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A Study Of Peer Involvement In The Formative Evaluation Of Instruction In Higher Education, Larry W. Keig

Dissertations and Theses @ UNI

The purpose of this study was to examine faculty attitudes toward methods of peer review in the formative evaluation of instruction in higher education, and toward selected variables that may affect the willingness of faculty members to avail themselves of these methods. The methods investigated were direct classroom observation, videotaping of classes, evaluation of course materials, and evaluation of instructor-graded student assignments. The variables examined included detractors (i.e., factors having potential to take away from the value of the evaluation methods), enhancers (i.e., factors having potential to add to the effectiveness of the methods of evaluation), and individual/institutional improvement variables …

Implementing A Neural Network In The Smalltalk Graphical Environment, John M. Damgaard

Presidential Scholars Theses (1990 – 2006)

Interest in artificial neural networks has grown rapidly over the past few years. The technology is intriguing and the potential applications of the technology are exciting and diverse. Another area of growing interest in the computer science field is that of object-oriented programming. The object-oriented paradigm is a very powerful tool which can improve software quality and streamline the development process. The most common object-oriented language is Smalltalk. I feel that Smalltalk is an excellent platform on which to implement artificial neural networks.

Trend Analysis For 1982-1991, Gerald D. Bisbey, Office Of Institutional Research. University Of Northern Iowa.

History of Education Book Gallery

No abstract provided.

A Study To Identify The Elements Of World-Class Lean Production Applicable To The Manufacture Of Agricultural Tractor Transmissions And Axles, Bradford W. Wilkerson

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of this investigation was to provide a primer-style delineation of the principles and operational characteristics of lean production.

The Application Of Student Development Theory In Multicultural Programming, Sharon Kay Johannsen

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of this paper is to examine the application of student development theory in multicultural programming. Part I takes a look at the theoretical models of Hoopes (1979) and Katz (1984). Bridges (1980, 1988) offered insight into ideas from the corporate world which may apply directly to related issues in higher education. Part II looks at the application of theory from first an administrative and then a student affairs approach. Combined, both approaches prove valuable for the institution as a whole to utilize effective models and implement multicultural programming. Part Ill offers implications and advances the discussion of issues, …

Public Policy Towards Unemployment: 1937-1941, Jill M. Hemphill

Presidential Scholars Theses (1990 – 2006)

The following essay will examine what type of public policy, if any, was pursued to combat the high levels of unemployment that plagued the American economy from early 1937 until the signing of the Lend Lease Act in 1941. The writer will attempt to explain why Roosevelt failed to bring unemployment to a more acceptable level during these years. The following chapters include detailed analysis of federal relief programs, the isolationist movement, fiscal and monetary policy, all vital components of public policy towards unemployment.

A Preferred Vision For Administering Secondary Schools: A Reflective Essay, Clayton Michael Wilcox

Graduate Research Papers

Jack Bowsher savy- a system serving only a quarter of its patrons well. A system which seemed immune to its own failures. I don't see it as an indictment of the.system, rather I see it as a challenge. My study in the graduate program has given me a perspective and sense of direction which can be used to make a difference. My graduate program, twelve years of classroom teaching and three years of administrative practice have been combined to develop a vision that, according to Jamieson and O'Mara (1991), reflects best practice, accepting individual differences, valuing people and providing choice. …

Handwriting: Past To Present, Carol Collins

Graduate Research Papers

Is handwriting becoming a lost art? In this technological society where forms must be printed or typed clearly are we losing our ability to write our language? When the typewriter came into popular use, it was claimed handwriting would no longer be a needed skill. This has not been proven true. Templin (1960) concluded that while the typewriter gradually supplanted handwriting for making permanent records, "there ls strong evidence to support the belief that all children now in school will need handwriting in their business and social lives for many years to come" (p. 164).

The Role Of Public Schools In The Education Of 4-Year-Olds, Cheryl Lynnette Cavanaugh Grosvenor

Graduate Research Papers

A major educational issue in recent years is the role of public schools in the education of 4-year-olds (Day, 1988). This issue impacts all areas of society. It is a complex and emotional issue for teachers of young children, for parents, administrators, and officials in local, state, and federal governments.

Using Children's Literature To Develop Decision Making Skills, Marsha Koenig

Graduate Research Papers

There has been much discussion concerning the importance of including thinking skills in the curriculum. Although emphasis has been placed in this area, data indicates that only a small percentage of students graduate from school competent in thinking skills (Smith, 1987). The lack of success in teaching them is explained by Beyer (1984). He names five factors that contribute to the failure of teaching thinking skills. His list includes: (a) confusion over which skills to teach, (b) failure to identify the components of skills, (c) use of inappropriate teaching techniques, (d) coverage of too many skills in too little time, …

Gifted Underachievement: Causes And Curriculum Implications, Carol Mattox

Graduate Research Papers

One of the major concerns ln gifted education has been how to meet the needs of the underachieving gifted. This concern probably stems from the perception that when dealing with the gifted label as applied to students educators are dealing with potential. And when giftedness ls viewed as potential, both educators and parents tend to feel they have an obligation to develop that potential to its fullest (Seeley, 1985). Many factors in gifted students 1 lives can Interrupt that development of their giftedness.

Designing An Effective Identification Model For Preschool Gifted And Talented Students, Jeanne Schoeller

Graduate Research Papers

Even though a case for the early identification of the gifted has been discussed for many years, little progress has been made in the development of a model to accomplish such a goal. In the 1950s professionals were still holding to the concept that intelligence was fixed. Hunt (1961) challenged the thinking of these professionals by stating that perhaps 50 percent of intelligence is due to genes and 50 percent to experience. He stressed the importance of providing young children with experiences that would foster their optimal development. It was made clear that if children were not provided with nurturing …

Creative Drama In The Elementary Classroom: An Integrated Literature Review, Linda Lorraine Withers

Graduate Research Papers

Creative drama in the elementary classroom has often been thought of as a frill or luxury, but a new movement is underway. Drama specialists believe that their dream is finally coming true. For several years, they have hoped that educators would see the value in using creative drama in the elementary classroom. It appears that may eventually become a reality. Kase-Polisini (1987) observed that America is headed in that direction.

Curricular Differentiation For Students Who Are Gifted In Language Arts, Colleen C. Wilber

Graduate Research Papers

The requirement that all schools provide a strong instructional program in language arts ls well recognized by educators. Often curriculum objectives focus on developmental skills. It is important that all students know the rules and mechanics of their language, have the opportunity for practice and feedback, and generate products of their own. All children should be provided the opportunity to stretch their use of language. However, it has been shown that a steady diet of drill and practice from textbooks and workbooks and skills-based instruction can cause boredom, disinterest, impatience and frustration in bright students (Brown & Rogan, 1983; Clark, …

An Overview Of Possible Applications And The Status Of Calculators In The Public Schools, David A. Podendorf

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of this paper ls to look at one of the most researched and controversial topics concerning the teaching of mathematics today. Should calculators be used in the teaching of mathematics at the elementary level? In the process of examining this question, five areas will be addressed: (a). A Historical Perspective of Calculators, (b). The Calculator's Role ln Page 4 Developing Student/a Attitude Toward Mathematics, (c). The Calculator/a Role in Problem Solving, Cd). Parent/a Viewpoint on Calculator Usage in the Classroom, and (e). Implications of Calculator Assisted Standardized Testing.

Alternative Teaching Strategies For The At-Risk Student, Christina M. Nugent

Graduate Research Papers

The focus recently in education has been on the at-risk student. Money from national, state, and local agencies has poured into the area of at-risk education. This money generated a significantly high level of research. Many questions can be answered using this body of research. What is an at-risk student and what factors cause a student to be at-risk? What programs have worked when dealing with at-risk students? How does a teacher's behavior affect at-risk students? What programs are the Dubuque Community Schools currently using with their at-risk students? The answers to these questions can provide a teacher with successful …

Differentiating The Curriculum For Lower Elementary Talented And Gifted Students In The Regular Classroom, Sue Riggs

Graduate Research Papers

Gifted and talented students exist everywhere, in every community and in every classroom. The exact numbers are difficult to determine due to the many definitions of giftedness including a current trend ~o broaden those definitions to include multi-dimensional intelligences (Gardner, 1983). Such broad definitions mean that large numbers of students fall into the various categories. However, as Helmberger (1980) states, a teacher may have difficulty identifying the gifted and talented members of a class since they may not immediately stand out in the group.

Computer-Assisted Cooperative Learning, Terence C. Barschow

Graduate Research Papers

Collaborative and cooperative effort is recognized as vital to almost every kind of relationship from family to workplace. It improves communication and creates a school/work culture that fosters mutual assistance among members. Industry has increasingly turned to the "work team" method of grouping workers. A similar process is gaining ground in American schools. Cooperative small group learning is being viewed as an important alternative to whole class instruction and having individuals work alone (Adams, Carlson, & Hamm, 1990).

The Whole Language Approach To Reading Instruction: Strategies That Enhance Comprehension, Frances J. Pleak

Graduate Research Papers

The report of the National Commission on Excellence in Education,~ Nation at Risk (1983) focused the nation's attention on problems in our educational system. One of the reactions from the publication was a concern to improve literacy in the United States by improving current practices in reading instruction. Becoming~ Nation of Readers, a widely publicized report issued in 1985 by the Commission on Reading, was an outcome of this concern about current reading practices. An important finding of this two year study was that much is already known about how children learn to read, but this knowledge is not being …

Literature-Based Reading As A Curricular Option For The Gifted Reader, Sally Simdorn

Graduate Research Papers

In 1984 Mangieri and Madigan initiated a survey that was sent to 150 schools across the United States. Its purpose was to find out what type of reading curriculum was being implemented for their gifted readers. They found that the same basal series which was used for regular readers also was being used for gifted readers. Some of the schools did accelerate students through the basal and/or use enrichment activities, but there was a wide variance.

Newspapers In The Classroom: Why Should Educators Use Them?, Lisa M. Stone

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of this literature review is to learn 4 why educators should use newspapers in their classrooms. Are newspapers educational tools that can be easily used in the classroom for building skills? How difficult is it to incorporate them into the content areas? Can newspapers be used to help develop global awareness? How can newspapers promote critical thinking? Is the main goal of the Newspapers in Education program, to develop informed and concerned citizens (Skover, 1983; Rhoades & Rhoades, 1985), being met through the use of newspapers in the schools? And finally, what research evidence is there to support …

A Survey And Analysis Of Potential Uses Of The Computer In The Social Studies Classroom, Mike Healy

Graduate Research Papers

The computer has become an integral tool in education. In math classes, in business education classes, in computer literacy classes, the computer is a well-accepted tool of instruction. However, computers have been slow to enter most Social Studies classrooms, including my classroom. Should the computer be used in the Social Studies classroom? What would be an effective use of computers in the classroom? Would the computer be the best tool for that unit of instruction?

A Burkean Analysis Of The Offstage Presence In The Plays Of A.R. Gurney, Jr., Mark A. Giesler

Dissertations and Theses @ UNI

WASP playwright A. R. Gurney, Jr. defies the traditional notion of realism with his use of theatrical device. One such recurring device used in his plays is an offstage presence. Critics seem to agree that the onstage action affected by this offstage presence is often contrived. This study offers a response to this critical contention through its examination of the function of the offstage presence in seven of Gurney's full-length plays: Children, The Middle Ages, What I Did Last Summer, The Perfect Party, Another Antigone, Sweet Sue, and The Cocktail Hour. The study's methodology is based on Kenneth Burke's "analysis …

A Primer For Accompanying Secondary Student Groups To France. [Revised]., Jim Becker

Faculty Publications

Many of the factors that can help ensure a successful and positive learning experience for teachers; leaders; chaperons; and students who travel and/or study in France are addressed in this publication. Although it is geared toward France; many of the ideas; especially the section on pre-departure orientation; can be applied to any travel group. The primary objectives of the booklet are to help teachers develop confidence in taking students abroad; to promote the "know before you go" mentality; and to provide an information resource. Among the nearly 100 topics covered are the following: itinerary; airport check-in; menus; post office; insurance; …

The Portrayal Of Characters With Physical Disabilities In Children’S Literature, Marilyn Newhouse

Graduate Research Papers

This research study used a content analysis technique to analyze 25 fiction books which featured a character having a physical disability. All books were published between 1980-1990 and were at a fourth through sixth grade reading level. A comparison was made to determine if the portrayal of physically disabled characters has changed from their portrayal in books written prior to 1980.

In the books chosen for this study the physically disabled characters were typically juvenile, Caucasian, and male. Orthopedic disorders were most frequently portrayed. The majority of the physically disabled characters were portrayed in important family and societal roles, and …

Cooperative Learning: Is It The Approach For The Minorities, Helen E. Wright

Graduate Research Papers

Cooperative learning ls a teaching strategy whereby students work together in teams to produce a group project or master a unit of study (Slavin, 1983). The teacher acts as a facilitator of knowledge, not the direct purveyor of information. Students are responsible for their own learning under the teacher/s general guidelines. They set up time frames, assign tasks within the group, and gather their own research.

Computers In Post-Secondary Vocational Business Education, Carole Margery Maske

Graduate Research Papers

According to Naisbitt <1982) in Megatrends, contemporary life is an everyday encounter with computer technology. When a person wakes in the morning, it is often to the sound of an alarm programmed the previous night. A person answering the phone receives a call relayed through a computer system. Programs produced for television are often combined with visual effects produced through computer enhancement. As people review their mail. many of the bills and letters have been produced with the aid of computers. Merchandise purchased at many stores is checked out using a computer to read and register the price of the items being purchased. Many students attending our schools wear watches that act as miniature computer calculators. Doctors. lawyers, engineers, politicians. accountants, bankers, farmers. and the entire scope of the business world have come to rely on computers.

Impact Of Cooperative Learning Strategies Upon Mathematics Achievement: An Application Of Stad In Seventh Grade Mathematics, Mary L. Scholtes

Graduate Research Papers

Cooperation is a key to success today in our work and personal relationships as adults, yet the traditional classroom, that prepares children for adulthood, has been found to be more competitive than cooperative (Johnson & Johnson, 1975). Traditionally, students have spent their day working individually or receiving instruction in large groups through lecture or class discussion with students being expected to outperform or compete with their peers (Johnson & Johnson, 1975). It has been estimated that over 85 percent of the instruction in schools consists of lectures, seat work, or competition, where students are isolated from one another (Johnson, Johnson, …

Sexually Abused And Nonsexually Abused Children’S Conceptions Of Sexual Abuse, Michelle R. Brundage

Dissertations and Theses @ UNI

The purpose of this study was to examine sexually and non-sexually abused children's conceptions of what constitutes sexual abuse. Thirty sexually abused and 31 non-sexually abused children were read a narrative vignette describing a potentially sexually abusive incident and a neutral control vignette. The children were then asked a standard list of questions about general conceptions of sexual abuse, the reasons for the perpetrator's behavior, the characteristics of both victim and perpetrator, and the consequences of the abuse for both the abuser and victim. The responses were compared across sex, control and sexual abuse vignettes, and prior sexual abuse. Significant …

Response To "The Case For A Right To Reply," By Theresa Nance, Theresa Nance

Iowa Journal of Communication

Popular argument about the regulation of hate speech on today's college campuses has generated two essential positions. The first position views the issue as centered on constitutionally guaranteed free speech. The second believes the issue to be the protection of marginalized groups from public acts of bigotry and discrimination. Since debates tend to dichotomize arguable issues, resolution is dichotomized as well. From one perspective either the behaviors are limited and a constitutional right is abridged, or questionable behaviors are allowed and free speech is thus protected. From the other perspective, either human beings continue to suffer the indignities of unregulated …