Education Commons^™

What Intellectual Empathy Can Offer Information Literacy Education, Andrea Baer

Libraries Scholarship

This chapter explores the roles that affect, social identity and beliefs play in how people engage with information about politically- and emotionally-charged issues and the implications for information literacy education, particularly in politically polarized times. Considering research from cognitive psychology and education, I also suggest ways to move beyond traditional approaches to information literacy that tend to focus on logic and “objectivity” while neglecting the significance of personal beliefs and social identity to information behaviors. I give particular focus to philosopher Maureen Linker’s concept of "intellectual empathy" – “the cognitive-affective elements of thinking about identity and social difference” (Linker, 2014, …

An Exploratory Case Study On The Perceived Effectiveness Of Co-Teaching And A Need For Professional Development, Jaquelyn M. Joas-Foy

Theses and Dissertations

Co-teaching is an instructional method used to educate many special education and at-risk youth. This study explored the perceived knowledge of and effectiveness with co-teaching through the perceptions of co-teachers and administrators at a large suburban high school. This study also explored the perceived effectiveness of co-teachers in Gately & Gately's eight components of effective co-teaching (2001). Four dyads completed the Co-teaching Rating Scale and a questionnaire. They also engaged in classroom observations and a focus group. Data from these data sources along with a focus group that included administrators from the high school generated a picture of co-teaching and …

Superintendent And Public Board Of Education Members Overcoming Controversial Policy, Donna Ambrosius

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this descriptive multiple case study was to explore the actions of educational leaders when implementing policy that may be deemed controversial, through the lenses of sensemaking theory. Findings provide insight on how districts leaders are able to operate efficiently and effectively, and shows that it is essential for board members and the superintendent to adapt to the given situations, to reflect on the current setting, and to be committed to moving forward. The organization looks to the superintendent to be the educational leader, but also to be the one to provide the guidance and means to create …

The Influence Of Fraternity And Sorority Membership On Retention And Gpa At Rowan University, Arthur Gathercole Jr.

Theses and Dissertations

There are multiple influences that effect retention and GPA for a student. The main objective of this study is to examine the social satisfaction and academic success of students who are active members of a fraternity or sorority at Rowan University. This study focuses on students who have been involved in a Greek-letter organization for two or more years to see how their involvement impacts their GPA and college career. With retention being a key factor in institutional ratings and ultimately contributing to degree attainment, it is a main focus for many colleges and universities.

An Evaluation Of The Efficacy Of Implementing Citizenship-Readiness Standards In The Elementary Social Studies Curriculum: A Case Study Of A School District In New Jersey, Dezoray Moore

Theses and Dissertations

This study examined how elementary schools prepared students to become lifelong learners as it relates to meeting citizenship readiness initiatives. Traditionally, schools use standardized assessments aligned with college- and career-readiness standards to measure student achievement in the reading, writing, and mathematics curricula. This study sought to examine alternative assessments aligned with citizenship-readiness standards to measure student achievement in the elementary social studies curriculum. A qualitative case study using five elementary school principals to obtain their perceptions of the elementary social studies curriculum was highlighted. An extensive analysis of common themes emerged concluding the need for educators to provide students with …

Exploring Intercultural Wonderment As A Mediator For Global Perspective Development In Engineering Students, John A. Schneider

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study is to investigate the mediatory role intercultural wonderment plays in global learning during engineering students' international experiences. Engberg and colleagues have posited a connection between the programmatic components of an international experience (i.e., study abroad) and global learning, with international wonderment serving as a conduit for that connection. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected under an NSF multi-institutional grant that focused on identifying ways global preparedness can be developed in and out of formal curricula. Data included semi-structured, student interviews, student background data, and global perspective scores as measured by the Global Perspective Inventory (GPI). …

Examining Teacher Perceptions Of The Stronge Teacher Effectiveness Performance Evaluation System, Tiffany A. Lynch

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this convergent, parallel mixed methods research study was to gather and analyze data from teachers who have been observed and evaluated using the Stronge Teacher Effectiveness Performance Evaluation System, with regards to it being able to create positive change in both instruction and student achievement, as well as the quality of feedback received on observations and summative evaluations. Data were collected using three instruments: a survey, interviews, and an analysis of summative evaluation scores, and the data led to six emerging themes. The participants did not perceive that the system had the potential to bring about change, …

How Does Performance Funding Impact The Open Access Mission Of Community Colleges In Massachusetts?, Walter T. Brooks

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this case study of four community colleges was to determine if the Massachusetts Performance Funding Formula (MAPFF) has negatively impacted access in two threats to access: 1) decreased affordability; and 2) restriction of admissions, enrollment, and recruitment in fiscal years 2014, 2015, and 2016. Participating senior administrators provided their perceptions of how the Massachusetts Performance Funding Formula impacted student access and their institutions. Access was negatively impacted by decreased affordability due to significant increases to tuition and fees the students pay. Access was also negatively impacted by a reduction and elimination of programs, courses, and sections.

Program Evaluation Of Greek Showcase Events At Rowan University, Xochil R. Ramirez

Theses and Dissertations

The primary focus of this study was to investigate the current practices used to meet the needs of the National Pan Hellenic Council (NPHC) and Greek Cultural Organizations Council (GCOC) within the Office of Greek Affairs (OGA) at Rowan University. The study further explored the autonomy (if any) within these councils when it comes to the planning and coordination of their significant showcase events and programming. The data analysis suggested that the organizations operate independently from one another and have a sense of autonomy which could be nourished by the practices of the Office of Greek Affairs.

Factors Influencing Graduate Program Choice Among Undergraduate Women, Bryna J. Harrington, Halei C. Benefield, Brooke C. Matson, Rebecca E. Hamlin, Jennifer E. L. Diaz, Grace E. Mosley, Rushina Cholera, Audrey R. Verde

Cooper Rowan Medical Journal

Context: Despite equal enrollment proportions in MD and PhD programs, there are fewer women than men in MD-PhD programs and academic medicine. Factors important in degree program selection, including the perception of gender disparities, among undergraduate students were characterized.

Methods: In 2017, pre-health students at four public North Carolina universities were invited to participate in an online survey regarding career plans, decision factors, and perceptions of gender disparities in MD, PhD and MD-PhD pathways. The authors characterized factors important to program selection, and evaluated the association of intended graduate program with perceived gender disparities using Fisher’s exact tests.

Results: …

The Effects Of Station Teaching On Academic Achievement, Attention And Focus Of Students With Learning Disabilities In An Inclusive Classroom, Jacqueline M. Wraight

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of the station model of co-teaching on the academic achievement and attention, focus and engagement of students with learning disabilities, as well as, the students' satisfaction with this model. The study utilized an ABAB single subject design to look at one of the six models developed by Friend and Cook (2004) allowing educators to combine their expertise to meet the needs of students in an inclusive setting. The results reveal the station model of co-teaching to be beneficial for students with learning disabilities in the areas of academic achievement and …

The Effects Of The Station Teaching Model Of Co-Teaching On Students With Learning Disabilities, Kathryn A. Ruoff

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was: (a) to examine the effects of using the station teaching model of co-teaching to improve academic performance of students with learning disabilities, (b) to examine the effects of using the station teaching model of co-teaching to improve attention and engagement of students with learning disabilities, and (c) to evaluate student satisfaction of the station teaching intervention. Eight elementary students, five second graders and three fourth graders participated in the study. All eight students, three males and five females, were eligible for special education services as classified with varying learning disabilities. A single subject ABAB …

An Analysis Of High School Students' Self-Efficacy In Second Language Acquisition Through Digital Language Lab Learning: Exploring New Pathways To Proficiency, Lorna A. Fairess

Theses and Dissertations

Students are often faced with barriers acquiring a second language due to various factors such as language anxiety, learning differences, and a lack of speaking time with the language. The purposes of this qualitative study were to: a) determine students' perceptions of the effectiveness of a digital language lab on their self-efficacy in second language acquisition at the secondary level, and b) discern teachers' perceptions of the effectiveness of the lab as well as recommendations for best practices in teacher training and implementation. Twenty-seven Italian and Spanish students and 12 world language teachers from two fairly rural high schools in …

Reducing Suspension Rates In Camden, New Jersey, Christina Fleming

Theses and Dissertations

Researchers have found that being suspended is a strong indicator that a student will eventually drop out. Students who drop out are much more likely to end up in prison, becoming part of the "school to prison pipeline." This study will look to answer the question "Are Charter schools addressing the School to Prison Pipeline?" Camden, NJ, a city riddled with poverty, high crime rates, and high rates of incarceration is now a city with an all but dismantled public school system. Can Charter schools be the answer?

Researchers have gathered enough evidence to support various solutions including but are …

The Effects Of Mindfulness On The Engagement And Social Interactions Of High School Students With Learning Disabilities, Naveen Khan

Theses and Dissertations

This study followed a single subject ABABAB design to examine the effects of mindfulness-based interventions (MBI) on the on-task engagement and the positive social interactions of high school students with disabilities. The seven students participating in this study attend a special services school and underwent the study in a basic skills math class. Baseline data was collected in week zero prior to the start of the study via a system of monitoring and checking for desired behavior; how often the students were on task, and how often they showed positive social behaviors. This baseline data was then used to examine …

Town-Gown Sense Of Community In Campus-Adjacent Neighborhoods: A Mixed Methods Study, Andrew Perrone

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this mixed methods study was to examine the perceptions of a sense of community held by non-student residents within the campus-adjacent neighborhoods of a college town. Employing an explanatory sequential design, the study further explored any differing perceptions of a sense of community held after participation in a community-wide program modeled after Texas A&M University's The Big Event. Residents of owner-occupied homes in neighborhoods that have experienced "studentification"(Smith, 2008) were surveyed with the Sense of Community Index 2 (Chavis, Lee, & Acosta, 2008) in order to understand the established Psychological Sense of Community (PSOC). Follow-up interviews were …

Successful Transition Planning For Individuals Diagnosed With Asd: A Comparison Of Sending And Receiving School Districts, Carly J. Olcese

Theses and Dissertations

Research has shown that the successful transition plans can provide students who are diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) with increased employment opportunities, independent living options, and most importantly a positive quality of life. Individuals diagnosed with ASD have a variety of symptoms and characteristics that range from moderate to severe. Teachers and parents must work together to provide the child or adult with an education that encompasses their strengths and areas improvement, to allow for independence and future success. The purpose of this study was to examine the importance of the components in the transition process as well as …

The Effects Of Technology Use In A Third Grade Inclusion Classroom, Jamie C. Ott

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this single-subject, ABAB research design study was to examine if the integration of Google Classroom and digital texts on Chromebooks promotes student academic performance, specifically their reading level, and active engagement in an inclusive setting. This research was designed to identify the effects that introducing digital texts and comprehension response items in Google Classroom has on students' comprehension and engagement. This study was conducted in an inner-city public k-8 grade school in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The scores gathered from students' TDA responses and engagement were converted into percentages and put into tables. The data from these two variables …

A Study Of The Collaborative Strategies Of General Education And Special Education Teachers In The Inclusion Classroom In An Urban High School, Angela Mcdougall

Theses and Dissertations

This study expands on prior research on the benefits and strategies implemented in an inclusion classroom with the general education and special education teacher in an urban high school. The collaborative strategies that both teachers implement are critical to ensure a high level of instruction delivery to the special education students and the general education students that are placed together in the inclusion classroom. The general education teacher and the special education teacher both have their respective roles in the inclusion classroom.

General education teachers, ICS (in class support) and special education teachers who instruct in self-contained classrooms were interviewed …

Investigating The Use Of Technology In Communication Exchanges And Visual Support For Students With Autism, Angela Barone

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of technology in a first-grade resource classroom. The participants used in this study were first grade nonverbal students diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The data collected during this study reflected if Apple iPads(TM) increased the number of communication exchanges between teachers and students in a classroom using a Picture Exchange System on each screen. The study also examined the increase in independent task completion using the iPad(TM) in a first grade classroom. The students used a checklist of six items to complete, and had to complete this checklist independently using …

Will Teaching Pecs To Vocal And Non-Vocal Students Increase Social Interactions?, Patricia Kathleen Infantino

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to determine if the use of PECS when taught to vocal and non- vocal students would increase communication and interactions during social situations. While using PECS both groups increased their social interactions during play time. Before this study the children in group one were not interacting at all. After being taught the use of PECS Group One interacted an average of five times per session. Before the study the children in Group two were not demonstrating any interactions, and after being taught the use of PECS they interacted an average of 10 times per …

The Effectiveness Of Character Education On Student Behavior, Katie M. Ferrara

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to determine if character education in schools is effective enough to positively increase students' moral and ethical behaviors and values. Students' behaviors in grades Kindergarten through fifth across three different elementary schools were examined. Measurements were taken prior to the implementation of a character education program and were reexamined after the first year. The results of the study revealed all three schools decreased in filed discipline reports and increased in positive behaviors from the execution of character education programs.

The Benefit Of Using Peer Buddies In Adaptive Physical Education, Julie Anne Cairone

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to observe the participation levels of students with disabilities in an adaptive physical education class with the addition of typically developing students in the class as Peer Buddies. The goal was to observe the students' participation levels prior to the introduction of the Peer Buddies then again after the introduction of the Peer Buddies. There were thirteen typically developing students who were the peer buddies and fourteen students with disabilities in the adaptive physical education class. The thirteen peer buddies took a survey before being introduced to the adaptive physical education class and a …

Effects Of Differentiating Instruction Through Tiered Lessons In Special Education Secondary Mathematics, Katlyn Lewis

Theses and Dissertations

This study examined the effects of differentiating instructing through tiered lessons to see if it would improve students' success in high school special education classes. The study was done in two Algebra II secondary special education classrooms including 17 students in total. There were 5 females and 12 males, all students were juniors in high school and aged 16 or 17 years old. All of the students were classified as either specific learning disabilities, other health impaired, or multiple disabilities including anxiety and depression. The students were enrolled in resources classes for all of their major academic subjects and inclusive …

Does Participation In Special Education Services In Pre-Kindergarten Mitigate The Need For Services Beyond Third Grade?, Cynthia Ann Lamonaca

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to analyze the change of the special education classroom placement status rate of students in a Southern New Jersey school district over a seven-year period. To gather this information, the classroom placement data from the current 6th grade class was gathered from select years of their schooling going back to preschool. Special education services were analyzed retroactively for this group of students beginning at the pre-kindergarten year (2011-2012), and again in their first grade (2013-2014), third grade (2015-2016) and current sixth grade (2018-2019) placements. The goal was to compare the number of students from …

Decreasing Chronic Absenteeism Rate For Students With Disabilities: One Call Or Text At A Time, Richard Dean Branco

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to see if an added layer of communication could reduce the absenteeism rate for Students with Disabilities (SWD). Additionally, the study looked at two areas of interest with regards to communicating with parents and/or guardians (i.e., type of contact and tone of the message being conveyed). The study began by obtaining a list of juniors and sophomores who had missed 10% or more of school for the first 41 days of the 2018-19 school year. The list was then randomly assigned by grade into three groups (i.e., Control, Treatment 1, and Treatment 2). Each …

The Effectiveness Of A Digital Ipad Curriculum In The Classroom, Erin Marie Warantz

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to determine if utilizing a digital iPad curriculum increases academic achievement in students in a middle school inclusive mathematics classroom. Twenty eighth-grade students participated in the study. The research was conducted using a group design methodology. Ten students in the experimental group used the digital iPad curriculum throughout instruction. The remaining ten students in the control group used traditional paper materials. A baseline was found prior to instruction using pre-tests. While the instruction was the same for all students, the methods of note-taking, practice of skills, and assignment completion and submission varied between the …

The Effects Of Response To Intervention On Reducing The Numbers Of African American Students In Special Education, Kimberly Savino

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to determine if states that have implemented Response to Intervention (RTI) programs had a reduction in the numbers of African American students receiving Special Education. Historically, there has been an overrepresentation of minorities, particularly African Americans, receiving special education in America's schools. In 2004, the federal government amended the Individual with Disabilities Act (IDEA) to include RTI. The RTI initiative has the possibility to reduce special education referrals through the use of research-based interventions, progress monitoring, and data collection. The premise behind RTI is to identify students at-risk for academic difficulties and provide the …

The Effects Of Using Mini Whiteboards On The Academic Performance And Engagement Of Students In A Tenth Grade Resource English/Language Arts Classroom, Elizabeth Catherine Gimbutas

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to: (a) examine the effectiveness of mini whiteboards in increasing engagement, (b) examine the effectiveness of mini whiteboards in increasing academic achievement, and (c) determine if students in a tenth grade English/Language Arts resource center classroom are satisfied with the use of mini whiteboards. The research was conducted using an ABAB single-subject design methodology. Student achievement was evaluated through weekly assessments, while daily engagement was evaluated using interval recording in 5-minute increments. Results suggest that the use of mini whiteboards may help increase the engagement and academic achievement of students in a tenth grade …

The Lived Experience Of A Freshman Female Collegiate Student-Athlete, Kaitlin Schullstrom

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to explore the lived experiences of collegiate freshman female student-athletes at Rowan University. The lived experience refers to the way researchers can view the perceptions of people within the world they exist (Kafle, 2011). The study explored the meaning of female student athletes and attach them to their lived experience as a student-athlete and how they anticipate this experience impact their future college careers. This study interviewed 10 freshman female student athletes and aimed to receive honest and valuable information about the students experience in their first year at Rowan University. The data were …