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Full-Text Articles in Education

Influential Factors Determine Parental Choice For Preschool Selection, Emily Dustin Jan 2017

Influential Factors Determine Parental Choice For Preschool Selection, Emily Dustin

M.S.Ed. in Early Childhood Research Projects

This study investigated what key factors influence the decision of parents and guardians in preschool program selection. The participants were parents/guardians of a small NAEYC accredited child care center located in New England. If high-quality preschools do not meet the desires and needs of the families they are serving, then the parents/guardians will be less likely to enroll their children in the program. (Glenn-Applegate, Justice, & Kaderavek. 2016). The results indicated that quality is the most important factor in the participant’s decision to enroll their child in the program. Other factors that influenced the decision were curriculum, and education of …


Children’S Use Of Books During The School Day And The Home Literacy Environment, Mary Maxfield Jan 2017

Children’S Use Of Books During The School Day And The Home Literacy Environment, Mary Maxfield

M.S.Ed. in Early Childhood Research Projects

The purpose of this study was to gain an understanding of children looking at books in the reading area of the classroom and to see if there was a relationship with parent reports of the home literacy environment. Data was collected in a Career Technical School’s laboratory preschool classroom using a checklist for child book engagement. Also used was data from a survey, completed by parents, on the home literacy environment. Specifically of interest was children’s exposure to books as well as their interest in books while at home. The study found that the number of books at home did …


Exploring Technology Usage At Home And The Relationship To The Development Of The Tripod Grasp In Kindergarten Age Students, Courtney Schools Jan 2017

Exploring Technology Usage At Home And The Relationship To The Development Of The Tripod Grasp In Kindergarten Age Students, Courtney Schools

M.S.Ed. in Early Childhood Research Projects

This research explored the development of the tripod/pincer grasp of 16 Kindergarten aged students and the activities these children engaged in when at home, with particular focus on fine motor and technology usage (both passive and interactive). This research used a mixed methods approach, using both classroom observations and a survey filled out by parents of participating students. This research fills a gap in existing research regarding the link between technology use and fine motor control in young children, as very little currently exists. The research found that fine motor activities at home helped facilitate the development of the tripod/pincer …


Is There A Relationship Between Home Literacy Environments And First Grade Reading Levels?, Tiffany Frost Jan 2017

Is There A Relationship Between Home Literacy Environments And First Grade Reading Levels?, Tiffany Frost

M.S.Ed. in Early Childhood Research Projects

This study investigates the connection between home literacy environments and first grade children’s reading levels. The study used the Fountas and Pinnell’s (Heinemann, n.d.) Benchmark Assessment System 1 to assess the reading levels of thirteen first grade students. The Familia Inventory (Taylor, 1996/2000) parent survey was used to assess home learning environments. On average, children that read on or above grade level live in homes where there is more parental modeling of literacy behaviors. School and public libraries are also used more frequently in the homes of children reading on or above grade level.


Exploring The Relationship Between Preschool Teacher Perceptions Of Positive Teacher-Child Relationships And Classroom Practice, Bethany Bilodeau Jan 2017

Exploring The Relationship Between Preschool Teacher Perceptions Of Positive Teacher-Child Relationships And Classroom Practice, Bethany Bilodeau

M.S.Ed. in Early Childhood Research Projects

In 2015, it was estimated that 4 million children entered kindergarten without the necessary skills to succeed (U.S Department of Education, 2015). This academic and social deficit places children at a disadvantage which can be avoided when children are exposed to supportive learning environments characterized by positive relationships (Curby, et.al, 2009). The CLASS observation (Pianta, La Paro, & Hambre, 2008) classifies best practices in teacher-child interactions which are placed in dimensions within three major domains. This research explores which dimensions teachers identify as important and the relationship with observed practices as identified by CLASS. 16 teachers ranked CLASS dimensions in …


Developing Risk Assessment Skills: The Role Of Parental Attitudes And Nature Play, Emily Murray Jan 2017

Developing Risk Assessment Skills: The Role Of Parental Attitudes And Nature Play, Emily Murray

M.S.Ed. in Early Childhood Research Projects

The current culture in the United States seeks to minimize the amount of risk that children are exposed to. However, the opportunity to take risks, try one’s strengths, and experience uncertainty and failure have been shown to increase resiliency, independence, and overall well-being (Little & Sweller, 2015). Young children need the opportunity to take physical risks in their play in order to develop these traits and their understanding of their environment and the natural world around them. This action research study sought to understand parental attitudes towards young children taking physical risks and how they impact children’s risk-taking behaviors and …


Social Interaction And Interactive Technology In The Preschool Classroom, Kristina Tobey Jan 2017

Social Interaction And Interactive Technology In The Preschool Classroom, Kristina Tobey

M.S.Ed. in Early Childhood Research Projects

Increased use of technology in early childhood classrooms comes with new concerns about how technology may impact the development of social skills in young children. This mixed methods study examines how the use of a multi-touch table influences social skills and interactions of preschoolers in a head start setting. Eight children ages three to five were video recorded while using a multi-touch table during free choice time in groups of three for ten minute increments. Tracking sheets were used to track how often social interactions occurred for each child. Results indicated students played cooperatively 12% of their time and parallel …


Influence Of Family Style Meals On Self-Regulation In Preschool Children, Katherine Chandler Jan 2017

Influence Of Family Style Meals On Self-Regulation In Preschool Children, Katherine Chandler

M.S.Ed. in Early Childhood Research Projects

This action research study looked at the connections between the frequency of family meal experiences and the self-regulatory capabilities of preschool aged children. Parents of 19 preschool children were surveyed to gain insight into the weekly frequency of family meals and discover how parents assessed their individual child’s capabilities. Within the preschool setting, children’s regulatory abilities were assessed through teacher evaluation of mealtime behavior. Both parents and teachers assessed four types of self-regulatory skills: individual table skills, interpersonal skills, health consciousness, and contributions to their family or school community. It was found that parents place high value on the communal …


Exploring The Connection Between Physical Activity And On-Task Behavior Of Kindergarten Students, Joann Meyer Jan 2017

Exploring The Connection Between Physical Activity And On-Task Behavior Of Kindergarten Students, Joann Meyer

M.S.Ed. in Early Childhood Research Projects

Increased academic demands on kindergarten students require them to be on-task for longer periods of time. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of increased physical activity breaks on kindergarten students’ on-task behavior during small group and independent center work. This mixed methods study employed an experimental design with an initial baseline phase followed by a physical activity treatment phase. Data was collected using a planned activity check observation method and observational field notes to compare on-task behavior during the two phases of the study. Data analysis indicated that physical activity breaks was associated with improved on-task …


Head Start Preschool Parent-Teacher Engagement And The Parent’S Transition To Kindergarten, Nicole Gagnon – Arsenault Jan 2017

Head Start Preschool Parent-Teacher Engagement And The Parent’S Transition To Kindergarten, Nicole Gagnon – Arsenault

M.S.Ed. in Educational Leadership Research Projects

This mixed-method study seeks to better understand the relationships that Head Start preschool teachers have with parents and how those relationships impact a parent’s transition to a public school when their child enters kindergarten. Findings revealed that parents have a deep connection to their child’s Head Start teacher, feel informed and empowered to advocate for their child’s needs. Interviews revealed that parents do not feel as connected to their child’s education in the public school. Recommendations for educators include creating more opportunities for parents to connect to the public school during the supportive Head Start school year.


Incorporating Brief Functional Behavior Assessments In A Tier Two Behavior Intervention, Larissa Wing Jan 2017

Incorporating Brief Functional Behavior Assessments In A Tier Two Behavior Intervention, Larissa Wing

M.S.Ed. in Educational Leadership Research Projects

The purpose of this mixed methods study was to better understand how FBA information could support students who were currently unsuccessful with their existing check in/check out intervention. Teachers were interviewed to both better understand their perceptions of the existing check in/check out system and query their thoughts on the altered intervention. This study further explored the effect(s) that information, obtained from a brief functional behavioral assessment had when incorporated into an existing tier two behavior intervention system. Students’ standardized test scores and frequency of office discipline referrals were also evaluated.


Barriers To Student Achievement, Dewey Hernandez Jan 2017

Barriers To Student Achievement, Dewey Hernandez

M.S.Ed. in Educational Leadership Research Projects

This mixed-methods study examined the impact of barriers on student achievement and how promising practices can overcome barriers and increase success. Results found that barriers impact success greatly, however, promising practices can help to overcome them. Significant findings included insights into the proficiency-based educational model, uncontrollable circumstances, and opportunities for students to provide evidence of learning in nontraditional ways. Recommendations consist of increasing paraprofessional training, bringing a bigger system of LCSW support, showing how to co-teach, and finding ways for inclusion to be solidly effective.


Using Project Based Learning To Increase Motivation In A Seventh Grade Mathematics Proficiency Based Classroom, April King Jan 2017

Using Project Based Learning To Increase Motivation In A Seventh Grade Mathematics Proficiency Based Classroom, April King

M.S.Ed. in Educational Leadership Research Projects

Students learn in a variety of ways. When it comes to showing their knowledge, a paper and pencil assessment is not the only option. Students are not always motivated to try their best assessment after assessment. Project Based learning is an alternative that may motivate more students to succeed. This research study explored student motivation and what effect, if any, Project Based learning had on student motivation while engaged with the project. This mixed-methods research project further examined students’ beliefs and attitudes while engaged with Project Based learning.


Kindergarten Transitions: Family Perceptions Of A Kindergarten Transition Program, Sarah Allen Jan 2017

Kindergarten Transitions: Family Perceptions Of A Kindergarten Transition Program, Sarah Allen

M.S.Ed. in Educational Leadership Research Projects

While there is increasing research surrounding kindergarten transitions there is still a need to explore kindergarten transition guides and families perceptions of these particular experiences. This study explores family perceptions of a kindergarten transition program guide. Furthermore, the study examines families’ prior experiences with kindergarten transitions as they relate to being a part of a new specific kindergarten transition program. The researcher implements pre and post meetings with families surrounding an “All About Kindergarten” parent night. Additionally, surveys are distributed to those who participated in aspects of the transition process. An interview takes place to gain further insight. The conclusions …


Supporting Language And Literacy Development For All Students, Melissa Mccrillis Jan 2017

Supporting Language And Literacy Development For All Students, Melissa Mccrillis

M.S.Ed. in Educational Leadership Research Projects

The purpose of this study was to gain information pertaining to language and literacy skills for pre-kindergarten students and how educators support the acquisition of such skills. Educators shared their strategies and perceptions in regards to teaching these skills to all students. The students, ages four and five, participated in task completion activities that showcased the language and literacy skills each possessed. The data revealed that effective teaching strategies assist in yielding high success rates for students at school. For students who demonstrated below proficient abilities, educators determined next steps to best support them individually.


The Relationship Between Digital Portfolio Use, Parent-Teacher Communication, And Its Effect On Home-Based Parental Involvement In Middle School, Rachel Toner Jan 2017

The Relationship Between Digital Portfolio Use, Parent-Teacher Communication, And Its Effect On Home-Based Parental Involvement In Middle School, Rachel Toner

M.S.Ed. in Educational Leadership Research Projects

The purpose of this study was to implement digital portfolios using Seesaw (Student Driven Digital Portfolios) to explore its possible effect(s) on home-to-school communication and facilitate the use of technology in a classroom setting. Previous educational research had clearly established that parent-teacher communication can be beneficial and technology’s continuous evolution can spur change to more traditional practices of home-to-school communication. Multiple interventions to the digital portfolio were conducted during this action research project and pre/post questionnaires were used to gather participant perceptions of school-to-home communication in a rural Maine middle school.


Instructional Coaches In Maine, Lindsey Bickford Jan 2017

Instructional Coaches In Maine, Lindsey Bickford

M.S.Ed. in Educational Leadership Research Projects

This research explored several types of instructional coaches currently used in school districts throughout Maine. More specifically, this research examined how those positions are funded and whether those positions can be maintained as an embedded form of professional development for all teachers. Findings indicated that there are multiple avenues that can be used to fund instructional coaches for school districts, however, whether all of these forms of funding can be sustained for districts to cover the operating costs in future years remained unclear.