Educational Methods Commons^™

Math For The Real World: Implementing A Standards-Based Math Curriculum With A Focus On Formative Assessment, Rachael Smilowitz

All Dissertations

This study investigated the relationship between the Ongoing Assessment Project (OGAP) professional development and the fidelity of implementation of the Illustrative Math Middle School curriculum in Roseland County School District. The district adopted Illustrative Math in 2016; however, many teachers either implemented it inconsistently or used only select components. While prior research has demonstrated that OGAP training can improve student outcomes on standardized assessments in large urban districts such as Philadelphia, little is known about its impact on teachers’ use of high-quality curricula such as Illustrative Math.

The study addressed three guiding questions: (1) How does participation in OGAP professional …

Universal Design For Learning: Practical Implications For Christian Educators, Hannah S. Kennedy, Kate Scarborough, Bryan Gill, Lisa L. Beckham

International Christian Community of Teacher Educators Journal

The Universal Design for Learning framework, designed by David Rose and Anne Meyer (2002) is an evidence-based approach to teaching that proactively targets learner variability and meets the unique needs of all students in the classroom. This framework aligns with our faith-based mission as we are called to the Christ centered belief that all people were made in the image of God. The three guiding principles of Universal Design for Learning are: multiple means of representation, multiple means of engagement, and multiple means of action/expression. By adopting the principles of universal design for learning, educators can proactively plan, implement, and …

Fostering Entrepreneurial Thinking And Practice Through Teaching And Learning Integration, Mohammad G. Sabbir

Learning and Educational Center Virtual Teaching and Learning Conference

This session explores an innovative, evidence-based approach to integrating entrepreneurial thinking into undergraduate neuroscience education through hands-on gene editing experiences. Using the commercially available Bio-Rad CRISPR/Cas9-based “Out of the Blue” kit for bacterial LacZ gene editing, students are guided not only through the scientific principles underlying modern gene editing technologies but also through the entrepreneurial challenge of replicating and manufacturing the kit using existing lab resources. This model empowers students to extend their learning beyond the classroom by engaging in cost-effective, scalable biotechnology practices—particularly valuable for institutions with limited funding. Classroom-based research demonstrates increased student engagement, deeper conceptual understanding, and …

Investigating The Relationship Between Noun Classes And Plant Folk Taxonomy In Chasu Language Of Kilimanjaro Region In Tanzania, Peter Rabson Mziray

Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences

The current study investigates the relationship between noun classes and plant folk taxonomy in Chasu (G 22). The study focuses on two objectives: the first objective is to describe the plant folk taxonomy in Chasu and the second objective is to determine the relationship between noun classes and plant folk taxonomy in Chasu. Data were collected from rural villages in Same and Mwanga districts by using free listing, field interviews (jungle-walk-and-identify), and written texts containing Chasu plant names. The findings reveal that Chasu folk taxonomy reflects different ethnobotanical categories; including a unique beginner which is mmea/mimea ‘plant(s)’, and three life …

Integrating Goal-Setting Into An Urban Community College Developmental Mathematics Course: A Multi-Perspective Learning Experience, Tamie S. Dickson

Education Doctorate Dissertations

Developmental mathematics (DM) students often encounter systemic and contextual obstacles in higher education. Low self-efficacy, math anxiety, multiple external demands, and pervasive gaps in prerequisite knowledge can all undermine the strategic behaviors needed to manage the academic environment independently. Although DM reforms are widely researched, the literature lacks a firsthand perspective on the daily processes students apply as they assume control over their learning. This qualitative action research study investigated the integration of intentional goal-setting into a recently redesigned one-level pilot DM course at an open-access, urban community college. The practitioner-researcher created the PATHway framework—rooted in Zimmerman’s (2000) three-phase Self-Regulated …

Effectiveness Of Pre-Service Teachers’ Service Learning With English Language Learners Via Zoom, Donita Grissom, Padideh Fattahi Marnani, Sophie Cuocci, Irina Mclaughlin

Journal of English Learner Education

This study investigates service-learning experiences for university students in a teacher certification program, explored through the lens of sociocultural theory. Data was collected from pre-service teachers (PST) involved in service learning conducted virtually using Zoom with Vietnamese pre-service teachers. Data was in the form of surveys, which included short reflections and yes/no responses. Findings show that the service-learning program allowed PST to have the opportunity to apply the strategies learned in their coursework with ELs and increased their sense of preparation as a result. Pre-service teachers reported the service-learning communities of practice to be beneficial for their ELs. Implications highlight …

Transdisciplinarity Through A Functional Approach In The Content Areas: Commonalities For School Teachers, Karen L. Terrell, Luciana C. De Oliveira, Jia Gui

Journal of English Learner Education

In 2020, the WIDA Consortium released a revised English language development standards framework that integrates a functional approach to language development, grounded in systemic functional linguistics, across core subjects: English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. Central to this framework are four Key Language Uses—Narrate, Inform, Explain, and Argue. While this holistic approach is promising, it poses challenges for elementary and middle-grade teachers and ESOL specialists, who often teach multiple subjects. To ensure all teachers can implement this approach effectively, the integration of functional language must be simplified for generalist instructors. This article explores how identifying linguistic commonalities across …

Exploring Language Through Systemic Functional Linguistics: Importance Of Communicating And Developing Academic Language For Multilingual Learners, Yana Shifrina-Piljovin

Journal of English Learner Education

Systemic Functional Linguistics (SFL) is a comprehensive theory of language that offers a unique perspective on how we use language to communicate and create meaning. SFL provides educators with a powerful theoretical framework for understanding how language functions in various contexts and how this knowledge can be applied to enhance classroom instruction. Developed by linguist Michael Halliday in the 1960s, SFL has become an influential framework for understanding linguistic metafunctions, from everyday conversations to academic discourse. The "systemic" aspect of SFL refers to the idea that language is a network of systems, each offering a set of choices for expressing …

The Benefit Of Qualified English Language Teachers In Non-English-Speaking Countries, Tina M. Allen-Abulhassan

Journal of English Learner Education

Abstract

This study explores the impact of qualified English language teachers on English Language Learners (ELLs) in their home countries, assessing how English language instruction can enhance their preparedness for higher education in Western universities. The need for effective English language education is underscored by the scarcity of qualified ESL instructors, which leaves L2 learning ill-equipped for academic success. Utilizing Vygotsky’s social development theory, particularly the Zone of Proximal Development, this research examines the role of social interactions with qualified native speakers in fostering language proficiency and academic achievement. The literature review highlights significant barriers ELLs face, including inadequate teaching …

Camp David Accords Lesson Plan With Simulation, Natalia Burgess

Teaching Social Studies in the Peach State

The Camp David Accords resulted in a peace between Egypt and Israel that lasted 45 years, but failed to achieve the broader effect that Jimmy Carter was aiming for which was peace in the Middle East. With this lesson plan students taking U.S. History at the secondary education level will analyze U.S. international and domestic policies including their advancements and social changes during the Carter administration. Students will evaluate key issues between Egypt and Israel by analyzing the successes and/or failures of the Camp David Accords. Students should be able to identify conflict and change by understanding when there is …

Creating A Culture Of Philanthropy With The Imsa Community, Dana Camacho, Cesar Patino

Professional Learning Day

What motivates someone to donate to a cause? Why is philanthropy important at IMSA? What *is* the IMSA Fund, anyway?

Join us for a brief overview of the IMSA Fund and what we do, then share your experience and expertise to brainstorm new ways to engage students, faculty & staff, alumni, and the community around us. Share how IMSA inspires you and inspire others to support IMSA’s mission.

Generative Music, Dr. Phadmaker Patankar

Professional Learning Day

There is a lot of buzz about text generation using tools like Chatgpt. There is a lot of work going on for music generation. We will look at the history of music generation and look at the tools available for music generation. All the current work for music generation is from machine learning (or AI).

Enhancing Experiential Learning Inside & Outside The Classroom, Dr. Paul Gaszak, Dr. Luke Berryman

Professional Learning Day

How can we continue to expand experiential opportunities through courses, co-curricular, and extracurricular programs? In this session, we will showcase examples of existing programs with experiential elements, as well as what embedded experiential learning opportunities could look like across the Academy

Modernizing Imsa Service Learning Curiosity, Connection & Commitment To The Common Good, Emma Wilson Parker

Professional Learning Day

Guided by IMSA’s belief that “belonging to a community requires commitment to the common good,” this session will provide an overview of IMSA’s current service learning program and efforts to modernize it for greater structure, equity, and impact. Participants will also engage in collaborative ideation, sharing strategies to strengthen curiosity, deepen connections, and build partnerships that ensure students’ service experiences are meaningful, transformative, and supportive of their growth as leaders and engaged citizens.

Disease Detectives: An Introductory Exploration Of Foodborne Epidemiology, Dr. Zack Conley

Professional Learning Day

This session is an interactive workshop utilizing inquiry-based and problem-centered learning to introduce basic concepts of epidemiology. In particular participants will engage in group discussion and decision making to explore foodborne illnesses and the science used to track them. Our hope is to use this session as an opportunity to solicit feedback on ways to improve these lessons.

Tips And Tricks To Effective Supervision, Steve Zant, Meg Junk

Professional Learning Day

Whether you're a first-time supervisor or a seasoned professional, this workshop will help build your supervisory toolbox.

Re-Thinking Statistics; Proposing Curriculum Changes To Our Statistics Curriculum At Imsa, Dr. Brian Trainor, Paul Rummelhoff

Professional Learning Day

We’re currently thinking of overhauling the statistics curriculum to move away from the traditional 2-semester AP-style course and move towards a 1-semester college course for dual credit. In addition we are thinking of offering more statistics courses post-intro stats and we could use some thought partners to discuss these changes.

Use Your Words: Positive Interims & Engagement, Tracy Townsend

Professional Learning Day

This year in particular, Faculty have been encouraged to establish connections with their students, which lead to my experiment with using regular interim comments for every student as a tool for improving my connection to them and their families. Along the way, I learned something about how to reach my most isolated students and how to pay attention to my classroom in new ways.

The Core Of Computing, Dan Campbell

Professional Learning Day

Computer science can be divided into three foundational paradigms: theory, design, and abstraction. I will share an effort to bring these paradigms to IMSA through two new courses, Elements of Computing Systems 1 and 2, and an independent study, Theory of Computation. The goal is to build a rigorous, engaging foundation for deeper study in computer science. In this talk, I’ll reflect on what’s working, what’s challenging, and early classroom experiences.

Ai At Work: A Panel, Rich Busby, Lindsey Herlehy, Ashley Ott, Andrew Reif

Professional Learning Day

Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming how we work, teach, and collaborate. In this panel discussion, four IMSA staff members from different departments will share how they’re using AI in their daily roles—from streamlining workflows and enhancing communication to supporting teaching, learning, and operations. Join us to explore practical examples, lessons learned, and emerging ideas for how AI can help us work smarter and more creatively across the academy.

The American Dream As Told By Marginalized Voices, Erin Micklo

Professional Learning Day

History is often told by the victors, but in moments of trauma or marginalization, history can be taught through literature. This session will look at how poetry emerged from the Angel Island detainment camps, Japanese internment camps, and Native American short fiction. We will discuss how and why these lessons are rarely taught in schools, and how learning about history through literature can help students understand current events and the world around them.

Powerschool For Staff, Dr.Paul Gaszack

Professional Learning Day

PowerSchool, our student information system, has lots of information that can be helpful for staff across the academy, such as student and family contact info, faculty schedules, room lists, and more. In this session, we will explore some basic functions of PowerSchool that may be helpful in your role and/or departmen

Spam, Spam, Spam! To Click Or Not To Click., Steve Dutcher, Its Department

Professional Learning Day

October is Cyber Security Awareness Month—join ITS for a fun and eye-opening session on spotting and stopping cyber threats. From suspicious emails and hacked accounts to unattended devices, we’ll uncover the tricks attackers use and share practical tips to protect yourself and IMSA. This 30 minute session blends real examples, humor, and hands-on awareness so you’ll leave ready to say: Not today, spam!

Ai And Neuroscience: Hope, Humbug, Or Hype, Dr.Ashwin Mohan

Professional Learning Day

This session explores the rapidly evolving intersection of artificial intelligence and neuroscience. Through case studies, interactive discussion, and hands-on exploration, participants will gain an understanding of AI as a Co-Scientist, as well as how insights from neuroscience have and continue to inspire design of AI approaches. Attendees will explore practical applications where AI and neuroscience already meet (such as brain–computer interfaces, mental health technologies, and cognitive modeling); consider ethical, societal, and educational implications of merging these two powerful domains and aim to distinguish between genuine advances, exaggerated claims, and common misconceptions.

The Chemistry In Art, Joyce Symoniak

Professional Learning Day

Chemistry plays an important role in the arts, especially when working with solids and liquids that form the basis of art. Solid pigments help to give paints their vibrant colors. The interaction between these states of matter determines the texture, durability, and finish of the artwork. Understanding the chemistry behind art allows artists to push the boundaries of artistic expression. We will explore the difference between solid and liquids while creating a piece of art.

How Ai Really Works, Dr. Peter Dong

Professional Learning Day

This session will discuss, in as simple a way as possible, how generative artificial intelligence works, using simple demonstrations to show the basic principles of large language models. The hope is that this will help dispel the tendency to view AI as some sort of black magic and allow people to consider carefully how it can be useful as a tool—and when it can’t.

Imsa’S Residential Life Experience, Stephanie Broy, Cameron Doxey, Taylor Jones, Emily Cheng, Vivian Thurmond

Professional Learning Day

This presentation will offer faculty and staff an inside look at the Residential Life experience, highlighting how our programs support student development, well-being, and community building. Through real examples and student stories, we’ll showcase the impact of intentional programming, peer leadership, and collaboration across campus. The goal is strengthening partnerships and exploring ways faculty and staff can further engage with and support the residential student experience.

Are You Following Me?: Using Social Media To Engage Students, Dr. Emily Gauld

Professional Learning Day

In this session, we will explore how social media can be used to complement curriculum, encourage student learning, and build a stronger community of learners both inside and outside the classroom. We will look at social media examples of subject-area (and even class-specific) accounts from IMSA and beyond to discuss how we can create content designed for students and—by intentional use of algorithmic AI—shape what content is being pushed to their feeds on a regular basis.

Ctrl-Alt-Delete: Shifting Mindsets & Building Momentum, Courtney Caruthers, Steve Zant

Professional Learning Day

Using the Ctrl-Alt-Delete framework, this interactive session will draw on coaching, mentorship, and progressive conversations to inspire growth. Together, we’ll explore what to control, what alternatives to try, and what barriers to release. Participants will leave with practical tools, renewed clarity, and a sense of momentum; because sometimes we all need a reset.

Weaving Steam Into Tradition: The Science And Art Behind The Mexican Zarape, David Hernandez

Professional Learning Day

This presentation explores the deep interconnection between traditional Mexican textile practices and modern STEAM education through the lens of the zarape. The zarape is more than a cultural artifact—it embodies centuries of scientific, technological, artistic, and mathematical knowledge. From the physics of hand-spun cotton and wool to the chemistry of natural dyes and the mathematical patterns in weaving, the process of creating a zarape offers powerful ancestral knowledge of STEAM in action.