Educational Methods Commons^™

Both Ways Strong: Using Digital Games To Engage Aboriginal Learners, Robyn Jorgensen, Tom Lowrie

Aboriginal Policy Research Consortium International (APRCi)

Engaging Aboriginal learners in the school curriculum can be quite a challenge given issues of cultural and linguistic differences. Even more so, these differences can be expanded when the students are in their adolescence. Creating learning environments that engage learners, while providing deep learning opportunities, is one of the biggest challenges for teachers in remote communities. This paper reports on a reform initiative that centred on the use of a digital game, Guitar Heroes, in a remote Aboriginal school. It was found that the digital media provided teachers with opportunities for new learning spaces and resulted in additional unintended learning …

I Have A Solution To Share: Learning Through Equitable Participation In A Mathematics Classroom, Mary Q. Foote, Rachel Lambert

Education Faculty Articles and Research

Student participation is an issue of equity. Without participation there can be no learning. This study focuses on the participation (and therefore learning) of struggling students (those with individual education plans [IEPs]) during the implementation of a relational thinking routine in a third-grade inclusion classroom. Students with IEPs often initially used direct modeling with linking cubes as a resource for presenting their thinking. In this way, they were able to demonstrate their ability to think relationally. As the year progressed, these students, who had earlier been reluctant to share and had done so only by using several of the resources …

The Effects Of Learning Groups On Student Achievement And Attitude In A Sixth Grade Mathematics Class, Jay Randall Mcguffin

All Graduate Projects

A handbook for implementing "Student Team Learning" as an alternative teaching strategy for middle level math teachers was developed after conducting extensive action research project within a sixth grade math classroom. A literature review on barriers to learning mathematics in middle schools and Student Team Learning as a teaching strategy was conducted. An action research project was conducted and from the pre to post-test data and best practices implementation regarding student team learning methods the handbook project was constructed. The handbook includes an introduction to Student Team Learning; guidelines for implementation; a student attitude survey; lesson practice questions, review sheets, …

Anxiety In The Math Classroom, Jean Benner

Mathematics Graduate Theses

Math anxiety is a learned response that inhibits cognitive performance in the math classroom. It is widespread among students from elementary age through college. Students suffering from math anxiety have difficulty performing calculations and maintaining a positive outlook on mathematics. Math anxiety is the result of a cycle of math avoidance that begins with negative experiences regarding mathematics. Facts pertaining to math anxiety are discussed and strategies are suggested to assist teachers in helping students to overcome math anxiety or avoid the phenomenon altogether.

Kindergarten Assessments As A Predictor For A Student’S Need For Intervention, Victoria Ellen Weinketz Hoover

Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to determine if the kindergarten assessment results from the three windows in reading, written communication, and mathematics were a valid predictor of a student’s need for intervention up until the conclusion of second grade. Reynolds (1992) suggested that a student’s overall school success is reflective of the approach taken early in kindergarten. With the demands of the No Child Left Behind Act (2001), districts have set in place strategies to meet the standard of all students reading on grade level at the conclusion of the third grade. If districts are to rise to the …

A Correlational Study Of The Avid Program With M.S. Math Achievement, David J. Peak

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Improving student achievement in mathematics in secondary schools remains a priority for public education in our country. With continued federal and state mandates to improve overall student achievement in mathematics, as well as to close the achievement gap, many school districts have sought programs, such as Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID), to assist in improving student performance. The mission of AVID is to improve the academic achievement of students who are often in the "middle" or "average" and who are typically minorities and are economically disadvantaged. AVID seeks to support these students by providing them with the strategies that successful …

Hungary And The United States: A Comparison Of Gifted Education, Julianna Connelly Stockton

Mathematics Faculty Publications

There is a lot that can be learned about a country based on the programs and provisions it has for mathematically talented students. While it is difficult to identify a single U.S. "program" or "approach" for gifted education, in general the trend is to put mathematically talented students through the standard mathematics sequence, just starting at an earlier age. In Hungary, on the other hand, the focus is on enrichment over acceleration. This paper explores how some very different historical, cultural, and political forces have shaped these two countries’ different approaches to educating mathematically talented students.

Are The Math Scores Of Students Who Are Taught Mathematics Utilizing The Methods Endorsed By The Alabama Math, Science, And Technology Initiative Affected?, Brenda Elise Jolly

Dissertations

Eighth-grade mathematics scores from 21 schools were compared pre-inception and post-inception of the Alabama Mathematics, Science, and Technology Initiative (AMSTI). Only the scores from schools which had 80% of their mathematics and science teachers trained at one Summer Institute were used, as these were considered to be true AMSTI schools. Results found the effects of AMSTI to be not statistically significant.

The second part of this research was conducted based upon 256 surveys from teachers attending their second Summer Institute of ASMTI training. Results found many school systems may hamper teachers' ability to plan and execute AMSTI lessons due to …

An Abstract Subject, Mashooque Ali Samo

Institute for Educational Development, Karachi

No abstract provided.

Computerized Adaptive Testing In Mathematics For Primary Schools In Thailand, Chaowprapha Chuesathuchon

Theses: Doctorates and Masters

A new system-wide educational change has been introduced in Thailand requiring, amongst other things, that technologies for education be utilized in all levels of education. This study focuses on Mathematics Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) designed to provide Thai primary school teachers with an innovative method of assessment, one of the effective tools of new technology to be used in Thai primary schools. This study aims to: (1) construct multiple-choice test items for a Mathematics course on the topic of Equations for Year 6 (Prathom Suksa 6) students in Thailand; (2) calibrate the test items using a Rasch Measurement Model, investigate …

Breaking The Math Barrier, Bilqees Patel

Institute for Educational Development, Karachi

No abstract provided.

Math Anxiety: What It Is And How It Can Be Prevented By Elementary Classroom Teachers, Amy Christenson

Honors Capstones

Capstone submitted as a graduation requirement for the BSU Honors Program.

Can Blending Face-To-Face Teaching With E-Learning Support The Development Of Phase 4 Apprentices In Mathematics? A Formative Evaluation Research Study., Peter Hinch

Theses

This thesis is a formative evaluation research study. Its purpose is to establish if blending face-to-face and e-learning delivery methods can support the development of Phase 4 apprentice plumbers in mathematics in the Department of Construction Skills in the Technologicl University Dublin. The study also included the design, development and evaluation of a mathematics web site called Plumatics 4 U which is grounded in established theoretical criteria for effective blended delivery within third level education. This web site is currently in use by Phase 4 apprentice plumbers and is delivered through WebCT. The CD accompanying this thesis contains a short …

Collaborating With Colleagues To Improve Student Learning Using The Connected Mathematics Project, Margaret D. Seifer

Graduate Student Independent Studies

I am a teacher of mathematics at Millburn Middle School, Millburn, New Jersey. During my nine years at Millburn, I have taught using the Connected Mathematics Program (CMP) for seven years to eighth graders and before that, I taught CMP in it's pilot stage to sixth graders.

This guide is a result of my thinking and learning during my time at Bank Street College. The guide is based on a journey through my learning as a professional developer. It is a tool which, I hope, will be of some use to other CMP leaders. It is hoped that if such …

Multiple Intelligence Theory And Seventh Grade Mathematics: A Handbook Of Activities, Mechelle Lynn Devries Lalanne

All Graduate Projects

Multiple intelligence theory was investigated; a description and history of the theory, as proposed by Howard Gardner, is provided. The multiple intelligence theory as it relates to education, particularly mathematics education, was reviewed. A handbook of activities was created to provide a resource for seventh grade teachers that will assist in the application and integration of mathematics across the range of multiple intelligences in their classroom. Assessments that resemble the Washington Assessment of Students Leaming are included, in order to develop skills necessary to meet the Essential Academic Leaming Requirements of Washington.

How Many Blocks To The Empire State Building? : An Original Story, Enakshi Bose

Graduate Student Independent Studies

Presents a children's story for eight and nine year old children that poses several mathematical questions, including the central one of how many blocks it is from the 215th Street subway station in Inwood to the Empire State Building. Photographs and maps enhance the mathematical concepts involved. Discusses the developmental appropriateness of the book's content and how the material meets various standards in mathematics.

How Can We Make Our Mathematics Lessons Meaningful And Enjoyable?, Takbir Ali

Book Chapters / Conference Papers

No abstract provided.

Literature And Writing Connections With Mathematics In A First Grade Classroom, Linda Joan Sheeler Sorenson

All Graduate Projects

The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Standard #2, communication in mathematics, is addressed. The benefits of integrating writing and the use of children's literature in mathematics are studied. Writing strategies and an annotated bibliography of children's literature that address instruction of first grade mathematics outcomes prescribed by the Yakima (WA) School District are developed. Recommendations for implementing the project are given.

The Development And Design Of Activities To Support Performance Based And Integrated Math Instruction For Fifth Grade Students, Lelia L. Coghill

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of the project was to develop and design activities and materials to support performance based integrated mathematics instruction for fifth grade students in the concept areas of place value, decimals, percents, and fractions. The activities and materials were prepared in conjunction with other disciplines, namely reading, writing, art, science, and social studies. The intent was to make mathematics relevant to real life with stress on student performance as an indicator of knowledge, understanding, and application. The activities make use of performance based, integrated, and real life situations, and the materials include technology, field trips, gaming, manipulatives, recording sheets, …

Supplimental Activities/Lesson Plans For General Math, Jacklyn Sue Long

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of the project was to develop supplemental activities/lesson plans for ninth grade general mathematics. The activities/lesson plans make use of manipulatives, cooperative learning and real life situations. Some of the activities/ lesson plans are developed into projects.

How Much Does Poor Reading Lower Math Scores?, William (Bill) H. Williams, Sandra P. Clarkson Ph.D

Publications and Research

No abstract provided.

Using Hypermedia To Improve The Dissemination And Accessibility Of Syllabus Documents With Particular Reference To Primary Mathematics, Alistair B. Campbell

Theses: Doctorates and Masters

The fundamental question that this study set out to investigate was: Can the advantages of hypermedia be extended to curriculum materials that are for the sole use of teachers? To consider this question, three areas needed to be investigated: hypermedia (the medium); teachers (the target) and curriculum documents (the content). Hypermedia has a long history dating back to Bush (1986) who in 1945 imagined his Memex system as building information trails between ideas. However, it was not until the mid 1980s that technology caught up with the theory and hypermedia came of age. The evaluation of hypermedia documents is still …

Eighth-Grade Pre-Algebra: Rationale And Suggested Course Of Study, Carolyn C. Holland

Theses and Dissertations

The most recent curriculum guide for junior-high mathematics published by the Muscogee County School District and distributed in February, 1988, identifies five mathematics courses that may be offered in the Junior high schools throughout the system. For seventh graders, there are courses in remedial mathematics, regular mathematics, and pre-Algebra. For eighth graders, the guide lists two courses: remedial and regular. Algebra I 1s also offered at the Junior-high level for a select group of eighth-graders who score at or above the 85th percentile on the Iowa Test of Basic Skills and who achieve a minimum score of 37 on the …

Linear Measurement: A Prevocational Skills Curriculum Based On The Brigance Inventory Of Essential Skills, Linda Jane Kittle

All Graduate Projects

Student progress toward an educational goal can be enhanced by the use of a curriculum containing both assessment and instruction. This project is such a curriculum based on the linear measurement items of the Brigance Inventory of Essential Skills. The careful sequencing and prevocational nature of this curriculum, along with its record-keeping forms, make it especially useful for special education. It is also available as a data disk for use with Apple microcomputers.

Improving Skill In Applying Mathematical Ideas: A Preliminary Report On The Instructional Gaming Program At Pelham Middle School In Detroit, Layman E. Allen, Joan Ross

Other Publications

Performance of 237 students in ten 8th-grade mathematics classes Was assessed to measure their ability to solve'problems which involve only computation and problems which involve both computation and recognition of the relevance of a particular mathematical idea which is indispensable to-the solution of the problem. Pretests and post-tests focused upon 21 mathematical ideas which are presented in the present.series of IMP (Instructional Math Play) Kits, 16-page pamphlet simulations of a computer programmed to play EQUATIONS like a good teacher rather than like a good player.

Results show that the combination of playing EQUATIONS over two-year period and then working intensively …

The Effect Of Instructional Gaming Upon Absenteeism: The First Step, Layman E. Allen, Dana B. Martin

Other Publications

In assessing'an experimental instructional gaming program in seventh- and eighth-grade mathematics at Pelham Middle School, Detroit, MI, absenteeism was taken as the most pervasive and pragmatic measure of student attitudes toward the learning environmentof the mathematics classroom. The experimental learning environment contained three major elements in addition to regular mathematics instruction: EQUATIONS, a problem-generating type of game; a twice-a-week tournament arranged to award reinforcements frequently and equally among the participants as well as to individualize the learning experience foreach student; and the organization of classes into teams designed to elicit cooperation. Experimental and control classes were taught by the same …

Effects Of Points Exchangeable For Grades On Junior High Mathematics Students, James Edward Perkins

Master of Education Theses

This paper presents the effects of a token system used in a regular eighth grade mathematics class. Two classes containing 21 and 23 students were implemented. The study was designed to increase attendance, behavior, and mathematical achievement in a test group and measure the effects against a control group. The scores revealed a significant difference only in attendance favoring the test group.

Recommendations included pairing stronger reinforcers with the points used and suggestions for future research.

Traditional Vs. Individualized Fifth And Sixth Grade Arithmetic Program, Donald Paul Giaudrone

All Master's Theses

This paper presents a comparative study involving two methods of arithmetic instruction for fifth and sixth grade students. Thirty pupils were taught arithmetic using a traditional approach and thirty pupils were taught arithmetic using an individualized approach. Each group was divided into high, average, and low ability students and between group achievements compared at the end of an eight month period with encouraging results. Evaluation and statistical analysis followed. The findings were discussed and recommendations offered for further study.

Effects Of Points Exchangeable For Grades On Junior High Mathematics Students, James Edward Perkins

All Master's Theses

This paper presents the effects of a token system used in a regular eight grade mathematics class. Two classes containing 21 and 23 students were implemented. The study was designed to increase attendance, behavior, and mathematical achievement in a test group and measure the effects against a control group. The scores revealed a significant difference only in attendance favoring the test group.

Recommendations included pairing stronger reinforcers with the points used and suggestions for future research.

A Longitudinal Program Of Individualized Arithmetic Instruction In Grades Four, Five And Six, Charles Gordon Libby

Graduate Student Research Papers

It was the purpose of this research paper to develop a longitudinal program of individualized instruction in arithmetic that (1) would meet the individual needs of children in grades four, five and six; (2) could be used in a graded elementary school situation; and (3) could be adapted to the Scott Foresman program of mathematics.