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Full-Text Articles in Education

Statistics: Raising The Bar For The Seventh Grade Classroom., Sherry Lynn Mullins Aug 2006

Statistics: Raising The Bar For The Seventh Grade Classroom., Sherry Lynn Mullins

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

After recognizing the need for a more thorough concentration of statistics at the seventh grade level, the author concluded that it would be a good idea to include statistics that cover both seventh and eighth grade Virginia Standards of Learning. Many years of administering the SOL mathematics test at the eighth grade level led the author to the understanding that some of the more advanced seventh graders would be missing some key concepts taught in eighth grade because those advanced students would be taking algebra in the eighth grade. In this thesis, the author has developed four units that she …


An Introduction To Number Theory Prime Numbers And Their Applications., Crystal Lynn Anderson Aug 2006

An Introduction To Number Theory Prime Numbers And Their Applications., Crystal Lynn Anderson

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The author has found, during her experience teaching students on the fourth grade level, that some concepts of number theory haven't even been introduced to the students. Some of these concepts include prime and composite numbers and their applications. Through personal research, the author has found that prime numbers are vital to the understanding of the grade level curriculum. Prime numbers are used to aide in determining divisibility, finding greatest common factors, least common multiples, and common denominators. Through experimentation, classroom examples, and homework, the author has introduced students to prime numbers and their applications.


Combinatorics For The Third Grade Classroom., Rita Jane Mcfaddin Aug 2006

Combinatorics For The Third Grade Classroom., Rita Jane Mcfaddin

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

After becoming interested in the beauty of numbers and the intricate patterns of their behavior, the author concluded that it would be a good idea to make the subject available for students earlier in their educational experience. In this thesis, the author developed four units in combinatorics, namely Fundamental Principles, Permutations, Combinations, and Pascal's Triangle, which are appropriate for third grade level.


Graph Theory For The Middle School., Laura Ann Robinson Aug 2006

Graph Theory For The Middle School., Laura Ann Robinson

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

After being introduced to graph theory and realizing how it can be utilized to solve real-world problems, the author decided to create modules of study on graph theory appropriate for middle school students. In this thesis, four modules were developed in the area of graph theory: an Introduction to Terms and Definitions, Graph Families, Graph Operations, and Graph Coloring. It is written as a guide for middle school teachers to prepare teaching units on graph theory.


Base Counting And Simple Mathematic Applications For The Special Education Classroom., James David Ray Aug 2006

Base Counting And Simple Mathematic Applications For The Special Education Classroom., James David Ray

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This thesis was designed as a self study unit for middle school aged students with special needs. The unit is broken in to sub-units that specifically cater to each number base. Also included in this plan is a brief history of counting and practical uses for the mathematics of different number bases. This has been designed to be a "fun" unit to study after taking S.O.L. tests or other state standard testing. Included in each unit are worksheets for assessment of understanding.


The Language Of Mathematics: Mathematical Terminology Simplified For Classroom Use., Beverly Karen Owens Aug 2006

The Language Of Mathematics: Mathematical Terminology Simplified For Classroom Use., Beverly Karen Owens

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

After recognizing the need for a simpler approach to the teaching of mathematical terminology, I concluded it would be valuable to make a unit of simplified terms and describe methods of teaching these terms. In this thesis I have compared the terminology found in the Virginia Standards of Learning objectives to the materials found at each grade level. The units developed are as follows: The Primary Persistence Unit- for grades K-2; The Elementary Expansion Unit- for grades 3-5; and The Middle School Mastery Unit- for grades 6-8.


The Role Of The History Of Mathematics In Middle School., Mary Donette Carter Aug 2006

The Role Of The History Of Mathematics In Middle School., Mary Donette Carter

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

It is the author's belief that middle school mathematics is greatly taught in isolation with little or no mention of its origin. Teaching mathematics from a historical perspective will lead to greater understanding, student inspiration, motivation, excitement, varying levels of learning, and appreciation for this subject. This thesis will develop four units that will incorporate original source documents and selected historical topics surrounding computation, numbers, and early calculating devices. Many of the units will center on the Rhind Papyrus and The Treviso Arithmetic. These units will be appropriate to middle school, with an emphasis on 6th grade.


Probability For The Fifth Grade Classroom., Janeane Sue Young Aug 2006

Probability For The Fifth Grade Classroom., Janeane Sue Young

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this thesis was to thoroughly develop probability objectives to be used by a fifth grade teacher. These probability objectives were developed in four main units. The focus of the first unit was probability vocabulary. The second unit explored the concept of fairness as determined by the probability of winning a game. The third unit's purpose was to determine sample space using tree diagrams, lists, and the Counting Principle. Unit four was designed to help the student write theoretical and experimental probability as fractions, decimals, and percentages. Each unit was written to include detailed descriptions, definitions, and probability …


Incorporating Different Number Bases Into The Elementary School Classroom., Crystal Michele Hall Aug 2006

Incorporating Different Number Bases Into The Elementary School Classroom., Crystal Michele Hall

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Since becoming an educator and gaining extensive classroom experience, I have concluded that it would be beneficial to elementary school children to learn other number bases and their basic functions and operations. In this thesis, I have developed five units involving lesson plans for incorporating various number bases into the existing curriculum. The units are Decimal (Base 10), Duodecimal (Base 12), Quinary (Base 5), Binary (Base 2), and Octal (Base 8) which are all appropriate for the elementary level.


Creating Communities Of Mathematical Thinkers In The Pre-Kindergarten Classroom., Robin Penley Herndon Aug 2006

Creating Communities Of Mathematical Thinkers In The Pre-Kindergarten Classroom., Robin Penley Herndon

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This thesis describes a standards-based pre-kindergarten mathematics curriculum. The purpose of this thesis was to create a series of original lesson plans for the pre-kindergarten classroom that would address defined standards with instructional and other materials appropriate for teaching and assessing student understanding of the concepts. The curriculum is based on standards set forth by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the Virginia Department of Education's Foundation Blocks for Early Learning. The body of the work introduces the foundation for the thesis with theoretical underpinning, defines the content strands and learning objectives, establishes a pacing schedule for meeting …


Investigating How Students Think About And Learn Quantum Physics: An Example From Tunneling, Jeffrey Todd Morgan May 2006

Investigating How Students Think About And Learn Quantum Physics: An Example From Tunneling, Jeffrey Todd Morgan

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Much of physics education research (PER) has focused on introductory courses and topics, with less research done into how students learn physics in advanced courses. Members of The University of Maine Physics Education Research Laboratory (PERL) have begun studying how students in advanced physics courses reason about classical mechanics, thermal physics, and quantum physics. Here, we describe an investigation into how students reason about quantum mechanical tunneling, and detail how those findings informed a portion of a curriculum development project. Quantum mechanical tunneling is a standard topic discussed in most modern physics and quantum physics courses. Understanding tunneling is crucial …


Constructs Unique To Two Volusia County Elementary Writing Programs, Kathleen Holt Jan 2006

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 …


Science Self-Efficacy In Tenth Grade Hispanic Female High School Students, Maria Miller Jan 2006

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 Jan 2006

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 …


Health Attitudes, Knowledge And Literacy Of Primary Caregivers With Elementary School Children, Susan Stuib Jan 2006

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 …


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 Jan 2006

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 …


A Focus Group Of Adolescent Haitian Immigrants: Factors Affecting Their Perceptions Of Academic Success In A Florida Public High School, Mercedes Pichard Jan 2006

A Focus Group Of Adolescent Haitian Immigrants: Factors Affecting Their Perceptions Of Academic Success In A Florida Public High School, Mercedes Pichard

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The goal of this ethnographic research was to examine the perceptions of academic success of adolescent Haitian immigrant students who have arrived in the United States within the last five years and attend a public high school in Florida. The Haitian students were asked to explain the tensions they perceive between Haitian societal and educational norms and beliefs and American ones, and explain their perceptions and concerns regarding success. The importance of their perceptions as influences on their behavior was related to Bandura's Social Cognitive Learning Theory. The relevance of certain questions concerning academic success for Haitian students was investigated …


A Study Of Southwest Florida High School Reading Teachers And The Implmentation Of Scientifically Based Reading Research Instruction, Virginia Harper Jan 2006

A Study Of Southwest Florida High School Reading Teachers And The Implmentation Of Scientifically Based Reading Research Instruction, Virginia Harper

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The literacy mandates of the No Child Left Behind Act (2001) swiftly and directly have an impact on reading teachers. The literacy directives of the act constitute a paradigm shift in reading reform, especially at the secondary level. Literacy directives require state and district level administrator's to focus on secondary reading teacher pre and in service training. Effecive secondary reading teachers must be well versed in the foundation sof Scientifically Based Reading Research. Florida is among the first states to implement six comptencies of professional development that leads to endorsement in the teaching of reading. Florida teachers of secondary reading …


An Examinition Of Competencies, Roles, And Professional Development Needs Of Community College Distance Educators Who Teach Mathematics, Falecia Williams Jan 2006

An Examinition Of Competencies, Roles, And Professional Development Needs Of Community College Distance Educators Who Teach Mathematics, Falecia Williams

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This study describes the perceptions of both distance education administrators and faculty who teach mathematics online in a Florida community college setting with regard to the relative importance of core competencies and roles in teaching online courses and the need for professional development that is supportive of these competencies and roles. The perceptions of administrators and online faculty for level of importance indicated for core competencies and skill area needs for faculty development when teaching an online course were examined. Results of these perceptions by group were re-examined in relation to gender, age, ethnicity, years of community college teaching experience, …


Class Size Reduction: Is It Worth The Cost?A Meta-Analysis Of The Research, Christopher Camacho Jan 2006

Class Size Reduction: Is It Worth The Cost?A Meta-Analysis Of The Research, Christopher Camacho

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether ethnicity, gender, grade level and content area mediate the relationship between class size and student achievement. Twenty six educational research studies were collected for this meta-analysis. A meta-analytical approach using like data sets were used to report the most accurate information. Fixed and random effect models were used to ensure the distribution across different studies. A total of three studies were meta-analyzed for this research. The studies included in this research examined class size and student achievement for students in grades K-7. This research examined whether there was a mediating effect …


A Study Of Millenial Students And Their Reactive Behavior Patterns In The Online Environment, Francisca Yonekura Jan 2006

A Study Of Millenial Students And Their Reactive Behavior Patterns In The Online Environment, Francisca Yonekura

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The goal of this study was to identify patterns or characteristics unique to online millennial students in higher education from two perspectives: the generational traits for an understanding of millennial students as a cohort, and the Long reactive behavior patterns and traits for an understanding of millennials as individuals. Based on the identified patterns and characteristics of these millennial students, the researcher highlighted instructional and curricular implications for online learning. A profile depicting online millennial students based on the demographic data and their overall satisfaction levels with online learning is provided. For a holistic understanding, the study included an inquiry …


Parental Involvement: Teachers' And Parents' Voices, Karen Shearer Jan 2006

Parental Involvement: Teachers' And Parents' Voices, Karen Shearer

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Parents have been involved in the education of their children since the early days of our nation. Their roles have evolved from teaching the basics of reading writing and arithmetic in Colonial times to overseeing the selection of teachers and designing the curriculum during the early 1800s to providing academic support in the home up through the present time. Although educators are generally viewed as professionals and in charge of their students' education, the importance of parental involvement is readily acknowledged. Confusing to both parents and educators is what constitutes parental involvement. The research revealed numerous definitions for the term, …


The Impact Of Online Education On Academic Performance For Ladies Professional Golf Association Teaching And Club Professionals, Jill Fjelstul Jan 2006

The Impact Of Online Education On Academic Performance For Ladies Professional Golf Association Teaching And Club Professionals, Jill Fjelstul

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Ladies Professional Golf Association Teaching Professionals are scattered throughout the country, many of whom are self-employed. There was not a review session for Class A written test preparation prior to this study. The focus of this research, thus, was to assist first time test takers in their preparation of the LPGA Class A written evaluation through an online medium. The study was conducted between July and November, 2005, and was offered to LPGA T & CP Class B first-time test takers. Components of the online review session included self-evaluations, discussion postings involving test-related content, and practice quizzes. The study compared …


The Effect Of School Culture On Science Education At An Elementary School: An Ethnographic Case Study, Lori Meier Jan 2006

The Effect Of School Culture On Science Education At An Elementary School: An Ethnographic Case Study, Lori Meier

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This ethnographic case study investigated one elementary school to understand how the school's culture influenced its science curriculum design and instruction. The main data was formal and informal semi-structured interviews with key teachers to understand their values, beliefs, practices, materials, and problems with science instruction. To triangulate these data, the researcher observed classroom practice, school-wide activities, and collected artifacts and documents. Data were analyzed using a theoretical framework that emphasizes that culture cannot be reduced to beliefs, values, practices, materials or problems, but rather each aspect of culture is interdependent and mutually reinforcing. The main finding suggests that the school's …


Metacognitive Self-Regulation, Self-Efficacy For Learning And Performance, And Critical Thinking As Predictors Of Academic Succe, Edie Gaythwaite Jan 2006

Metacognitive Self-Regulation, Self-Efficacy For Learning And Performance, And Critical Thinking As Predictors Of Academic Succe, Edie Gaythwaite

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of the study was to investigate whether metacognitive self-regulation, self-efficacy for learning and performance, and critical thinking could be identified as predictors of student academic success and course retention among community college students enrolled in online, telecourses, and traditional Fundamentals of Speech (public speaking) courses. The study was conducted during the Fall 2005 semester at Valencia Community College (VCC). Data for this study were collected from participating students enrolled in either one of the two online, two telecourse, and two traditional face-to-face public speaking courses chosen for analysis. Fifty-seven participants answered Pintrich, Smith, Garcia, and McKeachie (1991) Motivated …