Education Commons^™

Indivisible, With An Education For All : Differentiation Strategies Used In A Multi-Categorical Classroom, Stephanie Elizabeth Francis

Graduate Research Papers

This article focuses on a pilot study that examines the effectiveness of differentiation strategies when used in a multi-categorical classroom. The writer, a gifted and talented facilitator in a rural Iowa school district, team taught with two other teachers in a classroom where identified learning-disabled and gifted students were clustered together. The purpose of this clustering was to determine the impact of alternative strategies upon special needs students when implemented in a common learning environment. The writer concludes that with careful planning, differentiation can be a positive instructional strategy in a multi-categorical classroom. She also offers recommendations for educators and …

Establishing Literature Circles In One Middle School Teacher's Classroom, Kristin M. Englert Gehrke

Graduate Research Papers

Literature circles are a popular method of reading instruction in middle school classrooms. Literature circles are when small groups of students choose one book to read and then meet to discuss it. Students are taught how to discuss a book and use response journals. Implementing literature circles into a reading curriculum requires a great deal of planning. A teacher must make decisions about structure, themes, response journals, discussion groups, assessment and final projects.

Literature circles are an evolving teaching method and will not always work the same way each time they are used. I found literature circles to be a …

When The Wildebeest Gets Your Berries : Adolescent Anger Management, Patresa A. Hartman

Graduate Research Papers

This study presents a review of literature regarding adolescent anger management. Problematic anger is defined as externalizing or internalizing behaviors that occur frequently enough and at a high enough level of intensity to: (1) disrupt one's everyday functioning at school, home, and/or in the community; and (2) impair one's relationships with others and one's own self-concept. The causes can be traced to a myriad of possible sources: cognitive problems; developmental problems; chronic irritability, agitation, volatility, or mood instability; or environmental stressors.

This review of studies regarding adolescent anger management programs leads to the following suggestions for school psychologists: (1) understand …

The Trend Of Academic Achievement And Retention For Immigrant Latino Youth, Pamela Humphrey

Graduate Research Papers

This paper discusses the trend of academic achievement and retention for Latino immigrant youth. Research indicates that the general trend for Latino youth is negative – generally achievement is lower than any other immigrant ethnic group, and the drop out rate is higher than for any other ethnic group. Factors such as language and methods of learning, segregation, poverty, low parental involvement in education, discrimination, and stress due to immigration have been identified as factors contributing to low academic success.

The ways in which schools deal with immigrant students is also discussed. Further research is needed on immigrant Latino families …

Phonics Or Whole Language : Choosing The Most Effective Approach To Teach Reading, Alisha Sue Jobe

Graduate Research Papers

This study examined the literature concerning the phonics reading approach and the whole language reading approach at the primary grade level. Benefits, as well as problems, associated with phonics and whole language were discussed. Guidelines were presented for teachers to use with the best reading approaches for children in the primary grades. Conclusions were drawn from the literature and recommendations were made for teaching reading successfully to primary-age children.

School-Based Prevention Of Adolescent Substance Abuse, Kristina Lorenzen

Graduate Research Papers

Because of the prevalence and serious consequences of adolescent substance abuse, it is necessary to review programming for prevention. Progress has been made in identifying effective prevention methods. However, there is a gap between what research has shown to be effective and the methods commonly used in most schools.

The purpose of this paper is to review existing literature and research on substance abuse prevention for adolescents. The following research questions were addressed: How prevalent is adolescent substance abuse? What specific factors put an adolescent at risk for substance abuse? Why are some programs considered ineffective? What components make an …

The Effects Of A Mother's Incarceration On Her Children, Jane Elizabeth Mayer

Graduate Research Papers

This study examined the effects of a mother's incarceration on her children. Benefits, as well as problems, associated with facilitating a mother-child visitation program were discussed. Guidelines were presented for parents, caregivers, children, and prison staff on a successful mother-child visitation program. Conclusions were drawn from the literature and recommendations were made for the future facilitation of a mother-child visitation program.

A Writing Instruction Tool For Valley High School, West Des Moines, Iowa, Kristine Milburn

Graduate Research Papers

As computer-based communication becomes increasingly popular, so does the need for effective and efficient writing skills. Individuals must express themselves formally and informally to others through writing; thus, the importance of writing goes beyond scholarly pursuits and pervades every facet of society today.

The focus of this paper is to examine the usefulness of a common evaluative and instructive language, specifically the Six-Trait Analytical Scoring Guide (developed by the Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory in Oregon), within a high school in order to encourage growth and success in student writing.

Literacy Volunteers In Elementary Classrooms : Why Do We Need Them And How Do We Train Them?, Laura Meyers

Graduate Research Papers

This project examines the need for specialized literacy volunteers, describes the uses of these volunteers in the elementary school classroom and provides a handbook that could be used to train literacy volunteers to work with students and staff. Surveys were sent to teachers in three elementary school buildings in northeast Iowa to gather input on perceived needs of students in the areas of reading and writing, opinions on specialized training for literacy volunteers and needs and uses of literacy volunteers in the classroom.

After gathering and evaluating data from teacher surveys and consulting current research in the field of reading …

Web Publishing Using Ms Word, Christie Carlsen

Graduate Research Papers

I was approached by a motorcross club and asked to build a Website to represent their club. The purpose of the website is to promote the club to attract new members, announce up-coming events, show a member list with contact numbers, and provide a page to place pictures of past events. The club has limited funds, therefore they intend to maintain their site themselves and asked if I would show a selected few members the process. I had to find a way to educate club members on how to maintain their web page after I created and published the original …

Reflections On The Roles And Values Of Educational Leaders : A Reflective Essay, Scott Schipper

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of this paper is to reflect on my personal, philosophical perspective on education, the purpose of school, and my values and beliefs relative to educational leadership. I think it is valuable for educational leaders to reflect upon their philosophies of education. It serves as a reminder to them of why they are in education and how they go about obtaining their own personal goals. These beliefs that I will be sharing have been formulated over my years of teaching and from my experiences throughout this leadership program.

Reactive Attachment Disorder : Diagnosis, Assessment, And Treatment, Kimberly A. Rees

Graduate Research Papers

In recent years, there has been an increasing trend toward the use of Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) as a diagnosis to describe myriad problem behaviors and disturbed interactions between infants, young children and their caregivers. There is considerable disagreement about what RAD actually entails and, in particular, what types of assessments and treatment interventions to use with affected children and families (Hanson & Spratt, 2000). This paper is intended to clarify what the current research states about Reactive Attachment Disorder. It includes the definitions and diagnosis, importance of attachment, biological components, risk factors later in life, assessment, and treatment available …

A Preferred Vision For Administering Elementary Schools : A Reflective Essay, Cindy Roerig

Graduate Research Papers

I believe in visionary, instructional, organizational, collaborative, ethical, and political leadership in administrating a school community. I know all students can achieve quality education if the right accommodations are developed for each learning situation. Administrators need to promote educational excellence for all stakeholders. As an administrator, I will promote and advocate for a school community where all students will learn and achieve lifelong knowledge and skills so they can become future leaders in our society. I believe educators must be held accountable for every student to reach their maximum potential in achieving academic and social success. As a principal, my …

Attachment Disorders And Personality Disorders : A Possible Connection, Jen Sacora

Graduate Research Papers

Researchers now propose that attachment theory can be applied beyond childhood. They believe attachment exists in adulthood and influences adult relationships. Possible connections between personality disorders and well-known approaches to personality development such as attachment theory have been made (Brennan & Shaver, 1998).

The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationships between parent-infant attachment which influence adult relationships and psychopathology. Theories of personality development as they relate to attachment will be explored as well as influence of early childhood experiences on personality. Finally, possible connections between attachment disorders and personality disorders will be speculated.

Academic Advising Strategies For The At-Risk Student, Angie K. Tudor

Graduate Research Papers

"They often come to class without a pen or paper, put off buying a textbook, do not complete initial assignments, become erratic in attendance, and one day, they simply disappear" (Rouche, 1993, p.37). This description of an at-risk student was provided by a faculty member expressing concern over the plight of this unique category of students in higher education. At-risk students are students who, through no fault of their own, have been denied some of the advantages granted to the majority of college students. "These advantages include growing up in a loving, supportive family, having adequate financial resources, or having …

Ywca Family Literacy Program, Adam Severson

Graduate Research Papers

According to the federal government (2002), family literacy programs are defined as services provided to participants on a voluntary basis. The programs should be of sufficient energy in terms of hours and duration. Such programs should make lasting changes in a family that include the following activities: (a) interactive literacy activities between parents and children, (b) training for parents regarding how to teach their children and be a partner in education, (c) parent literacy training that leads to economic independence, and (d) an age-appropriate education to prepare children for success in school and life experiences.

The Family Literacy Program at …

Motivation And Mandatory Standardized Testing: Utilizing The School Counselor As Consultant, Liaison, Trainer, And Advocate, Trent Taylor

Graduate Research Papers

Since the publication of "A Nation at Risk" in 1983, the emphasis on using standardized testing has dramatically increased (Burke & Lombardi, 1998). Political candidates at all levels are using the issues of accountability and testing in campaign advertisements and as focal points to attack opponents. Today, hundreds of thousands of achievement and aptitude tests are administered each year in educational settings (Hood & Johnson, 1997).

A Preferred Vision For Administering High Schools, Corey Tafoya

Graduate Research Papers

Few people believe I grew up in Wyoming. It must seem far away, foreign and different from the Midwestern way of life. The rugged individualism that pervades Wyoming's culture is evident in the character of most Wyoming natives. We are raised to be independent and confident. Wyoming is a place where actions are valued above talking. People show their beliefs through their actions. When a neighbor needs help, help until the work is done, there is no need to form a "neighborhood association." Common social catch phrases and trendy social activities have a very short shelf life in Wyoming. What …

A Preferred Vision For Administering Secondary Schools : A Reflective Essay, James Muench

Graduate Research Papers

The area of school administration has never been one for easy success. It has always been left wide open for criticism and debate from many different groups of people and community organizations. Since the beginning of this great nation, leaders have debated on the best methods and techniques of educating the children. School leaders have changed with the times just like other leaders in our society. Adjustment and change will always be an important aspect of the success of education.

Understanding Brain-Based Instruction And The Technology Connection For Improved Teaching And Learning, Tammy Wawro

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of this paper is to give educators a brief description of the parts of the brain, the implications of the brain on learning, and an understanding of how technology can help in this way of teaching and learning. Many experienced and well respected brain researcher's works are cited as examples and used as references, including but not limited to Slywester, Jensen, and Kovalik. By utilizing what researchers have found, and integrating their own experience and knowledge, educators can find best practices that will help to promote student learning.

The Effects Of Affirmative Action On Students Of Color Applying To Four-Year Institutions, Cathy M. Ketton

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of this research is to examine the history, pros and cons of Affirmative Action, and the effects affirmation action has in the college and university admissions process of four-year institutions. Furthermore, this paper encompasses the benefits of valuing and aggressively seeking diversity of students and faculty on America's college campuses.

A Preferred Vision For Administering Elementary Schools : A Reflective Essay, Kimberly S. Kazmierczak

Graduate Research Papers

Administration is a journey of discovery. This reflective paper is the testament discovery for one administrator who is not the same person as she was one year ago. The anniversary of acceptance to take a position in administration has passed and has found this administrator with newly found confidence, knowledge and purpose to constantly improve and never cease to learn.

This paper is a reflection of the cognitive and affective gains made by one administrator in her first year. It demonstrates what practical application while learning can do for the professional career of a future administrator. "A leader who plans, …

A Personal Professional Vision For Elementary Principalship : A Reflective Essay, Doreen A. Knuth

Graduate Research Papers

The business of running public schools to prepare our youngsters to be productive members of society is a very complex task. It is not enough to simply have a vision based on values and beliefs, but one must also possess the necessary skills to · transform that vision into reality. Dr. Lorraine Monroe, a successful leader in the field of educational leadership, sums this up by saying, "Most important is that the leader continue not only to believe in the dream and the need to pursue it but also to do the hard brain work of never doubting its importance," …

Promoting Learning Goals In The Classroom : A Preventative Approach To Motivational Problems, Marc Groen

Graduate Research Papers

This paper explores the implications of achievement goal theory for addressing motivational problems in the classroom. First, the basic elements of achievement goal theory are described and relevant empirical research that follows from this framework is reviewed. Next, the implications of achievement goal theory for designing motivationally healthy classroom environments as well as the potential obstacles to successful implementation of these design principles are examined.

A major conclusion of this review is that achievement goal theory provides an important preventative approach to addressing motivational problems in the classroom. Implications of this preventative approach to addressing motivational problems for the school …

Relational Aggression In Early Adolescent Girls, Sara M. Bucknam

Graduate Research Papers

There are differences in aggressive behavior between early adolescent boys and girls. Girls use relational aggressive methods to gain control over their peers. In general, schools do not directly address this form of aggression. School counselors are in the position to reduce relational aggression in schools. Assessment must first be performed in order to address the level of aggression in girls. This can be completed through questionnaires or focus groups. There are several prevention and intervention methods that be incorporated in schools. These methods can reduce relational aggression in early adolescent girls.

Male Childhood Sexual Abuse : Do Not Overlook It, Elizabeth Soenen

Graduate Research Papers

Male childhood sexual abuse (CSA) is often unrecognized and under-reported; therefore, its symptoms are often left untreated. The research reveals it is more prevalent than previously thought and is accompanied by a variety of maladaptive symptoms. Clinicians' awareness of these findings, along with self-awareness of their own beliefs about male CSA, is likely to lead to identification of its presence and the opportunity to choose appropriate interventions.

School Readiness: Characteristics, Viewpoints, And Guidelines For Developing An Effective Kindergarten Program, Vicki A. Zweibohmer

Graduate Research Papers

This study examined the recent literature on the subject of school readiness. Positive viewpoints, as well as negative viewpoints, associated with school readiness were discussed. Guidelines were presented for developing an effective kindergarten program with regard to school readiness. Also, conclusions were drawn from the current literature and recommendations were made for future kindergarten programs

Fat Is Not A Four-Letter Word : Examining The Factors That Contribute To Eating Disorders In Adolescent Females And The Role Of School Counselors In Prevention And Treatment, Megan B. Tressel

Graduate Research Papers

An eating disorder is an obsession with food, weight, and body image that can lead to both physical and emotional problems (Mickley, 2001). The rate of eating disorders among girls between the ages of 9-13 is steadily rising (Herzog & Delinsky, 2001). It is estimated that approximately eight million girls and women in America have symptoms of some type of eating disorder, and this is a conservative number because many girls go undiagnosed (Meehan, 1990). Recently Schur, Sanders, and Steiner (2000) showed that 41 % of girls ages 9-10 desired a thinner body shape, which indicates that children are developing …

Factors That Contribute To Increases In Human Performance And Employee Morale, Chandra Washington

Graduate Research Papers

This research paper focuses on training and other factors that increase employee morale and performance. In regards to training, this researcher focuses on its benefits and its place within the corporate organization, while offering suggestive methods such as motivation, employee recognition and succession planning, for increases in employee performance. The purpose of this paper is to show how organizations do not have to increase overhead in order to reach their goals with every employee. Employees do not always need to sit in a training class to correct a problem that can be resolved by motivating the employees, recognizing and rewarding …

Bullying In Schools : Understanding And Interventions, Donkar Wangmo

Graduate Research Papers

Bullying in schools is a worldwide problem that can have negative consequences for the general school climate and for the right of the students to learn in a safe environment without fear (Banks, 1997). Bullying can also have negative lifelong consequences, both for students who bully and for their victims. Although much of the formal research on bullying has taken place in the Scandinavian countries, Great Britain, and Japan, the problems associated with bullying have been noted and discussed wherever formal schooling environments exist (Banks, 1997). Olweus (1993) reported that one child out of every seven is either a bully …