Education Commons^™

Dual-Axis Solar Tracker, Bryan Kennedy

All Undergraduate Projects

Renewable energies, and fuels that are not fossil fuel-based, are one of the prolific topics of debate in modern society. With climate change now becoming a primary focus for scientists and innovators of today, one of the areas for the largest amount of potential and growth is that of the capturing and utilization of Solar Energy. This method involves using a mechanical system to track the progression of the sun as it traverses the sky throughout the day. A dual-axis solar tracker such as the one designed and built for this project, can follow the sun both azimuthally and in …

Exploring Early Childhood Teachers' Beliefs And Perceptions About The Use Of Technology In The Classroom, Sharron Hallanger

All Master's Theses

The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore how the professional beliefs and perceptions of teachers in early childhood education (ECE) influenced their acceptance for the use of interactive technology as a learning tool for children. Eight primary grade teachers at a rural school district in Washington State were interviewed. Of the eight ECE teachers, two had no student technology use in their classrooms. The second group of two teachers had some student technology use on a weekly basis, and the last group of four teachers utilized daily student technology use in their classrooms. The sample subjects were interviewed …

Student Perceptions Of The Use Of Multimedia For Online Course Communication, Jaclyn Krause, Laura Portolese, Julie Bonner

All Faculty Scholarship for the College of Education and Professional Studies

A great deal of research exists in the use of multimedia communications in online classrooms as a means of furthering student engagement. However, little research exists that examines the perceptions of students when such technologies are used. Additionally, it is unclear that students are likely to engage in the use of such technologies when available. This research explores the perceptions of 69 students taking both online and hybrid undergraduate project management courses. Specifically, the study seeks to explore how students experienced the use of multimedia by their instructor and classmates in both online announcements and discussions, as well as whether …

A Comparative Study Of Competency-Based Courses Demonstrating A Potential Measure Of Course Quality And Student Success, Jackie Krause, Laura Portolese, Christopher Schedler

All Faculty Scholarship for the College of Education and Professional Studies

While competency-based education is growing, standardized tools for evaluating the unique characteristics of course design in this domain are still under development. This preliminary research study evaluated the effectiveness of a rubric developed for assessing course design of competency-based courses in an undergraduate Information Technology and Administrative Management program. The rubric, which consisted of twenty-six individual measures, was used to evaluate twelve new courses. Additionally, the final assessment scores of nine students who completed nine courses in the program were evaluated to determine if a correlation exists between student success and specific indicators of quality in the course design. The …

Asynchronous Use Of Engineering (Materials) Education Videos, Craig Johnson, Arthur D. Morken

All Faculty Scholarship for the College of the Sciences

Engineering education delivery is dynamic and increasingly asynchronous. An observation that students had very different levels of knowledge and skills as they progressed through our programs, led the authors to use audio/visual media as a leveling intervention. In this effort the authors collected data to determine if audio/visual media can be used to increase performance in the development of a program related task and guide students to higher levels of learning on Blooms Taxonomy through the development of student created learning aids.

One specific need was reflected in the disparate skills of our majority component of ‘transfer’ students in our …

A Technology Integrated Curriculum For An 8th Grade History/Civics Class, Kathy Colleen Chavez

All Graduate Projects

To ensure educational technology is used effectively, educators must put together a curriculum that will encourage students to ask questions and think about what they need to learn (Schrum, 2003). Educators must value the exploration that technology lends itself to and realize it can be a vital teaching tool. They must seek out professional development in the use of appropriate technology and become models of life-long learning for their students. In using technology within the classroom, educators must become comfmiable with and then develop ways technology can enhance what they teach (Schrum, 2003). This project's goal was to develop a …

Imbedding New Technologies Into Current Practice: A Guide For Administrators Of Physical Education, Thomas J. Haeck

All Graduate Projects

Many new technologies are available to the Physical Education teacher, yet few are commonly used. This project contains findings from a review of literature regarding Physical Education technology use in today's schools. The guidelines presented in this project were designed to facilitate the integration of Physical Education technology into the schools curriculum. The project was designed with the fundamentals of the constructivist classroom in mind, as well as including all students in the process. Students from historically marginalized groups, low socio-economic status, high and low achieving students, students with physical exceptionalities and special education students were all included in this …

A Web Design Curriculum For At-Risk Students, Aurelio Garcia Jr.

All Graduate Projects

Students today deal emotionally, physically and socially with many negative influences in their lives. Too frequently they are besieged by violent images, the propagation of illegal drug usage among friends and family as well as other negative environmental influences. These influences create barriers that inhibit student learning and cause students to pull away from friends, teachers and school. The implementation of a web design curriculum will help provide struggling students an opportunity to reconnect with school through the use of technology. The web design curriculum lessons also provide activities that address bullying, harassment, drug and alcohol abuse, tobacco usage, suicide …

Supporting Reading Instruction Of High School Students With Learning Disabilities By Using Wynn Software, Linda Kilgore

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to create a student/teacher handbook, which contained information for the successful integration of the WYNN computer software into the general and special education classroom. Students with learning disabilities struggle with the general education curriculum and new technology provides an individualized approach to the accommodation of their needs. Research concerning learning disabilities and how the use of computers can support these students in the classroom was included.

First Grade Classroom Web Site Featuring Components Of A Balanced Literacy Program, Jennifer Renee Kummer

All Graduate Projects

A classroom web site for first grade families and community members of the llidgefield School District was designed for the World Wide Web. It was created as a resource to explain the components of balanced reading and writing programs in a first grade classroom. These components include reading aloud, shared reading, guided reading, independent reading, shared writing, guided writing, and independent writing. Included on the web site are photographs documenting monthly events in the first grade classroom, as well as, literacy internet resources for parents and children. Featured is research regarding balanced literacy programs, parent involvement, and effective web site …

A Model Staff Development Program In Technology Skills For Selected Secondary Schools, Suzanne Keil

All Graduate Projects

The relationship between staff professional development in technology that enhanced staff efficiencies were studied. A model staff development program in technology has been developed to make connections between teacher's readiness and their mastery of technology skills. Research has been obtained that indicated a direct correction between teachers' readiness in technology and their implementation of technology into the classroom. Secondary teachers must be taught using inservices, practice skills and given opportunities to share their experiences with colleagues. Administrators must take leadership in developing and supporting a quality technology training program that recognizes the staffs' individualized needs.

Forming Partnerships With Parents Through A Series Of Interactive Home-Based Activities Delivered Through The Use Of Personal Computers, Michael P. Stark

All Graduate Projects

A project was implemented in which parents and students were encouraged to collaborate on a series of interactive mathematics activities designed to be completed in the home. yth grade math students along with their parents completed problem-solving activities on personal computers. Students with no access to computers at home were able to borrow Apple iBook laptop computers from the local school district. The activities were all designed to help students in preparation for the ylh grade mat WASL. The project also contained many resources for parents, including WASL related resources as well as resources on parental involvement at home.

An Instructional Manual For Implementation Of Voice Recognition (Vr) In Written Communication, Lori Odagiri

All Graduate Projects

This project investigated the use of voice recognition for written communication. The literature review revealed a lack of research in using voice recognition with individuals with disabilities. An instructional manual consisting of a step-by-step process to guide students through the general training process and teaching students the additional features of the program to promote independent use of Dragon Naturally Speaking Version 5 for written communication. Field tests were completed with 3 students, two with physical disabilities and one with a learning disability.

Environment-Based Education: Policy, Practice, And Place, Eric N. Wickwire

All Master's Theses

The policies of the environment-based education movement are benefiting teachers and students participating in several model programs operating in the United States. Place-centered learning enhances the interdisciplinary practice of Essential Academic Learning Requirements, and actively engages students in local issues. The study of cultural landscapes encourages a sense of place within the Lower Columbia River Gorge, and fosters student connections with the Dalles Mountain Ranch. Policy recommendations are made for environment-based learning in Washington State's public schools. An example place-centered curriculum is outlined for practice at the Dalles Mountain Ranch, and a residential environmental learning center is proposed in the …

An Instructional Handbook For Creating A Fourth Grade Classroom Home Page, John R. Getzinger

All Graduate Projects

When technology is used in the classroom, students are prepared for the future, the individual needs of students can be met, students are provided with interactive learning and the value of computers are demonstrated to students and faculty. The purpose of this project was to develop a handbook for teachers of fourth grade students at Church Creek Elementary in the Stanwood - Camano School District that would assist in creating a classroom web page. The web page would allow parents and other interested parties to see what was taking place in the classroom. In order to create the handbook, the …

Integrating Technology Into A Seventh Grade Curriculum, Carrie Lynn Petersen

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to create a curriculum guide that served to integrate a seventh grade classroom with computer technology to enhance the existing block curriculum and facilitate student learning. This project takes place at Forks Middle School in Forks, Washington. Attention was placed on providing strategies for managing technology in the classroom. In order to incorporate technology into the classroom curriculum, the guide included the development of original technology based lessons and a modification of existing classroom assignments. Infusing technology into a standard curriculum required several adaptations. Those included using a scaffolding lesson planner to target essential …

Teaching Intermediate Students Research And Critical Thinking Skills: Integrating Technology Into The Curriculum, Michelle Stach

All Graduate Projects

The focus of this project was to create specific activities that teach students how to research material and use their critical thinking skills to present a product. The project implements an integrated approach with an emphasis on the intermediate grades. Throughout this project the students will be exploring a variety of ways to acquire the knowledge ofresearching quality information. This project concentrates on integrating technology into the social studies and science curriculum. The final product encompasses research and critical thinking skills into an intermediate curriculum.

Repeated Reading: Using Audiotaped Books And Activities To Help At-Risk Readers, Wendy S. Stover

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to determine whether repeated reading with an audio model would significantly supplement the literacy instruction of atrisk readers. Research related to reading practice, the relationship between fluency and reading development, and repeated reading was read, evaluated, and summarized. A positive relationship between repeated reading and reading growth (i.e., fluency and comprehension) was indicated from this review. The literature review provided a rational and guidelines for using repeated reading with at-risk readers. A manual containing a teacher's guide on repeated reading with an audio model and related literacy activities was created.

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, …

Integration Of The Internet Into The Curriculum: A Model Application Exploring The Iditarod, Melanie Kingham

All Graduate Projects

This manuscript is intended to serve as a model and resource for elementary teachers seeking to incorporate use of the Internet into their curriculum. A central premise of the document is that the Internet can serve as a valuable learning tool when it is part of an integrated, project based instructional program. A discussion of the rationale supporting this position is provided, as well as a review of related literature and research. Issues and considerations for those developing Internet based curricula are addressed. A sample Internet based curriculum for primary students, "The Spirit of Adventure," is offered as an illustration …

Activities And Strategies For Parents And Teachers To Promote Fluent Reading Acquisition In Emergenct Readers Through The Use Of An Internet Web Page And Printed Materials, Carolyn Sue White

All Graduate Projects

Research relating to phonics, whole language, and a balanced approach as it relates to fluent reading acquisition was read, evaluated, and summarized. A web page with activities and links to other web sites was designed and installed on the internet to provide parents and teachers with material intended to help them promote fluent reading acquisition in emergent readers.

A Technologically Based Model Program Including Reading Writing And Communication Skills For Rural Minority Students In The Lower Yakima Valley In The State Of Washington, Jennifer Anno Butler

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to design and develop a technologically based model program including reading writing and communication skills for rural minority students in the Lower Yakima Valley in the State of Washington. To accomplish this purpose, a review of current literature and research was conducted. Additionally, information and materials developed in conjunction with the Bridges - A Web Project for Kids, at Central Washington University, was studied, analyzed and incorporated into the project.

Juegos De Educatión: Collection Of Student-Centered Spanish Language Activities In A Web Based Format, Geoff W. Bullis, Jenny R. Smith

All Graduate Projects

This project incorporates the use of games and activities as supplemental resources with today's technology enhanced environment. It was designed to create an easily accessible resource for teachers of Spanish language instruction. Our project focused on creating a Web site on the Internet which included several student-centered activities. The development of the project included research of similar Web sites, literature regarding best teaching practices and methods, Gardner's multiple intelligences, specifically bodily/kinesthetic intelligence, and a teacher questionnaire focusing on the need for the project. Through the research and questionnaire it was determined that a dearth of Web-based resources are available to …

A Model Procedure For Monitoring Student On The Internet At Cashmere High School, Trevor Kert

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to develop a model procedure for monitoring students on the Internet at Cashmere High School, Cashmere, Washington. To achieve this purpose, current research, literature, software, and acceptable use policies concerned with educational Internet usage were reviewed. Additionally, specific policies; agreements, and forms were adapted and developed to meet the needs of the Cashmere High School community.

Promoting Phonological Awareness In Young Children Through At-Home Activities: A Video Curriculum, Kathleen A. Kwak

All Graduate Projects

Research relating phonological awareness, beginning reading acquisition, and parental involvement in children's literacy development was read, evaluated, and summarized. A positive relationship between phonological awareness and learning to read was indicated from this review, and a correlation between parental literacy activities and children's language and reading acquisition was found. Studies suggesting the existence of a developmental sequence of phonological skills were examined. The literature review provided a rationale and design for phonological awareness instruction. A research supported curriculum containing a teacher's manual, take-home interactive video activities and activity sheets, and assessments was created.

A Computer Based Reading Program For Elementary Students, Wendy L. Clark

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to develop a plan for teachers, media specialists and administrators to use in implementing the Accelerated Reader Program, a computerized reading management program. Research on the benefits of this program was studied. A handbook was created that includes information and processes for the set up, management and use of incentives for the Accelerated Reader Program. This information is presented both for implementation in the individual classrooms as well as school wide.

The Internet For Professional Communication: A Workshop Curriculum For Secondary Teachers, Ian James Loverro

All Graduate Projects

Educators and administrators have begun to place a high priority on connecting classrooms to the Internet. However, classroom computer use remains at least one step removed from teachers and is used to sustain existing curricula rather than serving as a catalyst for educational improvement. Professional communication is a major instrument for initiating and implementing educational reform; the Internet represents a primary computer-based forum for professional development. The purpose of the project was to develop a sample in-service curriculum focusing on the use of e-mail, newsgroups, and listservs as tools for professional development and communication among secondary educators.

Accelerated Reader Program: An Implementation Guide For Teachers, Heather A. Hull-Stewart

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to develop a plan for educators, librarians and administrators to use in implementing the Accelerated Reader Program, a computerized reading management program. Research on the benefits of this program was studied. A handbook was created that includes information and processes for the set up, management and use of incentives for the Accelerated Reader Program. This information is presented both for implementation in the individual classrooms as well as school wide.

Multi-Culture Unit On Native Americans, Calvin E. Marschall

All Graduate Projects

The culture of the Native American has been ignored by the educational institutions of the United States far too long. With the recent comi decisions upholding Native American treaties, local school districts must obligate themselves to the teaching of Native American culture. The purpose of this project was to develop a multicultural unit, about Native American culture, and then introduce this unit of study into the history classes at Wenatchee High School.

[Using Multimedia Technology In Elementary Student Presentations Of Literature Research And Reviews], Judy Ann Staples

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this study was to help third grade students develop multimedia presentations using current technology to improve the related background knowledge and literary awareness of students for six different literature books. A second purpose was to use the authoring system, HyperStudio, to develop an interactive compact disc which future students could access before reading specific literature books to enhance reading comprehension.