Education Commons^™

Development Of A Test For Measuring Knowledge Of The Discipline Provisions Of The Individuals With Disabilities Education Act Amendments Of 1997., Jerri Nave Lyons

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to develop and refine an instrument to assess knowledge levels of the discipline provisions of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Amendments of 1997 (IDEA '97). Such an instrument will assist in determining whether or not and to what extent additional training opportunities may be needed for school personnel who are responsible for disciplining students served in special education under IDEA '97. School officials who do not have proper knowledge and understanding of these provisions may violate students' rights by denying them the free appropriate public education to which they are entitled.

The initial …

An Investigative Analysis Of Teaching Business Ethics In Tennessee Community Colleges., Carol Slagle Cole

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to investigate what Tennessee community colleges were currently doing in preparing students in the area of business ethics. The study explored preparedness of faculty members in teaching business ethics, motivations for teaching business ethics, preferred methods of business ethics instruction, proportion of time devoted to teaching business ethics, and faculty member perceptions of responsibility, importance, and effectiveness of teaching business ethics. Personal and professional demographic factors were collected, such as age, gender, degree earned, teaching experience. These were useful in developing a profile of business faculty members in the 13 Tennessee community colleges.

An …

Faculty Adoption And Integration Of Technology At East Tennessee State University., Tammy L. Barnes

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to identify and describe the demographic characteristics of faculty related to (1) faculty integration of technology, (2) the utilization of technological tools, (3) and the knowledge of computers and information technology of full-time faculty members at East Tennessee State University.

Four hundred forty-three full-time faculty from East Tennessee State University were surveyed. The total mailed and e-mailed returned responses for this study were 205. Eighteen hypotheses generated from 3 research questions were tested using Pearson Product-Moment Correlation, Analysis of Variance, Two-Way Analysis of Variance, and Multiple Regression Analysis.

This study showed that full-time faculty …

A Study To Identify The Factors That Inhibit High School Principals And Teachers From Pursuing Bachelor's And Master's Degrees In Busia District In Kenya., Samuel Okwako Obaki

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This study sought to examine the factors that inhibited principals and teachers from pursuing bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Busia District in Kenya. Up to the mid-1990s, teachers of all professional grades studied for National Examinations as private candidates. Those who met university admission requirements were admitted and the Teachers Service Commission granted each of them a study leave with 80% of his or her salary. Some of those who met university admission requirements were admitted to foreign universities, and the Ministry of Education either granted them study leave with or without salary. On passing their examinations or completion of …

An Investigation On The Impact Of The Structure Of Summative Student Evaluation On Self-Regulated Learning, John Charles Ritzier

Dissertations

Many hypotheses have been offered regarding the impact on learning caused by the most traditional practice of summative student evaluation, namely that of assigning marks to students. Sufficient evidence exists to suggest this practice often has detrimental effects. This study was designed to investigate the following three questions: (1) How does the method of summative student evaluation impact self-regulated learning in low-achieving high school mathematics students? (2) How does the cognitive level of the task mediate the relationship between method of summative student evaluation and self-regulated learning? (3) How does the length of time students are exposed to a method …

Inmate And Prison Gang Leadership., Sandra H. Fortune

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Almost 2,000 males, who have been convicted of crimes covering the gamut of criminal activities, are institutionalized in the state prison in Johnson County, Tennessee. These inmates, housed in the confines of a few concrete buildings, represent a society that is dissimilar from the free-world society.

The purpose of this phenomenological study was to determine the characteristics of an inmate leader. Research data were collected through interviews with 20 prisoners located in the Northeast Correctional Complex in Mountain City, Tennessee. Inmate leaders, selected for the study, included gang leaders and non-gang leaders. Interviews were tape recorded and transcribed for the …

Praise And Its Effects On Trust, Help-Seeking Behavior, And Self-Perception Of Students With Disabilities, Regina L. Rice

Theses & Honors Papers

The purpose of this investigation was to examine praise and its effects on help-seeking behavior, trust, and self-perception as well as how different age groups respond to praise. the participants were 11 female students with disabilities and low achievers ranging in ages from 12-17 and up chosen through convenience sampling. Praise as a specific intervention was examined using a self-developed, Likert- type, 16 item questionnaire. The data were analyzed using Pearson 'r'. No significant relationship was found between praise and help-seeking (r=.36, P> .05) or praise and self-perception (r=36, p> .05). However, a significant relationship was found between praise and …

Ability Of The Urban Teacher Selection Interview To Identify Teachers Who Are Likely To Be Retained In The Buffalo Public Schools, Patricia Frey

Seton Hall University Dissertations and Theses (ETDs)

The rate of teacher turnover appears to be higher than employee turnover in many other occupations. What is currently perceived as a teacher shortage may in reality be a problem of teacher retention. This study examined the use of the Urban Teacher Selection Interview, developed by Martin Haberman, Ph.D., as a tool for choosing teachers for urban districts. Almost 36% of those teachers eligible for employment in Buffalo refused employment. This compares favorably with a national average of 40% of teachers who choose not to teach. In general, the higher the interview scores the longer a teacher was retained in …

Relationships Between Reading Level Of Parents, Readability Of Special Education Documents/Forms, Knowledge Of Iep Contents, And Parental Involvement., Melinda Douthat Pruitt

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to describe the relationship between the reading level of parents of students in special education and the readability level of special education documents/forms. A related purpose was to determine whether a difference between reading level and the readability of documents/forms was related to parental involvement. The sample consisted of 30 parents of students in special education who were enrolled at Mosheim Elementary School in 2002. Parents were tested using the Woodcock-Johnson Psycho-Educational Battery: Part Two-Tests of Achievement, developed by Richard W. Woodcock and M. Bonner Johnson. Subtest 13, 14, and 15 were administered to …

Faculty Adoption Of Computer Technology For Instruction In The North Carolina Community College System., Karen Hill Less

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Computer technology has become an integral part of instruction at the elementary, secondary, and postsecondary levels. Some instructors have enthusiastically adopted technological innovations in their classrooms, often expending their own funds for hardware and software, while others have resisted the trend, citing a myriad of reasons for not including computer technology. Significant research on the adoption of innovations has been undertaken by Everett M. Rogers, who identified individuals on a continuum from Innovator to Laggard. Rogers’ research was used as a basis to classify full-time faculty teaching in degree programs in the North Carolina Community College System and to compare …

Migration Of University Of Maine 2002 Graduates, Ewa Jadwiga Kleczyk

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

In the context of today's tight labor market and increasing demand for highly skilled workers, Maine is considering how to attract and retain college graduates in the state. The educational system and economic opportunities such as the job market, wage levels, and taxes, as well as other factors impacting the migration trends of college graduates are evaluated. Understanding the patterns of educated people's relocation decisions, and the reasons influencing them, are concerns not just of government officials. Students with bachelor and advanced degrees are thought to be an asset to the community and the state since they add to the …

Retention: The Controversy Continues, Beverly Gray Greene

College of Education Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to investigate and determine if there existed significant differences in the mathematics and reading achievement levels of students (n = 8) who were retained in sixth grade and their promoted seventh grade counterparts (n = 8), as measured by grade equivalent (GEQ) scores earned on the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills (ITBS). The study also sought to discover if being retained raised the academic achievement levels of the retained students. Finally, the study explored the relationship between retention and self-concept using the Student Self-concept Rating Scale (SSCRS).

Both quantitative and qualitative methodology and analyses …

Retention And Motivation Of Veteran Teachers., Edith Anderson Edwards

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The workforce in the United States is aging. Teachers, like all other workers in the country, are also aging. The veteran teachers in our nation's public schools possess wisdom gained through their on-the-job experience. With looming teacher shortages in our public schools, it is imperative that we retain this wisdom. Administrators, school boards, and the community have an obligation to tap this wisdom for the benefit of children. This study was conducted, therefore, with the purpose of learning how to do that.

The data were collected through the process of one-on-one interviews with 21 veteran teachers in Knox County, Tennessee. …

Comparisons Of Reading Scores In Two Tennessee Elementary Schools Between Students Receiving And Not Receiving Specialized Training In Phonemic Awareness., Raymond Lee Hatfield

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Phonemic awareness has been identified as an essential precursor to reading. Many children suffer from a condition called central auditory processing disorder. Students suffering from this disorder have difficulty distinguishing between phonemes. This study was conducted to determine the effectiveness for developing phonemic awareness skills in early readers by using a computer program designed to enhance the phonemic awareness skills of students. During the 2001-2002 school year, students located at two Kingsport elementary schools were administered the Brigance Comprehensive Inventory of Basic Skills pretest and posttest. Based on the results of the pretest and posttest data, it was determined that …

A Study Of Students Attending Tennessee Board Of Regents Universities Who Participated In High School Dual Enrollment Programs., Rubianna M. Porter

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to determine if there is a relationship between college retention and completion and the number of college credit hours students earn before graduating high school. The number of credit hours a student earned was analyzed along with selected demographic characteristics and academic performance indicators to determine if any one of the variables was more of a predictor of retention and completion of college than the others. The data for the study (12,834 records) were obtained from the Student Information System from five Tennessee Board of Regents Universities.

An initial analysis of the data incorporated …

Perceptions Of Seventh- And Eighth-Grade Girls Toward Coeducational Physical Education Classes In Five Middle Schools In East Tennessee., Shannon Clabo Sullivan

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to examine the participation, perceptions, and preferences of seventh- and eighth-grade girls in coeducational and gender-separated physical education classes in five schools in East Tennessee. The participants in this study were seventh- and eighth-grade girls attending public schools in two East Tennessee counties. Participants completed a questionnaire pertaining to their physical education classes. Although 465 students were invited to participate in this study, only 241 students returned the permission form. This resulted in a 50% response rate. The findings were descriptive in nature, although basic analyses were calculated to identify any relationships among the …

A Study Of Students' Learning Styles In Itv Broadcast, Remote, And Traditional Classrooms At East Tennessee State University., Donna Sue Crabtree

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to determine if the learning styles of students enrolled in ITV sections and students enrolled in a traditional section of the same course, all taught by the same instructor, had any influence on the academic performance of the students enrolled in those courses.

A two-part survey was used to gather data for this study. The first part was designed by the researcher to gather demographic information about why each student selected the instructional form in which he or she was enrolled, as well as a student's preferences for classroom format. The second part of …

An Investigation Of The Impact Of Integrated Learning System Use On Mathematics Achievement Of Elementary Students., Vicki Carpenter Kirk

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between time spent on an integrated learning system (ILS) entitled, SuccessMaker^®, as a supplement to traditional mathematics instruction on achievement as measured by standardized achievement tests of elementary students. The variables of grade-level, ability level, and gender were also considered. The population consisted of students who were second-, third-, and fourth-graders during the 1997-98 school year. Data were gathered that covered the three-year period beginning in 1997 and ending in 2000. The final sample consisted of 348 students who participated in Computer Curriculum Corporation^© mathematics instruction and …

Please Pass The Crackers: Classroom Rules In The Early Childhood Environment And Their Impact On Moral Development, Odette C. Muskin

Graduate Student Independent Studies

One of the major public debates in education today revolves around an area of study called character education. It is a debate that is politically, socially, emotionally and educationally charged. The question facing educators is whether children develop morally from a specific plan of study or from the examples given to them by adults in their environment. In an attempt to answer this question, this study focuses on the early childhood environment. It does so because young children in preschool must begin to formulate conceptions of rights, values and principles as it pertains to social conduct. They must learn to …

Advancement In Teacher Evaluation: An Evaluation System Based On The Frameworks For Teaching, Rossi Marie Giard

All Graduate Projects

The use of standards, active involvement, and self-reflection in evaluation were studied. With a focus on professional growth and accountability, The Frameworks for Teaching by Charlotte Danielson (1996) were created. The literature showed that the Frameworks for Teaching provided a clear explanation of teacher performance and supplied accountability to parents and legislators when used for summative evaluation. To systemically support Danielson's Frameworks, Danielson and McGreal (2000) collaborated to create Teacher Evaluation to Enhance Professional Practice. The system encouraged teachers to direct their professional growth and become involved in summative evaluation. The Frameworks for Teaching and Teacher Evaluation to Enhance Professional …

A Model Crisis Response Plan For Ephrata High School, Wes Crago

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to develop a comprehensive plan for managing a crisis at Ephrata High School, Ephrata, Washington. To achieve this purpose, current research, literature, and other selected sources were reviewed. Additionally, specific plans, information, and forms were adapted and developed to serve Ephrata High School and the Ephrata community.

A Schoolwide Discipline Plan For Gildo Rey Elementary School, Adam William Couch

All Graduate Projects

This project examined current related literature as well as discipline plans from six other elementary schools. Some basic tenants of quality discipline plans for elementary schools were found to be trne for most situations. The plan should be clear, have full staff buy-in, and stress prevention. Written for current and future staff members of Gil do Rey Elementary School in Auburn, Washington, the project outlines, defines, and provides appropriate tools for all elements of the plan. The plan was broken down into four main sections. The first section clearly explains universal rnles and expectations of Gildo Rey students. Next, in …

Creating Motivation And Oral Reading Fluency Through Readers' Theatre, Kelly Leaverton

All Graduate Projects

Readers' Theatre is a wonderful teaching tool in which students practice and rehearse scripts in order to put on plays in front of an audience. The focus is on word accuracy and expression in reading without having to memorize lines. Studies have shown that Readers' Theatre can strengthen oral reading fluency by repeated readings, and increase confidence and motivation to read as students learn to read their parts with fluency and precision. Unfortunately, due to lack of availability and training, Readers' Theatre is not used in the classroom to the extent it should be, and many educators are uncomfortable with …

Mentoring And Student Achievement In After-School Programs, Joy Allyn Oaks

All Graduate Projects

Children who encounter reading difficulties are often given supplemental instruction through school programs of various kinds. Because of a need to assist struggling readers, an after-school program that focused on remedial reading through mentoring was created for sixth and third grade students. Through the review of the literature, it was found that well structured mentoring can provide positive benefits for both mentors and their proteges. The review of the literature also suggested that reading skills can be enhanced and developed through mentorship. The program's goals were to have students reading at grade level, develop positive attitudes, pursue hobbies, and acquire …

A Media Literacy Curriculum For The Adolescent Learner, Chris Lopez

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to develop a media literacy curriculum for teachers of young adolescents. Media literacy is a new, evolving field of study that teaches students to become critical consumers of today's media. Media have often been blamed for the ills of student learning, critical thinking, performance and/or behavior skills. In the review ofliterature, the author investigated media's impact on the adolescent learner, the need to teach media literacy, and recommended curriculum that would benefit the adolescent learner. The curriculum unit is designed to be a useful teaching tool for teachers of adolescent and preadolescent learners who …

A Brain-Based Pedagogy To Improve Student Achievement Of Middle School Aged Children, Marci Lynn Stadiem

All Graduate Projects

This project examined the role of a brain-based pedagogy to improve student achievement in middle school students. The review of current research found that orchestrated immersion, relaxed alertness and active processing were integral for an effective brain-based pedagogy that increased student achievement. Included is a curriculum that focused on a brain-based pedagogy. Written for teachers of middle school students. Lessons included support a brain-based pedagogy, were age appropriate, and encouraged teachers to use a curriculum based on a brain-based pedagogy that increased student achievement.

Summer Enrichment Packets Of Resources And Activities For Primary Students, Karen Michele Smith

All Graduate Projects

Literature pertaining to summer learning loss was reviewed, including summer learning programs and year-round education. Summer programs and year-round education were looked at as possible solutions to summer learning loss. The research indicated a significant loss of academic skills over the summer months while students are not in school. Summer enrichment programs proved to be successful in helping students retain academic knowledge and skills. The literature review revealed inconclusive results in the effectiveness ofyearround education on student achievement. A summer activity packet was created for students preparing to enter the second grade. The focus of this packet was on reading, …

Creating A Balanced Literacy Program For Third, Fourth, And Fifth Grade Students, Shayne T. Wrzesinski

All Graduate Projects

Balanced literacy instruction can be defined in a variety of ways. The important characteristic about a balanced literacy program is that it is neither phonics nor whole language. Creating a balanced literacy program within a classroom encompasses both phonics and whole language in a literature rich environment. Students who participate in a balanced program have opportunities to read and write daily through a variety of meaningful approaches including shared, guided, independent and direct instruction. The literature rich environment provides growth for all students, by teaching skills and strategies through literacy in a natural setting not in isolation. Teachers in the …

Auburn High School Careers In Education Resource Guide Development Of Careers In Education Resource Guide To Assist In The Implementation Of A Career Academy For Teaching, Cindy L. Pratt

All Graduate Projects

Career academies as a method of school reform were studied. A guide for implementing the foundation teaching academy course Careers in Education was developed and submitted for approval at Auburn High School. The Careers in Education Resource Guide was the accumulation of information to assist Family and Consumer Science teachers with the implementation of the first career academy offered at Auburn High School. Included in the Careers in Education Resource Guide was the alignment of curriculum components with the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction Careers in Education frameworks. Furthermore, the guide integrated competencies which matched the Washington State Essential …

Democratic Classrooms: A Handbook For Development, Shawn M. Turner

All Graduate Projects

The characteristics and principles of a democratic classroom was investigated; a description of related theories is provided, including those of John Dewey and Paulo Freire. A handbook of activities was created to provide a resource for teachers who desire to create a more democratic classroom. The handbook includes questionnaires, assignments and activities, information about class meetings and ways to explore personality types, among other things.