Education Commons^™

Universals, Necessities, And Social Contexts, David Moshman

Department of Educational Psychology: Faculty Publications

Elbers* does an excellent job of integrating, analyzing, and extending recent theoretical and empirical work concerning the relation of learning and development. The purpose of this commentary is to challenge Elbers to address the difficult question of universal sequences in human development. In order to focus the issue, a specific sequence in the development of logical reasoning is proposed.

Egocentrism And Adolescent Development, Rodney Payne

Graduate Research Papers

The behavior of adolescents can be very challenging to parents and educators. These young people have the ability to change moods and behavior day to day, with their emotions being up or down at any given moment. Also, they are often confused and look for security in their turbulent world. Their inconsistency in behavior and emotions tests the patience and understanding of adults who try to guide and direct them through these hectic years. According to Newman (1985) adolescence has been characterized as a period of inevitable stress and conflict, with adults almost helpless to intervene productively.

A Preferred Vision For Administering Secondary Schools: A Reflective Essay, Susan Newman Cleveland

Graduate Research Papers

As I read these lines from A Tale of Two Ci ties, a novel about the French Revolution, I am struck with the fact that they could have been written about the state of American education today. When the "Nation at Risk" report came out in the early 80' s, it spoke of the ills of American education, and offered an abundance of "cures" in the way of strong suggestions. The report itself aroused consternation for the most part in the eyes of the American public, a public largely in favor of the sweeping reforms that were offered by this …

Does Our Complex Writing Lower Test Scores On Mathematics Word Problems?, William (Bill) H. Williams, Sandra P. Clarkson

Publications and Research

ABSTRACT: In this paper, we describe one of a series of studies at Hunter College to determine whether students' reading proficiency affects their performance on mathematics "word" problems. Based on this study, we reached some specific conclusions:

1. Reading ability is a separate, quantifiable factor which impacts the performance of all students on mathematics word problems.

2. Less complex writing leads to better results on word problems for all students.

3. Less complex writing leads to even more improvement in test results for “weaker” readers [those needing reading remediation] than for “average” readers [those exempting reading remediation].

A Phonics And Whole Language Synthesis, Anne I. Allsworth

All Graduate Projects

The debate among phonics instruction and the whole language approach and the research supporting a balanced approach were examined. High utility phonics generalizations were identified from the literature. Those high utility phonics generalizations that were appropriate for the primary grades were applied to the vocabulary of a set of whole language readers. Lessons and activities were developed to integrate phonics instruction with the whole language materials for first grade students. Implications for further research and teacher training were discussed.

Increasing Reading Fluency In Students With Reading Difficulty, Kathryn Balabanis Peabody

All Graduate Projects

Four methods designed to increase reading fluency were employed in a primary level Special Education resource room. The methods were implemented in accordance with the theory and research regarding reading fluency. Each of the four methods effectively increased the students' ability to read fluently. However, the implementation of these methods varied in cost and time.

Towards Teacher Efficacy: A Handbook For The Implementation And Development Of A Peer Coaching Program, Roy M. Abshire

All Graduate Projects

The relationship between successful implementation of the peer coaching process and the enhancing of teacher efficacy, student learning, and improvement of school climate was studied. Also examined was the assumption that successful implementation of peer coaching will require specific administrative support. The results of the study show support for a peer coaching program's ability to positively affect teacher efficacy, student learning, and the school climate. A handbook aiding the implementation and development of a peer coaching program is provided.

Participation Versus Elimination In Middle School Sport Activities, Joseph Robert Cail

All Graduate Projects

Middle school students were surveyed to test two assumptions regarding fully participating versus being eliminated from sport activity and how elimination affects the choice ·of sport activity. The results showed that students would rather be participants than non-participants and that the possibility of elimination did not affect their choice of activity for most students.

A Guide For Creating A School-Wide Advocacy Program, Theresa Dawn Chickering

All Graduate Projects

This project introduces a philosophy and rationale for creating and developing a positive adult influence on elementary school students. Research clearly illustrates the desirable impact a caring adult relationship can have on a child. The study addresses the importance of, development of, and reasons why a school should implement a structured student/adult focused plan. The roles of the advocate and child centered activities are explored.

Service Learning Across The Curriculum, Betty Fowler

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this study was to develop handbooks that examine the value of service-learning as a legitimate educational practice. Based on an analyses of current literature, this study shows that participation in service-learning projects helps young people develop positive attitudes toward community participation that continue into their adult lives. The rationale and objectives of school-wide service-learning programs are discussed. Some existing community projects involving elementary and secondary students are described. Criteria for the development of service-learning programs are considered.

A Principal's Guide: Assertive Discipline And Honors Level Management; Two Separate Behavioral Management Systems Promoting A Positive School Climate, Ronald E. Gee

All Graduate Projects

This principal's guide presents two separate behavioral management systems used at the middle school level. The two systems are Lee Canter's Assertive Discipline and Budd Churchward's Honors Level Management. Canter's approach is effective in the classroom while Churchward's addresses total school environment. Methods for integration of the systems, materials needed, consequences/rewards, and suggested time lines are presented.

Supplimental Functional Reading Materials For Secondary Moderately Retarded Students, Kimberlie Ann Baglau

All Graduate Projects

Reading materials were compiled that would help secondary moderately retarded students develop reading skills needed to function at a more independent level than in the past. Materials were developed in the form of worksheets. These worksheets were designed to be supplemental materials to be used to reinforce the learning of functional sight words. Materials were produced for two types of functional reading: reading labels on medicine bottles and reading bus schedules.

A Handbook For The Intervention Specialist At Meadows Elementary School: Four Program Components, Donald D. Garrick

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this study was to develop a handbook detailing four important components of the intervention specialist's program at Meadows Elementary School in the North Thurston School District, Lacey, Washington. The development of a handbook was useful due to the fact that since 1988, three different individuals had served as the intervention specialist. Such rapid turnover caused disruptions m services to Meadows students, especially those who were at-risk. The four components were Meadows' Hosts and Hostesses, Intramurals, Conflict Managers and Meadows' Helpers. Each program utilized students interacting positively with other students as a means to improve the whole school …

Bridging The Gap Between Generations: An Intergenerational Handbook For An Elementary School And Senior Citizens, Karla Jane Hansen

All Graduate Projects

Intergenerational programs are designed to bridge the generation gap and encourage the development of positive attitudes between the young and the old. T.hrough implementing intergenerational programs in the schools of today, students gain an understanding of the aging process, seniors in the community participate in a life satisfying activity, and school and community relations increase. To facilitate the implementation of intergenerational programs in the schools, a handbook was developed which outlines the process and procedures for a successful program.

Implementation Of An Accelerated School's Project Model, Vipi Hansen Dorland

All Graduate Projects

The essential elements of an Accelerated School Project were described . This included the population to be served, the typical models of teaching and administering education for this population, the elements of the Accelerated School's Project Model, and the model for implementing the project in an elementary school. A journal of activities undertaken by John Muir Elementary in the Seattle School District as it implemented the Accelerated School's Project was included.

Literacy Through Literature, Tammy Joy Cartwright

All Graduate Projects

Research on literature based and skills based reading programs was reviewed. Results showed that traditional basal programs, which are heavily skill oriented, do not meet the reading styles of all students. Integrated instruction which allows for a variety of learning activities can alleviate this problem. Research also indicated that the reading experience must be meaningful and motivating and that literature is an excellent means of providing this component. Integrated units were developed based upon this research evidence. Conclusions and recommendations are discussed.

Direct Instruction, Strategic Reading And Third Grade Reading Comprehension, Patricia N. Guy

All Graduate Projects

A review of current research concernmg reading comprehension revealed a perspective of reading as a constructive, interactive process. A strategic approach to reading comprehension is compatible with this view. It was concluded from the review of literature that comprehension monitoring strategies could be taught with direct instruction. A set of comprehension instructional materials was developed which integrated direct instructional methods and research based reading strategies into the district adopted basal reading program. Conclusions are discussed and recommendations made.

An Inservice Program For The Training Of Instructional Paraprofessionals And Classroom Teachers, Debra Renee Helm

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to develop an inservice program to increase the job related skills of paraprofessional classroom assistants and the human management and supervision skills of the classroom teachers with whom they work. To accomplish this purpose, the inservice training needs of class-size paraprofessionals and the classroom teachers were studied. An inservice training program was developed and implemented with twelve class-size paraprofessionals and twelve supervising teachers from selected elementary schools in the Auburn School District. The results of the program showed that the increased use of paraprofessionals in instructional roles creates significant need for inservice training for …

An Assessment Of The Impact Of Resource Room Placement On Elementary Student Self-Esteem, Michael F. Hopkins

All Graduate Projects

An assessment, in the form of an interview, was conducted to measure the effects of resource room placement and full-time classroom integration on special education student self-esteem. Sixty students in the Wenatchee School District participated in the project during the 1990-1991 school year. The results of the project indicated that the placement of special education students in a full-time integration program does not insure a greater enhancement of their total self-concept; although it may be of benefit to certain areas in their self-esteem. The project included conclusions and recommendations.

Parental Involvement: Using Workshops To Promote Beginning Reading, Dana Krieger Clauson

All Graduate Projects

Four workshops are designed to help parents of young children facilitate beginning reading. These workshops focus on techniques for reading aloud, using predictable materials, using environmental print, and constructing games. The workshops are aimed at parents of kindergarten children. The project includes research which provides a definition, rationale, and practical application of each topic, specific workshop designs, parent handouts, and teacher materials. Implications of the benefits of parent education and recommendations for future workshops are discussed.

Using Children's Literature To Teach Reading Comprehension And Written Language Skills To Elementary Students, Simona Sue Frank

All Graduate Projects

Literature-based instructional strategies for teaching reading comprehension and written language skills were studied. Evidence from the review of literature indicates that trade books motivate students to develop: critical thinking, comprehension, expanded vocabulary, knowledge of grammatical and literary devices along with enrichment of written language skills. Children's literature has proved to be an excellent vehicle for combining reading, writing and literature. Implications for literature-based instruction are discussed.

An Administrative Handbook For The Position Of Elementary Educational Assistant, David H. Bush

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to develop a handbook to aid Elementary Educational Assistants, in the Kent, Washington, School District, in the performance of their duties. The handbook was designed with two main purposes in mind: 1) to provide a single reference tool which will allow the new Educational Assistant more autonomy in the performance of his or her duties; and 2) to provide an organizational tool which will allow for individual differences between buildings and their administrators. The handbook includes sections dealing with such topics as budget, evaluation, discipline, and communications. It also includes copies of the forms …

Literature-Based Preschool Activities Using A Modified Whole Language Approach, Beverly M. Chandler

All Graduate Projects

A review of the literature revealed higher academic expectations by today's teachers of kindergarten children than in the past. To prepare students more completely to meet these expectations fourteen preschool activities related to children's literature and based on a modified whole language approach were developed. The varied activities were designed to be used by teachers or parents of preschool children in order to better prepare the children to enter kindergarten with an exposure to, basic understanding of, and appreciation of children's literature.

An Exploration Of The Results Of Class Continuance From Kindergarten Through The First Grade, Georgann Marie Howie

All Graduate Projects

The focus of this study is the comparison of two different ways of grouping primary-level children and their teachers across grade levels. The two ways compared are the "class continuance" model, which is the maintenance of a structured same-age "family of learners" through the primary years, and the traditional practice of reassigning children and teachers to new classroom groups each year. Areas of comparison are the children's social, emotional, and cognitive growth. Nineteen children who remained with the same teacher during their kindergarten year and first grade were compared with 19 other children who were regrouped after finishing their kindergarten …

Student Motivation Augmentation Through Staff Development, Debra J. Lyons-Farley

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to design and develop an inservice trainers/ manual to guide the delivery of a teacher training session on student motivation theory and practical classroom application techniques for K-12 teachers in the West Valley School District, Yakima, WA. To accomplish this purpose, research and literature on student motivation, staff development and primarily the works of Dr. Madeline Hunter and Dr. William Glasser, in relation to student motivation, were reviewed. The manual was developed to become a part of the program of effective teaching strategies which positively affect student achievement currently offered ln the district.

Attitudes Toward Reading Held By Second Grade Students When Instructed In First And Second Grades Using The Basal Approach And The Whole Language Approach, Anne L. Kepner

All Graduate Projects

The attitudes toward reading held by second grade students when instructed using the basal approach and the whole language approach were studied. Forty surveys given to students at the end of their second grade year were analyzed. The results showed support for the hypothesis that students, taught reading by the whole language approach in first and second grades will have a more positive attitude toward reading than students taught reading by the traditional basal approach in the first and second grades.

A Study Of The Effects On Dropout Migrant Students, Relative As To How It Affects Their Lives, Frances D. Macias

All Graduate Projects

A survey was conducted of 15 migrant students and their parents. Students and their parents were interviewed with a list of questions. These students attended two secondary and two senior high schools in Yakima, Washington. It was determined that because of continued migration of families, students get behind in their studies and therefore lose interest because of the frustration and low self-esteem these students feel. Families still migrate from Yakima, Washington, to other states in search of seasonal work, farm labor is still a way of life for migrant families from schools in the Yakima School District. It's sad to …

Literature-Based Social Studies Learning Activities For First Grade Students In The Selah School District, Selah, Washington, Bonnie D. Isom

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to develop literaturebased social studies learning activities to be used with first grade students in the Selah School District. To accomplish this purpose, literature-based social studies learning activities for first grade students were gathered and developed for inclusion in a teacher resource packet. Appropriately used, children's literature can enhance learning in social studies and lead to increased teacher effectiveness.

Emerging Practices In K-6 Multimedia Methods Of Instruction In The Bethel School District, Gelnn E. Malone

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this study was to assess and describB the conditions and practices in the Bethel School District's elementary schools with regard to the use of a multimedia approach to instruction. A sample of the 260 classroom teachers, 13 principals, and 13 learning resource center specialists in the Bethel School District's 13 elementary schools (K-6) were surveyed using questionnaires covering the implementation of multimedia methods of instruction. The results showed current multimedia methods of instruction are rare in the elementary classrooms of the Bethel School District because of a lack of technological inservice and current multimedia hardware.

Developing In-Class Activities To Support First-Second Grade Literature Instruction, Trina Danette Miller

All Graduate Projects

Literature-based activities were developed in the curriculum areas of Social Studies and Mathematics to be used with the district's adopted literature book program. A district survey indicated a strong interest in these two curriculum areas. This project will provide teachers with activities that support literature instruction in a learning center environment. The activities also help students to self-select a book of interest and to become actively involved in learning center activities that support the books of choice, plus increase their interest and comprehension.