Education Commons^™

Persistence Differences In Community College Courses Taught In Classrooms And Through Alternative Formats, Andrew A. Runyan

Faculty Dissertations

While distance education programs continue to expand, the occurrence of higher dropout rates in those programs as compared to the same courses offered in lecture/lab settings remains a point of contention between supporters and detractors of non-traditional forms of education. This study used a foundation of research on dropout in higher education as the basis for an investigation of dropout rates in non-traditional forms of instruction in a community college setting. Course delivery formats studied included videotape-based courses, Internet-based courses, and courses offered in a self-paced laboratory environment. For each of these formats, the same course, offered in a lecture/lab …

An Investigation Of Skill Acquisition Under Conditions Of Augmented Reality, Russell P. Milham

Master's Theses - Daytona Beach

Augmented reality is a virtual environment that integrates rendered content with the experience of the real world. There is evidence suggesting that augmented reality provides for important spatial constancy of objects relative to the real world coordinate system and that this quality contributes to rapid skill acquisition. The qualities of simulation, through the use of augmented reality, may be incorporated into actual job activities to produce a condition of "just-in-time learning." This may make possible the rapid acquisition of information and reliable completion of novel or infrequently performed tasks by individuals possessing a basic skill-set. The purpose of this research …

Factors Affecting Computer Implementation And Impact On Teaching And Learning In Northeast Louisiana, Ruth Bonner-Thompson

Doctoral Dissertations

This study investigated the relationship between degree of computer implementation and (a) teacher personal use of computers, (b) teacher motivation, (c) curriculum integration training, and (d) curriculum integration support. The study also investigated the relationship between degree of computer implementation and (a) collaborative learning, (b) self-directed learning, (c) active learning, and (d) teacher practices. An analytical survey provided a numerical description of bow the independent variables and the dependent variables were related in the population.

Quantitative data were analysed using the following statistical procedures: (a) Mann-Whitney U test to determine the relationship between teacher motivation and degree of computer implementation, …

Effect Of Cooperative Learning (Student Teams -Achievement Divisions) On African American And Caucasian Students' Interracial Friendships, James Edward Cook

Doctoral Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to gauge the impact of cooperative learning teams on interracial friendships. The participants were 256 sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students in English classes (20% African American and 80% Caucasian) at a rural middle school in Louisiana. After delivery of instruction, the experimental group studied worksheets in teams, received rewards based upon the team's performance, and received individual grades based upon individual exam scores. The control group studied worksheets individually and received individual grades. This eight week study utilized the sociometric question, “Who are your friends in this class?” as the pretest and posttest …

Evaluating The Effectiveness Of A New Mathematics Problem-Solving Program, Audrey L. Becker

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to implement and evaluate the effectiveness of a mathematical problem-solving program for eighth grade students in the Margate School District. The researcher used a quantitative quasi-experimental design in correlation with a qualitative case study design. The subjects consisted of low to average ability students enrolled in a preexisting skills development course. The students were separated to form an experimental and a control group. A pretest/posttest instrument was used to determine the quantitative results, and daily field notes were recorded to evaluate the qualitative conclusions.

The level of student growth due to the completion of …

Comparison Of Academic Progress And Social Development For Retained And Socially Promoted Spanish Speaking Children In An International English-Medium School, Mavis A. Runia

Master of Education Program Theses

This two-year study was designed to investigate the effects of grade retention on a child's academic progress, English proficiency, and social development. All students (n=17) were native Spanish-speaking children, living in a Spanish speaking country, learning in an English-medium school. Each retained child was matched with a child in a control group and a child in a socially promoted group, based on age, sex, Sanford Achievement Test scores, and final reading, language, and math scores. The Piers-Harris Children's Self-Concept Scale (PHSCS) and the Comprehensive Receptive and Expressive Vocabulary Test (CREVT) were administered in the fall and spring for two consecutive …

The Effects Of Structured One-On-One Tutoring In Sight Word Recognition Of First-Grade Students At-Risk For Reading Failure, Laureen Goers Mayfield

Doctoral Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of an alternative reading program on the performance of at-risk first graders. Sixty first graders from three north Louisiana public elementary schools with high poverty rates, who were determined by their teachers and principals to be functioning in the bottom 20 to 30% of first grade reading students, were purposefully selected. Students were pretested on three subtests of the Woodcock Reading Mastery Test-Revised (WRMT-R), Form G: Letter Identification, Word Identification, and Word Attack. Participants were randomly assigned to either a control or an experimental group. Experimental group students received 15 …

Site-Based Dropout Identification And Prescription Process For Alternative Education In A Diverse School System, William P. Krupp

Theses and Dissertations in Urban Services - Urban Education

This study developed a school site-based dropout identification and prescription process for student placement in alternative education programs in a school system with diverse residential environments—urban, rural, and suburban. The dropout performance-based and measurable predictor variables selected through discriminate function analysis were total retentions, yearly average of absences, total out-of-school suspensions, the state competency tests passed on time, total administrative hearings, and yearly average of poor grades. The combination and nature of these variables allow for early detection of potential dropouts.

While subtle differences existed between the urban, suburban, and rural prediction formulas, the variables selected produced prediction formulas with …

Portland Dialect Study - High Rising Terminal Contours (Hrts) In Portland Speech, Rebecca A. Wolff

Dissertations and Theses

This study reports on the use of an intonation contour used in declarative clauses that is referred to in at least some of the literature as a "High Rising Terminal Contour" (HRTs). The intonation pattern is characterized by a final rise, which is similar to the pitch change used in yes-no questions. The purpose of this study is to document the use of this intonation pattern by residents of Portland, Oregon, in order to see what light it can shed on the HRT's status and function, especially among the young to see if it can be implicated in language change. …

Creative Writing, Storyboarding And Video Script Writing As Techniques To Stimulate The Development Of Imagination And Imagery To Aid In Reading Comprehension, Ellen Settlemyer Bartelli

All Graduate Projects

The relationship between imagination, pretend play, and reading comprehension was researched through the literature. A curriculum unit was designed featuring two exercises using imagination and imagery in conjunction with the book Night by Elie Wiesel. The first exercise asked students to write a 10 entry journal synthesizing information from a variety of sources into a first person narrative of a Jewish child. The second exercise calls for student groups to write, storyboard, and film a scene from Night on videotape.

Increasing Parental Involvement Through Internet Instruction, David Allen Chaplin

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of the project was to develop a curriculum of Internet instruction for parents of Washington Middle School students. Through a review of the current literature it was found that the recurring lack of communication between parents, students and educators was identified as a barrier for involving families in their students' education. To overcome this barrier four sessions of instruction and practice were developed to increase the families' ability to communicate with their children's educators. The sessions introduce the basic layout and function of computers, the Internet, using email for communication, skills vital for finding information on the internet, …

Teaching Spelling: An Integrated Developmental Approach Within The First Grade Reading And Writing Curriculum, Dorothy Bower

All Graduate Projects

There has been extensive research concerning various instructional procedures for the acquisition of spelling skills. Many research-based principles of effective spelling instruction have emerged from one of two contrasting models for the development of spelling competence. Traditionally, spelling has been taught with textbooks and workbooks. Students followed a structured program with the goal oflearning to spell the weekly list of words. According to the traditional model, spelling is taught as a separate curriculum. Advocates for spelling reform suggest spelling instruction should be based on the understanding of the developmental nature of the child. This project report provides guidelines and strategies …

Effective Homework For Primary Students: A Handbook For Parents And Teachers, Gillian Buchanan

All Graduate Projects

After serving on a committee to create a homework policy for my school, I found that both teachers and parents need clarification about issues surrounding homework. I discovered many misconceptions about the effects of homework on student learning, and saw a need to explain these. I compiled research on the history of homework, and the main purpose of homework. As well, I gathered information to understand the positive and negative effects of homework, and homework at the elementary level compared to middle and high school. I found research on guidelines for parents, teachers, schools, and districts. Based on the research, …

A Coordinator's Manual For The Recruitment And Training Of Volunteer, Elementary Level Tutors In Reading And Mathematics, Lara Cole

All Graduate Projects

The purpose ofthis project was to develop a manual for the coordination of a volunteer, elementary level tutoring program. To accomplish this purpose a review of related literature was conducted. Additionally, related information from selected resources was obtained and analyzed.

Balanced Reading In An Intermediate Classroom, Rochelle Marie Cramer

All Graduate Projects

Research in the process of balancing the reading curriculum was read, evaluated and summarized. This research showed the need for further study in the areas of shared reading, guided reading, independent reading, and responding to literature; as combining these four components create a balanced reading program. In a balanced approach students receive skill and strategy instruction in addition to reading and responding to authentic literature. A yearlong balanced reading guide and ten sample supporting lessons were created for the intermediate grade teachers at Washington State Centennial Elementary in the Bethel School District.

A Balanced Reading Approach To Teaching Reading In Kindergarten And First Grade, Leah Ann Bodeen

All Graduate Projects

The focus of this project was to create specific activities that teach children various tools that assist in learning how to read. The project implements a balanced reading curriculum with an emphasis in kindergarten and first grade. Throughout this project the students will be exploring a variety of ways to acquire the knowledge of reading. The project concentrates on two philosophies of how to teach reading; phonemic awareness and whole language. The final product encompasses both philosophies and creates a curriculum that links the two into a balanced approach to reading.

The Art Of Science: An Integrative Curriculum, Lisa Kay Dorsing

All Graduate Projects

This project shows the development of an integrated, interdisciplinary curriculum which combines the visual arts with the physical, life and health sciences at the sixth grade level. The integrated curriculum sample identifies and aligns with the Essential Academic Learning Requirements of Washington state. In addition, the sample lessons maintain the integrity of both art and science, the two subjects being integrated, demonstrating how integration can take place while allowing both subjects to maintain their value as individual disciplines. The review of literature gives background on issues revolving around integration in general, as well as integration involving the arts.

Daily Journal Writing In The Early Childhood Classroom, Kristin Fisher

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this study was to develop a handbook to assist teachers who wish to use daily writing journals as a part of the reading and writing curriculum in a preschool, kindergarten, first, or second grade classroom. The project describes procedures, materials, activities, and routines needed to institute such a program. The Washington State Essential Academic Learning Requirements and assessment methods are addressed. Variations on the journal format that have been used in other early childhood classrooms are mentioned. Current literature and research on the topics of emergent literacy and journal writing is explored.

Ways To Promote Literacy, Heidi Lynn Desteunder

All Graduate Projects

The process by which literacy develops in children and ways to promote literacy development were studied. The review of related literature showed support that children's literacy development begins in infancy, that it develops through a set of stages, and that active involvement of parents and caregivers does promote literacy development. A handbook for parents of children from preschool through elementary school was created. The handbook includes a continuum of literacy development and activities to encourage its growth.

Educational Math Games For First Grade, Shelly Christine Harberts

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of the project is to create appropriate educational math games for first grade. Thirty-six new games were generated to replace the math games used in the Everyday Math curriculum used in my classroom. The games were taught to twenty first graders. The results showed that using mathematical games relating to the concepts being taught, helped students better understand and master the concepts.

The Importance Of Phonemic Awareness In Initial Reading Acquisition And How You Can Support It In Your First Grade Classroom: A Handbook For Educators, Jan Pearson Golob

All Graduate Projects

The significance of phonemic awareness in initial reading acquisition was researched. The research suggests that those children without phonemic awareness will struggle with learning to read. A handbook for educators was created to compliment existing curriculum. This handbook contains songs and activities either extracted from or modeled after those that had already been field tested in many classrooms.

Supporting Teachers Of Elementary English As A Second Language Students: A Facilitative Handbook Of Activities, Strategies, And Resources, Kathryn E. Getzinger

All Graduate Projects

Stanwood School District has seen an increase of second language students. Many teachers within the district have little or no training in second language acquisition and were having difficulty meeting the needs of these students. A facilitative handbook for supporting teachers of elementary second language students was created. In order to find the strategies that would best serve this student population current research on language development and teaching strategies for English as a Second Language students was examined. Teachers in the Stanwood School District will receive the handbook in the fall 2000.

A Model, Integrated Language Arts And U.S. History Curriculum Developed In Alignment With The Washington State Essential Academic Learning Requirements, Mark A. Helm

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to develop a model, integrated Language Arts and U.S. History curriculum at Foothills Middle School, Wenatchee, Washington, in alignment with the Washington State Essential Academic Learning Requirements (EALR's). To accomplish this purpose, current research and literature was reviewed. Additionally, related information from selected sources was obtained and analyzed.

A Model Music Curriculum For Elementary-Level Students In Taiwan, Mei-Fang Ho

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to develop a model music curriculum for elementary-level students in Taiwan. With the current music curriculum utilized recently in Taiwan, this project will help the elementary-level students to develop their music potentials. In addition, teachers can educate students according to their level oflearning at different periods of time. To accomplish this purpose, a review ofrelated literature was conducted. Additionally, selected materials were obtained and adapted for use.

Parent Involvement: Behind-The-Wheel Guide Sample Lessons And Driving Procedures, David Elroy Kinnunen

All Graduate Projects

Yearly, thousands of novice, young drivers are licensed and embark upon a driving career within the state of Washington. Many of these young drivers end up as statistics in collisions and collision related fatalities. This project report reviews the importance of parent involvement in education and supports the involvement by developing a parent and student handbook for home driving practice. This behind the wheel handbook applies the element that is missing in most young driver's training programs, experience through additional practice time behind the wheel. The current minimum standards for classroom and behind the wheel instruction in the state of …

Integrating Writing To Enhance Mathematical Skills At The Elementary Level, Kendra J. Kupp

All Graduate Projects

The recommendations of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the Washington State Commission on Student Learning Essential Academic Requirements are addressed. The benefits of integrating mathematics and writing are studied. Integrated activities and materials for a first and second grade mathematics curriculum are developed. Recommendations for implementing the project are given.

Infusing The Multiple Intelligences Into Fifth Grade Curriculum, Kelly Eugene Mattson

All Graduate Projects

Howard Gardner's theory of Multiple Intelligences involves eight different ways to learn (linguistic, logical-mathematical, visual-spatial, bodily-kinesthetic, musical, naturalistic, interpersonal and intrapersonal). These categories of intelligence, along with the guidelines of Washington State's Essential Academic Leaming Requirements, were applied to thirty lessons that were derived from the fifth grade curriculum at Tieton Middle School in Tieton, Washington. The lessons reflect the fields of reading, writing, mathematics, science, social studies and health/fitness.

Leadership Curriculum For The High School Student, Ruth Elaine Miller

All Graduate Projects

The need for a high school leadership curriculum for a small rural school district was studied. The review of literature showed that students should be provided the opportunity to learn leadership skills that focus on the individual, family, school and community. By working with peers and adults, leadership students will have the opportunity to work in real-life situations which address service-learning, character education, and school-to-work in aligmnent with the national and state standards.

A Balanced Reading Program For The Primary Grades, Hope Kranz Mcdonald

All Graduate Projects

The focus of this project was to create specific.activities that teach children various tools that assist in learning how to read. The project implements a balanced reading curriculum with an emphasis in kindergarten and first grade. Throughout this project the students will be exploring a variety of ways to acquire the knowledge of reading. The project concentrates on two philosophies of how to teach reading; phonemic awareness and whole language. The final product encompasses both philosophies and creates a curriculum that links the two into a balanced approach to reading.

The Mathematics Of Sound: Integrating Music Into A Math Curriculum, Shawn William Meacham

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to develop prototype lesson plans that connects and integrates musical and mathematical concepts at the 5th grade level. Both musical and mathematical concepts can be enhanced when studying the correlation between the two subjects. This project will provide lesson plans and activities using the Washington State Essential Academic Leaming Requirements as a basis for the concepts being taught. The goal of the project is to inspire teachers to use integration throughout the curriculum. An integrated curriculum develops and supports the coherence of ideas and concepts taught within our schools. By fostering our natural instinct …