Digital Commons Network^™

Teaching Intermediate Students Research And Critical Thinking Skills: Integrating Technology Into The Curriculum, Michelle Stach

All Graduate Projects

The focus of this project was to create specific activities that teach students how to research material and use their critical thinking skills to present a product. The project implements an integrated approach with an emphasis on the intermediate grades. Throughout this project the students will be exploring a variety of ways to acquire the knowledge ofresearching quality information. This project concentrates on integrating technology into the social studies and science curriculum. The final product encompasses research and critical thinking skills into an intermediate curriculum.

Cultural Awareness Activities For Teachers, Martin F. Wittman

All Graduate Projects

We live and grow in an increasingly diverse society, and it is as important for school age students to understand people who are different, as it is for them to understand math or science. The purpose ofthis project was to develop a variety of cultural awareness activities for use by K-12 teachers in the Bethel School District in the State of Washington. All activities were aligned with the tools and concepts of Bethel's employee cultural awareness model and presented in the form of a handbook. The intent of the handbook was to provide a format for teachers which could be …

Taking It Personally: The Role Of Memoirs In Teacher Education, Sharon A. Hollander

Electronic Journal for Inclusive Education

The current popularity of memoirs and book groups is a cue to education faculty. When complemented by discussion groups and writing assignments, memoirs can be used to facilitate the process of inclusion in the schools by teaching both general and special educators about children with disabilities and their families. These works can also promote quality reading and writing, inspire original and insightful responses from students, and foster a sense of community in class. Some advantages and previous applications of this method are described and recommendations for implementation are made.

The National Board For Professional Teaching Standards: Professional Assessment For Teachers Of Students With Exceptional Needs, Ronald G. Helms Ph.D.

Electronic Journal for Inclusive Education

The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) has established five areas of Exceptional Needs as new certification areas: Early Childhood through Young Adult/Exceptional Needs (birth to 8 years), Mild and Moderately Impaired (5 to 21+ years), Severe and Multiply Impaired (5 to 21+ years), Visually Impaired (birth to 21+ years), and Deaf/Hard of Hearing (birth to 21 + years). Pre K - 12+ Exceptional Needs teachers may now be recognized by their schools, communities, state, and nation as master teachers. Teachers are clearly central to planning, implementing, developing, and modifying NBPTS policies and procedures. Only Special Needs educators will …

Cesar Chavez: Educating The Heart, Orange County Cesar Chavez Day Initiative

Curriculum

Cesar Chavez was one of the most significant and influential civil rights leaders of our time. Chavez devoted himself to social justice and improving the lives of the impoverished and oppressed. His name, like the name of Martin Luther King, Jr., speaks of character and commitment. This project is in honor of the life and work of Cesar E. Chavez.

The Cesar Chavez project is a multi-faceted service learning experience that will provide your 4lh graders with a unique, hands-on perspective of California History. Whether used to celebrate Cesar Chavez Day (March 31st) with your class or simply as a …

A Comparison Of Interaction In Av-Based And Internet-Based Distance Courses, Melodee Landis

Teacher Education Faculty Publications

At the center of the debate over the viability of distance education is whether the newer electronic technologies can offer enough interaction to maintain quality learner outcomes and critical mass. Two of the most commonly used forms of distance education are 1) two-way, fully interactive audio-video classrooms and 2) on-line instruction through the Internet or Worldwide Web. This study used qualitative methods to compare and contrast the interaction that occurred in distance learning courses offered via each medium. The research process confirmed findings that there were fundamental differences in the interaction that occurred in the two environments. On-line interaction is …

Nsu Programs In Instructional Technology And Distance Education M.S. And Ed.D. Degree Programs Program Information And Admissions Applications 2001, Nova Southeastern University

Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice College Archive

No abstract provided.

Nsu Programs In Instructional Technology And Distance Education M.S. And Ed.D. Degree Programs (Program Information And Admissions Applications) 2001, Nova Southeastern University

Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice College Archive

No abstract provided.

Literature-Based Language Arts Extended To Science, Brandee M. Alexander

Graduate Research Papers

Literature can link all areas of the curriculum. Extending a literature-based language arts program to the science area can provide a rich learning environment supported by many different genres of literature and related expressive activities that contribute to the dimensions of learning.

A science unit of study on the five senses, with special emphasis on touch, for kindergarten children, was expanded through literature experiences and related expressive activities. The literature presented offered much content on the senses and models of language to nurture the children's emerging literacy. During the one-week of study, learner enthusiasm and peer interaction for reading and …

Using Lightspan Technology To Build School To Home Connections, Frances J. Birks

Graduate Research Papers

Family involvement in children's emerging literacy is critical to their school success. School personnel can support family literacy by becoming acquainted with families and providing home strategies and materials. Teachers can guide caregivers to the resources of the school and public libraries for books and software. Schools can off er caregivers instruction on computers as a learning tool for children.

The implementation of school computer lab sessions scheduled at night for families is described. This project was designed to 1) discover the ways families interact while using computers, 2) determine if families enjoyed using the lab together, and 3) document …

Internet-Enhanced Esl Education : A Literature Review, Yu Cao

Graduate Research Papers

This paper intends to present some of the most current research on the tremendous benefits which the Internet can provide to ESL education. Some Internet applications which can be used as active teaching and learning tools in the ESL classrooms are being presented in this paper, such as electronic mail, electronic discussion group or "lists," electronic forum, chat room, and keypal. Additionally, this paper intends to bring educators' attention to those issues which affect language learners' interests in using the Internet in their learning. Issues include the lack of training, accessibility of technology, and lack of feedback.

Parenting Styles In Society Today, Julie Hammond

Graduate Research Papers

This paper is a review of parenting styles relative to the importance of childrearing practices. Its primary focus is to identify and examine parenting styles, which impacts childrearing methods. The authoritarian, permissive, and authoritative methods were identified with strengths and weaknesses compared.

From the comparison, it was determined that the authoritative parenting style provides the most success for childrearing in today's changing American society. The conclusion of the paper offers guidelines and suggestions to parents on establishing this childrearing method.

The Design Of Web Sites With Quality User Interface, Amery L. Moultry

Graduate Research Papers

Usability engineering focuses on how well Web sites are structured. Many designers are unaware of the diversity of usability engineering and what it can offer the developer in efforts to produce a usable Web site. Three researchers in the field, Borges, Morales, and Rodriquez (1998), have created a style guide of content, which recommends essentials for user-friendly Web sites. They included in their list Common Look and Feel (CL&F), Information Display, Navigation, and Labels. This research paper goes through the steps it took to create a quality Web site using the style guides of the noted researchers.

Web-Based Portfolios In Higher Education, Marilyn Murphy

Graduate Research Papers

Portfolios offer an authentic means of assessment for higher education. The management of paper portfolios, however, is problematic,. Electronic portfolios solve many of the problems associated with paper portfolios and offer several added benefits. Making electronic portfolios accessible on the World Wide Web is advantageous for faculty, students, and employers. The problems associated with web-based portfolios are generally manageable.

An Integrated Technology Project In One Iowa Middle School, Beverly R. Nielsen

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of this research was to determine whether implementing an integrated technology project at Columbus Middle School in the Columbus Community, Iowa School District would have any positive learning effects on the eighth grade students. Secondly, the research set out to determine if there are advantages to integrating technology into middle school curriculum. Finally, the purpose of the research was to find selection criteria for an integrated technology project for the middle grades. After selection and implementation, the project was evaluated through teacher observations and student self-evaluations. Both evaluations indicated that this integrated technology project had positive learning effects …

West Delaware County Community School District Talented And Gifted Program Handbook, Mary Quinlan-Kelley

Graduate Research Papers

Every district should have a program handbook that describes its talented and gifted program. The West Delaware School District especially needed such a document because of the many requests for information from faculty, administration, and parents concerning such areas as identification, organization, and purpose of the talented and gifted program that arise year after year.

Program handbook development began by sending out a needs assessment to parents, teachers, administration, and students. Based on the discovery of the needs of our district, a new philosophy, format, and identification process were constructed. In addition, the development of written goals and a yearly …

Alternate Curriculum In Reading For Grade Four, Julie A. Schmit

Graduate Research Papers

Julie A. Schmit, a fourth grade teacher, specifically designed the two reading alternate units. These units were designed to provide challenging reading and learning experiences for talented and gifted students in grade four. These units provide challenging, above grade level materials and activities for the students whose reading, vocabulary, and language skills are advanced to such a degree that they would derive greater educational benefit from working with alternate materials.

Curriculum Differentiation In Practice, Twyla D. Wisecup

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of this project is to create two curriculum differentiated reading units designed to meet the needs of fifth grade, high-ability language arts students. The units were written to compliment existing whole class units already in use, and to coincide with major district goals encouraging students to take control of their own learning by making decisions about their writing, selecting their reading materials, and assessing their progress. This paper gives a broad definition of curriculum differentiation and reviews the literature in regard to differentiation of curriculum in the field of gifted education, and provides a focus on possible strategies …

Family Literacy, Dorothy Fay Bantz

Graduate Research Papers

This is a Family Literacy Program set up for second grade students and their families. The project includes thirty-six books and activities for the students to take home every Friday of the school year. The activities include both the student and the adults in the home. The picture books are both narrative and expository and written in a variety of genres. The book reviews are included for each book to show their quality. The adults are given support from the school through newsletters, a web page, family nights, and an initial home visit. The adults are encouraged to become part …

Utilizing The Classroom Computer In A Special Education Setting To Facilitate Cooperative Learning: A Case Study Using Kidpix, Audrey Dieken

Graduate Research Papers

Collaboration and cooperative teaching methods have been researched since the late 70's. The research indicates students will learn from each other given the proper environment and tools. In this study, six elementary students were evaluated to examine the effects of teaching individual tasks to students and observing the students for collaboration between partners. Two students were placed side-by-side at one computer and observed by an undergraduate researcher.

The results of the observations report the students were engaged in the activity of KidPix 60-l 00% of the time. All of the students were able to complete the tasks over 95% of …

Teacher Change In Math Education, Jamie Folkers

Graduate Research Papers

This literature review addresses the process teachers go through in order to change their instructional practices in math. The purpose of this review is to compare traditional math practices with practices being advocated by reform initiatives, to look at hurdles preventing teachers from adapting these reforms, and share suggestions for removing these hurdles to allow a smoother change process for teachers.

The sources referenced come from research studies involving classroom practices and professional development programs, journal articles related to the math reform movement, and books on the same topic. They date from 1989 to 2000.

The main recommendations are as …

Distance Learning : Is It Worth The Investment?, S. Michelle Degabriele

Graduate Research Papers

As human knowledge expands at an exponential rate, learning is increasingly becoming a lifelong endeavor. Careers and lives in the twenty-first century require constant learning, new education, and retraining. Thus, the nontraditional adult population in universities is increasing. Institutions pondering how to cope with an increasing student population and an ever shrinking budget can examine distance learning as a possible solution. Costs and benefits must be carefully considered in the areas of institution finances, the learning process, students, and instructors.

Although many instructors gladly accept opportunities to teach in the distance learning environment, the majority of instructors still have concerns …

The Merits Of Kindergarten Readers' Workshop, Janet K. Hurley

Graduate Research Papers

Literacy is at the very core of our being, and as such a vital component of personal identity, creating an environment conducive to literacy development is an essential element of education. Knowing that attitudes are molded early in life, establishing a strong, meaningful literacy program in early childhood can affect children for a lifetime.

The purpose of this article is to illustrate the merits and power of Readers ' Workshop at the kindergarten level. First I will define and discuss components of the workshop format. I then will share what I see as the greatest benefits of the workshop approach …

Implementing And Sustaining Effective Online Learning In Organizational Environments, Amy S. Campbell

Graduate Research Papers

This literature review will address specific issues and concerns that are . prevalent when organizations begin to migrate training and learning activities to an online environment.

The structure of many organizations has been changing over the years to include a diverse and geographically dispersed work force. In an effort to continue to provide training and learning opportunities, while at the same time reducing travel and time away from work, more organizations are seeking to implement online learning alternatives. Online learning offers a unique learning alternative to traditional instructor-led training. However, organizations must be prepared to effectively support online learning and …

Non-Technical Issues Involved In Moving A College Course From The Traditional Classroom To Cyberspace, Dixie L. Mercer

Graduate Research Papers

Advances in communication technologies have rapidly led to interest in the development of online learning programs. The value of these programs is beginning to be accepted as a way of providing an alternative delivery system to students in higher education whose work schedules, family issues, or geographical location make it impractical to attend regularly scheduled classes on a college campus.

Despite the potential of online learning, online instruction is not simply a traditional class gone digital. The teaching and learning processes of traditional classes needs to be reexamined for online classes, as the technology becomes more widespread. Educators need to …

Moving Students Forward In Spelling, Catherine Miller

Graduate Research Papers

This article describes how one teacher integrated additional spelling instructional strategies into her current basal program. The purpose of this article is to give an overview of research about methods of spelling instruction and describe strategies that can be incorporated into an existing program to motivate students toward becoming conventional spellers. The article emphasizes the importance of purposeful writing experiences to give students ample opportunities to practice their growing knowledge of spelling.

The Need For Information And Communication Technology (Ict) Literacy Among Lower Secondary Students, Sri Kumaran Rajendran

Student Works (2000-2009)

The purpose of this study is to determine the need for ICT literacy among lower secondary students. The study was designed to answer the following objectives: 1) Whether there is any significance difference between the need for a structured ICT syllabus and that of informal learning of ICT through friends, reading materials, parents, CD-ROM, and interest. 2) To gauge the interest shown towards ICT related activities after undergoing structured ICT syllabus. The study focused on two secondary schools in the Petaling District of Selangor. A questionnaire was distributed to a total 300 student from Form One, Two, and Three of …

A Study Of Attitudes And Beliefs Of Teachers And Site Council Members Toward Parental Involvement Within The Framework Of Four Models Of Home-School Relations, Beverly Ann Smith

Dissertations and Theses @ UNI

The purpose of this study was to examine the attitudes and beliefs of faculty and site council members toward the type of parental involvement model desired in their schools and to assess whether or not a consistent opinion of parental involvement existed between the two school role groups. This study investigated the prevalence of four models of home-school relationships developed by Swap (1993). The four models are the Curriculum Enrichment Model, the Partnership Model, the Protective Model and the School to Home Transmission Model. Participants of the study consisted of faculty and site council members from five selected schools in …

College Graduates' Perception Of Placement-Service Impact At Three Selected Institutions Of Higher Education In The Michiana Area, Javan Lukema Ntaganda

Dissertations

Problem. Colleges have established offices of career planning and placement services to advise students who are making decisions concerning their vocational goals and to help graduates secure employment in their field of study. However, despite good intentions and efforts put together by colleges in establishing such offices, one problem still exists and needs to be addressed: It appears that the impact of career planning and placement services is not clearly understood by all potential graduates. There is a need for research to investigate how students perceive services provided by this office.

Method. The study acquired the perceptions of 255 graduates …

Howard Gardner's Theory Of Multiple Intelligence And The Implications For Gifted Education, Cynthia Fell

Graduate Research Papers

This article, to be submitted to the national journal, Gifted Child Today, explores how Howard Gardner's Multiple Intelligences Theory (MI) specifically affects the development and delivery of gifted education. Included are discussions of the definitions on MI and giftedness programming and how each approach identification, curriculum and instruction. Three popular gifted education models are viewed through the lens of MI are Autonomous Learner Model (ALM), Talent Identification and Development in Education (TIDE) and Three Ring Conception of Giftedness.