subjects For Teaching The Scientific Process, Paul Switzer
Paul V. Switzer
No abstract provided.
Using Dragonflies As Common, Flexible, And Charismatic Subjects For Teaching The Scientific Process, Paul Switzer
Using Dragonflies As Common, Flexible, And Charismatic Subjects For Teaching The Scientific Process, Paul Switzer
Faculty Research & Creative Activity
No abstract provided.
Brown-Bagging It: Engaging Students In Lecture, Paul V. Switzer
Brown-Bagging It: Engaging Students In Lecture, Paul V. Switzer
Paul V. Switzer
No abstract provided.
Brown-Bagging It: Engaging Students In Lecture, Paul V. Switzer
Brown-Bagging It: Engaging Students In Lecture, Paul V. Switzer
Faculty Research & Creative Activity
No abstract provided.
Brown-Bagging It: Engaging Students In Lecture, Paul Switzer
Brown-Bagging It: Engaging Students In Lecture, Paul Switzer
Faculty Research & Creative Activity
No abstract provided.
Middle School Student Attitudes Towards Robotics, Science And Technology, J. Jill Rogers
Middle School Student Attitudes Towards Robotics, Science And Technology, J. Jill Rogers
Masters Theses
In 2000, the National Science Foundation (NSF) conducted a biennial study on the status of women and minorities in science and engineering. It was revealed that the numbers of women receiving bachelor's degrees in computer science are on the decline. This fact calls for innovative changes in the traditional science curriculum. Science instruction with the implementation of robotics could provide female students the needed motivation. Therefore, the examination of female middle school student attitudes towards robotic enhanced science instruction is needed. Descriptive research was conducted to assess middle school student attitudes towards robots, technology and science. Gender differences were studied. …
Off To The (Earthworm) Races: A Quick And Flexible Laboratory Experiment For Introductory Zoology Courses., Paul V. Switzer, Ann H. Fritz
Off To The (Earthworm) Races: A Quick And Flexible Laboratory Experiment For Introductory Zoology Courses., Paul V. Switzer, Ann H. Fritz
Paul V. Switzer
No abstract provided.
Off To The (Earthworm) Races: A Quick And Flexible Laboratory Experiment For Introductory Zoology Courses., Paul Switzer, Ann Fritz
Off To The (Earthworm) Races: A Quick And Flexible Laboratory Experiment For Introductory Zoology Courses., Paul Switzer, Ann Fritz
Faculty Research & Creative Activity
No abstract provided.
Writing In The Mathematics Classroom, Ryan C. Ghere
Writing In The Mathematics Classroom, Ryan C. Ghere
Masters Theses
This paper explores the benefits of using writing as a tool for teaching mathematics. It is a summary of literature intended to help educators implement a writing plan of their own. Part one is a summary of the purpose, benefits, and types of mathematics writing. Writing in mathematics opens the lines of communication in the classroom, helps in assessment, and allows for the use of interdisciplinary units. Writing in mathematics benefits students, teachers, and the classroom learning atmosphere as a whole. Teachers can use informal writing assignments so that students express their opinions, or assign formal writing to provide students …
Factors Associated With The Utilization Of Mathematics Manipulatives In Grades Kindergarten Through Four, Debra J. Bandy
Factors Associated With The Utilization Of Mathematics Manipulatives In Grades Kindergarten Through Four, Debra J. Bandy
Masters Theses
Since the publication of "Curriculum and Evaluation Standards for School Mathematics" by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics in 1989, mathematics pedagogy has shifted from the standard memorization of facts and processes to concept development and application. Teachers have been encouraged to utilize manipulatives to help students bridge the gap between concrete and abstract mathematical concepts. This study was conducted to determine if grade level impacted the frequency with which manipulatives were used, to examine teacher perceptions of eleven factors associated with the frequency of utilization of math manipulatives, and to assess the perceived effect of teaching with manipulatives …
The Effects Of Field-Based Learning On The Knowledge, Behaviors And Practices Of Teachers And Students, Mary Jo Kosco
The Effects Of Field-Based Learning On The Knowledge, Behaviors And Practices Of Teachers And Students, Mary Jo Kosco
Masters Theses
The outdoor environment has the potential to serve as a teeming laboratory with numerous opportunities for students to study various science-related phenomena and processes. However important teachers deem outdoor experiences in science, they also bear doubts about their abilities to teach in these natural surroundings. Providing teachers with the training necessary to teach using field-based activities would help develop and strengthen the teachers' and consequently their students' interest in science, their background knowledge of basic science concepts and processes and possibly affect their behaviors towards the environment. This study was designed to measure the extent science teachers' field-based learning experiences …
Campus Field Trips: An Effective Supplement To Classroom Instruction, Paul V. Switzer
Campus Field Trips: An Effective Supplement To Classroom Instruction, Paul V. Switzer
Paul V. Switzer
No abstract provided.
Campus Field Trips: An Effective Supplement To Classroom Instruction, Paul V. Switzer
Campus Field Trips: An Effective Supplement To Classroom Instruction, Paul V. Switzer
Faculty Research & Creative Activity
No abstract provided.
The Local Use Of Igap Science Test Scores In High School Program Evaluation, Garry Krutsinger
The Local Use Of Igap Science Test Scores In High School Program Evaluation, Garry Krutsinger
Masters Theses
This study examined the use of various objective test data, including IGAP Science test scores, by school personnel in the process of local science program evaluation. Three hundred and twenty-four public Illinois High Schools, all Illinois high schools with enrollments of 500 or less, were surveyed. Principals were asked to identify objective test score data used in local science program evaluation, to characterize the nature of the local evaluation process, and to identify local personnel involved in the evaluation process. All respondents identified sources of objective test score data used in local science program evaluation. The IGAP Science test score …
Campus Field Trips: An Effective Supplement To Classroom Instruction, Paul Switzer
Campus Field Trips: An Effective Supplement To Classroom Instruction, Paul Switzer
Faculty Research & Creative Activity
No abstract provided.
Educational Service Center #17'S Fy92 Scientific Literacy Program, Marilyn Holt
Educational Service Center #17'S Fy92 Scientific Literacy Program, Marilyn Holt
Masters Theses
The purpose of this study was to evaluate Illinois Educational Service Center #17's Scientific Literacy Program for FY92. Objectives utilized to address this problem were:
1. To determine the effectiveness of the staff development delivered in FY92 which emphasized hands-on approaches to teaching physics concepts to students in grades K-8.
2. To determine the effectiveness of the staff development delivered in FY92 which emphasized hands-on approaches to teaching mathematic concepts to students in grades K-6.
3. To determine the effectiveness of the staff development delivered in FY92 which emphasized hands-on approaches to teaching science process concepts to students in grades …
Learning Mathematics As A Language, Kathryn Shafer
Learning Mathematics As A Language, Kathryn Shafer
Masters Theses
This paper explores the relationship between language and mathematics. It is a summary of research done over the last thirty years. Also included are personal observations which are not part of any controlled study. Since language is the vehicle for thought, mathematics educators and curriculum planners will benefit from a linguistic approach to mathematics education. Symbolic mathematics is similar to natural language in both its structure and its communicative nature. If the students are to internalize the notation, they must be the ones to give it meaning. A linguistic approach to mathematics education includes language development, verbalization of concepts, vocabulary …
The Meyersville School's Utilization Of Windows On Science, Art D. Anthony
The Meyersville School's Utilization Of Windows On Science, Art D. Anthony
Masters Theses
This study was designed to determine if the students and teachers of Meyersville School, Meyersville, Texas, liked the Windows on Science® program better than learning and teaching science using the traditional book. All students, grades three through six, and teachers, grades one through six, were surveyed regarding their opinion of Windows on Science®.
This field experience indicated the students and teachers liked the Windows on Science® program better than using standard science textbooks. The male students had a higher mean score than the female students or teachers. The teachers felt they needed more experiments to help …
Male/Female Aspirations To Science Oriented Careers In Grades 2 - 6 In Rural East Central Illinois, Anneliese Payne
Male/Female Aspirations To Science Oriented Careers In Grades 2 - 6 In Rural East Central Illinois, Anneliese Payne
Masters Theses
President Bush recently outlined six national goals for education to be accomplished by the year 2000. One of these goals is that American students must rank first in the world in achievement in science and mathematics. How are these goals to be realized? What are the attitudes of students toward science and mathematics? Is there a critical time for intervention? The attitudes of male and female elementary school children in grades 2 through 6 in rural East Central Illinois toward science oriented occupations were examined in this study involving students (N=364) from 4 East Central Illinois communities. Data has been …
Effects Of New Science Textbooks On Selected Sixth And Eighth Grade Students At Crestwood Elementary School, Paris, Illinois, David R. Pruim
Effects Of New Science Textbooks On Selected Sixth And Eighth Grade Students At Crestwood Elementary School, Paris, Illinois, David R. Pruim
Masters Theses
This paper describes the results of a six-month field study to determine the effects of a newly adopted and implemented junior-high level science textbook series on student achievement. This study took place in the sixth, seventh, and eighth grade science classrooms of Crestwood Elementary School, Paris, Illinois, from December 1988, until May of 1989. This study compared the science achievement of two groups of students in both their sixth and eighth grade years. The Normal Curve Equivalents or NCE's and letter grades as given by the junior-high level science teachers at Crestwood, were analyzed using non-independent t tests. Descriptive data …
An Analysis Of Ability Grouping Of Mathematics Students At The Argenta-Oreana Middle School, Steven L. Mitchell
An Analysis Of Ability Grouping Of Mathematics Students At The Argenta-Oreana Middle School, Steven L. Mitchell
Masters Theses
This field experience investigated the effects of ability grouping mathematics students at the Argenta-Oreana Middle School in Oreana, Illinois. This study investigated the perceptions of teacher attitudes toward abilty grouping mathematics students, the effects ability grouping has had on grades assigned to eighth grade students and the effects ability grouping has had on eighth grade student achievement test scores. A two tailed t-test for the difference of means at the .05 level of significance was used to analyze the data collected. The perception survey information collected from 11 teachers determined that no statistically significant differences existed between the perceptions of …
Attitudes Of Preservice Elementary Teachers Toward Science And The Teaching Of Science, Gregory C. Schaeffer
Attitudes Of Preservice Elementary Teachers Toward Science And The Teaching Of Science, Gregory C. Schaeffer
Masters Theses
The importance of attitude toward the teaching and understanding of science has long been a concern of researchers. Its importance in the schools, as a means to influence academic achievement, continues to be felt. Teachers, often without trying, pass on to their students attitudes about science that are unproductive. It is, therefore, important for teachers to possess attitudes supporting the subjects that they teach. The problem then is determining what factors contribute to these teacher attitudes and how are they passed on to students.
Past research has failed to show conclusively what actually contributes to the creation of positive and …