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Articles 1 - 30 of 68
Full-Text Articles in Education
Student Retention In Florida Community Colleges:Ccsse's Retention Index And Florida Accountability Measures, Marcia Roman
Student Retention In Florida Community Colleges:Ccsse's Retention Index And Florida Accountability Measures, Marcia Roman
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Student retention has become a serious topic in the past several decades (Wild and Ebbers, 2002). Problematic, however, is how retention is defined and measured, as well as a lack of multi-institutional studies that support a theoretical model for improving student retention, particularly in community colleges (Bailey & Alfonso, 2005). The Community College Survey of Student Engagement (CCSSE) was launched in 2001. Based on extensive research that pertains to student learning and persistence, CCSSE defined five benchmarks of educational practice. Three of the benchmarks comprise the Retention Index. CCSSE has encouraged additional studies to further validate the relatively new survey …
Computer-Based Instructional Systems Design Tools: Current State And Implications For The Future, Anna A. Andrews
Computer-Based Instructional Systems Design Tools: Current State And Implications For The Future, Anna A. Andrews
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
This study examines the current state of computer-based instructional systems design (ISD) tools and outlines its implications for the future. The study utilizes the grounded theory methodology to capture and document modern instructional designers' perspectives regarding the current state of ISD tools, the issues associated with them, and their interrelationships. The study also presents a framework for classifying modern ISD tools and a conceptual prototype of a designer-oriented system of computer-based ISD tools.
Classroom Mathematical Practices In A Preservice Elementary Mathematics Education Course Using An Instructional Sequence Related, Janet Andreasen
Classroom Mathematical Practices In A Preservice Elementary Mathematics Education Course Using An Instructional Sequence Related, Janet Andreasen
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
This qualitative study documents a classroom teaching experiment in a semester-long undergraduate mathematics education course for 16 prospective elementary school teachers. The purpose of this study was to investigate how social aspects of the classroom environment facilitated the collective mathematical learning of place value and whole number operations by preservice elementary school teachers. Design-based research methodology was used for formulating the study. A hypothetical learning trajectory and instructional sequence related to place value and operations were created and refined in the two semesters prior to this study. The instructional sequence was in its third iteration for this study. The developmental …
Differences In Academic Performance And Self-Regulated Learning Based On Level Of Student Participation In Supplemental Instruction, Ana Mack
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
This study examined differences in academic performance and self-regulated learning based on levels of student participation in Supplemental Instruction (SI) sessions in two introductory undergraduate biology and chemistry courses offered at University of Central Florida in the Spring 2006 semester. The sample consisted of 282 students enrolled in the biology class and 451 students enrolled in chemistry. Academic performance was measured using students' final course grades and rates of withdrawal from the courses. The self-regulated learning constructs of motivation, cognition, metacognition, and resource management were measured using the Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ). Relationships between students' gender and ethnic …
Investigating The Effectiveness Of Redundant Text And Animation In Multimedia Learning Environments, Shiau-Lung Chu
Investigating The Effectiveness Of Redundant Text And Animation In Multimedia Learning Environments, Shiau-Lung Chu
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
In multimedia learning environments, research suggests that simultaneous presentation of redundant text (i.e. identical narration and on-screen text) may inhibit learning when presented with animation at the same time. However, related studies are limited to testing with cause-and-effects content information (e.g., Moreno & Mayer, 1999, 2002). This study examined the effects of redundant text on learners' memory achievement and problem solving ability. The study replicated and extended prior research by using descriptive, rather than cause-and-effect content information. The primary research questions were (a) does redundant text improve learning performance if learners are presented with instructional material that addresses subject matter …
Challenging A Traditional Social Norm In A Second Grade Mathematics Classroom, Lisa Egendoerfer
Challenging A Traditional Social Norm In A Second Grade Mathematics Classroom, Lisa Egendoerfer
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
In an attempt to examine classroom dialogue within a second grade classroom, I encouraged students to participate in mathematics discussions without needing to raise their hands before speaking. I challenged this traditional social norm and established sociomathematical norms as the study progressed. My study showed the effects of this change on the dialogue of students in my classroom. Focus was placed on the participation in classroom discussions when traditional social and sociomathematical norms were in place as well as when new norms were established. The study helped determine the effects of student-centered dialogue on conceptual understanding as demonstrated in the …
A Study Of Florida Public Elementary School Principals' Job Satisfaction Following The Implementation Of Florida's A+ System For Grading Schools, Robert Paswaters
A Study Of Florida Public Elementary School Principals' Job Satisfaction Following The Implementation Of Florida's A+ System For Grading Schools, Robert Paswaters
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
The problem of this study was to examine the impact of Florida's A+ program of accountability on elementary principal job satisfaction. Specifically, the study was conducted to determine the relationship between a school's grade and principal job satisfaction. Of primary interest was the extent to which school accountability impacted principal satisfaction with the facets of Work on Present Job, Pay, Opportunities for Promotion, Supervision, People on the Present Job, and the job as a whole. The instruments used, the Job Descriptive Index (JDI) and Job in General (JIG) were provided through the JDI Research Office housed at Bowling Green State …
Listening To Student Voices: Fifth Graders' Perceptions Of Their Mathematics Learning Within The Context Of A Mathematics Reform, Elizabeth Hoffman
Listening To Student Voices: Fifth Graders' Perceptions Of Their Mathematics Learning Within The Context Of A Mathematics Reform, Elizabeth Hoffman
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
This qualitative study explored fifth graders' perceptions of their mathematics learning within the context of a reform effort. Students' voices are the focus of this study due to the paucity of literature on student learning from the students' perspective (Erickson & Shultz, 1992), particularly the elementary student (Gentilucci, 2004). The participants of this study, who in the past have been given a variety of labels including "disadvantaged" or "at-risk," clearly articulated, even in nonstandard English, their perceptions of their mathematics learning. They passionately explained what helped them learn mathematics as well as what impeded their mathematics learning and were often …
The Effects Of Science Inquiry In A Fourth Grade Classroom, Stephanie Luke
The Effects Of Science Inquiry In A Fourth Grade Classroom, Stephanie Luke
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
The purpose of this study was to determine the effects that science inquiry would have on fourth grade students' ability to communicate about scientific concepts learned, their perceptions about science and scientists, and my role as a teacher. The study took place in an elementary school setting for twenty weeks. Fourteen fourth grade students participated. Qualitative and quantitative methods were used to gather data for the study. Pre and post questionnaires and Draw a Scientist Tests were used, along with observations, field notes, videotaped lessons, and reflections. The data revealed that students' ability to communicate about science concepts improved during …
Investigation Of The Impact Of Video-Based Anchored Instruction On The Implementation Of Inclusive Practices By Students With Learning Disabilities, Christopher O'Brien
Investigation Of The Impact Of Video-Based Anchored Instruction On The Implementation Of Inclusive Practices By Students With Learning Disabilities, Christopher O'Brien
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
For several years emerging trends in special education services have favored inclusion for students with disabilities. Concurrent to this evolution of philosophy in special education has been the advent of what could be considered inclusive instructional practices--those methods that aid in the successful inclusion of students with disabilities. These inclusive practices include co-teaching, cooperative learning, peer-mediated instruction, positive behavioral support, embedded learning strategies, and content-enhancements (Ehren, Lenz, & Deshler, 2005; King-Sears, 1997). As inclusive placements become an increasingly common standard of practice, particularly for students with learning disabilities, the need to assist general educators in establishing inclusive classrooms becomes a …
The Effects Of The 5e Learning Cycle Model On Students' Understanding Of Force And Motion Concepts, Meghann Campbell
The Effects Of The 5e Learning Cycle Model On Students' Understanding Of Force And Motion Concepts, Meghann Campbell
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
As advocated by the National Research Council [NRC] (1996) and the American Association for the Advancement of Science [AAAS] (1989), a change in the manner in which science is taught must be recognized at a national level and also embraced at a level that is reflected in every science teacher's classroom. With these ideas set forth as a guide for change,this study investigated the fifth grade students' understanding of force and motion concepts as they engaged in inquiry-based science investigations through the use of the 5E Learning Cycle. The researcher's journey through this process was also a focus of the …
A Case Study: Alternative Certification, Neleffra Marshall
A Case Study: Alternative Certification, Neleffra Marshall
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
This study was a heuristic, descriptive case study of the Alternative Certification Program in 4 central Florida counties. The purpose of this study was to: (a) identify the awareness of the existence of the reported alternative certification components implemented by 4 counties in Florida, and identify any additional components; (b) determine the importance of the targeted teaching criteria needed for successful teaching as identified in the literature to the ACP teacher, principal and coordinator; (c) determine the advantages/disadvantages of the program as viewed by the ACP participants, principals, and coordinators; (d) identify how many of the 4 counties kept data …
Caregiver Burden And Coping Responses For Females Who Are The Primary Caregiver For A Family Member Living With Hiv/Aids In Kenya, Veronica Kimemia
Caregiver Burden And Coping Responses For Females Who Are The Primary Caregiver For A Family Member Living With Hiv/Aids In Kenya, Veronica Kimemia
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Caring for a family member who is ill can be a draining experience (Cooper et al., 2006; Daire, 2002; Zarit et al, 1980). Providing care for a family member that is living with HIV/AIDS is potentially even more stressful because of social meanings associated with HIV/AIDS infection (Stajduhar, 1998) and the contagious nature of the HIV virus (Powell-Cope & Brown, 1992). Research indicates that most caregivers are female (Bunting, 2001; Songwathana, 2000). In Africa women bear the brunt of the burden of providing care for family members who are living with HIV/AIDS (Mushonga, 2001; Olenja, 1999). This study examined coping …
In Transition: An Activity Theoretical Analysis Examining Electronic Portfolio Tools' Mediation Of The Preservice Teacher's Authoring Experience, Rebecca Fiedler
In Transition: An Activity Theoretical Analysis Examining Electronic Portfolio Tools' Mediation Of The Preservice Teacher's Authoring Experience, Rebecca Fiedler
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Co-chairs: Dr. Donna Baumbach Dr. Gail West Background: Electronic portfolios are increasingly used to make critical decisions about teacher candidates and program accreditation. Adoption rates for portfolios are at nearly 90% for schools, colleges, and departments of education (Salzman, Denner, & Harris, 2002). Over 50% of institutions who rated themselves or were nominated by others as exemplary users of electronic portfolios use web-based database-driven electronic portfolio systems (Strudler & Wetzel, 2005b; Wetzel & Strudler, 2005b). There is a paucity of theory-driven, systematic, rigorous research on electronic portfolios and a need for in-depth, context-aware research on such initiatives. Purpose: To explicate …
Constructs Unique To Two Volusia County Elementary Writing Programs, Kathleen Holt
Constructs Unique To Two Volusia County Elementary Writing Programs, Kathleen Holt
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
This case study sought to examine constructs of two fourth-grade elementary writing programs in Volusia County, Florida. With only the Sunshine State Standards as a guide, each district, school, or teacher must design a writing curriculum that addresses those standards, develops writers, and provides accountability. Fourth-grade classrooms were selected because students at that grade level are required to participate in the FCAT Writing +, a two-day state assessemnt that requires students to compose an essay on a designated topic within a 45-minute period. A second part of the assessment consists of multiple-choice items covering editing and revising, graphic organizers, and …
The Effects Of Gender In Elementary Science Groups, Melissa Parks
The Effects Of Gender In Elementary Science Groups, Melissa Parks
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
This action research study investigated the effects of gender on same and mixed gender elementary school science groups. Qualitative data for this study was collected using surveys, student focus groups, student journals, and teacher-researcher field notes and observations. Students in this study were eager to participate in science groups and demonstrated a positive attitude toward the study of science. Results also showed the types of interactions between boys and girls varied and those interactions affected their science attitude and participation. Recommendations were made for continued research to examine the long-term effects of gender groupings in the elementary science classroom.
Enhancing Vocabulary Acquisition Through Synthetic Learning Experiences: Implementing Virtual Field Trips Into Classrooms, Alicia Sanchez
Enhancing Vocabulary Acquisition Through Synthetic Learning Experiences: Implementing Virtual Field Trips Into Classrooms, Alicia Sanchez
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
A Synthetic Learning Environment (SLE) the Virtual Field Trip (VFT) was designed to increase vocabulary acquisition and knowledge by utilizing simulation based technologies and leveraging sound educational findings. Vocabulary acquisition is considered a prerequisite to becoming a good reader and therefore a critical predictor of academic and lifelong success for early learners, however, teachers report that students lack the real world knowledge required for vocabulary knowledge. The VFT provides a meaningful context for anchored and situated instruction. Second grade students were assigned to either use the VFT or to listen to stories read aloud by a researcher on a video …
An Investigation To Determine The Level Of Knowledge Of Facility Maintenance By Public School-Building Level Administrators, Richard Paradise
An Investigation To Determine The Level Of Knowledge Of Facility Maintenance By Public School-Building Level Administrators, Richard Paradise
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
This investigation studied the level of knowledge that principals have concerning the maintenance of their schools. A questionnaire was developed to address three research questions. These research questions were: (1) what is the extent that facilities maintenance is an important issue for school principals? (2) in what specific areas of facilities maintenance do principals lack knowledge? and (3) in what specific areas does the lack of facilities maintenance knowledge by principals exceed 30%? A questionnaire was developed to gather data to analyze comparative relationships to the research questions. Data indicated that principals do believe facilities maintenance is an important issue. …
What Teachers Want To Know: A Systematic Review Of Action Research Theses Related To K-8 Mathematics And Science, Bridget Steele
What Teachers Want To Know: A Systematic Review Of Action Research Theses Related To K-8 Mathematics And Science, Bridget Steele
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
The research conducted was a systemic review of 88 action research masters theses from a teacher enhancement program for K-8 mathematics and science at the University of Central Florida and the teachers that performed the studies. The purpose of this study is to synthesize existing research results of a collection of master's theses from a teacher enhancement program for K-8 mathematics and science teachers in order to arrive at meaningful conclusions regarding teachers' research interests and classroom practices. Also, the study will help teacher educators who deliver the teacher enhancement program to improve the effectiveness of the program. A summary …
Science Self-Efficacy In Tenth Grade Hispanic Female High School Students, Maria Miller
Science Self-Efficacy In Tenth Grade Hispanic Female High School Students, Maria Miller
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Historical data have demonstrated an underrepresentation of females and minorities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions. The purpose of the study considered the variables of gender and ethnicity collectively in relationship to tenth grade Hispanic females' perception of their self-efficacy in science. The correlation of science self-efficacy to science academic achievement was also studied. Possible interventions for use with female Hispanic minority populations might help increase participation in STEM field preparation during the high school career. A population of 272 students was chosen through convenience sampling methods, including 80 Hispanic females. Students were administered a 27-item questionnaire taken …
A Correlational Study About Coaching And Teachers' Attitudes, Perceptions, And Practices In Reading Instruction, Joan Conway
A Correlational Study About Coaching And Teachers' Attitudes, Perceptions, And Practices In Reading Instruction, Joan Conway
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
The purpose of this study was to explore elementary teachers' self-reporting of: a) work with a reading coach and b) attitudes, perceptions, and practices in teaching reading. The five point ratings and open-ended responses on the survey were the sources of data. Surveys were returned by 85% of teachers in five elementary schools in Collier County, Florida. Correlations of survey items were analyzed on the basis of the aggregated data and the following subgroups: certification, years of experience, school demographics, and grade levels. The survey in this study was excerpted and adapted from a survey, which was tested for validity …
The Paths To Becoming A Mathematics Teacher, Kimberly Lowry
The Paths To Becoming A Mathematics Teacher, Kimberly Lowry
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Increasing numbers of mathematics teachers must be recruited in coming years, because of a growing student population, teacher attrition, calls for smaller class size, and the need to replace out-of-subject teachers. Recruitment can be made more effective and efficient, if better information on career paths is provided to decision makers. This study attempts to analyze the academic decisions which lead to the outcome "becoming a mathematics teacher". Four groups were compared and contrasted: mathematics teachers, science teachers, other teachers, and non-teachers. Science teachers were removed from the "other teachers" category because of their many similarities to mathematics teachers on the …
The Relationship Between Academic And Student Affairs Collaboration And Student Success In Research Universities, Elizabeth Boggs
The Relationship Between Academic And Student Affairs Collaboration And Student Success In Research Universities, Elizabeth Boggs
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
This study investigated the relationships, if any, between the number, nature, and organization of partnerships between academic and student affairs and measures of institutional success and student learning. Specifically, this research sought to: (a) investigate the relationships between the number, nature, and organization of partnerships with institutional retention rates, graduation rates, and students' engagement in educationally purposeful activities, (b) test the feasibility of a classification system for the organization of partnerships developed by O'Halloran (2005), and (c) explore the alignment between reported goals for engaging in collaboration and the actual nature of existing partnerships. The population for the study consisted …
Improving Parent Involvement For Culturally And Lingustically Diverse Parents Of Middle School Students With Disabilities From Urban Settings In Suburban Schools, Michelle Urquhart
Improving Parent Involvement For Culturally And Lingustically Diverse Parents Of Middle School Students With Disabilities From Urban Settings In Suburban Schools, Michelle Urquhart
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
This study was designed to address the need for improved collaborative experiences for culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) parents of students with disabilities. Historically, these individuals have had limited interactions with special education services and professionals, particularly at the middle school level. To improve the collaborative relationship between CLD families and schools, the study offered collaborative training sessions designed to provide opportunities for parents to build on their current knowledge base and skills for effective partnerships with school personnel. The goal of the training was to increase the types and frequency of school involvement by CLD parents. The participants for …
Health Attitudes, Knowledge And Literacy Of Primary Caregivers With Elementary School Children, Susan Stuib
Health Attitudes, Knowledge And Literacy Of Primary Caregivers With Elementary School Children, Susan Stuib
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Previous research has indicated that physical activity and healthy eating in elementary school children are the exception rather than the norm. Increased attention to the rising rates of childhood obesity, coupled with the recognition that changes in the school environment are critical to reducing this trend, has intensified the need to adopt better practices in school nutrition, physical activity and physical education. Apart from being physically active, children need to learn fundamental motor skills and develop health related physical fitness (cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, and body composition). Primary caregivers play an important part in developing and teaching …
Student Disability Services Within The 28 Florida Community Colleges, Alice Godbey
Student Disability Services Within The 28 Florida Community Colleges, Alice Godbey
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
The purpose of this research study was to investigate perceptions and activities of disability support program administrators in Florida community colleges regarding program administration and evaluation. The study further sought to document if any relationships existed between selected organizational and staffing characteristics and the program's ability to follow an established set of standards for program administration and evaluation. A total of 25 disability support administrators (89.3% response rate) completed a phone survey designed for this study. The study revealed that there were many inconsistencies among the higher education disability support programs in regard to programming, staffing and data collecting activities. …
A Descriptive Comparative Study Of Traditional And Non-Traditional Master's Of Science In Nursing Degree Programs Offering The Education Track In The State Of Florida, Mary Goetteman
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
The goal of this research was to determine how the nursing faculty shortage in Florida was being addressed. The purpose of this descriptive, comparative study was to explore program length, size, and admission criteria of master's of science in nursing (MSN) degree programs. Characteristics of both traditional and non-traditional programs that offered the education specialty were examined. Non-traditional programs included registered nurse to master's of science in nursing (RN-MSN) degree programs. Characteristics of students enrolled in the education track of these programs were also compared, based on participant's entry level into nursing practice. The three comparison groups included diploma prepared …
The Analysis Of The Relationship Between Learning Styles And The Learners' Knowledge Acquisition And Reactions Through The Online Case Study, Rui Zeng
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between learning styles and student performance on a pre and post test, using an online case study, while also documenting their reactions to the case study. The case studies used in this research contained different storylines that showed multiple perspectives of case scenarios, giving students more choices to see what may happen in real school situations. Working with undergraduate students (N = 138) from the College of Education at a southeastern university, the researcher examined how students learned and responded to an online case study relative to their learning styles. …
A Relational Diffusion Network Study Of Synchronous And Asynchronous Internet-Based Faculty's Personal Network Exposure Models Related To Discussions About Teaching Online, Dorothy Pick
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
For many faculty, teaching online represents a new instructional delivery method, requiring the development of new teaching skills. This exploratory investigation builds upon Rogers' (2003) Diffusion of Innovations theory and communication channels to describe the influence of faculty discussions on their perceptions and decisions about teaching and learning. A sequential explanatory mixed-methods research design, using both sociometric and phenomenological methodologies, guided the exploration of faculty personal network exposure models and social learning opportunities. The study utilized online survey and open-ended interview instruments for the investigation. Faculty from several colleges at the University of Central Florida voluntarily completed the survey instrument …
Trends In The Selection, Evaluation, And Compensation Of University Presidents In The Florida State University System, Nancy L. Marshall
Trends In The Selection, Evaluation, And Compensation Of University Presidents In The Florida State University System, Nancy L. Marshall
Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Recent literature suggested that while the discussion of presidential selection, evaluation, and compensation was common to both private and public institutions, special attention was paid to public university presidents. They and their presidencies were subject to intense public debate and scrutiny. Florida's public university presidents have contended with the same issues as their counterparts in other states. However, the 2001 changes in the state's higher education governance created distinct challenges and opportunities for the 11 presidents in the Florida State University System. The purpose of this study was to analyze the trends in the selection, evaluation, and compensation of the …