Education Commons^™

How Reading Recovery Teaches The Five Essential Elements Of Reading Instruction And More, Mary Anne Doyle, Salli Forbes

Curriculum & Instruction Faculty Publications

In 1997 Congress called for the director of the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), in consultation with the Secretary of Education, to convene a national panel to assess the status of research-based knowledge, including the effectiveness of various approaches to teaching children to read (NICHD, 2000a, p. 1). The resulting 14- member National Reading Panel (NRP or Panel) included reading researchers, representatives of colleges of education, educational administrators, a classroom teacher, a parent, and a medical doctor (Yatvin, 2002). The work completed by the NRP involved identification and meta-analyses of the experimental and quasi-experimental research literature …

A Comparative Analysis Of Early Childhood Education In Kenya And The United States Of America : Kenya's Social And Economic Constraints, Peter Kibet Koech

Graduate Research Papers

This study examined Early Childhood Education in Kenya and the United States of America. The development of Early Childhood Education in Kenya was discussed through detailed analysis of social and economic constraints. Conclusions were drawn from the available literature; also, suggestions and relevant recommendations were made to help improve Early Childhood Education in Kenya.

Using Technology To Encourage Critical Thinking, Tracy Wilkins

Graduate Research Papers

As technology continues to change educators must be willing to make adjustments in their teaching strategies and make an effort to make technology a permanent part of the curriculum. Critical thinking consists of organizing knowledge in a meaningful manner so it can easily be used by the learner. Those applying critical thinking are more motivated and perform at a higher level of performance than students using lower level thinking skills. Technology continues to become a bigger part of education and teachers need to use databases, spreadsheets, and concept maps as tools to facilitate critical thinking. Educators need to be aware …

Using Wordless Picture Books To Stimulate Fictional Writing In First-Grade Students, Kathryn Nicol Morris

Graduate Research Papers

The use of wordless picture books was a successful strategy as an adult intervention for helping students at different levels in their writing ability to produce a story that followed a logical progression of events; that had a clear beginning, middle and end; and that described a character's experiences to a point of conclusion. This was accomplished with varying degrees of teacher assistance required. The stories from these students showed some similarities, but each student brought some unique element to the writing. The stories were distinguishable, even though the text in each story was inspired by the same set of …

Using Computer-Based Instruction To Strengthen Student Achievement In The Middle School Mathematics Classroom, Anne Nedved

Graduate Research Papers

According to the National Research Council (2001), students in mathematics should be able to understand mathematics, compute fluently, apply concepts in a problem-solving manner, reason logically, and engage with mathematics in a sensible, doable, and useful manner.

The goal of this project is to develop a curriculum guide for the implementation of the Computer Assisted Instruction program PLATO into the current curriculum of the Council Bluffs Community School District. Students are more immersed in technology than ever before and teachers need to embrace the challenge to create an environment with ample technological materials to actively involve and retain student's interests …

Evaluating The Effectiveness Of Technology On Learning In K-12 Education, M. Ann Nicholson

Graduate Research Papers

Demonstrating an impact on student learning due to technology innovations is extremely important in K-12 education. Billions of dollars have been spent on technology in education in the past several years. Stakeholders are demanding to know if this investment is impacting student learning and achievement. However, the assessment of technology in K-12 education is complicated due to the changing nature of technology and all of the variables involved in education. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the rationale for evaluating technology.in education, analyze the issues involved in evaluation, review current research on the impact of technology on student …

The Effect Of Year-Round Education On Student Achievement, Rebecca Okerlund

Graduate Research Papers

The year-round calendar has generated interest among many educators as a way to increase student achievement by reducing learning loss that often occurs during long summer vacations. This paper explores various assertions made about year-round education (YRE) as it compares with traditional-calendar education (TCE). Achievement results in the core subjects of math and reading are discussed and compared in school districts.that have utilized either a multi-track, a single-track, or a traditional 9-month calendar:

The outcome of this review indicates mixed results regarding YRE and student achievement.Because many of the studies contained incomplete data and confounding variables such as length of …

Aligning Technology And Language Arts Standards, Catherine A. Feldmann

Graduate Research Papers

The standards of language arts and technology blend fluidly to provide for an optimal learning environment. Language Arts teachers and students of all levels can gain significantly from the incorporation of multimedia software into the curriculum. Educators demonstrate responsible teaching when the initiative is taken to incorporate these otherwise separate areas together. Multimedia provides for an additional method for students to obtain, demonstrate, and share information. The use of technology into all curricular areas helps to develop life skills that are considered necessities in many jobs today.

Best Practices In Reading Instruction, Becky Jean Jones

Graduate Research Papers

This paper is a review of literature pertaining to the best practices in reading instruction. There are many methods and approaches to the teaching of reading not only in the curriculum, but in the instructional procedures as well. This paper studies the changes that have occurred in reading curricula, as well as in the methods of instruction. Thirdly, this paper provides the reader with statistics that provide a factual basis for the support of the many instructional approaches. Finally, this paper will give the reader a conclusion that provides recommendations as to how to teach reading using the best practices …

Effective Models As Instructional Designs To Build Student Motivation In Learning, Karla S. Lammers

Graduate Research Papers

Effective Models As Instructional Designs to Build Student Motivation in Learning: A Review of Literature examines some of the research and academic literature related to successful designs/models that educators can use to build motivation in learners. Views of different motivations, extrinsic and intrinsic, as a learner are also discussed. Examples of designs/models are examined that integrate technology. The author concludes by presenting a technology-assisted, literature-based curriculum product that integrates these models to enhance learners' motivation.

The Introduction Of Interactive Multimedia Dvd To The Electronis Media Studies, Randal L. Lau

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of this project is to show how technology is able to improve student achievement and increase student productivity. Finding new and exciting ways to integrate technology into today's classrooms is a challenge. The use of an interactive DVD will be introduced to the students in the Electronic Media Studies classes in the fall of 2003. The project was based upon the research reviewed and documented within this literature review. Students will no longer be listening to the instructor lecturing in front of the classroom, they will be actively involved in an interactive multimedia presentation, where they are free …

How To Teach The Eight Multiple Intelligences Developed By Howard Gardner In An Elementary Classroom, Sarah Lyle

Graduate Research Papers

This project consists of research that supports Howard Gardner's multiple intelligence theory. Definitions for each type of intelligence and specific examples of people who might exhibit each type of intelligence are included in the introduction. Several strategies for teachers to use on a daily basis as well as a curriculum development for early elementary aged students are included in this project.

Laptop Computers In The K-12 Setting : The Effect On Instructional Strategies And Student Learning, Sarah Merriam

Graduate Research Papers

Research has shown the benefits of computers. But mobile computing by the use of laptop computers has only recently been studied in K-12 classrooms. This review paper discusses various research studies that focus on how laptop computers affect student learning, how laptops affect instruction, teachers' perceptions about using laptop computers, and specific school districts that have implemented laptop computers into their curriculum. Overall, the research shows that laptops are more convenient and meet educational objectives once teachers and students adapt to the new technological way of learning.

The Benefits And Liabilities Of Ability Grouping In Elementary School Classrooms, Jill Miller

Graduate Research Papers

Ability grouping, the practice of homogeneously grouping students for instruction, is topic of much debate in education. The purpose of this paper is to identify advantages and disadvantages of ability grouping for students as well as for teachers in the elementary school setting through research of literature available. Further, implications of ability grouping as a method of instruction are discussed.

Designing Online Courses : Reflections From The Cyber Trenches, Cherie Post Dargan

Graduate Research Papers

This paper reviews research on the use of instructional design in developing course websites; it then describes the writer's experience creating a supplemental website using Blackboard, contrasting the project with the previous experience of creating an online course using WebCT. The writer analyzes problems with early online courses, reflects on the challenges of becoming an online teacher, documents her methodology, shares the results of the project, and makes recommendations for the design of effective web-based courses. Online teachers incorporate instructional design in many ways: they rethink their courses, analyze learners and content, design on paper first, structure the physical layout …

Utilizing Online Literature Circles To Improve Reading Comprehension, Mark Schuldt

Graduate Research Papers

Literature circles are an important part of a balanced reading program. They require students to work with others to become independent problem solvers. With the introduction of online literature circles, students get the added experience of using technology in an authentic learning situation. As a result of this technology integration, students' reading comprehension and proficiency with computers will improve.

The importance of this project is to provide teachers with curriculum that is supported by technology. Specific research and practice is sited to support the rationale of combining technology and reading. The most significant findings include the development of the lower …

Technology Coordinators : The Relationship Between Employment Responsibilities And Need For Ongoing Professional Development, Mary C. Frese

Graduate Research Papers

The intent of this research paper is to examine the responsibilities of technology coordinators in the P-12 educational environment and the association of ongoing professional development for technology coordinators. The research cited indicated that the responsibilities of technology coordinators have evolved to include complex technical skills. Commonly cited duties include network administration, maintenance, instructional design, staff development, budgeting and acquisition, software evaluation and installation, multimedia production, management of communication and online resources. The extent of suggested expertise implies that technology coordinators have need for ongoing professional development. Informal conversations were held by this researcher with several technology coordinators to gather …

The Motivating Aspects Of Technology, Mary Ascher

Graduate Research Papers

Motivation is the most challenging and complex issue facing educators today. There are two types of motivation: intrinsic and extrinsic. To foster life-long learning educators need to stimulate intrinsic motivation in their students. Three factors that stimulate and sustain intrinsic motivation include personal relationships, shared responsibility, and safety. The expectancy theory also identifies elements affecting motivation. Technology is a tool that fits into all of these factors to capture the students' motivation.

Writing In A Second Grade Math Class, Tammy Bakken

Graduate Research Papers

Writing in math has given me a much better benchmark-driven curriculum. I know more clearly how to help students accomplish math benchmarks. I used to have a separate time for the students in my classroom to write and a separate time for my students to do math. Nearly two years ago, I had the idea of writing in math. I read what other teachers had tried and I tried to include more writing in math. The results have confirmed my belief that writing in math is a worthwhile practice. Writing in math gave my students a greater understanding of math. …

The Fundamentals Of A School Web Site, Jabari Cain

Graduate Research Papers

This review of literature is geared towards the creator and viewer of a school web site. Many developers may or may not have the proper training, equipment or time to create a school web site. Presently, schools are creating web sites that may lack some of the key components addressed in this article. The focus of this review is based on Lamb's six phases of designing an effective school web page. The six phases in creating an educational web site include exploration, planning, designing, creating, revising, and maintaining. The primary functions of a school web site must not be overlooked. …

Using Computer Software To Enhance Instruction Of Early Literacy Skills In The Kindergarten Classroom, Janann Dostal

Graduate Research Papers

This review investigates skills vital to early literacy instruction, technology use in early childhood classrooms, and software available to enhance early literacy skills of kindergarten students. Letter naming, phonological awareness, concepts about print, and language development are early literacy skills vital to a student's future reading success. Studies have shown that technology has been used in early childhood classrooms as an effective teaching tool, to promote active student involvement, and as a tool for motivation, showing that computers can be utilized successfully with young students. Research indicates that early literacy software used to supplement teacher instruction has great potential to …

Enhancing Student Learning Styles Through The Use Of Technology, Mark A. Dugger

Graduate Research Papers

The multiple learning styles of students have in the last few years become a major topic of concern for all educators. Experience and time are valuable learning tools assisting teachers in developing an understanding of these learning styles. This review pursues the importance of considering student learning styles when incorporating technology within an existing curriculum. Research studies provide supporting evidence that a technology-rich environment promotes collaborative, project-based learning, which in tum has a positive effect on learning styles.

Reading Between The "Signs", Sarah Durchenwald/Williamson

Graduate Research Papers

Teaching reading to hearing students, with the supplemental support of American Sign • Language, is a relatively new concept. Many components associated with sign language reinforce basic concepts of English. It teaches individual letter sounds, and names, and many of the signs for words emphasize beginning sounds, as well as meaning. Another important component of sign language is its bodily kinesthetic form of learning. Many students in public schools today are not learning through traditional teaching strategies. Incorporating sign language provides a multi-sensory approach to literal hands-on learning.

The following research outlines the principles behind teaching effectively using sign language …

The Digital Media Lab At Bainbridge College, Neil L. Griffin

Graduate Research Papers

This project describes the development of an audio and video production facility at Bainbridge College, a small community college in Bainbridge, Georgia. The Digital Media Lab provides faculty, staff, and students with the ability to create audio and video resources for classroom use, research, training, and outreach.

The principal steps of this project were a literature review, a needs analysis, the equipment selection process, and implementation. The literature review included examples of how video is used in higher education, information about current trends in technology, and faculty development strategies. The needs analysis determined that the facility should support both analog …

Parents As Partners : The School-Home Connection, Jennifer Burkhart

Graduate Research Papers

Family literacy programs engage parents in small groups, help parents capitalize upon what they already do with literacy in the home while teaching new skills for parents to work with their children, and provide children with time to read together. Parents' attitudes have lifelong effects on a child's literacy (Morrow, 1995). Getting parents involved in emergent literacy activities has a positive effect on the child's own literacy and is associated with higher achievement and stronger cognitive skills (Anderson, 2000; de Jong and Leseman, 2001; Morrow, 2001 ). A family literacy program can better reinforce the internal motivation that parents and …

The Need For Handheld Computers In The Classroom, Joseph Nichols

Graduate Research Papers

The handheld computer has become a viable tool for education. It costs less, weighs less, and takes less space in the classroom than a desktop computer. This review of literature shows the merits of using handheld computers in the classroom. In order to appreciate the handheld computers, one needs to research the history of computers and how the handheld computer is being used in the corporate world, as well as by educators. By researching handheld computers past use and current trends, it should be possible to evaluate their impact in the classroom.

Best Practices In Teaching Reading Fluency In The Elementary Classroom, Tina Schneider

Graduate Research Papers

The focus of this review of literature was Best Practices for teaching reading fluency in the elementary classroom. Research shows that students' reading fluency rates need improvement. Teachers must create a classroom environment that fosters reading fluency and use research based teaching practices to improve students' reading fluency. Journal articles were selected that addressed best practices in teaching reading fluency in the elementary classroom. Reading fluency influences the academic success students attain at school and therefore it is a skill which must be taught. Because best practices have a positive impact on students' reading fluency rates, it is recommended that …

Teacher Discourse In A Culturally Diverse Classroom, Madalina Tanase

Graduate Research Papers

This paper describes the process of language acquisition, the interaction between home and school languages, and also offers strategies teachers should follow to acknowledge the diversity represented in the classrooms. The paper further discusses some behaviors teachers should display in order to enhance discussion among students. The purpose of this paper is to investigate cultural differences as well as language differences in the classroom and the ways teachers address these differences, by allowing diverse children to have a voice and thus to express their culture. Students come to school already having an informational background acquired at home and teachers try …

Morning Message : Bringing Interactive Writing To Life In A Kindergarten Classroom, Kay M. Hoffman

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of this article is to inform the reader of one way of implementing interactive writing into a kindergarten classroom, which is through the use of morning message. Interactive writing means different things to different people and my interpretation will be discussed throughout the article. I will share where I have been as a teacher of young children as well as some of the things I have learned along this invigorating journey.

Training : What Is Training, Identifying The Need For Training, Methods Of Training, And How Can Trainings Effectiveness Be Evaluated?, Michael Johnson Jr.

Graduate Research Papers

This review involves aspects and elements of preparing effective training programs. In this review the researcher addresses the design and development stages of training programs. This review will provide valuable information for practitioners in the field of training and staff development. Definitions, needs assessment methods, evaluating effectiveness, methods of conducting evaluations, and building a rational for training programs are the areas covered by this review.

This review is written in the perspective for novice trainers and staff developers. The information provided can assist novice trainers build a knowledge base to enhance their ability to provide effective training. This review is …