Curriculum and Instruction Commons^™

White Blindness: An Investigation Into Teacher Whiteness And Racial Ignorance, Mary Katharine Brasche

Theses and Dissertations

White supremacy and domination are the backbone foundation of the United States and have been long documented in its history. The prevalence of whiteness and white supremacy is not isolated to social situations or commerce but fundamentally ingrained in the education system. While Brown v. the Board of Education abolished the notion of separate but equal, the education of a diverse American student population remains predominantly at the hands of White, female educators. This action research study, using an investigative mixed-methods design, attempted to address educator whiteness at a small, rural high school in the Southeastern United States. Treatment …

Preparing Students To Think In The 21St Century: The Impact Of Asynchronous Online Discussions On Critical Thinking Skills In A High School English Class, Evan Way

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this action research was to evaluate how the implementation of asynchronous online discussions into the classroom impacts the critical thinking skills of secondary language arts students. Although critical thinking has shown to be an important 21st century skill (Paul & Elder, 2002), many students are leaving high school lacking the thinking skills necessary to succeed in a modern society (Arum & Roksa, 2011; Conley, 2015). Standardized testing results within the population of this study indicated similar critical thinking deficits as the rest of the nation. This study focused on two central research questions: (1) To what extent …

The Devil And Tom Robot: The Use Of Robotics To Impact Empathy In Secondary Students Of American Literature, Susan K. Porter-Voss

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this action research study was to evaluate the effect of a robotics-based intervention on empathy for students enrolled in secondary English and literature courses. Empathy, as a concept, is an integral component of reading comprehension and student motivation. A decline in reported individual levels of empathy among young adults can negatively influence longitudinal academic and career success. Robotics present a promising method in which to impact student learning in K-12 environments. Student manipulation of Wonder Workshop Cue robots in designed challenges was integrated within literature content standards for English III. The outlined study measured the impact of …

A Descriptive Mixed-Methods Study Examining Teachers’ Needs And Preferences For Technology Integration Professional Development, Amber Birden

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to examine teachers’ needs and preferences for technology integration professional development (PD). To guide the study, three research questions were developed: (1) What are teachers’ needs and preferences for technology integration professional development in K-12 schools?, (2) How are teachers currently integrating technology for teaching and learning in their classroom?, and (3) How do teachers perceive technology benefits and usefulness of technology integration for teaching and learning?

This was a descriptive mixed methods study. The research study included 33 educators from six different U.S. states. Quantitative data was collected from the technology needs assessment …

A Finding Place: Social Justice Poetry Toward Empathy In The Secondary English Language Arts Classroom, Patricia Vicino

Theses and Dissertations

This study examined the effects of a combined reader-response and close reading approach to social justice poetry on the empathy levels of secondary level English Language Arts students in my classroom. This action research study occurred over a six-week period during a Fall 2021 English elective course with six student participants in a high school within South Carolina. Research was conducted via a mixed methods approach that analyzed both quantitative and qualitative data from prestudy and poststudy Likert scales along with surveys, interviews, observation notes, and artifacts. The data revealed that student empathy levels were elevated after the study unit …

Assessing The Impact Of Online Homework On 8th Grade Students’ Mathematical Proficiency And Perceptions: An Action Research Study, Chad Williams

Theses and Dissertations

This action research aimed to assess the impact of online homework, delivered via IXL, on thirteen 8th Grade Mathematics students' mathematical proficiency and explored their perceptions of its usefulness. The Cedar Hill Middle School students typically scored below state and national averages in mathematics, necessitating increased rigor and support. Two main questions guided the research in this study. The first question assessed the impact of online homework on students' mathematical proficiency according to the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) definition, looking specifically at strategic competence, conceptual understanding, procedural fluency, and adaptive reasoning. The second question investigated students' perceptions …

Exploring Technology Integration At A Public Middle School: A Descriptive Research Study On Integration Perceptions, Factors, And Barriers, Charlene Jeffreys

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this action research was to explore mathematics teachers’ current instructional practices and perceptions of technology integration, as well as the perceived barriers that influence their technology integration in the classroom. Teacher perceptions of technology integration at this public middle school. Across the country, states have partnered with federal efforts, taking an active role in building a technology-rich learning environment in their states (Education Superhighway 2017). Teachers have access to a wide range of tools and practices that involve using and creating appropriate technological processes and resources to facilitate teaching, engage students, and improve learning outcomes (Richey & …

Using Multimedia Vocabulary Games To Improve Newcomer Esol Students Motivation And Vocabulary Acquisition, Elizabeth E. Brittingham

Theses and Dissertations

This study looks at the use of the multimedia learning platform, Quizlet, to help newcomer ESOL students learn English vocabulary. The use of Quizlet to learn vocabulary is supported by Mayer’s Cognitive Load Theory. With an influx of ESOL students, and a lack of teacher training, Quizlet may help to create a more equitable solution for newcomer ESOL students to learn English vocabulary. The findings of this study show that newcomers benefit from using Quizlet to learn vocabulary in the language 2 by matching it to the vocabulary in the language 1, but only if they are able to read …

Where Are The Girls? Exploring Influences On Female Eighth Grade Public School Students’ Choices Of Technology Classes In Texas: A Mixed Method Action Research Study, Shasta Colon

Theses and Dissertations

There is a continuing trend of unrepresented female students in STEM classrooms, particularly in technology courses. There is a focus on the K-12 learning environment to increase the number of female STEM students, which will encourage a growth in participation for females in the STEM field (Sassler, Glass, Levitte, & Michelmore, 2017). The purpose of this study was to increase the number of females students who enroll in technology courses in a public school in Kether Independent School District (KISD). The participants were 66 eighth–grade female students who were enrolled in the College and Career Readiness (CCR) and Technology Applications …

Mixed Methods Action Research: How Integrating Student Response Technology And Case Studies In A Largely Populated University Course Influences Student Engagement, Feedback, And Learning, Scott L. Matteson

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to determine if implementing student response technology (SRT) and case studies into a largely populated university undergraduate course would influence student engagement. When student engagement is influenced the potential for positive learning outcomes occurs leading to a higher likelihood of student success (Swap & Walter, 2015). Four research questions guided this study: How and to what extent does incorporating SRT and case studies in a largely populated undergraduate course at MSU influence: (1) student motivation; (2) cognitive, emotional, and behavioral engagement; (3) feedback; and (4) What are the effects of SRT and case studies …

Pursuing Perceptions: Exploring Ease Of Use, Usefulness, Relevance, Self-Efficacy, And Past Experiences To Describe Influences On Elementary Teachers’ Acceptance Of Digital Game-Based Materials, Andrew L. Simpson

Theses and Dissertations

There are many acceptance factors that might influence teachers’ intent to create instruction supplemented or enhanced with digital game-based materials (DGBM). A mixed-methods exploration of five research questions was used to describe how teachers’ perceived ease of use, self-efficacy beliefs, opinions about usefulness, perceptions of relevance, and past experiences informed their acceptance of digital game-based materials. This research study took place at Hill Street Elementary School, which is a suburban K-5 school within the Kaia County School District. Data collection was conducted using a survey, one-on-one interviews, and fieldnotes. A purposeful sample of nine interview participants from grades K-4, and …

Incremental, Spaced Repetition And Studymate Flashcards: The Impact On College Student Memorization Of Measurement Conversion Standards, Patricia A. Bromer

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this action research was to evaluate the impact of and student perception of incremental, spaced repetition of StudyMate electronic flashcard use on memorization of measurement conversion standards for an online Mathematics in Health Sciences course. Online college classes require more self-direction and usually do not allow for partner or group work. These characteristics of online classes may hinder students’ ability to memorize crucial information, increasing their cognitive load and leading to feelings of inadequacy. This mixed methods study assessed the impact of incremental, spaced repetition of StudyMate flashcard use on college math students’ memorization of measurement conversion …

Using Video Analysis As A Professional Development Tool In Order To Discern How To Better Foster The Engagement Level Of High School English Learners In A Content Area Class, Jennifer Lynne Ochwo

Theses and Dissertations

Many teachers struggle to engage English Learner students in the classroom as they feel students may be disconnected both academically and socially. In addition, many teachers have minimal intercultural experiences and limited training that could help them connect with these students. This qualitative study seeks to explore the use of video analysis as a professional development tool that would serve as a mirror for teachers who are focused on enhancing English Learners’ engagement in the classroom. The study participants were six teachers who teach sheltered English instruction classes at the Freshman Academy and High School. Data was collected over a …

Reaching The Standard: An Action Research Study On Standards-Based Grading Practices And English Learners, Dylan D’Anthony L. Orot

Theses and Dissertations

With the advent of standards-based education and its focus on English proficiency, English learners are at-risk of falling further behind when compared to their English adept peers because educators find themselves ill-equipped to meet the rigorous demands of such a curricular shift. This study aimed to identify pedagogical practices that bolster a standards-based grading (SBG) curriculum for sheltered English learners. Qualitative data from teacher participants and students, such as interviews and observations, were used to create a novel curriculum for sheltered English learners, centered on standards-based grading practices, and examine that curriculum’s effectiveness in helping teachers and their sheltered English …

Disengagement Of Male Students In Remediated Ela Classes, Joanne Berardi Martin

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this action research was to examine the disengagement of male students in remediated English Language Arts (ELA) classes. Male students are disproportionately represented in remediated ELA classes, which indicates that male students are not progressing in their literacy skills at the same rate as females. Data was gathered from an ELA section of male students through a Google survey, a group interview, and two observations of students in a co-taught class. The purpose of these data collection methods was to understand the experiences of male students to determine the source of their disengagement. A focus group with …

Using Visual Arts To Teach Beginning Literacy Skills, Stacy Phaxaysithideth

Theses and Dissertations

This study examined the effect of using visual arts to teach rhyming words and word family words. Two interventions were used, both utilizing the use of visual arts to learn both literacy skills. The interventions were then assessed with a pre- and post-test to see the if the interventions were successful. A student attitude survey was also given at the end of the study to see how the students felt about the interventions. A semi-structured interview was done at the end of the interventions as well to collect the thoughts of my co-teacher on the interventions. Lastly, my teacher observations …

Qualitative Action Research Into The Planning Between The Classroom Teacher And Reading Interventionist, Russell Derrial Clark

Theses and Dissertations

Students reading below grade level need intense intervention. Reading is an active development that requires close collaboration by all the teachers involved in supporting struggling students. Understanding the needs of students with reading deficiencies can present challenges for teachers that are unable to work collectively to support the students. Teachers and interventionists need time to reflect on their attitudes and perceptions of planning and collaborating if they are going to help students achieve reading goals. Through the intervention of this study, the development and implementation of collaborative planning, teachers will be better prepared to meet the needs of their students. …

“We Make A Life By What We Give”: The Impact Of A High School Mentoring Program On The Perceptions And Academic Achievement Of Black Males, Brandon R. Ross

Theses and Dissertations

This action research study describes how a high school mentoring program impacts the academic achievement and postsecondary planning of Black male students. It further explores the perception Black male students have on school and their White teachers. The theoretical frameworks that support this research are social bonding theory (SBT) and critical race theory (CRT). This study used a qualitative design through a survey to examine the following research questions: “How does a high school mentoring program impact the academic achievement and perception of school for Black male students?” The study further examined “How a high school mentoring program impacts the …

A Hawaiian Heroine’S Journey: The Early Life And Career Of Dancer Jean Erdman Campbell, Diane B. Mcghee

Theses and Dissertations

This biographical study covers the early life and career of dancer, choreographer, and avant-garde theatre artist, Jean Erdman Campbell (1916-2020). Based on extensive research of historical literature and archival materials, the manuscript traces Erdman’s ancestry and follows the subject through age 32, when she became established as a star of modern dance and prepared for a world tour. The guiding question for this study was what influences shaped the life course, identity and artistry of Erdman, and how might the subject be presented as biography? The researcher examined the influences on Erdman as related to various dance traditions, especially Hawaiian …

Meaningful And Interactive Learning Experiences Provided Through A Learning Management System: An Action Research Study In Ninth Grade Advanced Placement Human Geography, Daniel Robert Plonski

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this mixed methods action research was to determine if increased interactive Schoology-based modules could alter learner perceptions concerning the lack of meaningful learning (learner-instructor, learner-learner, learner-content) in the culture unit of instruction in an Advanced Placement Human Geography (APHG) classroom. A series of instructional modules were facilitated through the learning management system (LMS) Schoology to students (n = 16) in APHG at a southeastern U.S. high school. The interactions were designed to enhance interaction based upon the criteria provided by Piaget’s (1981) social constructivist theory, specifically Moore and Kearsley’s (2011) systems approach and Miyazoe and Anderson’s (2010) …

Understanding The Priorities And Practices Of Rural Science Teachers: Implications For Designing Professional Learning, Kerri Wingert, Jennifer Jacobs, William Lindsay, Abraham S. Lo, Cari F. Herrmann-Abell, William R. Penuel

The Rural Educator

In order to design professional learning that supports rural science teachers to effectively implement standards-based “five-dimensional” (5D) instructional and assessment practices, a critical first step is to elicit their perspectives, prior experiences, concerns, and interests. Based on survey data from 87 rural science teachers in Colorado, along with focus group sessions with 18 of those teachers, this article investigates teachers’ perspectives on what makes rural science teaching unique, the degree to which they use 5D science instruction, their curricular and assessment resources, and their professional learning experiences and preferences. Overall, rural science teachers in Colorado reported using rich practices for …

More Than Recipes: Enriching A Campus Common Read With Historical Cookbooks, Kristen J. Nyitray, Christine Fena

Library Faculty Publications

In this case study, the authors describe a virtual event designed to enrich a campus common read with historical cookbooks. The program included an overview of the collection and a real-time activity to engage participants in virtually examining rare and unique Chinese cookbooks. A set of guiding questions emphasized primary source literacies including analyses of physical characteristics, contexts, content, and further research that can be conducted by consulting the collection. The virtual modality proved to be both a challenge and an opportunity, but the overall structure of the event - identifying a collection that relates to a larger campus initiative, …

Validasi Pengembangan Modul Pembelajaran Ppkn Berbasis Mobile Untuk Meningkatkan Keterampilan Sosial Siswa Kelas Xi Sma, Fella Farikhatus Sholikhah, Triana Rejekiningsih, Leo Agung Sutimin

Jurnal Pendidikan: Teori, Penelitian, dan Pengembangan

The purpose of the research is to develop and validate the product in form a mobile-based module on Civics subjects. This study adopt the ADDIE model development design (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation). Validation and assessment from the validator, consist of: 1) validation from material experts obtained an average score of 3.72 qualified "Good"; 2) through media expert validation obtained an average score of 5.00 including the qualification "Very Good"; and 3) The total results obtained from the average score from the assessments of material experts and media experts related to the product being developed showed a result of …

Compatibility Of Learning Competency Achievement Indicators In Electronic School Book (Esb) Indonesian High School With Critical Thinking Aspects, Imam Safi’I, Ade Hikmat, Ade Eka Anggraini, Sobri Sobri

Jurnal Pendidikan: Teori, Penelitian, dan Pengembangan

The purpose of writing this article is to describe the level of conformity and diversity of development indicators of competency achievement in Indonesian high school BSE with critical thinking aspects emphasized by the Directorate. PSMA Directorate General of Primary and Secondary Education (2017). The method used in this research is content analysis. The research procedure used refers to Huberman & Saldaña (2018). The results showed that in the BSE class X there were 79 items, in class XI as many as 64, and in class XII as many as 55 items. The development of indicators of competency achievement in BSE …

Teachers’ Beliefs On The Implementation Of Online Speaking Class During Pandemic, Fierda Aulya Mantika, Johannes Ananto Prayogo

Jurnal Pendidikan: Teori, Penelitian, dan Pengembangan

The focus of this research is to understand how the teachers’ beliefs that the teachers have before they teaching speaking class. Moreover, the teacher will teach with a method whereas the teachers and students only using internet to connected with each other by using laptops. The data were collected by using questionnaire, observation and interview. In order to understand this research mixed method research is used to analyze the data. The result shows that teachers’ beliefs that the teachers have is in line with the actual practice in the classroom.

Efektivitas Pembelajaran Stem Dengan Model Pjbl Terhadap Kreativitas Dan Pemahaman Konsep Ipa Siswa Sekolah Dasar, Indah Yulaikah, Sri Rahayu, Parlan Parlan

Jurnal Pendidikan: Teori, Penelitian, dan Pengembangan

This study aims to examine the effectiveness of STEM learning with the PjBL model on creativity and conceptual understanding of elementary school students. The Research design used in this study is a quasi-experimental design. The research subjects were 60 elementary school students who were divided into 2 homogeneous classes, consisting 30 students in the experimental class and 30 students in the experimental class. Students in the control class were taught by conventional methods and in the experimental class were taught by STEM learning with the PjBL model. Creativity data was taken with a creativity test instrument with a reliability of …

Beguru: Menggali Prinsip-Prinsip Penyiapan Sarana Dan Prasarana Pendidikan Dalam Kearifan Lokal Sasak, Lalu Sumardi, Dwi Wahyudiati

Jurnal Pendidikan: Teori, Penelitian, dan Pengembangan

The purpose of this research is to explore the principles of beguru in preparing educational facilities and infrastructure. This study used a naturalistic approach with ethnograpi types. Data collection was done using ethnographic interview techniques. To maintain the validity of the data, triangulation of data sources and time is carried out. The collected data was analyzed using an interactive model which consists of three stages, namely; data condensation, data display, and conclusion. Based on the analysis technique found 3 principles of beguru in the preparation of educational facilities and infrastructure, namely; principles of comfort and tranquility, principles of availability and …

Global Issues Spanning Higher Education, Gary J. Burkholder, Erwin Krauskopf

Higher Learning Research Communications

We are pleased to publish the first regular issue (Volume 12, Issue 1) of Higher Learning Research Communications (HLRC) for 2022. While the pandemic waxes and wanes, students in many parts of the world are returning or have returned to face-to-face instruction. It will take some time to fully understand the impact of the pandemic on higher education and what lasting changes will result from it. The Special Issue, Education Technologies and COVID-19: Experiences and Lessons learned, for which we are continuing to review manuscripts, should provide some insight into this question.This letter also contains article summaries.

Effective Reading Practices For Inclusive Classrooms, Andrew Block

Graduate Teacher Education

This paper examined research on what are best practices for teaching reading comprehension to students in an inclusive classroom. This topic is explored through research findings from multiple quantitative and qualitative studies which examined the effectiveness of structured reading instruction, explicitly taught reading strategies, student autonomy, and discussion and collaboration as best practices for improving reading comprehension skills. While research showed a variety of effective practices and strategies to increase reading comprehension among all students, the research also suggested the need for content area teachers to receive on-going professional development to consistently implement evidence-based practices throughout the course of the …

High Quality, Equity, And Assessment: An Analysis Of Variables Impacting English Learner Standardized Science Test Performance And Implications For Construct Validity, Maria Del Carmen Salazar, Joanna K. Bruno, Melissa P. Schneider

Curriculum and Instruction: Faculty Scholarship

In the United States, assessment is seen as a lever that can facilitate high-quality education. This study on English learners, students whose native language is not English, was based on data from eighth-grade English learners’ performance on science general and content-specific (physical, life, and earth science) standardized exams and an English language proficiency exam. The researchers utilized regression analysis to examine factors (i.e., socioeconomic status, home language, English language proficiency, and receptive and productive elements of language) that are predictive of English learner performance in general and content-specific science standardized assessments to identify implications for construct validity of high-stakes science …