Education Commons^™

Designing For Everyone: Accessibility, Inclusion, And Equity In Online Instruction, Kimberly Shotick

Faculty Books & Book Chapters

This chapter introduces practices that promote equity and inclusion in online learning spaces through the lens of Universal Design for Learning.

The Finnish Line: An International Teacher Exchange Program, Anthony Marano

West Chester University Master’s Theses

This delve into the educational landscape of the United States and Finland uncovers areas of potential growth in the United States with the incorporation of the Finnish Model. By examining first hand experiences inside the Finnish education system, this study proposes a program that could bring international developments in academics, and overall happiness into our domestic education system. First will be presented the position and philosophy from which this thesis will be approached. This will help to prove relevance when viewed through this specific and critical lens. Next, will be a brief historical overview of the systems in question and …

Accelerated Teacher Certification Programs: The “Modern” Movement For Deculturizing Brown And Black Schools, Desiree Jackson

West Chester University Master’s Theses

Many education reforms have been implemented as a solution to the ongoing problems with schooling. One of these reforms is Teach for America, and over the years, their impact has been met with criticism. Most of that criticism is mostly because of predominantly of their predominantly white members who teach in predominantly black and brown schools. The disconnect between cultures and the lack of efficient training is a combination that keeps teachers and students from learning and growing to their full potential. Schooling for black children in America has not always been met with their best interest at heart. The …

Dataset For Mapping The Prevalence Of Mixed Methods Research In Educational Technology Journals, Alissa A. Droog, Olha Ketsman, Sumaiya Qazi

Research Datasets

This is the dataset supporting the article entitled "Mapping the prevalence of mixed methods research in educational technology journals". The article is published at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2024.105207. The author's accepted manuscript version of this article can be found in Huskie Commons at: https://huskiecommons.lib.niu.edu/allfaculty-peerpub/1157/.

Editorial: The Unlearning Of School Attendance: Ideas For Change, Carolyn Gentle-Genitty, Arya Ansari, Michael Gottfried, Ineke Marshall

Founder’s College - Scholarship and Professional Work

No abstract provided.

Embracing Change: From Recalibration To Radical Overhaul For The Field Of School Attendance, David Heyne, Carolyn Gentle-Genitty, Glenn A. Melvin, Gil Keppens, Catriona O’Toole, Lisa Mckay-Brown

Founder’s College - Scholarship and Professional Work

In a world characterized by dynamic demographic shifts, rapid technological transformations, and evolving pedagogical practices, the need for reimagining school attendance and a relationship with education has become paramount. This Research Topic, boldly titled “The Unlearning of School Attendance: Ideas for Change,” compels us to challenge conventional thinking and working in this domain. The collection of 12 articles offers compelling opportunities for change, ranging from subtle recalibrations to radical overhauls, depending on the extent to which our current ideas and methods have grown outdated. This opening article serves as a thematic guide, curating the diverse prospects for transformation found within …

Lived Experiences Of People With Substance Use Disorder As Healthcare Education To Develop Empathy For This Population, Whitney Bynum

Nursing | Senior Theses

The negative attitudes and feelings of healthcare workers towards patients with substance use disorder are well documented. These include, but are not limited to, believing a person with this disease is “drug seeking”, “violent”, and “unmotivated”. While this population has challenging issues to address, these beliefs can decrease the quality of care provided and results in less people seeking out needed treatment. Reducing stigmas through alternative education methods, like learning the life story of a patient, can help health care workers develop feelings of empathy and compassion. Subsequently, this education can result in better care and outcomes for these patients. …

Swosu Research And Scholarly Activity Fair 2024, Swosu Office Of Sponsored Programs

SWOSU Research and Scholarly Activity Fair Programs

On behalf of the members of the University Research and Scholarly Activity Committee (USRAC) and the Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP) at Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) - Welcome to the Thirty-Second SWOSU Research and Scholarly Activity Fair! There are 61 poster presentations and 10 oral presentations involving over 100 student and faculty researchers, writers, presenters, artists, collaborators, and faculty sponsors encompassing activities from the SWOSU Departments of Biological Sciences, Chemistry & Physics, Engineering Technology, Kinesiology, Language & Literature, Mathematics, Music, Parks and Recreation Management, Pharmacy, Psychology, and Social Sciences.

Pk-12 Faculty And Staff Capacity To Support Student Mental Health, Chin-Chih Chen, David B. Naff, Xun Liu, Jennifer Murphy, Margaret Wallace, Sunny Shin, Kade Goldin, Shenita Williams, Caleb Armwood, Riley Jenkins, Marlene Gooding

MERC Publications

This report from the Metropolitan Educational Research Consortium (MERC) depicts findings from a regional survey of PK-12 faculty and staff exploring their professional capacity to meet the mental health needs of their students. Based on responses from approximately 1,000 educators in the MERC region, there were six dimensions of capacity: mental health knowledge, mental health training and confidence, multi-tiered systems of support, positive mental health culture, supportive policies and practices, and responsibility and impact. Findings in the report include position comparisons along these six dimensions as well as an exploration of how capacity varies by school size and demographic composition. …

Examining Strategies Embraced By Educational Leaders Towards The Integration Of Digital Technology In Teaching And Learning Process., Godfrey Joseph Shirima

Master of Education

This study examine strategies embraced by educational leaders towards the integration of digital technology in teaching and learning in Hai district, Tanzania. It emphasizes the urgent need for educational leaders to devise and embrace strategies for the integration of digital technology in modern education, grounding itself in the theoretical frameworks of Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) and transformational theory. The integration of digital technology in secondary education can be greatly enhanced by using the frameworks of transformation theory and TPACK (Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge). TPACK emphasizes the junction of technical, pedagogical, and content knowledge to guide instructional tactics. On the …

Investigating The Use Of Artificial Intelligence In Teaching And Learning Communication Skills- Action Research In A Teachers’ College In Kigoma Region., Gerald Simon Russine

Master of Education

This study investigated the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in teaching and learning communication skills at a teachers' college in Kigoma, Tanzania. An action research methodology was used to gain insights from tutors and student teachers. In the reconnaissance stage, observations and a pre-test revealed lack of AI integration and below-average searching skills. The intervention involved introducing ChatGPT, an AI assistant, to augment instruction. Over eight sessions, tutors and students used ChatGPT for asking questions, finding contents for teaching and learning, and facilitating several classroom discussions. The overall perceptions from the tutors and student teachers were positive, noting increased accessibility, …

Integration Of Artificial Intelligence In Physics Teaching, Learning, And Assessment In A Public Secondary School In Rachuonyo East Sub-County- Kenya: Action Research., Edwin Okumu Ogalo

Master of Education

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in educational settings is becoming increasingly prevalent globally. Despite the Kenyan government's efforts to strengthen performance in STEM subjects like physics, significant strides have yet to be achieved. Consequently, there is a pressing need to explore the utilization of AI, particularly ChatGPT, as a pedagogical tool to elevate physics education in Kenyan secondary schools. This study aimed to explore how ChatGPT can be utilized as a pedagogical tool to improve physics education within Kenyan secondary schools. Employing a qualitative approach with an action research design, the study comprised reconnaissance, intervention, and post-intervention phases conducted …

Exploring Parental Involvement In Children’S Literacy Development: A Study Of A Kenyan Junior Public Secondary School, Daniel Ommila Shilenje

Master of Education

Parental involvement plays a significant role in children's literacy development. This qualitative study explored the opportunities for parental support in literacy growth, parents' challenges, and practical strategies to increase parental engagement. Interviews were conducted with parents, teachers, and students at a public junior secondary school in Nairobi, Kenya. Observational data was also collected through home visits.

The findings revealed various avenues for parental involvement, such as shared reading, maintaining a print-rich home environment, acting as literacy role models, communicating effectively with teachers, and assisting with homework. These opportunities helped strengthen parent-child bonds and fostered a love for reading. However, challenges …

Exploring The Contribution Of Public Pre-Primary School In Promoting Play-Based Learning Environment: Case Of Two Schools In Nachingwea District., Alam Jacob Nsana

Master of Education

Play and children's learning are inherently intertwined, with play serving as children's natural way of engaging with and understanding the world around them. This study underscores the essential role of play in facilitating children's social, cognitive, and emotional development, emphasizing its significance as a foundational aspect of early childhood education. Educationists, parents, and administrators recognize the power of play in allowing children to explore and learn autonomously, providing them with equal opportunities for engagement in learning activities.

However, the study acknowledges the challenge of determining the most effective ways and timing for utilizing play to facilitate learning. It aimed to …

Examining The Role Of Secondary School Leaders In Promoting Students' Achievement In Igunga District., Ambrose Albogast

Master of Education

Effective school leadership plays a pivotal role in creating an environment conducive to academic success. However, research on context-specific leadership strategies employed by secondary school leaders in Igunga district to promote student achievement is limited. This qualitative case study aimed to address this gap by examining the role of secondary school leaders in promoting student achievement in Igunga district, Tanzania - a rural context facing academic challenges. Data was collected through interviews, focus groups, document analysis, and observations from three schools, involving school leaders, teachers, and students. Key findings pertained to prevalent leadership styles employed, such as transformational, distributed, and …

Digital Technology Integration For Enhancing Physics Teachers’ Pedagogy In A Selected Secondary School, In Terego District, Uganda., Adrabo Atiku Robert

Master of Education

This dissertation aimed at investigating the transformative impact of digital technology integration on the pedagogical practices of physics teachers in a secondary school context within Terego District, Uganda. A mixed-methods research approach, combining participatory action research methods and quantitative techniques was used. The main research question was: How can the integration of digital technology enhance physics teachers' pedagogy in a secondary school within Terego District, Uganda?

Research tools employed in this study included interviews, lesson observations, document analysis, and intervention workshops. Additionally, pre and post-tests were utilized to quantitatively measure the impact of digital technology integration on student learning outcomes, …

Exploring Junior Secondary School Teachers’ Experiences In Teaching Subjects Outside Their Subjects Specialization - A Case Study Of Selected Schools In Chonyi Sub-County, Kilifi- Kenya., Caleb Kaleli Kisangau

Master of Education

This study explored the experiences of junior secondary school teachers teaching subjects beyond their areas of specialization in Kilifi County, Kenya. Using a qualitative case study approach, data was collected from five teachers and three headteachers across three schools through interviews, observation, and document analysis. The findings revealed several challenges faced by teachers, including limited content knowledge, lack of experienced mentors, and insufficient pedagogical training. As a result, teachers struggled to effectively teach unfamiliar subjects, often resorting to superficial teaching. This negatively impacted the quality of education provided to students. Despite the difficulties, teachers devised adaptive strategies such as using …

Exploring The Discretion Of Principals In The Implementation Of Language Policy: A Case Of French In Secondary Schools In Kakamega County, Kenya., Samson Oduor Otieno

Master of Education

Principals, as street-level bureaucrats, play a monumental role in shaping policy outcomes through the interpretation and operationalization of policies in schools. They have substantial discretion to modify policies thereby being ‘policymakers.’ The present study explored the discretion of principals in implementing the language policy regarding French in secondary schools in Kenya. A qualitative case study approach was used to examine the principals’ understanding of the language policy in Kenya, the discretion that principals have in policy implementation, and the effects of these discretionary powers in two purposively selected secondary schools in Fierte County, one with a principal trained in French …

Exploring The Influence Of Self-Efficacy On Competency-Based Teaching And Learning Outcomes In Grade Seven Junior Secondary School In Trans-Nzoia County, Kenya., Shitemi Khakhuli Consolata

Master of Education

Based on Bandura's social cognitive theory, this study dives into the connections between self-belief, motivation, and how well students perform academically in the Competency-Based Education (CBC) framework. The researcher explores where students get their confidence, how getting encouragement affects their motivation, and how their belief in themselves influences how actively they engage in learning. The researcher investigated all these aspects in a complete educational environment with 112 seventh-grade students and 2 Junior Secondary School (JSS) teachers participating.

The literature review establishes the critical importance of self-efficacy in influencing students' attitudes, behaviors, and academic outcomes. Using a comprehensive mixed-methods approach, the …

Enhancing Tutors’ Pedagogical Skills In Tanzania: A Study Of Practice-Based Learning (Pbl) In A Teachers’ Colleges, Tryphon Damas Kayumba

Master of Education

This dissertation aims to investigate the enhancement of tutors' pedagogical skills through PBL in Tanzania TCs. The study addresses the need to improve TE quality by focusing on tutors’ PD. The research questions guiding this study are: (1) What are the perceptions of tutors towards the implementation of the F4L-PBL PD intervention in TCs? (2) What pedagogical skills do tutors gain from the implementation of the F4L-PBL PD interventions, and their integration into T&L practices? (3) How effective are tutors in transferring PBL principles and methods acquired through the intervention? (4) What challenges do tutors face in transferring PBL principles …

Exploring The Integration Of Neuroeducation Principles In Teaching Mathematics In Selected Secondary Schools In Iringa Municipality, Tanzania., Emmanuel Jonathan Kahise

Master of Education

This research explored the integration of neuroeducation principles in the mathematics curriculum of secondary educational institutions in Iringa Municipality, Tanzania, driven by the goal of enhancing learning outcomes and refining instructional strategies. Employing a qualitative case study methodology, the study examined teachers' perspectives, the actual implementation of neuroeducation concepts in classrooms, and the challenges encountered during integration. Through observations of form one and form three classes and interviews with three mathematics teachers, inconsistencies between claimed understanding and actual practices were identified. To address issues such as a lack of instructional resources, restricted technology access, and limited professional growth opportunities, specific …

Key Performance Indicators In Tanzanian Education: Educational Leaders' Perspectives., Johnberry Daniel Manyonyi

Master of Education

Globally, educational institutions increasingly rely on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to monitor progress, foster accountability, and improve outcomes. Although successful implementation requires understanding prevailing perspectives and addressing implementation challenges, not much study has been conducted on leaders' perspectives on KPIs and practical challenges associated with establishing them, particularly in the setting of developing nations. To fill this gap, this study explored the attitudes and experiences of educational leaders in Moshi Municipality, Tanzania, about KPIs and the factors enabling or hindering their adoption. This study employed a mixed methods approach, incorporating a questionnaire administered to fifty-two educational administrators and a focus …

Unveiling Gender In Competency-Based Formative Assessment: A Focus On Homework Assignments As A Tool Of Assessment For Learning In A Public Junior Secondary School In Taita-Taveta County, Kenya, John Habwe

Master of Education

This qualitative case study explored how gender influences competency-based formative assessment, specifically focusing on the use of homework assignments. The research was conducted at a public junior secondary school in Kenya using interviews, a focus group discussion, document analysis, and observations. 20 students, 4 teachers, and 4 parents obtained through purposive sampling technique participated in data collection. Data that was obtained from the interviews and FGD audiotaped files were transcribed in the field concurrently with data collection, hence continuous and timely analysis allowed the researcher to carefully do a word-for-word transcription of the audiotaped data after which transcripts were critically …

School Leadership Strategies To Promote Teachers’ Participation In Professional Development Initiatives: An Exploratory Case Study Of Two Secondary Schools In Rongo Sub-County, Kenya, Jacqueline Dianga Otieno

Master of Education

This study aimed to address the low teacher participation in PD initiatives, focusing on two public secondary

school in Rongo Sub-County, Kenya. A qualitative approach and case study design were utilized to explore the strategies employed by school leadership to promote teacher engagement in PD. The main objective of the study was to explore the strategies used by school leadership to promote teacher participation in professional development initiatives. The specific objectives were: To assess the current forms and levels of PD initiatives the school leadership supports: To examine the role of school leadership in promoting teacher engagement in PD; To …

Exploring The Contribution Of Inclusive Practices On Social-Emotional Development In Early Childhood Education: A Case Of Nyangao Primary School, Frolence Lwegoshora Paschal

Master of Education

This study investigated the contribution of inclusive practices on social-emotional development in early childhood education, focusing on a case study of Nyangao Primary School in southern part of Tanzania. Inclusive practices refer to the implementation of educational strategies that ensure the active participation and engagement of all students, including those with diverse backgrounds and abilities. The social-emotional development of young children plays a crucial role in their overall well-being and future success. However, the extent to which inclusive practices can positively influence social-emotional development in the early childhood education context remains understudied. Drawing upon a qualitative research approach, this study …

Exploring Factors Influencing Students’ Decision To Pursue Science Specializations: A Study At One Of Public Mixed Secondary Schools In Temeke Municipality-Dar Es Salaam., Samson Masawa

Master of Education

This research investigates the factors influencing students' decisions to pursue science specializations, addressing the pressing issue of declining interest in sciencerelated careers. There is a world-worrying trend in students’ declining interest in sciencerelated occupations, hence the need to understand the factors influencing students' motivations to pursue science. The research employed a quantitative approach with a survey design, utilizing structured questionnaires administered to science teachers, Form Three students choosing science and non-science specializations, and Form Five students committed to study science, and the study was guided by Goal Oriented Theory. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social …

Examining The Implementation Of Gender-Responsive Pedagogy By Course Participants Of The Diploma In Education Leadership And Management., Prudence Hope Murabu

Master of Education

This study examined the implementation of Gender Responsive Pedagogy (GRP) by course participants of the Diploma in Education Leadership and Management (DELM) programme. DELM aims to equip educators with skills to mainstream gender knowledge in schools. The study assessed participants' preparedness to apply GRP in teaching and leadership. Factors influencing adoption and the extent of GRP integration in pedagogical strategies were explored. A qualitative approach using interviews, focus groups, observations and document analysis was employed. Sixteen course participants and six facilitators were selected through purposive sampling. The study was conducted in primary schools in Kilifi and Mombasa counties, Kenya. Findings …

Exploring Tutors’ Readiness To Incorporate Artificial Intelligence In Teaching Practice: A Case Study Of Selected Teachers Training College In Tanzania, Prosper Elirehema Akyoo

Master of Education

College tutors' readiness to incorporate AI in teaching practices was explored in this study in selected teacher-training colleges in Tanzania. The study examined tutors' AI knowledge and experience, readiness variables, current use, and attitudes and perceptions. The study showed how ready college tutors were to use AI in education by addressing these issues.

Tanzania aimed to develop a knowledgeable society by 2025 as outlined in Vision 2025. Teacher Training Colleges play a crucial role in preparing future teachers, yet there is minimal research on tutors' preparedness to integrate artificial intelligence in education (AIED). While AIED holds the potential to enhance …

Social-Emotional Learning: An Exploration Of The Role Of Storytelling In Promoting Empathy And Learning Among High School Learners, Patience Akoth Aloo

Master of Education

Empathy is a vital human quality with profound significance in both the broader world and the school environment. It forms the bedrock for building positive relationships, resolving conflicts, promoting inclusivity, and enhancing communication skills. In schools, it creates a supportive and inclusive atmosphere, facilitating effective teacher-student communication, reducing discrimination, and encouraging students to develop essential life skills that will serve them well in all aspects of their lives. Despite the above importance of Empathy, learners do not appreciate its importance and end up acting unempathetically while research has shown that teachers feel inadequately equipped to teach this value. This research …

Investigating The Contribution Of Headteachers In Addressing Gender Equality In Primary Schools In Koboko District, (Uganda)., Munduga Mario Aruku

Master of Education

This dissertation investigated the role of headteachers in promoting gender equality within primary schools, focusing on the context of Koboko District, Uganda. The study addressed the background and context of gender inequality significant in education, formulated research questions, and delineated study objectives to explore headteachers' contributions comprehensively.

The study aimed to analyze the structural measures and initiatives implemented by headteachers to address and promote gender equality within primary schools in Koboko District, Uganda, identify and assess the challenges they face in these endeavours, focusing on specific barriers and constraints, and examine the strategies utilized by headteachers to actively promote gender …