Digital Commons Network^™

Life And Times Of Individuals With Mental Retardation: 40 Years Of History, Rhonda S. Black Ph.D., Beverly A. Salas

Electronic Journal for Inclusive Education

If we look to the not so distant past, we see a history of lost opportunities for employment and the chance to meaningfully contribute to society for individuals with mental retardation (Murphy & Rogan, 1995). Many issues surround why these individuals have not been more included within our society, particularly in the employment sector. Fears, questions, and concerns abound when looking at these issues. Such questions are: Why would I want to hire an individual with mental retardation? How much cost is associated with various accommodations that may be required? What unknowns are involved in hiring a person with mental …

Integrating Learning Strategies Into Teaching, Terry Doyle

Professional and Organizational Development Network in Higher Education: Archives

Students often lack the strategies needed to effectively learn course content. Integrating the teaching of “learning how to learn” strategies into course content is the best way for students to be successful.

Using Literature And Language Arts To Teach The American Revolution To Fifth Grade Students, Tara L. Affholter

All Graduate Projects

Teachers who combine language arts with social studies are not only able to teach content, but can also integrate literary elements and comprehension as well, while using literature groups. Students who were taught using novels, with various writing tasks to complete, lectures, and projects made great gains in social studies content, reading writing and communication skills.

Introducing A Foreign Language Experience Into The Elementary Curriculum: A Flex Curriculum Handbook, Deborah Michelle Doherty

All Graduate Projects

A handbook has been created to assist elementary educators integrating Spanish into their curriculum. Lesson plans, activities, and supplemental materials are developed based on The Standards for Foreign Language Leaming, recommended and published by the National Association of Foreign Language Teachers and are aligned to meet the Essential Academic Leaming Requirements (EALRs) adopted by The Washington State Commission on Student Leaming. Current literature and research involving the benefits of teaching foreign language to elementary children are studied.

The Cooperative Approach: A Handbook For Elementary Physical Education Teachers Focusing On Cooperation Within The Pe Curriculum, Michael D. Johnson

All Graduate Projects

After being transferred to teach physical education, I wanted to prepare myself by gaining some background knowledge on foundations, concepts, and objectives in physical education. I noticed a large transformation in recent years from curriculums focusing on competitive, self-defeating games, to an approach aimed at teaching skills, cooperation and teamwork. I compiled research on the history, goals and intent, and cooperation and teamwork in the physical education curriculum. I also compiled research on the national and state standards, and evaluation and grading in the physical education program. Based on the research, I created a handbook for physical education teachers. The …

Incorporating Multicultural Children's Literature Into A Primary Curriculum, Cristian Rene Newell

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of the project was to provide primary teachers with a multicultural literature resource book. To accomplish this a review of literature was completed to investigate the need for, and value of using multicultural literature within a primary classroom. How to judge quality multicultural literature was also reviewed. The project consisted of general lesson plans to use with multicultural literature, twenty specific activities to use with multicultural literature, and annotated book lists of multicultural literature. The activities incorporate Reading, Writing, Communication, and Mathematics Essential Academic Learning Requirements for the state of Washington. Literature is representative of several cultures and …

Literature-Based Language Arts Extended To Science, Jennifer A. Johnson

Graduate Research Papers

A literature-based language arts program provides meaningful experiences for children within the functions of language. Such programs can be extended across the curriculum to utilize the functions in other areas. These connections across the curriculum can be enhanced through the different genres of literature.

In this article, a literature base was integrated into the science area of the curriculum. A science unit on pumpkins was developed for first grade children with quality literature and related expressive activities that extended the children's literacy and their understanding of plants. Teacher-directed activities were presented along with learning centers.

Extending The Dimensions Of Science Through Poetry, Tracey L. Jones

Graduate Research Papers

The primary function of poetry is to bring enjoyment, but poetry can also foster concept development in an instructional program that extends literature across the curriculum. Because of its intense emotional quality and sharp images, it can assist in connecting children's prior knowledge with new concepts.

One of the goals of an integrated program for fifth grade was to integrate literature-based language arts with science. The connection of the language arts and science areas offered children opportunities to engage in the language processes within the functions of language offered in the science area. Through reading and writing poetry and conducting …

Literature-Based Language Arts Extended To The Science Area : A Unit On Spring, Kelly Jones

Graduate Research Papers

A literature-based program emphasizes creating meaning through the language processes, thus leading to growth in thinking and language abilities. A print-rich learning environment supported by the different genres encourages involvement in the language process and contributes to the dimensions of a unit of study. When literature-based language arts are extended to the science area, such a program can extend children's knowledge of the world around them and nurture their curiosity.

A science unit on spring, extended through quality literature and many options for expressive activity, was presented to first grade children. This literature-based unit is shared.

Constructivist Education : Developing A Constructivist Kindergarten Program, Carol J. Menefee

Graduate Research Papers

This paper is a review of literature relative to the importance of using constructivist approaches in the kindergarten program. The primary focus of this paper was to look at the features of a constructivist approach. Advantages and criticisms of constructivism are included. This study also provides guidelines designed to help educators, specifically kindergarten teachers, implement constructivist approaches in their classrooms. The conclusion of this paper offers suggestions and cautions to educators on implementing these guidelines. Recommendations for further research in the area are stated.

High School Students' Perceptions Of Evolutionary Theory, C. Sheldon Woods, Lawrence C. Scharmann

Department of Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education: Faculty Publications

If we are to be successful in teaching evolution, we must take into account our students' worldviews as well as their individual understandings and misconceptions. It is im-portant to know our students their cultures, personal his-tories, cognitive abilities, religious beliefs, [and] scientific misconceptions. [It is also important] to address directly the likely cultural/religious concerns with evolution and to do so early on so as to break down the barriers that keep many students from hearing what you say. (Smith, 1994, p. 591)

Smith penned these words for a special issue of the Journal of Research in Science Teaching which focused …

Strategies To Improve Critical Thinking Skills In High School Students, Alan Smith

Perspectives In Learning

At this time, there is no abstract.

Clarity In Teaching In Higher Education: Dimensions And Classroom Strategies, Nira Hativa

To Improve the Academy: A Journal of Educational Development

This essay presents research knowledge regarding the main dimensions of effective teaching in higher education, concentrating on clarity in teaching and its components—classroom behaviors and strategies that promote clear teaching. On this basis, I suggest arranging all dimensions and classroom strategies of effective teaching within a logical structure of interconnected teaching behaviors whose contribution to student learning is based on theory and research. The model organizes all dimensions and strategies of effective teaching in three hierarchical levels and is illustrated by successively breaking down clarity in teaching into intermediate dimensions and classroom behaviors and strategies. The model may help faculty …

Preparing Today's Faculty For Tomorrow's Students: One College's Faculty Development Solution, Patrick Nellis, Helen Clarke, Jacalyn Dimartino, David K. Hosman

To Improve the Academy: A Journal of Educational Development

Valencia Community College in Orlando, Florida, has created a faculty development program underwritten for the past five years by a US Department of Education Title III Strengthening Institutions Grant. Our program rose from a deliberate desire to build active, collaborative faculty teams that would, in turn, build active, collaborative classrooms; our results demonstrate that faculty development programs based on observable and measurable outcomes can positively affect student academic performance and persistence. This essay details this faculty development project.

The Role Of A Teaching Center In Curricular Reform, Constance Ewing Cook

To Improve the Academy: A Journal of Educational Development

Instructional consultants can play a crucial role in curricular reform. They gather evaluation and assessment data about the current curriculum so that faculty decisions about improvements are based on empirical evidence. They organize and facilitate meetings and retreats at which faculty make curricular decisions, and they provide pedagogical expertise and resources to help with course design and enhancement. They also provide ongoing data for formative evaluation of the new curriculum. Examples from the University of Michigan’s Center for Research on Learning and Teaching illustrate instructional consultants’ contributions to the curricular reform process.

Ec01-157 Precision Agriculture: Untangling The Gps Data String, Viacheslav I. Adamchuk

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension: Historical Materials

Most people associate precision farming or site-specific management with the global positioning system (GPS). It is used to locate the antenna of aGPS receiver on Earth. GPS provides the opportunity to record a set of geographic coordinates that specify a particular field location. Therefore, field data collected using GPS technology is georeferenced. Processing of these data is complicated, and software packages designed for precision farming applications have built-in capabilities to interpret the GPS receiver output. However, some simple operations can be performed using standard office software. In this case, it is necessary to know the basics behind GPS data. The …

Kegunaan Pembelajaran Berasaskan Web Bagi Meningkatkan Pencapaian Dan Minat Pelajar Terhadap Topik Tenaga Nuklear, Ashfahani Zakaria

Student Works (2000-2009)

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of Web-Based Learning (WBL) in improving students' achievement and interest in Nuclear Energy, which is one of the topics taught in KBSM Physics for Form 4. The WBL site used in the study was developed by the researcher based on Gagne's Nine Events of Instruction. The study was conducted using 30 Form 4 students who took Physics at one of the Smart Schools in Selangor Darul Ehsan. The selection of the students was based on their Physics results in the first semester examination. Two categories of students who had high …

Proses Penyelesaian Masalah Algebra Di Kalangan Pelajar Diploma Di Sebuah Institusi Pengajian Tinggi, Roselah Osman

Student Works (2000-2009)

The main objective of this study is to examine the problem solving process in learning Algebra, employed by the first semester students of diploma in engineering from an institute of higher learning. The research instrument comprised of five problem solving questions on basic Algebra. Six students were randomly selected as the research sample. The research data were the steps of written solutions shown by the sample. A modified scoring Rubric was used to analyse the process and the strategies used by the students to solve every problem solving question. The results of the study shows that some of the students …

Pelaksanaan Pentaksiran Amali Sains Berasaskan Sekolah Di Beberapa Buah Sekolah Menengah Daerah Hilir Perak, Alias Mingan

Student Works (2000-2009)

The purpose of this study is to investigate the implementation of the school based practical science assessment in several secondary schools in the Lower Perak District. The school based practical science assessment is carried out through the PEKA programme. Four aspects of the implementation of the PEKA programme was studied. The four aspects were (i) teachers' understanding of procedures in carrying out the PEKA programme after having attended relevant courses, (ii) teachers' ability in carrying out the PEKA programme, (iii) students' readiness to be assessed via PEKA, and (iv) factors which hinder the effectiveness of the implementation of the PEKA …

Collegiate Aviation Research And Education Solutions To Critical Safety Issues, Brent D. Bowen, Uno Aviation Institute

Faculty Books and Monographs

UNOAI Report 2001-5

This document contains four papers concerning collegiate aviation research and education solutions to critical safety issues. “Panel Proposal Titled Collegiate Aviation Research and Education Solutions to Critical Safety Issues for the Tim Forte Collegiate Aviation Safety Symposium” (Brent Bowen) presents proposals for panels on the following topics: geographic north versus magnetic north to provide enhanced national airspace system safety; weather safety training for general aviation pilots through computer flight simulation; identification of human behavior and aircraft maintenance safety issues; disaster preparedness, emergency response, and curriculum development; the collegiate aviation emergency response checklist; and systemic initiatives in aviation …

Meeting The Needs Of Industry: Development Of A Microcontroller Course For Mechanical Engineers, W. G. Culbreth

Mechanical Engineering Faculty Research

No abstract provided.

Colby College Catalogue 2001 - 2002, Colby College

Colby Catalogues

Colby College Catalogue: September 2001 - August 2002

Developing A Model Career Pathway Curriculum For South Kitsap School District, Esther L. Albertus

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to develop a model Career Pathway Curriculum for South Kitsap School District. To achieve this purpose, current research and an examination of literature and evaluation of current models in place were considered and reviewed. Additionally, recommendations and specific policies were adapted and developed to meet the needs of the South Kitsap School District community.

Integrating Computer Technology And Traditional Art Tools: A Visual Literacy Handbook, Carol A. Genson

All Graduate Projects

Throughout history technology has advanced because new tools have been invented. Within the past fifty years the computer grew to be a new tool for business and industry. In the last twenty years, computers have become a tool for helping with daily activities. Now computers are being recognized as a tool for creativity. Artists have incorporated digital tools in their traditional toolbox. A review of related literature shows that computer generated digital art has been integrated into many aspects of the fine arts, including galleries and museums. This technology is being incorporated into the curriculums of our schools as well. …

Next Of Kin: A Compassionate Curriculum, Rachel Jacqueline Fouts-Carrico

All Graduate Projects

Free-living and captive chimpanzees are faced with a struggle to survive. Those chimpanzees that are free-living are faced with extinction through habitat destruction and poaching. Many of the chimpanzees living in captivity are faced with poor treatment, dehumanizing experiments and inhumane living condition. With limited curricula on chimpanzees and animal experimentation, the author was given the task to develop a curriculum focusing on these two subjects. The curriculum will be focused on middle level students (6th, 7th, 8th, and 9th grade) with activities informing, educating and enlightening the students on issues concerning freeliving and captive chimpanzees as well as all …

Navigating The Reading Maze: Family Involvement Activities To Help Your Second Grade Child In The Cle Elum-Roslyn School District Become A Better Reader, Rita Mariposa Kretschman

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project is to create a partnership with the author's students and their parents in the area of reading. This project is the development of a parent handbook with state and district reading frameworks as well as a curricular project for home use. Activities and strategies suggested are the same as those used within the author's classroom.

A Model Parent Involvement Program, Donna J. Kiehn

All Graduate Projects

It is vital that educators provide opportunities for parents to become partners in the education of their children. With an increased emphasis on parent involvement, educators are seeking new ways to involve families in their children's education. Parent involvement can and should take a variety of forms. The purpose of this project was to design and develop a program for elementary schools that details how a parent involvement model of "Family Fun Nights" could help provide parents with a better understanding and knowledge of the Washington State Essential Academic Learning Requirements. The format also allows an opportunity for parents to …

A Model Secondary-Level Spanish Introductory Curriculum In Alignment With The Washington State Essential Academic Learning Requirements, Frederick William Lenard

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to develop a curriculum to be used during the first weeks of a secondary-level beginning Spanish class. To accomplish this purpose, a review of related literature was conducted. Additionally, related information and materials from selected sources were obtained and analyzed in order to find out what professional Spanish teachers considered to be a required part of the beginning curriculum. The curriculum was written with the Washington State Essential Academic Learning Requirements (EALRs) in mind to show that Spanish teachers can and do support the EALRs.

Conflict Resolution In The Elementary School, Cami Lyn Matsuko Okubo

All Graduate Projects

Conflict is a natural part of life. People make the choice to respond to it negatively and/or constructively. Conflict theories explain that conflict is both inevitable in social circumstances and serves to foster individual development. Without conflict resolution skills training, students may not be aware of the viable alternatives to come to a resolution nor may they be aware of how to communicate through negotiation. The purpose of this project was to develop an integrated conflict resolution program for elementary students at the fourth grade level. As a result of this project, students will have an opportunity to learn the …

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 …