Education Commons^™

Experiential Learning Applied To A Residential Life Training Program, Bobbie J. Coons-Boettcher

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of this paper is to describe and justify a course project for a resident assistant course. Specifically, the project addresses the important role Resident Assistants play in developing community. To develop a project that was both practical and intellectually stimulating to students, as well as beneficial to the department, Kolb's (1981, 1984) experiential learning model was used as a conceptual framework.

Kolb's theory proposes that students learn at their optimal level when they can experience learning in many different ways. Based on this theory, the project is designed to engage each student in active learning while developing the …

Oppositional Defiant Disorder And Conduct Disorder : Different Names For The Same Condition?, Daryl L. Hawkins

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of this paper is to present a review of the literature related to the proposition that oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder are, in essence, the same disorder, with varying degrees of severity. The author of this paper believes that it would make more sense diagnostically to combine these two diagnoses into one category.

This paper will cover a variety of areas related to oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder. First, a section on the formulation of the diagnostic criteria is presented. Brief definitions and descriptions of the two disorders follow the diagnostic criteria section. In addition to …

Gender Inclusive Learning Environments : A Theoretical Framework, Patricia Ann Noteboom

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of this paper is to develop a theoretical framework based upon gender inclusiveness within classroom environments. Particular focus is given to the literature on college classrooms, student learning, and gender. Respectively, insights gained through this literature review are used to create a theoretical framework through which inclusiveness may be examined or constructed within classroom and group settings. A review of the literature is presented and informs the development of A Gender Inclusive Model for Learning Environments. Discussion of the model follows, with limitations and recommendations noted.

Elements Of Reflection For Secondary Principals : A Reflective Essay, Brian R. Phillips

Graduate Research Papers

Are future administrators ready to stand up for what they believe is right for kids? Most administrators would probably respond with a yes. Two central questions that all administrators must ask themselves before taking that first administrative job: Do I have a personal vision of educational beliefs that are important for all children? Secondly, to what extent am I able to stand by my beliefs for children, even if it means leaving a principalship position because of philosophical belief conflict with peers and/or superiors?

An Investigation Of Cognitive-Behavioral Interventions For The Treatment Of Bulimia Nervosa In Women, Adrienne E. Reed

Graduate Research Papers

The first and foremost aim of this investigation is to review the professional literature related to the successes of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for women diagnosed with bulimia nervosa (BN). The second purpose of the paper is to compare CBT treatments with other treatments which have also been shown to be successful. The third aim of this study is to determine whether CBT should be the treatment of choice for women with BN.

A Preferred Vision For Administering Elementary Schools: A Reflective Essay, Catherine A. Timmerman

Graduate Research Papers

When I began my journey on the road to an administrative degree, I knew that being a principal would be a difficult one. I also knew it would be a job I could do and definitely wanted to try. Brubaker (1995) stated that, "Principals are "can do" people"(p. 92). This is a quote which has validated my beliefs that principals make things happen.

Counseling Groups For High School Students, Rachel E. Williams

Graduate Research Papers

Groups were first established in the public schools in the early 1900s. At this time, the group provided an environment in which to learn life skills and values rather than focusing on the group process (Gladding, 1995). There was a growth of groups in select schools during the 1910s, although the focus continued to be on individual counseling. In the 1930s, the focus of groups was on vocational and personal themes. They were often the responsibility of homeroom teachers. In these groups, the teacher was responsible for establishing friendly relationships and developing the right attitudes toward school, home, and the …

A Perspective Of The Position Of An Elementary Principal : A Reflective Essay, Ed Rogers

Graduate Research Papers

As I implement my leadership vision, I will become the keeper of the rules; the protector of broken hearts and disappointed dreams; the provider of unyielding encouragement and relentless motivator to help kids so they can reach beyond themselves; and the helper of people to develop friendships and respect for others, and to become responsible citizens. Most of all, I hope I will become the kind of role model which touches lives and helps lead them in a wonderful direction in life.

A Phenomenological Analysis Of An Instructional Systems Design Creative Project, Daniel M. Benson

Graduate Research Papers

This research paper is a phenomenological analysis of a creative project involving University of Northern Iowa undergraduate art students in the planning and creation of visual illustrations, graphic design concepts, .html documents, and imagery for a world wide web intranet/lnternet virtual space.

This analysis looks at instructional design as a creative process and the phenomenology of the UNI Art/Cat (Art Resources Technology/Computer Assisted Training) computer laboratory. The mission, goals, and objectives of the creative project, experiential and experimental philosophies of education, and the phenomenologies of the instructional design process are the main considerations. The methodology of this thesis is primarily …

Integrated Humanities: A Content Model For Senior High School Gifted, Jolene Kay Teske

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of this project was to develop an integrated humanities content model for senior high school gifted students. It began as a vision and has developed into a clear content model that will be piloted at the writer's school in the fall of 1999. Through the literature review and working revisions, the writer has become convinced that this type of model is one viable and defensible option for programming for intellectually gifted students at the senior high school level.

The Basics Of Teaching Media Literacy, Jill Wurzer

Graduate Research Papers

According to the Media Literacy Online Project (1998), American children and adolescents spend 22-28 hours a week viewing television. By the time today's children reach age 70, they will have spent 7-10 years watching television. Now, more than ever, schools are being called on to deal with the effects of the growing influence of the media in students' lives. Media literacy and media education are even getting attention in the English Language Arts Standards by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE). So, what is media literacy? What materials are available to teach it, and how can teachers justify …

The Movement Toward Authentic Assessment And The Role Of Technology, Brenda L. Clark

Graduate Research Papers

Assessment can be defined as the process of collecting evidence of what a student knows and is able to do. There are several types of assessment available for use. The list includes, but is not limited to, standardized tests, performance based assessment and portfolios. All of these have both positive and negative aspects to evaluating student learning.

Classroom Discussion: A Journey To Decentralizing The Classroom, Mike Suther

Graduate Research Papers

Throughout history of the United States, teachers have instigated classroom discussion about text in hopes that talk enhanced understanding. More recently, Vygotsky (1978) produced evidence of the importance of social talk in learning. It is through this social interaction or discussion that students construct and negotiate meaning of text. What constitutes social interaction or discussion is what leads some teachers to disagree. The literature on discussion has classified it into two types: recitation and discussion.

A Preferred Vision For Administering Secondary Schools : A Reflective Essay, Julia Burton-Varn

Graduate Research Papers

Whole language; inclusion; acceleration; best practices; integrated curriculum; back-to basics; Education 2000; Carnegie Report; School-to-Work Initiative; technological course-ware; multiple intelligences; emotional intelligences; multicultural, non-sexist education; and strategic planning are all educational issues that have emerged, submerged, and in some cases re-emerged during the fifteen years that I have been teaching. As schools embrace or reject standards or movements, one can ask if the quality of education has actually changed. There are frequent reports and articles concerning the poor quality of the educational system within the United States. A continual debate surrounds the effectiveness of a system and the quality of …

Dual Diagnosis Treatment Models, Lauretta M. Cufr

Graduate Research Papers

The increase in the size of the identified Dual Diagnosis population and the increase in focus on cost effectiveness of treatment interventions and outcomes, has made clear the need for improvements in the knowledge base of treatment providers. Treatment models currently in use as partially developed approaches need to be studied in order to provide the DD population with the most effective treatment possible. (Minkoff, 1994).

This paper will examine literature pertaining to the three current treatment models: the serial, the parallel, and the integrated. It will also report findings regarding one innovative program currently under study for clients who …

A Case Study Of An Electively Mute Child, Robert Driscol

Graduate Research Papers

Selective mutism is characterized by the appropriate use of language in certain settings, with a consistent lack of language use elsewhere. The child is often viewed as shy, and it is assumed that the shyness is temporary and will be outgrown. The purpose of this paper is to explore the problem of selective mutism in school aged children for whom silence may extend for many months or even years. Selective mutism will be further defined, and frequency, duration, and a summary of treatment methods will be discussed. A case study that illustrates positive outcomes of a behavioral approach will also …

A Preferred Vision For Administering Elementary Schools : A Reflective Essay, Michelle Elam

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of this paper is to reflect on my experiences, beliefs and other influencing factors guiding me into an administrative career. I will share my personal characteristics including values, beliefs and philosophies and my own professional vision for quality education. I will close with my plan for assuring effective administrative practices.

A Vision Of A Successful Secondary Principal : A Reflective Essay, Gregory P. Herbst

Graduate Research Papers

Being in education, whether it be as an administrator or a classroom teacher, is not about "us" and "them". It is about "we" -- and what can "we" do together to make every child learn as much as possible? What can "we" do together to make every child enjoy and at the same time be challenged by this educational experience? What can "we" do to encourage each student to become a lifelong learner and caring, responsible citizen?

Throughout this reflective paper, I will outline what I feel are some of the important qualities of an effective secondary principal. These qualities …

Effective Treatment Of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder : A Multimodal Approach, Dave A. Lipinski

Graduate Research Papers

The beginning of the 1990's brought with it increased attention to what is becoming the most talked about disorder of childhood and adolescence, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This disorder is estimated to afflict between 3% and 9% of the entire United States school-aged population. The most common treatment consist of behavior modification, cognitive therapy, diet restrictions and food supplements, cognitive and social skill training, psychosocial interventions, interpersonal problem solving and prescription medicine such as Ritalin.

The literature on stimulant medication and psychosocial treatments for children with ADHD suggest that no single method of treatment alone yields significant long-term therapeutic …

Technology, At-Risk Intervention & The Music Classroom, Kurt M.J. Devore

Graduate Research Papers

This research paper will provide an overview of the music technologies available for students, address how the National Standards for music education are fulfilled by utilizing technology in the music classroom, and discuss how technology applications can aid learning in the music classroom. There will also be a description of several technology based workstations for the music classroom.

Reading Recovery In The Classroom : A Literacy Team Approach, Nancy Strunk Larsen

Graduate Research Papers

A recent remedy for the concern over continued progress and over communication between Reading Recovery and the classroom is to adapt Reading Recovery practices in the regular classroom. A Title I Reading Recovery program in a Midwestern school adopted this very remedy. The program initiated in this elementary school has two Reading Recovery teachers, three first-grade teachers, and two second-grade teachers who work collaboratively as a literacy team. The goal of the program is to use a teamwork approach to teach reading both with the idea of meeting the instructional needs of the student and also of teaching the classroom …

Effective Uses Of Technology In The Classroom, Sherrie Kopecky

Graduate Research Papers

Research Questions: How is technology being effectively used in the elementary, middle, and high schools both by the teachers and the students? What are some effective pieces of software students are utilizing in their learning? What is the best way to integrate technology into the curriculum?

Designing And Implementing Successful Staff Development, Peggy A. Sheetz

Graduate Research Papers

What staff development factors are vital to ensure successful staff training for the integration of technology into the curriculum? What variability factors must be taken into account when planning and implementing staff development?

In theory, staff development should not take very long, and educators should be able to ascertain the meaning and directions that are given related to technology quite easily. However, the staff development that is thought out and executed well is the staff development opportunity that is effective. Effective staff development requires five factors: time, access, collaboration, training and implementation. Without these factors being considered, success will be …

Integration Of Technology Into Science Education, Paul Zahner

Graduate Research Papers

In this paper, the importance of integrating technology into science education is discussed. The correlation between technology and science is noted and national science standards are examined. The evolution of today's learners requires a change in science education, and technology can serve as a vehicle for meaningful reform. The starting point for any change in science education lies with the teacher, who must adopt new strategies to meet the needs of all types of learners. Various examples of these teaching plans are discussed within this paper. Other important components of the change process include school administration support, especially financial. These …

The Adult Learner: Do Learning Models, Activities And Environment Impact Retention?, Mindy Westendorf

Graduate Research Papers

This paper provides a literature review of the impact the learning environment, learning activities, and adult learning models have on the learner and learner retention. Books, periodicals, and articles reviewed and selected for this paper were done with so with a corporate setting in mind. Several different theories are reviewed that all suggest that a positive environment that considers the unique learning needs of adults leads towards a overall positive learning experience. Activities and learning models are reviewed that support the positive learning environment.

Nurturing Reading Comprehension Of Attention Deficit Students By Improving Their Inferential Skills, Paula Decker

Graduate Research Papers

Inference-making is a necessary component of reading comprehension. Many attention deficit students have shown some degree of reading comprehension deficiencies. Due to the nature of their disability – staying focused, sticking to a task, and noticing details – inference-making may be difficult for them.

This article suggests that by modifying and enhancing existing teaching methods and strategies, the instructional needs of ADD/ADHD students would be met. It offers some lesson and teaching modifications that have shown to be helpful in this author's experience.

When teachers are aware of the characteristics and limitations of students with an attention deficiency, they can …

Design, Development And Delivery Of Web-Based Instruction, Isabelle Cowden

Graduate Research Papers

The World Wide Web is becoming an increasingly popular medium for instructional delivery of distance education. Many colleges and universities are offering courses and complete programs of study via the web.

This Graduate Project: "Design, Development and Delivery of Web-based Instruction" includes a brief review of the literature indicating the widespread use of the web in distance education in higher education. It reflects the current practice of web-based instruction in the UNI Educational Technology program. It documents the project including the process for establishing a new section of a currently developed course. It is the intention through this project report …

Reading Recovery : The Teacher's Perspective, Nancy A. Johnson

Graduate Research Papers

READING RECOVERY: The Teacher's Perspective presents a report of research that looks at Reading Recovery, an early intervention reading program for low-performing students, with the primary focus on the role the teacher plays. Data used was compiled from journal articles and personal interviews with three teachers randomly chosen from a Midwest school district. The basic questions were directed toward the teacher training, lack of professional input from the teachers in training, and the extensive paperwork required of the Reading Recovery teachers.

Results of the study indicated that teachers that are actively involved in the Reading Recovery program accept the program …

Effects Of Extrinsic Reward Conditions On Students' Intrinsic Motivation : Implications For Teachers, Jennifer D. Jacobson

Graduate Research Papers

This research paper is a review of literature on the effects of rewards on intrinsic motivation. Two recent meta-analytic studies are reviewed and compared in terms of their conflicting findings. Studies that examine specific conditions in which rewards may enhance or undermine students' intrinsic motivation are reviewed. These selective studies include research on verbal rewards, noncontingent, tangible, expected rewards, and contingent, tangible, expected rewards. Suggestions for future research are made.

Looking Toward The Future For Suicide Prevention, Stacy L. Staton

Graduate Research Papers

Michael was the first born of two sons. His father expected great things from Michael, nothing short of perfection. Michael tried hard to please his father, but his father was never fully satisfied. His father thought if he yelled at Michael enough and was tough on him that Michael would eventually do things right and be molded into a "fine young man." Michael began to feel hopeless. He believed that he would never please his father. He started doing exactly the opposite of what his father told him to do because he knew he could not live up to his …