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Full-Text Articles in Education
Performing And Defying Gender: An Exploration Of The Lived Experiences Of Women Higher Education Administrators In Sub-Saharan Africa, Ane Turner Johnson
Performing And Defying Gender: An Exploration Of The Lived Experiences Of Women Higher Education Administrators In Sub-Saharan Africa, Ane Turner Johnson
Title IX Research and Resources
The purpose of this phenomenological study was to explore the life and career paths of women higher education administrators in sub-Saharan Africa. Specifically, the study sought to interpret the women’s experiences and identities, through the framework of intersectionality and gender performance, as ones that contributed to advancement within contexts traditionally barred to women. This research illustrates commonalities among the participants, elucidating the faith, family, and education as common constructs in their experiences and as mechanisms that propelled career trajectories. A major finding of the research is that the participants both preformed gender and defied it through the enactment of gender …
Transforming A System: Leadership To Implement An Intervention And Referral Services Process That Assists Teachers, Michael Lee
Transforming A System: Leadership To Implement An Intervention And Referral Services Process That Assists Teachers, Michael Lee
Theses and Dissertations
Improving instruction to meet diverse student needs via early, intensive, and continuing intervention is an essential part of a comprehensive strategy to serve all students now and to produce the graduates 21st century society requires. Yet, meaningful school reform with transforming leadership, innovative vision, conversations among teachers, and authentic student achievement still remains elusive today. Our limitations in putting new ideas into practice come not from a lack of will or effort, but, in part, from the influences of our personal stories, mental models, and an immunity to change. This action research study explores educators' perceptions and behaviors in implementing …
Promoting Emotional Intelligence In Adolescence Through Service-Learning, Maggy Hanna, Rosetta Treece
Promoting Emotional Intelligence In Adolescence Through Service-Learning, Maggy Hanna, Rosetta Treece
Theses and Dissertations
This quantitative study addresses emotional intelligence (EI) development, through the implementation of service-learning curricula, in adolescents ages 13-18. An interrupted time series with non-equivalent multi-group design was used for this study. This design included multiple pre-tests, an application of a treatment, and post-tests at varying time interval to eliminate internal invalidity threats due to history and the instrumentation (Gay & Airasian, 2000; Shadish, Cook, & Campell, 2011). In this study, global trait EI scores were used to test the theory that engagement in service-learning can positively impact EI growth in teens in the middle and high school settings. The rationale …
A Feminist Investigation Of Gender Performance Through A Reflection On The Process Of Certification In A Nontraditional Educational Leadership Program, Kimberly Clark
Theses and Dissertations
The purpose of this study was to better understand the role of gender performance for aspiring school leaders through a reflection of their journey through the administrative pipeline. The transformation of professional aspirations throughout and following the certification process and during employment was also analyzed. Finally, the appealing factors of a nontraditional administrative preparation program were evaluated to better understand the role of alternative licensure programs in advancing women school leaders. Using heuristic qualitative methods, 18 women graduates of New Jersey's Expedited Certification for Educational Leadership program participated in focus groups and 5 returned for individual interviews. Coding was employed …
Multimethod Study Of A Higher Education Special Admissions Policy: Exploring How Student-Athletes Navigage Their Educational Experiences, Sean Hendricks
Multimethod Study Of A Higher Education Special Admissions Policy: Exploring How Student-Athletes Navigage Their Educational Experiences, Sean Hendricks
Theses and Dissertations
In higher education, it is the role of the institution to ensure the success of all students, even those that failed to meet general admission requirements (Tinto, 1993). This explanatory sequential mixed methods study explored the challenges associated with enrolling student-athletes at a Division III institution with less than desirable admission standards (Creswell & Plano Clark, 2011). This study examined 199 specially admitted student-athletes that enrolled at Kerry State between 2007 and 2011 and found that increasing tuition, a lack of support and proper advising, time constraints, and issues related to student engagement have contributed to the lack of success …
A Case Study: The Implementation Of The English Language Arts Common Core State Standards In A Secondary School Setting, Adam Angelozzi
A Case Study: The Implementation Of The English Language Arts Common Core State Standards In A Secondary School Setting, Adam Angelozzi
Theses and Dissertations
This study provides insight into the curriculum and policy implementation process of the English Language Arts (ELA) Common Core State Standards (CCSS) in a secondary high school setting. The most critical factor to successful implementation of both policy and curriculum involves instructional leadership that provides ongoing support and resources through knowledge- and capacity-building activities. McLaughlin (1976) describes that implementation of educational policy constitutes a mutually adaptive process between the policy implementers and the setting; accordingly, changes in relation to the originally intended outcomes occur across the organizational hierarchy and between policy actors (Anderson, 2011; Fullan, 2007; Sabatier & Mazmanian, 1980). …
The Role Of Principal Leadership In Special Education: A Delphi Study, Martha Simon
The Role Of Principal Leadership In Special Education: A Delphi Study, Martha Simon
Theses and Dissertations
Changes in the New Jersey principal evaluation system coupled with the demands of leading programs for students with disabilities has resulted in the need for school principals to understand and apply leadership skills that will result in successful achievement for all students. The purpose of this qualitative Delphi study was to explore the behaviors, characteristics, skills, and knowledge elementary school principals identify as essential for leading and supporting successful special education programs in public elementary school settings. Twenty-six elementary school principals with a record of success in leading special education programs provided expert insights through three rounds of data collection …
Data Driven Decision Making: Data Interplay Within A High School District, Chris Heilig
Data Driven Decision Making: Data Interplay Within A High School District, Chris Heilig
Theses and Dissertations
The purpose of this single embedded case study was to examine how a district data team coordinated by the central office influenced the data driven culture in the district's schools that receive Title I funding. The conceptual framework is centered on conducting the process of data driven decision-making through collaborative leadership and data analysis for the purpose of educational change. The research questions guided the investigation to discover how teachers and administrators are using data to make decisions, their perception of data driven decision-making, and the impact made by central office and building leadership to initiate the change to a …
High School Teachers' Mental Model Change As Related To Online Instructional Tools, James Cernansky
High School Teachers' Mental Model Change As Related To Online Instructional Tools, James Cernansky
Theses and Dissertations
The mental model shift of high school teachers regarding instructional methods related to online instructional tools was examined in this ethnographic study. The actual change in instructional techniques was also examined. Ethnographic research design was employed using teacher interviews, teacher survey, classroom observations, and lesson plan examination. The study took place at a comprehensive public high school in the mid-Atlantic region with approximately 1900 students and 200 staff members. The researcher found that a positive mental model change did occur after one year of a one-to-one iPad initiative. Teachers reported that they used online instructional tools to motivate their students …
Raising Awareness In Study Abroad, Leslie Gassler
Raising Awareness In Study Abroad, Leslie Gassler
Theses and Dissertations
As a result of globalization, U.S. students need to acquire international knowledge, intercultural communication skills, and a global perspective in order to compete, succeed, and contribute to the interconnected world and global economy of the 21st century (Leask, 2001; Obst, Bhandari, & Witherell, 2007). Study abroad programs have been found to provide students with the necessary skills and competence required for the 21st century. The purpose of this action research study was to examine honors students' intercultural competency and the barriers they saw to studying abroad, and to develop of online study abroad information and promote a study abroad information …
Peer Mentoring For-Profit College Students, Diane Mcgeehan
Peer Mentoring For-Profit College Students, Diane Mcgeehan
Theses and Dissertations
A peer mentoring program for new students at a for-profit institution was implemented at a campus over five quarters. Peer mentors with high GPAs were matched with students for eleven weeks to help with academic success. A Business Club was created to support the mentoring program and campus activities. A professor monitored the program and collected data about the mentors, mentees, and the program's initiatives. Qualitative and quantitative research practices were used. Most mentees completed their first quarter coursework and re-enrolled for multiple quarters. The peer mentors learned valuable skills that they will apply to their workplaces. The campus was …
A Thematic Plan To Promote College And Career Aspirations For Low Socioeconomic Status Students, Althea Kelsey-Chism
A Thematic Plan To Promote College And Career Aspirations For Low Socioeconomic Status Students, Althea Kelsey-Chism
Theses and Dissertations
Research has suggested higher education is the most prominent way to ensure mobility from one socioeconomic status to another (Siff, 2006). Just as important is the development of the educational aspirations of low socioeconomic status (SES) students; this is called the predisposition stage (Brown v. the Board of Education, 1954; Perna & Swail, 2001; Walpole, 2003; Wilt, 2006). While much has been written on the subject of higher education of low SES student, Hossler and Gallagher (1987) discuss a three-phase college choice model that precludes the higher education of low SES students. The predisposition stage, as the first stage is …
An Exploratory Investigation Of Gender Discrimination Against School Psychologists, Samantha Hug
An Exploratory Investigation Of Gender Discrimination Against School Psychologists, Samantha Hug
Theses and Dissertations
The purpose of this explanatory investigation was to A) investigate the general attitudes towards genders typically in a school based setting, B) examine if the report quality ratings will be significantly higher when the report is written by a male than by a female, and C) explore if there will be significant differences in report quality ratings based on the gender of the author/school psychologist. An analysis of the current literature on this topic displays implication that gender does play a role in acceptance toward certain viewpoints in certain settings. In order to effectively investigate these attitudes, data was collected …
Examining The Climate Of Academic Integrity At A Small Middle Atlantic Liberal Arts College, Keith Kemo
Examining The Climate Of Academic Integrity At A Small Middle Atlantic Liberal Arts College, Keith Kemo
Theses and Dissertations
Academic integrity and moral development have always been synonymous with student learning in higher education. When combined, the two form the basis for positive learning at the college level (Pascarella & Terenzini, 1991, 2005). It is also clear from preexisting literature that a person experiences significant moral development during traditional college years (Kohlberg & Hersh, 1977; Perry, 1981; Gilligan, 1982; Chickering & Reiser, 1993). This study examined preexisting literature on leadership as well as previous studies dealing with issues of academic integrity in higher educational institutions. It combined leadership theory and the author's leadership style. An initial examination of the …
Anti-Bullying Bill Of Rights Act (Abbra) In New Jersey: A Case Study Of The Implementation Of Regulatory Policy, Kara Douma
Theses and Dissertations
The primary purpose of this study was to investigate year two of the implementation of the New Jersey Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights Act (ABBRA). The environment of accountability has become increasingly prominent through the ongoing development of regulatory policy in the field of education (Anderson, 2011; Fowler, 2009; Limber & Small, 2003; Peterson & West, 2003; Rudalevige, 2003; United States Department of Education, 2011; White House, 2011). This investigation focused on the gap between crafted policy and implementation of policy due to prior anti-bullying legislation throughout the country having been unsuccessful in the implementation phase (Glover, Cartwright, Gough, & Johnson, …
An Exploration Of The Lived Social, Emotional, And Academic Experiences Of Obese Adolescents Within Three Conceptual Frameworks Using Mixed Methods Research, Julie Benavides
Theses and Dissertations
The primary purpose of this mixed methods study was to explore the experiences of obese adolescents and to investigate middle and high school students' attitudes toward obese students. During phase one, quantitative data was collected through the Attitude Toward Obese Persons (ATOP) survey. The survey research sample was 1448 middle and high school students. The quantitative data was analyzed through cross gender and grade level comparisons. Results indicated both female and male students in middle school and high school have a slightly positive attitude toward obese students. During phase two, qualitative data was collected through focus groups with 5 middle …
Measuring The Efficacy And Quality Of A Professional Development Training On Prejudice Reduction And Reflective Practice: Transforming The Delivery Of Change Through Collective Insight And Informed Action, Berdine Gordon-Littrean
Measuring The Efficacy And Quality Of A Professional Development Training On Prejudice Reduction And Reflective Practice: Transforming The Delivery Of Change Through Collective Insight And Informed Action, Berdine Gordon-Littrean
Theses and Dissertations
The overall objective of school improvement planning is an enhanced level of student achievement through an enhanced leadership framework and successfully implemented program. The improvement plan process requires focus on specific priorities to effect real change. The purpose of this action research study was to provide professional training as part of a continuum change initiative. The study analyzed the salient factors or areas of critical concern, impacting prejudice and controversial issues settings. These variables included levels of leadership, and significance of the following: diversity of identity and experiences, stereotyping, internalized oppression, building pride and capacity, becoming allies, making commitments to …
Students With Disabilities: Making Idea Transition Services Work, Rhonda Sutton
Students With Disabilities: Making Idea Transition Services Work, Rhonda Sutton
Theses and Dissertations
Students with disabilities are less prepared to meet the challenges of adulthood, more likely to continue to live with their parents after high school, and engage in fewer social activities (Burgstahler & Kim-Rupnow, 2001). For many of these students, transition services are not being implemented and monitored as mandated by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), therefore, the probability for a successful transition from high school to adulthood for these students is severely jeopardized. Transition planning is a formal process of long-range cooperative planning that will assist students with disabilities to successfully move from school into the adult world …
Transformative Education: Culture-Based Pedagogies In Urban, Predominately Black American Elementary Schools, Robin Harden-Daniels
Transformative Education: Culture-Based Pedagogies In Urban, Predominately Black American Elementary Schools, Robin Harden-Daniels
Theses and Dissertations
Problems facing Black American students in underfunded urban schools continue to threaten the viability of public education for this and other nontraditional student populations. These problems, along with the growing diversity of American children, prompt a reexamination of extant data on the practices associated with the effective teaching of Black American students. This meta-ethnography illuminates the findings of four case studies and then explores their implications for teaching. By looking through the lens of critical race theory, this study explores how effective teachers use culture-based instruction to better engage Black American students in the process of learning. Findings identify core …
Reading Pedagogy In Today's Classroom, Maria Beeman-Rygalski
Reading Pedagogy In Today's Classroom, Maria Beeman-Rygalski
Theses and Dissertations
The purpose of this qualitative study is to investigate the phenomenon of successful primary classroom teachers' instruction, in the area of reading pedagogy. All children who are capable of reading must be taught how to read; such is the essential responsibility of American schooling. Moats (1999) describes reading as the most basic, yet critical responsibility of schooling. Haycock (1998), Marzano (2003), and Nye, Konstantopulos, and Hedges (2004) determined that the influence of an effective teacher has the biggest impact on student achievement, independent of anything else that happens in school. There is little research linking evidence of teacher perceptions, knowledge …