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The Effects Of Teacher Stability On Third Grade Student Achievement As Measured By The North Carolina End-Of-Grade Tests In Reading And Mathematics, Juddson W. Starling

Education Dissertations and Projects

This dissertation was designed to examine the effects of teacher stability on student achievement as measured by the North Carolina End-of-Grade tests in reading and mathematics for third grade students. The perceptions of third grade teachers and elementary school principals concerning issues with teacher stability were also examined. Accountability for public schools in North Carolina has driven educators to find ways to increase student achievement. Teacher stability is a variable that can be controlled by educators in an attempt to increase student achievement.

The writer gathered test data from a target school district and analyzed test scores by the number …

A Cognitive Approach To Benacerraf’S Dilemma, Luke V. Jerzykiewicz

Digitized Theses

One of the important challenges in the philosophy of mathematics is to account for the se­ mantics of sentences that express mathematical propositions while simultaneously explaining our access to their contents. This is Benacerraf’s Dilemma. In this dissertation, I argue that cognitive science furnishes new tools by means of which we can make progress on this problem. The foundation of the solution, I argue, must be an ontologically realist, albeit non-platonist, conception of mathematical reality. The semantic portion of the problem can be addressed by accepting a Chomskyan conception of natural languages and a matching internalist, mentalist and nativist view …

Virtual Manipulative Materials In Secondary Mathematics: A Theoretical Discussion, Immaculate Kizito Namukasa, Darren Stanley, Martin Tuchtie

Education Publications

With the increased use of computer manipulatives in teaching there is need for theoretical discussions on the role of manipulatives. This article reviews theoretical rationales for using manipulatives and illustrates how earlier distinctions of manipulative materials must be broadened to include new forms of materials such as virtual manipulatives which are also useful tools in a larger collection of learning tools. applying a theoretical lens to a specific material—polynomial tiles—this article demonstrates the following: (a) a complementary relationships between virtual and concrete manipulatives, (b) two or more theories can appropriately justify the same material, and (c) exploration of a specific …

Improving Student Retention Of Future Members Of The Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, And Business Workforce, Samuel L. Rohr

All-Inclusive List of Electronic Theses and Dissertations

ThisDissertation examined the relationship between various admissions selection criteria utilized by a small, Liberal Arts College in the Midwest. More specifically, the study examined if a higher college preparatory GPA, a higher aggregate score on the SAT, attending a larger high school, and beginning college at an older age helped predict the retention of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and business students. Data was gathered using historical enrollment data of 803 students. A logistic regression analysis was utilized to examine the impact of the four variables on retention of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and business students. College preparatory GPA, the aggregate …

Wavelet Regression With Long Memory Infinite Moving Average Errors, Juan Liu

Doctoral Dissertations

For more than a decade there has been great interest in wavelets and wavelet-based methods. Among the most successful applications of wavelets is nonparametric statistical estimation, following the pioneering work of Donoho and Johnstone (1994, 1995) and Donoho et al. (1995). In this thesis, we consider the wavelet-based estimators of the mean regression function with long memory infinite moving average errors, and investigate the rates of convergence of estimators based on thresholding of empirical wavelet coefficients. We show that these estimators achieve nearly optimal minimax convergence rates within a logarithmic term over a large class of non-smooth functions that involve …

Invariant Frechet Algebras On Bounded Symmetric Domains, Oleg Eroshkin

Doctoral Dissertations

Let D be a bounded domain in the complex vector space Cn . We say that D is symmetric iff, given any two points p, q ∈ D, there is a biholomorphism &phis;, which interchanges p and q. These domains were classified abstractly by Elie Cartan in his general study of symmetric spaces, and were canonically realized in Cn by Harish-Chandra. They include polydisks and Siegel domains.

Let D be a bounded symmetric domain in Cn , and G be the largest connected group of biholomorphic automorphisms of D. The algebra C( D) of all continuous (not necessarily bounded) complex-valued …

Mathematics Of Double-Walled Carbon Nanotube Model: Asymptotic Spectral And Stability Analysis, Miriam Rojas-Arenaza

Doctoral Dissertations

This dissertation is devoted to analytical study of a contemporary model of a double-walled carbon nano-tube. Carbon nano-tubes have been considered outstanding candidates to innovate and to promote emerging technologies, due to their remarkable chemical, mechanical, and physical properties. For these technologies, there is a need to develop mathematical models that capture the nature of the responses of these structures under a variety of physical conditions. Developing these models is challenging because the behavior lies on the borderline between classical and quantum systems. The main goal of the present dissertation is to prove mathematically rigorous results concerning the vibrational behavior …

Kadison -Singer Algebras With Applications To Von Neumann Algebras, Mohan Ravichandran

Doctoral Dissertations

I develop the theory of Kadison-Singer algebras, introduced recently by Ge and Yuan. I prove basic structure theorems, construct several new examples and explore connections to other areas of operator algebras. In chapter 1, I survey those aspects of the theory of non-selfadjoint algebras that are relevant to this work. In chapter 2, I define Kadison-Singer algebras and give different proofs of results of Ge-Yuan, which will be further extended in the last chapter. In chapter 3, I analyse in detail a class of elementary Kadison-Singer algebras that contain Hinfinity and describe their lattices of projections. In chapter 4, I …

Kadison -Singer Algebras, Wei Yuan

Doctoral Dissertations

In this dissertation, we defined a new class of non selfadjoint operator algebras---Kadison-Singer algebras or KS-algebras for simplicity. These algebras combine triangularity, reflexivity and von Neumann algebra property into one consideration. Generally speaking, KS-algebras are reflexive, maximal triangular with respect to its "diagonal subalgebra". Many selfadjoint features are preserved in them and concepts can be borrowed directly from the theory of von Neumann algebras. In fact, a more direct connection of KS-algebras and von Neumann algebras is through the lattice of invariant projections of a KS-algebra. The lattice is reflexive and "minimally generating" in the sense that it generates the …

The Process Of Making Meaning: The Interplay Between Teachers' Knowledge Of Mathematical Proofs And Their Classroom Practices, Megan Paddack

Doctoral Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to investigate and describe how middle school mathematics teachers make meaning of proofs and the process of proving in the context of their classroom practices. A framework of making meaning, created by the researcher, guided the data collection and analysis phases of the study. This framework describes the five central aspects of the process of making meaning: knowledge, beliefs, utilization of knowledge, interconnections of practice and knowledge, and making sense of past knowledge and current experiences. The utilization of a qualitative research methodology that combined ethnographic fieldwork and discourse analysis allowed the researcher to …

The Effects Of Block Scheduling On Ap Calculus Ab Student Achievement, Larry A. Lightner

Mathematics Graduate Theses

Student achievement on the AP Calculus AB Exam is always a concern for teachers and school districts that offer the exam. A factor of concern that also arises is a school’s schedule. A school’s schedule may have an affect on achievement. This study examines the comparison in achievement of students who take the AP Calculus AB Exam under a block schedule and a traditional schedule system. Block Scheduling is defined as a class period of 80-90 minutes with 4 periods each day, allowing a full year’s curriculum to be offered in one semester. Traditional scheduling is defined as a class …

Professional Develeopment: A Case Study Of Early Childhood Teachers' Implementation Of A Math Initiative Into Daily Practice, Kara Lindstrom Scholl

All ETDs from UAB

Professional development is intended to improve teaching practices. Every year school districts spend money sending teachers to professional development trainings. This study looked at a specific mathematics professional development training that took place in the southeastern United States during the summers of 2007 and 2008. This qualitative case study research study sought to answer the question: How do teachers describe their perceptions of how they implement what they learned in professional development into their teaching practices? The sub questions for this study were: 1) what elements of the professional development do teachers describe as being the most beneficial in helping …

Addressing The Principles For School Mathematics: A Case Study Of Elementary Teachers Pedagogy And Practices In An Urban High-Poverty School, Robert Q. Berry, Linda Bol, Sueanne E. Mckinney

Educational Leadership & Workforce Development Faculty Publications

The extent to which four novice teachers assigned to an urban high-poverty school implemented the Principles of School Mathematics during their mathematics instruction program was investigated using a case study design. The research team conducted 36 unannounced observations of the participating teachers and utilized a developed assessment to guide their observations. Results indicated that only one teacher was judged proficient for all the principles. The remaining three teachers fell short in the implementation and direction of the principles. Detailed descriptions of the pedagogical practices of the teachers are provided.

Linking Place Value Concepts With Computational Practices In Third Grade, Terry Cuffel

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

In an attempt to examine student understanding of place value with third graders, I conducted action research with a small group of girls to determine if my use of instructional strategies would encourage the development of conceptual understanding of place value. Strategies that have been found to encourage conceptual development of place value, such as use of the candy factory, were incorporated into my instruction. Instructional strategies were adjusted as the study progressed to meet the needs of the students and the development of their understanding of place value. Student explanations of their use of strategies contributed to my interpretation …

Educational Video Game Effects Upon Mathematics Achievement And Motivation Scores: An Experimental Study Examining Differences B, Wendi Kappers

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

An experimental research study using a mixed-method analysis to was conducted to examine educational video game effects on mathematics achievement and motivation between sexes. This study examined sex difference in a 7th grade mathematics (Mathematics 2/Mathematics 2 Advanced) classroom (n=60) learning algebra. Attributes and barriers relating to educational video game play, preference, and setting characteristics were explored. To examine achievement and motivation outcomes, a repeated-measure (SPSS v14) test was used. The analysis included ethnographic results from both student and teacher interview and observation sessions for data triangulation. Results revealed a statistically significant academic mathematics achievement score increase (F =21.8, df …

Hungary And The United States: A Comparison Of Gifted Education, Julianna Connelly Stockton

Mathematics Faculty Publications

There is a lot that can be learned about a country based on the programs and provisions it has for mathematically talented students. While it is difficult to identify a single U.S. "program" or "approach" for gifted education, in general the trend is to put mathematically talented students through the standard mathematics sequence, just starting at an earlier age. In Hungary, on the other hand, the focus is on enrichment over acceleration. This paper explores how some very different historical, cultural, and political forces have shaped these two countries’ different approaches to educating mathematically talented students.

Nsu Fischler School Of Education And Human Services Undergraduate Education [2009], Nova Southeastern University

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

No abstract provided.

Effects Of Explicit Subtraction Instruction On Fifth Grade Students With Learning Disabilities, Danielle Ferreira

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

This study involved an investigation of the effects of strategy instruction integrated with the concrete-representational-abstract teaching sequence on students with learning disabilities. A multiple probe design across subjects with one replication was used in this study. Two sets of data were analyzed to determine effectiveness of the independent variable (intervention lessons). The first data set consisted of pre and posttest percentage scores and the second data set consisted of baseline, intervention, and maintenance probe scores that were collected throughout the study per the parameters of a multiple probe design. The probe scores were plotted in line graph format and analyzed …

Quantifying Network Reliability Through Finding An Upper Bound For Graph Integrity Using Graph Coloring, Ian Burchett

Mahurin Honors College Capstone Experience/Thesis Projects

Integrity of a graph is defined as 𝐺 = 𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑆⊆𝑉(𝐺){ 𝑆 + 𝑚 𝐺 − 𝑆 } , where G is a graph with vertex set V and m(G-S) denotes the order of the largest component of G - S. This provides an upper estimate of the integrity of the given graph. Using graph coloring, the color sequence of the graph can be generated, with the leading term being the largest component of the graph, the maximal independent set. The determination of the set is too time intensive to be feasible for moderate to large graphs, since there is no …

The Effects Of A Modified Learning Strategy On The Multiple Step Mathematical Word Problem Solving Ability Of Middle School Students With High-Functioning Autism Or Asperger's Syndrome, Peggy Schaefer Whitby

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Students with HFA/AS present with a unique set of cognitive deficits that may prevent achievement in the mathematics curriculum, even though they present with average mathematical skills. The purpose of the study was to determine the effectiveness and efficiency of the use of a modified learning strategy to increase the mathematical word problem solving ability of children with high functioning autism or Asperger's syndrome; determine if the use of Solve It! increases the self-perceptions of mathematical ability, attitudes towards mathematics and attitudes towards solving mathematical word problems; and, determine if Solve It! cue cards or a Solve It! multimedia academic …

Effects Of A Technology Treatment On Student Scores On The Standardized Grade 8 Proficiency Assessment (Gepa) In New Jersey, Triantafillos Parlapanides

Seton Hall University Dissertations and Theses (ETDs)

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The Nonexistence Of Shearlet-Like Scaling Multifunctions That Satisfy Certain Minimally Desirable Properties And Characterizations Of The Reproducing Properties Of The Integer Lattice Translations Of A Countable Collection Of Square Integrable Functions, Robert Houska

All Theses and Dissertations (ETDs)

In Chapter 1, we introduce three varieties of reproducing systems—Bessel systems, frames, and Riesz bases—within the Hilbert space context and prove a number of elementary results, including qualitative characterizations of each and several results regarding the combination and partitioning of reproducing systems.

In Chapter 2, we characterize when the integer lattice translations of a countable collection of square integrable functions forms a Bessel system, a frame, and a Riesz basis.

In Chapter 3, we introduce composite wavelet systems and generalize several well-known classical wavelet system results—including those regarding pointwise values of the Fourier transform of the wavelet and scaling function …

Filling Essential Laminations, Michael Hamm

All Theses and Dissertations (ETDs)

Thurston and, later, Calegari-Dunfield found superlaminations in certain laminated 3-manifolds, the existence of which implies inclusions into Homeo S1 of the fundamental groups of those manifolds. The present paper extends the construction of the superlamination, and finds an infinite class of manifolds to which the extension does not yield such an inclusion of groups. Specifically, Calegari and Dunfield's proof of the existence of such an inclusion into Homeo S1 depended on their filling lemma, which states that essential laminations with solid torus guts can have leaves added to them to yield essential laminations with solid torus complementary regions.: Roughly, a …

Connections Between Floer-Type Invariants And Morse-Type Invariants Of Legendrian Knots., Michael Henry

All Theses and Dissertations (ETDs)

We investigate existing Legendrian knot invariants and discover new connections between the theory of generating families, normal rulings and the Chekanov-Eliashberg differential graded algebra: CE-DGA). Given a Legendrian knot $\sK$ with generic front projection $\sfront$, we define a combinatorial/algebraic object on $\sfront$ called a \emph{Morse complex sequence}, abbreviated MCS. An MCS encodes a finite sequence of Morse homology complexes. Every suitably generic generating family for $\sfront$ admits an MCS and every MCS has a naturally associated graded normal ruling. In addition, every MCS has a naturally associated augmentation of the CE-DGA of the Ng resolution $\sNgres$ of the front $\sfront$. …

Numerical Solutions Of Boundary Inverse Problems For Some Elliptic Partial Differential Equations, Suxing Zeng

Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports (ETD)

In this dissertation, we study boundary inverse problems for some elliptic partial differential equations. These are problems arising from quantitative analysis of various non-destructive testing techniques in applications. In such a problem, we are interested in using boundary measurements of the solution to recover either an unknown coefficient function in the boundary condition, or a portion of the boundary, or an unknown interior interface. We first introduce formulations of the boundary value problems into integral equations, then design numerical algorithms for solving each of these inverse problems. Numerical implementation and examples are presented to illustrate the feasibility and effectiveness of …

Predictability In The Indian Stock Market: A Study From An Econometric Perspective., Debabrata Mukhopadhyay Dr.

Doctoral Theses

No abstract provided.

Responsiveness Of Elementary-Aged Students, With And Without Specific Learning Disabilities, To Interventions For Mathematics Calculation, Masanori Ota

Theses and Dissertations

The Response to Intervention (RtI) model is an identification model for Specific Learning Disability (SLD), one of the 13 disability categories identified under the Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) of 2004. The RtI model has been proposed as an alternative model to the discrepancy model (e.g., intelligence quotient-achievement discrepancy model). In the RtI model, students’ responsiveness (e.g., levels of performance and slopes of progress) yields their eligibility for special education. However, to date, research that examined the validity of the RtI model (e.g., examination of intervention responsiveness with students with academic deficits) has been limited in the area of …

Greedy Signal Recovery Review, Deanna Needell, Joel A. Tropp, Roman Vershynin

CMC Faculty Publications and Research

The two major approaches to sparse recovery are L1-minimization and greedy methods. Recently, Needell and Vershynin developed Regularized Orthogonal Matching Pursuit (ROMP) that has bridged the gap between these two approaches. ROMP is the first stable greedy algorithm providing uniform guarantees.

Even more recently, Needell and Tropp developed the stable greedy algorithm Compressive Sampling Matching Pursuit (CoSaMP). CoSaMP provides uniform guarantees and improves upon the stability bounds and RIC requirements of ROMP. CoSaMP offers rigorous bounds on computational cost and storage. In many cases, the running time is just O(NlogN), where N is the ambient dimension of the signal. This …

Are The Math Scores Of Students Who Are Taught Mathematics Utilizing The Methods Endorsed By The Alabama Math, Science, And Technology Initiative Affected?, Brenda Elise Jolly

Dissertations

Eighth-grade mathematics scores from 21 schools were compared pre-inception and post-inception of the Alabama Mathematics, Science, and Technology Initiative (AMSTI). Only the scores from schools which had 80% of their mathematics and science teachers trained at one Summer Institute were used, as these were considered to be true AMSTI schools. Results found the effects of AMSTI to be not statistically significant.

The second part of this research was conducted based upon 256 surveys from teachers attending their second Summer Institute of ASMTI training. Results found many school systems may hamper teachers' ability to plan and execute AMSTI lessons due to …

Block Scheduling In High School Mathematics: Effect On Algebra Ii End-Of-Course Grades And Act Assessment Mathematics Scores, Gayle Hawkins Hughes

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The purpose of this study was to determine if there was a statistical difference between end-of-course grades in Algebra II at three high schools in northeast Tennessee and mathematics content scores on the ACT Assessment at the same three high schools, by comparing a one-semester accelerated (4x4) block schedule, a two-semester accelerated (4x4) block schedule, and a traditional year-long schedule. The purpose was also to determine if a relationship exists between Algebra II grades and ACT Assessment mathematics content scores for all students and for each school, and to determine if a statistically significant difference occurred in the number of …