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Teacher Education and Professional Development

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Children's Book Update For 2010-2011, Gregory A. Martin Jan 2011

Children's Book Update For 2010-2011, Gregory A. Martin

Library Faculty Presentations

Most colleges and universities with teacher training programs have collections of children's books. In many cases, the librarians who are responsible for selecting these books have a number of other responsibilities as well. The workshop for which this bibliography was prepared was designed for those busy librarians who are not always able to devote the time they would like to the selection of children’s books. It explored selected “best” picture books published during 2010 and 2011.


Pharmacy And Faith Can Intersect, Marc A. Sweeney Jan 2011

Pharmacy And Faith Can Intersect, Marc A. Sweeney

Faculty Integration Papers

No abstract provided.


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 …


Young Adult Books Fiction Update, 2007-2008, Gregory A. Martin Jun 2008

Young Adult Books Fiction Update, 2007-2008, Gregory A. Martin

Library Faculty Presentations

Most colleges and universities with teacher training programs have collections of children's and young adult books. In many cases, the librarians who are responsible for selecting these books have a number of other responsibilities as well. This workshop is designed for those busy librarians who are not always able to devote the time they would like to selecting young adult books. We will explore selected “best” young adult books published during 2007 and 2008.


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 …


Picture Book Update, 2006-2007, Gregory A. Martin Jun 2007

Picture Book Update, 2006-2007, Gregory A. Martin

Library Faculty Presentations

Most colleges and universities with teacher training programs have collections of children's books. In many cases, the librarians who are responsible for selecting these books have a number of other responsibilities as well. This workshop, designed for those busy librarians who are not always able to devote the time they would like to the selection of children’s books, will explore selected “best” picture books published during 2006 and 2007. Correlations to curricular content areas will be mentioned when applicable, and a bibliography will be provided.


Peeling Back The Fig Leaves: Revelations Of Truth And Beauty In The Study Of Literature And Writing, Julie L. Moore Jan 2007

Peeling Back The Fig Leaves: Revelations Of Truth And Beauty In The Study Of Literature And Writing, Julie L. Moore

Faculty Integration Papers

No abstract provided.


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 …


An Examination Of The Interaction Between Exemplary Teachers And Struggling Writers, Betty Ruth Sylvester Jan 2006

An Examination Of The Interaction Between Exemplary Teachers And Struggling Writers, Betty Ruth Sylvester

Education Faculty Publications

This study examined the interactions between teachers of writing and struggling writers. There were two main research questions: (1) What is the nature of the interaction between exemplary teachers of writing and struggling writers? (2) What arethe responses of struggling writers to exemplary teachers' scaffolding? To answer these questions, qualitative analysis was conducted on data. Two struggling writers were selected for the study based on their responses to the Writers Self-Perception Scale,writing samples, and teacher recommendation. Data collection included observation in two separate fourth grade classrooms during the writing block for 30 days. Data sources included audio-recording of writing instruction …


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 …


Integration Paper, Jay H. Kinsinger Jan 2005

Integration Paper, Jay H. Kinsinger

Faculty Integration Papers

No abstract provided.


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 …