What Kids Have To Say About Math: Results From Focus Groups With Middle Schoolers,
2026
Louisiana State University at Baton Rouge
What Kids Have To Say About Math: Results From Focus Groups With Middle Schoolers, H. Colleen Sinclair, Kyle Wilson, Avery Ellis, Norma Martinez
Reports
Middle school mathematics achievement remains a critical concern in Louisiana. Despite notable recent gains in recovery and signs of resilience, students continue to perform below national averages (ranking 38th in the country). To better understand the factors that support or hinder student success, this report presents findings from six student focus groups conducted in spring 2025 with 39 middle school students at two urban schools in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The goal was to elevate students’ voices regarding their motivation, anxiety, classroom experiences, and ideas for improving math instruction. Overall, students expressed generally positive feelings toward math, and notably, a strong …
Solving The Middle School Math Problem To Increase Achievement,
2026
Portland State University
Solving The Middle School Math Problem To Increase Achievement, Andre Goodlow
Educational Leadership Professional Doctorate Dissertations
This study used improvement science to address persistent and disproportionate low mathematics achievement among middle school students, particularly Black/African American and Hispanic students, in an urban school district in the Pacific Northwest. Local data indicated significant deficiencies in math proficiency, with the target district exhibiting achievement disparities exceeding state averages. The project investigated root causes of low math achievement, prioritizing the enhancement of foundational math skills and the implementation of evidence-based interventions. The improvement theory centered on deploying an evidence-based core math curriculum and intervention program for incoming middle school students, tested through cycles during a four-week summer school program. …
Explainable Ai-Driven Predictive Maintenance Curriculum For Smart Manufacturing,
2026
Old Dominion University
Explainable Ai-Driven Predictive Maintenance Curriculum For Smart Manufacturing, Abdullah Al Mamun, Murat Kuzlu, Katherine Smith, Vukica Jovanovic, Dalya Ismael, Adel El-Shahat, Angela Sicaja, Md. Hedayetul Islam Chy
Engineering Technology Faculty Publications
Nowadays, Industry 4.0 has transformed manufacturing industries into a data-rich system driven by IoT, automation, and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Within this context, Predictive Maintenance (PdM) provides a proactive strategy that leverages heterogeneous sensor data such as vibration, acoustic, electrical, and visual signals along with historical performance and advanced analytics to forecast equipment failures before they occur. Usually, AI-driven PdM (AI-PdM) enhances this capability by integrating AI-based sensor analytics to automate fault prediction and optimize system reliability. However, traditional AI-PdM often functions as a “black box,” providing limited interpretability of its decision-making process and posing challenges for trust, validation, and human …
From Plans To Practice: Preservice Mathematics Teachers' Journey To Conceptual Understanding,
2026
Rizal Technological University
From Plans To Practice: Preservice Mathematics Teachers' Journey To Conceptual Understanding, Rolando B. Magat Jr
Australian Journal of Teacher Education
This study examines the journey of preservice mathematics teachers (PMTs) in the Philippines from lesson planning to classroom practice, focusing on fostering conceptual understanding. Using a case study approach, data were gathered from 15 PMTs in Metro Manila through semi-structured interviews, classroom observations, and lesson plan analysis. Findings reveal that PMTs face challenges in deep content knowledge, effective instructional strategies, and real-world application, often prioritizing procedural knowledge over conceptual depth. Additionally, engagement strategies and resource integration were key themes influencing lesson planning. To address these gaps, the study proposes Project M.A.S.T.E.R (Mathematics Application and Strategy Training for Enhanced Readiness), a …
Investigating The Changes In Attitudes Towards Science Among Pre-Service Elementary Teachers Enrolled In A Science Methods Course Using A New Version Of The Test Of Science Related Attitudes,
2026
University of North Texas
Investigating The Changes In Attitudes Towards Science Among Pre-Service Elementary Teachers Enrolled In A Science Methods Course Using A New Version Of The Test Of Science Related Attitudes, Christopher S. Long, Becky Sinclair
Australian Journal of Teacher Education
This article examines the changes in student attitudes towards science among pre-service elementary teachers (PSETs), who were enrolled in a science methods course at a large public university in Texas, USA. A new version of the Test of Science Related Attitudes (TOSRA) called TOSRA-3 was used to measure six dimensions of attitudes towards science. TOSRA-3 was created in an effort to create a more economical, 35 items versus 70 items, version of the original TOSRA. TOSRA-3 was found to be valid and reliable for use with PSETs. Factor analysis suggests a six scale structure with a Cronbach’s Alpha for each …
The Effect Of Stem Learning Experiences On Stem Semantic Awareness And 21st-Century Learner Skills Of Prospective Primary School Teachers,
2026
Eskişehir Osmangazi University
The Effect Of Stem Learning Experiences On Stem Semantic Awareness And 21st-Century Learner Skills Of Prospective Primary School Teachers, Ahmet Oğuz Akçay, Mehmet Arif Bozan, Engin Karahan
Australian Journal of Teacher Education
STEM awareness and 21st-century skills are recognized as two interrelated dimensions critical for the modern pedagogical competencies of pre-service teachers. This study examines how STEM learning experiences affect pre-service primary school teachers’ STEM semantic awareness and 21st-century learner skills. STEM activities were implemented for six weeks with pre-service primary school teachers. The research was designed using a convergent mixed-methods approach. The study included 21 prospective primary school teachers who volunteered to participate. The “STEM Semantic Awareness Scale,” “21st-Century Learner Skills Use Scale,” participant journals, and semi-structured interviews were used as data collection tools. The …
An Examination Of The Cognitive Levels And Content Dimensions In Activities Developed By Pre-Service Mathematics Teachers Within The Math Taxonomy Framework,
2026
Balikesir University
An Examination Of The Cognitive Levels And Content Dimensions In Activities Developed By Pre-Service Mathematics Teachers Within The Math Taxonomy Framework, Ayşe Tuğçe Bodur, Mevhibe Kobak Demi̇r
Australian Journal of Teacher Education
The purpose of this study is to analyze the questions included in three-dimensional modeling activities developed by pre-service mathematics teachers in terms of the cognitive levels and mathematical content dimensions of the MATH taxonomy. This analysis aims to reveal which mathematical processes and skills the pre-service teachers prioritize in their instructional materials. Adopting a case study design, one of the qualitative research methods, this research examined activities developed by 26 secondary pre-service mathematics teachers, selected through convenience sampling, for teaching three-dimensional geometric shapes. Descriptive analysis was used to evaluate a total of 122 activity questions. Regarding content dimensions, it …
Collaborative Problem-Solving (Cps) In Supporting Critical Thinking Skills: A Case Study On Quadratic Function Material,
2026
STKIP PGRI Bangkalan
Collaborative Problem-Solving (Cps) In Supporting Critical Thinking Skills: A Case Study On Quadratic Function Material, Buaddin Hasan, Arif Hidayatul Khusna
Australian Journal of Teacher Education
Theoretically, CPS can support students' critical thinking skills. However, more in-depth research is needed on how CPS can support students' critical thinking skills. This research aims to describe CPS in supporting students' critical thinking skills. Participants in this research were 24 10th-grade students consisting of 14 female students and ten male students. The 24 participants were then formed into 12 groups, with one group of two students. Data was collected by asking groups to solve a quadratic function problem. The research results show that CPS can support students' critical thinking skills because it provides opportunities for students to negotiate with …
Using Provided Guided Notes In Coordinated Introductory First-Year Mathematics Courses,
2026
University of Texas at Arlington
Using Provided Guided Notes In Coordinated Introductory First-Year Mathematics Courses, Jennifer L. Huber
Mathematics Dissertations
The goal of this study is to investigate how standardized guided notes shape instructional practices and student engagement in coordinated introductory first-year college mathematics courses at a large public university. The researcher explored three multi-section introductory mathematics courses with overlapping learning objectives. Each course required students to purchase a student workbook as part of the instructional materials for the class. The instructors taught primarily from the workbook containing guided notes created by a former coordinator of the course. The researcher used a mixed-methods approach. Instructors and students participated in surveys, class observations and provided class meeting notes. Instructors shared additional …
Exploring Secondary Stem Teachers’ Experiences In Online Learning Environments: A Directed Content Analysis Using The Community Of Inquiry Framework,
2026
Columbus State University
Exploring Secondary Stem Teachers’ Experiences In Online Learning Environments: A Directed Content Analysis Using The Community Of Inquiry Framework, Tiffany Janese Lester
Theses and Dissertations
This study is a directed qualitative content analysis of 21 peer-reviewed studies published between 2020 and May 2025 on secondary STEM teaching in online environments. Using the Community of Inquiry framework, I examined how teaching, social, and cognitive presence shaped instructional strategies, teacher experiences, and reported challenges. Coding with deductive and inductive methods identified recurring themes: teachers adapted to digital platforms, navigated uneven levels of digital fluency, and implemented intentional strategies to maintain social interaction. The studies also revealed persistent equity gaps in access and participation alongside innovative approaches to course and pedagogical design. These themes demonstrate how secondary STEM …
Climate Change In An Educational Context: A Model Addressing Psychological Distance, Hope, And Concern,
2026
Scripps College
Climate Change In An Educational Context: A Model Addressing Psychological Distance, Hope, And Concern, Brooke E. Kasl-Godley
Scripps Senior Theses
As the threat of climate change becomes more urgent, educators should focus on fostering climate concern and action instead of simply providing climate information. These studies present a novel model of climate education where locally-framed and action-oriented curriculum increases students’ environmental concern through the mechanisms of psychological distance and hope. This curriculum was taught over two years to sixth-grade students at a school in the Los Angeles Metropolitan Area. Study 1 examines students’ environmental concern and sense of responsibility before and after delivery of the curriculum. Study 2 is a proposed follow-up study, that will address limitations of Study 1 …
Case-Based Learning In Biology Education: A Systematic Literature Review,
2026
Universitas Mulawarman, Indonesia
Case-Based Learning In Biology Education: A Systematic Literature Review, Elsje Theodora Maasawet, Jullya Christin Kolow
Journal of Educational Technology Development and Exchange (JETDE)
Biology education often relies on content-intensive instructional materials that may encourage rote memorisation rather than conceptual understanding, potentially contributing to misconceptions. Case-Based Learning (CBL) offers an alternative by engaging students in applying biological concepts to authentic, real-life cases and promoting meaningful learning. Despite growing empirical interest in CBL, no systematic literature review has specifically synthesised its application in biology education. This study therefore examined publication trends, learning skills addressed, and conceptualisations of CBL in biology education. Relevant literature was retrieved from Scopus and Web of Science using “Case-Based Learning” as the search term. Following PRISMA-guided screening, 42 articles were included …
A Strawberry’S Meaning,
2026
Minnesota State University Moorhead
A Strawberry’S Meaning, Ava Bauch, Michaela Barthel, Cacee Danielson, Brooke Kraft
OER Materials
This lesson plan provides a culturally responsive and interdisciplinary learning experience for second-grade students by integrating social studies, literacy, and character education through the topic of strawberries in Cherokee culture. Using the 5E instructional model students learn that items in nature can hold important meaning for different cultures. The lesson aligns with standards focused on identifying how people are influenced by their environment and how natural resources can shape traditions and beliefs. Students begin by discussing their own experiences with strawberries and sharing what strawberries mean to them. This opening activity activates prior knowledge and helps students understand that objects …
Strawberry Exploration: Using Our Senses,
2026
Minnesota State University Moorhead
Strawberry Exploration: Using Our Senses, Ava Bauch, Michaela Barthel, Cacee Danielson, Brooke Kraft
OER Materials
This lesson plan provides an engaging inquiry-based science experience for second-grade students by using strawberries as a hands-on tool for exploring the five senses and developing observation skills. The lesson aligns with science standards focused on planning and conducting investigations based on observable properties. Students learn how scientists use their senses to gather information while also building communication and collaboration skills. The central focus is for students to investigate strawberries through sight, touch, smell, and taste, then record and compare their findings with classmates. The lesson begins with an introduction to the five senses through visuals and guided discussion. Students …
Case Study Of The Loch Ness Monster,
2026
Minnesota State University Moorhead
Case Study Of The Loch Ness Monster, Ava Bauch, Cami Mayo, Sean Savage
OER Materials
This lesson plan presents an engaging interdisciplinary learning experience for fourth-grade students that integrates social studies and language arts through the mystery of the Loch Ness Monster. Using the 5E instructional model, students investigate the legend while developing literacy and geographic reasoning skills. The lesson aligns with standards requiring students to make inferences using text evidence and use geographic tools to gather and report information. Students begin by examining a map of Scotland through See-Think-Wonder and Think-Pair-Share strategies, using observation and discussion to identify locations and making predictions about where the Loch Ness Monster story takes place. This opening activity …
Ecosystem Of The Loch Ness Monster,
2026
Minnesota State University Moorhead
Ecosystem Of The Loch Ness Monster, Ava Bauch, Cami Mayo, Sean Savage
OER Materials
This lesson plan provides an engaging interdisciplinary learning experience for fourth-grade students by combining language arts and science through the theme of the Loch Ness ecosystem. Using the 5E instructional model students build understanding of ecosystems, food webs, and informational text comprehension. The lesson aligns with standards focused on making inferences with text evidence and constructing arguments about how plants and animals use structures for survival, growth, and reproduction. Students begin by analyzing an image of the Loch Ness Monster and discussing what they see, think, and wonder. This introductory activity activates prior knowledge from earlier lessons while encouraging curiosity …
Supporting K-5 Computer Science Integration Through High-Quality Teacher Professional Development,
2026
Old Dominion University
Supporting K-5 Computer Science Integration Through High-Quality Teacher Professional Development, Shanan Chappell Moots, Joanna K. Garner, Joseph A. Brobst, Melani Loney, Lisa Steffian, Jennifer Maeng
Center for Educational Partnerships Publications
Workforce development and education leaders have increasingly emphasized the need for high-quality computer science (CS) instruction for K-12 students. Though states have created and mandated the implementation of CS curriculum standards, few in-service teachers have been provided sufficient opportunities to develop CS pedagogical content knowledge and self-efficacy. This study evaluated the effect of a CS integration professional development (PD) program on K-5 teachers' perceptions of their capacity to teach CS and their implementation of CS-integrated lessons using a randomized controlled trial design. Treatment included an intensive online summer institute with school year follow-up. Results indicate statistically significant effects of the …
Are Multiple-Choice And Open-Ended Assessments Consistent In Predicting Science Achievement? Multivariate Multilevel Evidence From Chinese Students And Schools,
2026
University of Kentucky
Are Multiple-Choice And Open-Ended Assessments Consistent In Predicting Science Achievement? Multivariate Multilevel Evidence From Chinese Students And Schools, Quan Wu
Theses and Dissertations--Education Sciences
A multivariate multilevel model was developed and applied to secondary data from a large-scale science assessment of Grade 8 students in China to examine the consistency between multiple-choice and open-ended formats of assessment in predicting science achievement at the student and school levels. The sample included 44,534 students from 159 schools across two regions. Multivariate multilevel results indicated a moderately positive consistency between the two formats at the student level and a strongly positive consistency at the school level; these consistencies were stable across regions and did not depend on student and school characteristics. The findings have important practical implications …
Exploring High School Students’ Learning Interests And Information Sources On Viruses And Covid-19,
2026
University of Kentucky
Exploring High School Students’ Learning Interests And Information Sources On Viruses And Covid-19, Sahar Alameh, James W. Keck, Elizabeth Loh, Lin Xiang, Scott M. Berry, Anna G. Hoover, Abigail Knapp, Savannah Tucker
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Education Faculty Publications
This study investigates high school students’ health-information seeking behaviors related to COVID-19 and viruses in a rural area of the south-central United States, and how these behaviors relate to students’ knowledge, perceptions, and learning interests. Survey data were collected from 83 students in Spring 2023, during the post-pandemic period, as part of a STEM and public health unit. Drawing on frameworks from Health Information-Seeking Behavior and student interest, the study examines students’ COVID-19 information sources, how these sources relate to their knowledge about viruses and their perceptions of COVID-19, and the specific topics about which they were most interested in …
I Think, Therefore I Can: Self-Efficacy, Self-Regulation, And Sense Of Belonging In Introductory Physics,
2026
West Virginia University
I Think, Therefore I Can: Self-Efficacy, Self-Regulation, And Sense Of Belonging In Introductory Physics, Danielle Christine Maldonado
Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports (ETD)
Cognitive and affective beliefs in physics classrooms are important indicators of student success beyond traditional measurements of academic performance. This body of work explores major beliefs and processes, including self-efficacy, self-regulation, and sense of belonging, as they relate to academic achievement among introductory undergraduate physics students. First, this dissertation explores the development of physics self-efficacy and physics sense of belonging, two highly correlated variables. This work identifies unique sources of physics self-efficacy and sense of belonging development from current and prior academic experiences, personality factors, and demographic variables. Then, relationships between early- semester self-efficacy and sense of belonging, mid-semester …
