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Full-Text Articles in Education

How Are Teenage Students In A Private Christian School Using Social Media And What Are The Implications For Education?, Kimberly K. Beavers Aug 2014

How Are Teenage Students In A Private Christian School Using Social Media And What Are The Implications For Education?, Kimberly K. Beavers

Master of Education Research Theses

The purpose of this study was to research this question in a private Christian high school, “How are teenage students using social media and what are the implications for education?” The definition(s) of social media are provided, along with a qualitative research study, illustrating the information concerning the participants in a private Christian high school, relating the research findings to previous compiled literature reviews concerning incorporating social media in a high school educational classroom. The methods, instrumentation, and procedures used are described. The results provide agreements and disagreements from the influence of social media. The analysis section of the research …


Decision-Making Perspectives For Kindergarten Entry, Kathlene S. Watkins Jan 2013

Decision-Making Perspectives For Kindergarten Entry, Kathlene S. Watkins

Master of Education Research Theses

This study investigated the factors teachers utilize when recommending parents delay or not delay kindergarten entry for their child. Fourteen preschool and kindergarten teachers representing the demographic areas of rural, urban, suburban, and private schools, were interviewed to gather data concerning school readiness skills, learning differences between genders, kindergarten screening, state standards, and situations for recommended kindergarten delay. Consistently among all demographic groups, teachers are of the same opinion in the following issues: first, children need to be evaluated individually for kindergarten entrance; second, social-emotional growth is the greatest readiness factor; third, academic rigors of kindergarten require attention of parents …


Residual Effects Of An Elementary Theatre Program, Karen D. Dietry May 2012

Residual Effects Of An Elementary Theatre Program, Karen D. Dietry

Master of Education Research Theses

This qualitative study reports student perceptions regarding residual effects of participation in an elementary school theatre program. The study was based on interviews of 22 students who were 11-16 years old and who attended a public school in a rural Midwestern community. Results showed that students perceived the following effects of participation in an elementary play: development of academic and personal life skills that were transferred to other areas of life, increased development of personal traits, such as self-confidence, development of positive social networks, and stimulated desire for continued involvement with performing arts.


Colored Overlays And The Reading Fluency Of Middle School Students With Cognitive Disabilities, Emily Raymond Sep 2011

Colored Overlays And The Reading Fluency Of Middle School Students With Cognitive Disabilities, Emily Raymond

Master of Education Research Theses

Reading is an essential life skill that is a struggle for many students with cognitive disabilities. This quantitative study will examine the effects of colored overlay on the reading fluency of students with cognitive disabilities compared to students with Specific . Reading Disabilities. The experiment is an ABA design to test for reversal where reading . fluency baselines were collected before and after the application of the treatment of a colored overlay. Data is analyzed through multivariate tests of repeated measures ANOVA. Previous studies have shown colored overlays to be an effective intervention tool for increasing reading fluency rates in …


Career College Students' Perceptions Of Portfolios And Their Influence In The Hiring Process, Andrea J. Webb Aug 2011

Career College Students' Perceptions Of Portfolios And Their Influence In The Hiring Process, Andrea J. Webb

Master of Education Research Theses

Two-year college enrollment continues to increase to meet the challenges of our changing economy. Due to this increased enrollment, it has become quite evident that more research in the area of two-year colleges is needed. Many two-year colleges have their students complete a portfolio upon graduation, to assist them in the competitive job market. Does the portfolio really help students get jobs? The contents of this paper follow a mixed-method study that involves surveying graduates of two-year colleges as well as interviewing employers who frequently hire two-year college graduates. Graduates from a number of two-year colleges were asked to complete …


A Parental Response To Online Progress Reports, Jane E. Miner Aug 2011

A Parental Response To Online Progress Reports, Jane E. Miner

Master of Education Research Theses

For years the academic and social progress of the elementary student has been communicated by paper reports. This project examined the parental response to the introduction of online progress reports in an elementary school. The student information system observed was the free Engrade class management system. The investigation was conducted in a small Christian school with parents of students in grades two through six. Parents were asked if the online communication bettered their understanding of their child‟s development. The literature review shows the value of the communication between school and home. Literature also uncovers the effect of technology on that …


An Action Research Study On Using Cooperative Learning During Graphic Design Classroom Crits, Anise V. Simpson Jul 2011

An Action Research Study On Using Cooperative Learning During Graphic Design Classroom Crits, Anise V. Simpson

Master of Education Research Theses

The author of this action research study surveyed both graphic design students and graphic design instructors about their critique experiences to discover instructors and students both identified a lack of student participation as well as the issue of students getting hurt feelings and becoming discouraged as common critique concerns. The author designed and implemented a treatment called Design Structures to increase student participation during crits. To improve the quality of experience of design students during crits, the author incorporated cooperative learning strategies developed by Spencer and Miguel Kagan (2009) into the Design Structures treatment. The author used the experience sampling …


Inquiry Based Mathematics Instruction Versus Traditional Mathematics Instruction: The Effect On Student Understanding And Comprehension In An Eighth Grade Pre-Algebra Classroom, Kyle Ferguson Jan 2010

Inquiry Based Mathematics Instruction Versus Traditional Mathematics Instruction: The Effect On Student Understanding And Comprehension In An Eighth Grade Pre-Algebra Classroom, Kyle Ferguson

Master of Education Research Theses

This quantitative study provides information obtained through the use of inquiry-based mathematics instruction verses traditional mathematics instruction. The use of each curriculum was implemented into two classrooms of eighth grade pre-algebra students. The study was based on data collected before and after each of the two units of study. Fifty-two suburban eighth grade students represented the sample population. Results of the SPSS analysis showed that both classes made improvement from their pre-test to their post-test for both units but students receiving instruction through inquiry-based instruction showed significantly more improvement on the second unit. These results can be useful for educators …


Student Perceptions Of Elmo Technology In A Physical Science Classroom, Philip J. Kirby May 2009

Student Perceptions Of Elmo Technology In A Physical Science Classroom, Philip J. Kirby

Master of Education Research Theses

This qualitative study provides student perceptions of digital visual display camera (ELMO being the specific one) use in a secondary physical science classroom. The use of ELMO was alternated with the overhead projector, using ABAB and BABA designs in two classrooms. The study was based on semi-structured interviews of fifty-six individuals, representing a sample of suburban, high school students. Interview questions focused on three constructs: benefits, limitations, and suggestions for improvement. Analyzing the results ascertained that students found the ELMO to be interesting because it was engaging and new technology. Students also reported the ELMO to improve instruction through enhanced …


Student Perceptions Of Interactive Whiteboards In A Third Grade Classroom, Deanna J. Genesi Jan 2009

Student Perceptions Of Interactive Whiteboards In A Third Grade Classroom, Deanna J. Genesi

Master of Education Research Theses

This qualitative project presents students’ perceptions of interactive whiteboard (IWB) usage in a third grade elementary classroom. The use of the IWB was alternated with the overhead/chalkboard on an ABAB design. The study was based on semistructured interviews of 19 rural, elementary school students. The interview questions focused on the following constructs: benefits, limitations, and suggestions for improvement. The results established that students found the IWB to be interesting, fun, and engaging because it involved multi-media aspects and improved visuals. The study also noted the students’ perceived limitations of the IWB and areas for improvement. The results of this study …


Teacher Training: Creative Writing Instruction, Elizabeth A. Rice Jan 2008

Teacher Training: Creative Writing Instruction, Elizabeth A. Rice

Master of Education Research Theses

This thesis project consists of my design of a four-session teacher training in creative writing instruction within the elementary classroom setting. Oftentimes, teachers struggle with the implementation of creative writing instruction, as it is usually a task required of them in addition to their already overwhelming curriculum. My goal is to present practical strategies, methods, and ideas which teachers will be able to implement as they seek to challenge their students in the realm of creative writing.


Does Standards-Based Teacher Evaluation Improve Schools? An Investigation Of Teacher Perceptions Of Appraisal Systems, Joseph A. Batchelor Jan 2008

Does Standards-Based Teacher Evaluation Improve Schools? An Investigation Of Teacher Perceptions Of Appraisal Systems, Joseph A. Batchelor

Master of Education Research Theses

Three years after implementing a standards-based teacher evaluation system in a private K-12 school, research was conducted to determine what attitudes and perceptions teachers had on the effectiveness of the system. The survey includes questions about the teacher evaluation process and the goals of the test school in implementing the process. The goals for adopting the standards-based teacher evaluation system were (1) increased student learning, (2) improving instruction, (3) developing a mentoring program, (4) focusing professional development, and (5) facilitating collegiality. The sample for the survey included 87 teachers (group AB) from schools in the Southeast, of which 21 (group …


Increasing Teacher Retention In Today's American Schools, Trevor M. Creeden Jan 2008

Increasing Teacher Retention In Today's American Schools, Trevor M. Creeden

Master of Education Research Theses

For schools in today's society to hold on to good teachers that the students learn well from and parents respect is becoming more and more difficult year after year. The students of today are very different than they were 15 to 20 years ago and there is too much pressure to perform from administrators today than in the past. This study is intended to inform and make both public and private schools aware of the factors that affect teacher retention and several ways schools can increase teacher retention at their own school. This qualitative study focuses more on finding out …


Student Perceptions Of Interactive Whiteboards In A Biology Classroom, Christina Schut Jan 2007

Student Perceptions Of Interactive Whiteboards In A Biology Classroom, Christina Schut

Master of Education Research Theses

This qualitative study provides student perceptions of interactive whiteboard (IWB) use in a secondary biology classroom. The use of the IWB was alternated with the overhead on an ABAB and BABA design in two classrooms. The study was based on semi-structured interviews of thirty-six individuals, representing a sample of rural, high school students. Interview questions focused on three constructs: benefits, limitations, and suggestions for improvement. Analyzing the results ascertained that students found the IWB to be interesting because it was engaging and offered multimedia aspects. Students also reported the IWB to improve instruction through enhanced visuals and notes. Limitations and …


Journaling As A Test Preparatory Measure In Secondary Mathematics: Successful Student Strategies, Lloyd E. Nickerson Ii Jan 2007

Journaling As A Test Preparatory Measure In Secondary Mathematics: Successful Student Strategies, Lloyd E. Nickerson Ii

Master of Education Research Theses

This study examines a math journal writing assignment comparing how high school (grades 10 through 12) algebra students who performed well and students who performed poorly on traditional mathematics tests constructed their corresponding journal entries. Statistically significant differences found indicated that students who performed well on the tests were more likely to have originally composed the text and examples in their journal entries, and students who performed poorly were more likely to have copied much of the mathematical language and examples in their journal entries from their textbooks. Students who performed well on the test were also more likely to …


A Best-Evidence Synthesis Of The Relationship Of Multiple Intelligence Instructional Approaches And Student Achievement Indicators In Secondary School Classrooms, Ethan E. Hodge Aug 2005

A Best-Evidence Synthesis Of The Relationship Of Multiple Intelligence Instructional Approaches And Student Achievement Indicators In Secondary School Classrooms, Ethan E. Hodge

Master of Education Research Theses

The purpose of this study was to synthesize the literature in order to assess and quantify (if possible) the relationship between MI instructional approaches and student achievement indicators in secondary school classrooms (grades 6-12). This study employed the best-evidence synthesis methodology devised by Robert Slavin. Criteria for study inclusio n included germaneness, minimization of bias, and validity. This study allows for several conclusions: (1) a very limited amount of research focusing on the relationship of MI instructional approaches and student achievement indicators in secondary school classrooms exists, (2) instances of MI instructional approaches vary widely in methodology and implementation but …


A Qualitative Examination Of Middle Grade Practices In Christian Schools: Could They Become Models For Middle Level Reform?, Teresea Baumann May 2005

A Qualitative Examination Of Middle Grade Practices In Christian Schools: Could They Become Models For Middle Level Reform?, Teresea Baumann

Master of Education Research Theses

There has been much debate concerning the educational structures best suited for the teaching of students during the pivotal years from ages ten to fifteen. Many researchers and educators believe that the educational experiences for this age group need to be tailored to the unique qualities of this time in the life of a student. One purpose of this thesis is to examine the best practices for educating children during this time period. Another purpose of the study is to compare and contrast the practices in private Christian day schools to similar studies done of public school settings. The study …


Identifying Effective Behavior Management In The Early Childhood Classroom, Kelly R. Victor Jan 2005

Identifying Effective Behavior Management In The Early Childhood Classroom, Kelly R. Victor

Master of Education Research Theses

Every educator has a dream to maintain a classroom free from disruptions; one in which each child is being molded, shaped, and corrected in a loving and caring environment that inspires appropriate behavior. The purpose of this research project was to determine how to create an effective behavior management plan and effectively teach classroom management techniques. Students involved in this project were preschoolers age three and four from a local Young Men Christian Association in Akron, OH.


A Project Designed To Examine The Effects That Collaborative Peer Interactions Have On The Professional Development Of Teachers, Van Holloway May 2004

A Project Designed To Examine The Effects That Collaborative Peer Interactions Have On The Professional Development Of Teachers, Van Holloway

Master of Education Research Theses

Much research links collaborative experiences to the professional development of teachers. The author of this study designed a project, called the Buddy System, which provided opportunities for teachers to observe one another in the classroom and to interact with one another collaboratively. The goal was to determine if these activities provided a means of professional development. After the implementation of this sixteen-week project, the author collected data from a variety of sources which indicated that professional development had taken place.


A Best Evidence Analysis And Synthesis Of Research On Teacher Mentoring Programs For The Entry Year Teacher In The Public Elementary And Secondary Schools, Linda Cernetic May 2003

A Best Evidence Analysis And Synthesis Of Research On Teacher Mentoring Programs For The Entry Year Teacher In The Public Elementary And Secondary Schools, Linda Cernetic

Master of Education Research Theses

A best evidence analysis and synthesis of research on teacher mentoring programs culminating in an open ended survey to teachers that have received Pathwise training in preparation for mentoring of entry year teachers in a large city school in Ohio. The surveys asked whether the mentors felt that formal mentor training improved their skills as a mentor. The outcome determined by this research is that it is beneficial.


Effective Technology Integration: A Plan For Professional Development, Craig G. Dunlap Jun 2002

Effective Technology Integration: A Plan For Professional Development, Craig G. Dunlap

Master of Education Research Theses

Is educational technology effective in increasing student learning? If technology is an effective tool in the classroom, how can teachers best be trained to use it appropriately? An experiment was conducted to determine the effectiveness of a constructivist math class utilizing computer technology as well as other tools. The study occurred in a Christian school in Northern Kentucky using fifty-one sixth grade students. One class comprised the control group, with math instruction that differed little from the traditional background of the school. The other class was the experimental group, which used the Internet, spread sheets, word processors, and measuring devices …