Education Commons^™

Innovative Education: Comparing The Success Of Stem And Traditional School Models, Timothy W. Kennedy

Education Theses and Dissertations

Abstract

This research study investigates the impacts of four specialized STEM education models—T-STEM (Texas Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), P-TECH (Pathways in Technology), Early College High Schools (ECHS), and New Tech Network schools (NTN) on student performance in Texas high schools. By analyzing aggregate student data collected by the state, this study compares the academic outcomes of students in these STEM-focused schools with those in traditional curriculum schools using ANCOVA (Analysis of Covariance) and Logistic Regression. The findings reveal mixed results: while some specialized STEM models show enhanced performance in STEM and other academic subjects, others do not consistently outperform …

Literacy Achievement And The Effectiveness Of Texas’ High-Quality Instructional Materials On Student Outcomes In A Rural Elementary Campus, Katrina Susanne Speer Maccalous

Education Theses and Dissertations

This Improvement Science Dissertation in Practice evaluated the impact of High-Quality Instructional Materials (HQIM) on literacy achievement in a rural East Texas district. Following an initial evaluation, an instructional framework was collaboratively developed with teachers. Using mixed methods, the study analyzed teacher perceptions and student achievement data from NWEA MAP and STAAR assessments. Quantitative results indicated that grade levels with initial, higher rates of achievement compared to their peers, experienced weaker growth over time. Weaker MAP growth was also observed in STAAR tested grade levels, while students in K-1 exhibited statistically significant growth from fall to spring testing periods. Teacher …

Evaluation And Improvement Of Processes And Metrics In A Dual Credit Program, Kristian E. Fischer

Education Theses and Dissertations

This dissertation used convergent mixed methods design in a program implementation evaluation of a dual credit program. A binary logistic regression was performed on dual credit enrollment persistence. A stakeholder survey was deployed to parents, administrators, instructors and counselors associated with the dual credit program. A full review of district documents related to dual credit was included as part of the qualitative component. The results of the regression indicated non-significance in the predictor variables for the dependent variable of dual credit persistence. The emergent themes from the survey included concerns about student readiness for dual credit coursework and a need …

The Effect Of A Personalized Learning Model On The Mathematical Achievement Of Elementary Students, Jaclyn L. Pedersen

Education Theses and Dissertations

This is a two-year mixed-methods study designed to discover the effects of a personalized learning model on the mathematical achievement in elementary. The setting is a university laboratory school that utilizes a distinct instructional math model based on mathematical best practices, problem-based learning (PrBL), and the use of personalized learning (PL) through stations, small-group pull-outs and a designated software program (IXL). The evaluation study was conducted over the course of a year. Teacher observations were used to understand the implementation of the model as well as the teacher’s perceptions. Student data from the previous year’s state assessment, State of Texas …