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- Title
- A COMPARISON OF CHARACTER EDUCATION PROGRAMS AND THEIR EFFECTS ON ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT, BEHAVIOR, AND ATTENDANCE.
- Creator
-
Berger, Beth, Murray, Barbara, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The purpose of this study was to determine whether significant relationships existed between character education and the number of incidents of crimes and violence, attendance rates, and academic achievement in Florida public schools. Proponents of character education such as Lickona (1991) and Murphy (1998) posited that there was a positive correlation between teaching and practicing the six pillars of character education, and student achievement, and increased attendance. They also posited...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to determine whether significant relationships existed between character education and the number of incidents of crimes and violence, attendance rates, and academic achievement in Florida public schools. Proponents of character education such as Lickona (1991) and Murphy (1998) posited that there was a positive correlation between teaching and practicing the six pillars of character education, and student achievement, and increased attendance. They also posited that there was a negative correlation between character education and incidents of crime and violence. The researcher acquired data in an attempt to determine whether or not the views of Lickona (1991), Murphy (1998) and others holding this view would yield similar results in the Florida public schools. The theoretical framework for the study was Kohlberg's cognitive-developmental theory of moral reasoning. The study was compiled between 2003 and 2004 based on data for the 1998-1999 school year and the 2002-2003 school year. These dates were chosen because they were the pre-implementation year (1998-1999) and four years after the character education mandate went into effect. Data from 67 Florida counties were solicited and 10 counties selected as samples of effective character education implementers and non-effective character education implementers in their elementary schools. Utilizing Statistical Package for Social Science (2004), data were analyzed for statistically significant relationships in order to confirm or negate the null hypotheses. The tests utilized were repeated measures ANOVAs. The study found a statistically significant relationship between those counties that effectively implemented a character education program in their elementary schools and student attendance, as compared to counties that did not effectively implement a character education program in their elementary schools. The study did not find a statistically significant relationship between those counties that effectively implemented a successful character education program in their elementary schools and student achievement, as compared to counties that did not effectively implement a character education program in their elementary schools. The study did not find a statistically significant relationship between those counties that effectively implemented a successful character education program in their elementary schools and lowered incidents of crime and violence, as compared to counties that did not effectively implement a character education program in their elementary schools. In all school districts studied, however, over the four-year period incidents of crime and violence were reduced, the absenteeism rate was reduced, and achievement had increased. This could have been due to the implementation of any type of character education program or it may have been due to other programs implemented in the Florida schools.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2005
- Identifier
- CFE0000333, ucf:46283
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000333
- Title
- STUDENTS WITH EITHER SPECIFIC LEARNING DISABILITIES OR WITH ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER: PERCEPTIONS OF SELF AS LEARNER IN ONLINE COURSES AT FLORIDA VIRTUAL SCHOOL AND IN THE TRADITIONAL LEARNING ENVIRONMENT.
- Creator
-
Smouse, Theresa, Everette, Robert, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The goal of this research study was to investigate the perception of self as learner for students with Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) or with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Students who had completed at least one mathematics or science course at Florida Virtual School, an online learning environment, were surveyed concerning their perception of self as learner in the online learning environment and in the traditional learning environment in 6 basic areas: feelings of...
Show moreThe goal of this research study was to investigate the perception of self as learner for students with Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) or with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Students who had completed at least one mathematics or science course at Florida Virtual School, an online learning environment, were surveyed concerning their perception of self as learner in the online learning environment and in the traditional learning environment in 6 basic areas: feelings of success; level of comfort; relationship with teachers; and access to, communication with and feedback from teachers; and advantages and disadvantages of each learning environment. Results of parent interviews and anecdotal evidences were also included as data informing the results of this study. The results of this study showed that 1) a greater number of students reported feeling successful in the online environment. 2) the majority of students in all groups reported feeling comfortable in the online learning environment, 98% as compared to 65% in traditional environment. Student comfort in both environments was most frequently related to some element of the environment with a high percentage of mention of disruption caused by peers. 3) Students reported having positive relationships with their online teachers to a higher degree than with their traditional teachers. 4) Students generally felt that access to, communication with, and feedback from instructors, in the online environment had the greatest impact on them and the impact was positive. 5) The most frequently mentioned advantage of the online environment were, flexibility of time, pace and place of learning. Students liked being in control of the time, place, and pace of their learning in the online environment. Students perceived issues with socialization as the greatest disadvantage of the online environment. For the traditional environment, students indicated that the presence of their peers for social interaction and academic interaction was the greatest advantage. The disadvantages in the traditional environment disadvantage in the traditional environment were issues with time, place, and pace of learning, class size, and disruptions caused by other students. 6) Overall, the majority of students indicated that they felt the online learning environment provided them, as a learner, with the greatest number of advantages.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2005
- Identifier
- CFE0000528, ucf:46460
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000528
- Title
- PERCEPTIONS OF RESEARCH ADMINISTRATORS ON THE VALUE OF CERTIFICATION.
- Creator
-
Roberts, Thomas, House, Jess, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The purpose of this study was to determine the perceived value of certification to research administration professionals and demographic characteristics. This study sought to determine whether those who have attained the Certificate in Research Administration (CRA) perceive a benefit to their careers and why most research administrators do not attempt certification. The primary research question studied is concerned with the relationship between perceived value of the CRA to research...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to determine the perceived value of certification to research administration professionals and demographic characteristics. This study sought to determine whether those who have attained the Certificate in Research Administration (CRA) perceive a benefit to their careers and why most research administrators do not attempt certification. The primary research question studied is concerned with the relationship between perceived value of the CRA to research administration professionals and demographic characteristics. The survey instrument, Research Administrator Survey, was electronically distributed to 277 research administrators based in the Southeast region of the National Council of University Research Administrators (NCURA). A total of 230 surveys were completed and returned for a usable return rate of 83%. The research revealed that CRAs consistently perceived the value of certification to be greater than non-certified research administrators; however, the majority of both CRAs and non-certified research administrators perception was that becoming certified would, or did, enhance their knowledge as research administrators. Overall, the majority of non-certified research administrators reported that their reason for not attempting certification was that they did not believe there was any benefit to becoming certified, but when all the other reasons for not attempting certification are closely examined, the responses taken as a whole indicate that as many non-certified research administrators may perceive a benefit to becoming certified as those who do not perceive a benefit. In summary, the data indicated that non-certified research administrators do perceive some benefit to certification. It is recommended that the Research Administrators Certification Council (RACC) attempt to be more closely aligned with the with National Council of University Research Administrators (NCURA) and the Society of Research Administrators International (SRA) since research administrators report having extremely positive professional development experiences with these organizations. It is further recommended that research be conducted to determine if curriculum at the university level should be developed in research administration management. Finally, it is recommended that NCURA and SRA engage in research to determine how many people are involved in the profession of research administration to help make decisions in regard to continuing adult education.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2005
- Identifier
- CFE0000622, ucf:46508
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000622
- Title
- THE EFFECT OF INQUIRY-BASED INSTRUCTION ON STUDENTS' PARTICIPATION AND ATTITUDES IN A THIRD GRADE SCIENCE CLASSROOM.
- Creator
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Arthur, Debbie, Jeanpierre, Bobby, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The National Science Education Standards (1996) support inquiry-based instruction. According to the National Science Education Standards. When children or scientists inquire into the natural world they: ask questions, plan investigations and collect relevant data, and organize and analyze collected data. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of inquiry-based instruction on third-grade students' attitudes and participation in an elementary science classroom. Students were...
Show moreThe National Science Education Standards (1996) support inquiry-based instruction. According to the National Science Education Standards. When children or scientists inquire into the natural world they: ask questions, plan investigations and collect relevant data, and organize and analyze collected data. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of inquiry-based instruction on third-grade students' attitudes and participation in an elementary science classroom. Students were encouraged to ask and answer their own questions. In this study, analysis of data gathered form: pre and post survey, student journals, teacher field notes, and student interviews were triangulated to provide the support for findings reported in this study. Findins showed that inquiry-based science experiences positively affected students' attitudes in science and their participation. In addition, student worked collaboratively, made connections to other experiences, and demonstrated confidence in their ability to ask and answer their own questions through inquiry-based experiences.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2005
- Identifier
- CFE0000530, ucf:46463
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000530
- Title
- FLORIDA PUBLIC SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS' KNOWLEDGE OF LEGAL ISSUES RELATED TO SEARCH AND SEIZURE.
- Creator
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Slack, Catherine, Murray, Kenneth, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
School officials trying to deter drug use, combat crime, and shore up security are conducting searches that are landing school in legal trouble for violating students' constitutional rights. In 1993, West Virginia Supreme Court ruled that a strip search of a student suspected of stealing money was illegal (State of West Virginia ex rel Gilford v. Mark Anthony B., 1993). In another case, a federal appellate court held that a strip search of a student for suspected drug possession was...
Show moreSchool officials trying to deter drug use, combat crime, and shore up security are conducting searches that are landing school in legal trouble for violating students' constitutional rights. In 1993, West Virginia Supreme Court ruled that a strip search of a student suspected of stealing money was illegal (State of West Virginia ex rel Gilford v. Mark Anthony B., 1993). In another case, a federal appellate court held that a strip search of a student for suspected drug possession was reasonable, although no drugs were found (Cornfield v. Consolidated High School District No. 230, 1993). Improper searches of students, lockers and automobiles can result in hundreds of thousands of dollars in civil liability, costs and attorney fees. This study collected data on administrative knowledge in the area of search and seizure. The analyzed data served to (a) determine if administrators across the state of Florida have a general understanding of the laws regarding search and seizure; (b) identify demographic areas that demonstrate a lack of knowledge related to search and seizure; and (c) suggest improvements to current educational leadership courses of study, state-wide staff development offerings, and ideas for possible conference topics. The study involved responses from questionnaires received from 139 public school administrators in Florida (17% of the 810 randomly sampled elementary, middle, and high school principals). Analysis of data revealed that more than one-third of the respondents fell below the mean, with no significant difference between building levels or metropolitan statistical area.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2005
- Identifier
- CFE0000729, ucf:46625
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000729
- Title
- LEADERSHIP ORIENTATIONS OF SENIOR ADMINISTRATORS AT AMERICAN METROPOLITAN UNIVERSITIES.
- Creator
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Trees, Diane, Taylor, Rosemarye, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Universities in the United States continue to evolve far beyond traditional concepts. While problems of an academic, economic, governmental, and educational nature beset any university, the metropolitan institution must grapple with these issues not as an individual entity but as a partner in a group of many players. Educational leadership for the American metropolitan university necessitates distinct and unique skills. This study sought to explore leadership behaviors of senior...
Show moreUniversities in the United States continue to evolve far beyond traditional concepts. While problems of an academic, economic, governmental, and educational nature beset any university, the metropolitan institution must grapple with these issues not as an individual entity but as a partner in a group of many players. Educational leadership for the American metropolitan university necessitates distinct and unique skills. This study sought to explore leadership behaviors of senior administrators at American metropolitan universities as conceptualized by Bolman and Deal's Four-Frame Model of Leadership (1991). Using Bolman and Deal's (1990) Leadership Orientations Survey (Self) instrument with an additional Respondent Information section, 407 surveys were sent to senior administrators at 74 institutions identified as members of the Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities. Of the 245 who replied, 25 of these individuals declined to participate. Thus, the total number of useable surveys for data input in this study was 220 (54.1%) representing a total of 71 out of 74 institutions in the response data. Descriptive statistics and analysis of variance were used to analyze data. Senior administrators in this study indicated that the human resource frame (76.9%) dominated all other frame choices. The structural frame emerged as second choice (57.2%) with the symbolic frame (55.4%) and the political frame (52.2%) in close proximity. Nearly half of the administrators (49.5%) reported multiple frame usage with the most frequent combination consisting of the human resource, political, and symbolic frames. Two personal characteristics, age and gender, influenced utilization of the frames. Younger administrators showed statistically significant higher mean scores than older administrators for both the structural and political frames. Female administrators showed statistically significant higher mean scores than male administrators for the political and symbolic frames. Job title, years as an administrator, size of campus, and location of campus in proximity to city limits did not influence utilization of frame usage for administrators in this study.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2006
- Identifier
- CFE0001231, ucf:46898
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001231
- Title
- MEMORY OF WORDS: A CATEGORIZATION TASK.
- Creator
-
Maxim, Paulina, Sims, Valerie, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Through the years, the Deese-Roediger-McDermott Paradigm has demonstrated to be a useful method of observing false memories from semantically related word lists. The present study was conducted fully online and measured memory performance dependent on categorization of words by using groups, as well as dragging words across the page as a form of interaction. In a 2 (Categorized, Non-Categorized) x 2 (Interactive, Non-Interactive) between-subject factorial experiment, 56 undergraduate students...
Show moreThrough the years, the Deese-Roediger-McDermott Paradigm has demonstrated to be a useful method of observing false memories from semantically related word lists. The present study was conducted fully online and measured memory performance dependent on categorization of words by using groups, as well as dragging words across the page as a form of interaction. In a 2 (Categorized, Non-Categorized) x 2 (Interactive, Non-Interactive) between-subject factorial experiment, 56 undergraduate students were shown 18 different lists of 15 associative words to be studied, one list at a time. Participants were given a free recall test immediately after studying each individual list. Participants also performed a recognition test after having studied and recalled all 18 lists, which consisted of 216 items; half of the words were presented throughout the studied lists, and the other half consisted of the 18 critical lure words as well as several other distractor items from a subset of word lists. It was hypothesized that participants in both the categorization and interaction condition would show the highest levels of accurate memory recall and recognition compared to those who were simply given a list to review. Findings did not support this hypothesis indicating no clear differences between participants who categorized (or not) or interacted with the lists (or not). High probabilities were found for words ranked as highly falsely recalled and low probabilities were found for those ranked towards the bottom, much like the findings in Stadler et al., (1999).
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFH2000393, ucf:45903
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000393
- Title
- AN EXPLORATION OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF MUSIC INTEGRATION IN THE MIDDLE SCHOOL SOCIAL STUDIES CLASSROOMS.
- Creator
-
Skeen, Nicole, Russell, William, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
"Music is the biggest tool of revolution - the best way to reach out the youth and involve them�" (Kher, n.d.). Music has the ability to impact so many areas of life. Music is universal, and regardless of language, meaning and emotions can be conveyed. Imagine if this was harnessed and utilized as an effective teaching tool for students? Music has played a significant role in history, but is often overlooked when history is taught. Utilization of music in the social studies classroom can...
Show more"Music is the biggest tool of revolution - the best way to reach out the youth and involve them�" (Kher, n.d.). Music has the ability to impact so many areas of life. Music is universal, and regardless of language, meaning and emotions can be conveyed. Imagine if this was harnessed and utilized as an effective teaching tool for students? Music has played a significant role in history, but is often overlooked when history is taught. Utilization of music in the social studies classroom can take the form of time period pieces, cultural music, mnemonics for memorization, films, and much more. While it can be an effective tool for educating students, are teachers actually integrating it into their lesson plans? Using a stratified random sampling procedure, a survey was sent to teachers in the Central Florida region to gain insight into the topic. It was seen, that while over half (60%) of the educators indicated music could be an effective teaching tool, almost all (95%) used it very often, often, or sometimes in some way, shape, or form. Several teachers indicated that they did not have the time, resources, or the training to integrate music into their social studies classrooms. This research is only a starting point for additional regional studies, as well as more focused studies through which resources may be developed.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2015
- Identifier
- CFH0004810, ucf:45455
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004810
- Title
- INFLUENCE OF PEER MENTORSHIP ON NURSING EDUCATION AND STUDENT ATTRITION.
- Creator
-
Gisi, Brittany, Heglund, Stephen, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Peer mentoring is the exchange of skills or knowledge from a more experienced individual to a novice in the same field. Due to the constraints placed on nursing education, many students struggle to complete the nursing curriculum. This leads to high attrition rates within colleges of nursing. Without maximizing graduate rates, the current nursing shortage is exacerbated. This integrated literature review examines the impact of more experienced nursing students mentoring their junior peers....
Show morePeer mentoring is the exchange of skills or knowledge from a more experienced individual to a novice in the same field. Due to the constraints placed on nursing education, many students struggle to complete the nursing curriculum. This leads to high attrition rates within colleges of nursing. Without maximizing graduate rates, the current nursing shortage is exacerbated. This integrated literature review examines the impact of more experienced nursing students mentoring their junior peers. With implementation of peer mentoring attrition rates were reduced. Additionally, the research showed that mentees experienced an enhanced feeling of support and were able to learn more efficiently. Mentors benefited from the arrangement with enhanced leadership and teaching abilities. Instructors of nursing programs also benefited from the arrangement by having decreased demand for review sessions, which could be taken over by the mentors, and could focus on enhancing their lessons or other educational obligations.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- Identifier
- CFH0003778, ucf:44752
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0003778
- Title
- A QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS OF PERSPECTIVES: EDUCATIONAL IMPLICATIONS IN THE SPANISH BILINGUAL PROGRAMS IN PRIMARY EDUCATION IN THE CENTRAL FLORIDA REGION.
- Creator
-
Araldi, Caitlin, Garcia, Martha, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The proposed goal of this research was to take the data gathered and implement it in analyzing the potential reformation of programs in need of evaluation, assessing the potential benefits of further development in the field of bilingual education in the United States as a nation. Using data collected in the Central Florida region as a microcosmic example of how existing programs function in the modern elementary educational system, the purpose of this study was to demonstrate through the...
Show moreThe proposed goal of this research was to take the data gathered and implement it in analyzing the potential reformation of programs in need of evaluation, assessing the potential benefits of further development in the field of bilingual education in the United States as a nation. Using data collected in the Central Florida region as a microcosmic example of how existing programs function in the modern elementary educational system, the purpose of this study was to demonstrate through the conduction of interviews with local teachers and currently available research that a more suitable standard for bilingual education is both necessary and valuable for our school systems and for the future of our students as productive and capable adults. As a survey of the current state of bilingual education in Central Florida elementary schools, this research sought to establish a clearer panoramic view of the ways in which our system is perceived as observed directly through those participating and facilitating it firsthand in local classrooms. Classroom observations and data gathered from educational professionals within the participating elementary school system, inclusive solely of those implementing a bilingual program as a method of assimilation for a high population of Spanish-speaking students transitioning to a targeted language of English, were the primary basis of this research, supplemented by existing psychological and educational research in the field of language acquisition and development in young children. Results have suggested that current methods of bilingual instruction are based upon the integrated standards of three existing models: transitional bilingual education, immersion, and English as a Second Language. The three appeared to be functioning in such a way that does not fully allow for a wide range of learning needs to be met, and that furthermore does not fully support a directed initiative toward a future in consistently dynamic and progressive research in the bilingual field, such that a standardized system flexible enough to encourage the needs of a diverse population might be realized. With further standardization and research, bilingual education might itself become a standard of American education for all students, native and non-native.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- Identifier
- CFH0004112, ucf:44891
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004112
- Title
- AN INVESTIGATION TO DETERMINE THE PERCEPTIONS OF RESILIENCE IN EDUCATIONAL AND BUSINESS LEADERSHIP PERSONNEL IN CENTRAL FLORIDA.
- Creator
-
Domeck, Craig, Murray, Ken, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Leadership is a challenging task. Vibrant enduring leadership over time is a greater challenge. Cultivating "leaders that lasts" is the desire of this study. The purpose of this research was to determine the resiliency of leaders in Central Florida. Additionally, this study examined the resilience of educational leaders in Central Florida along with leaders from the business community. The analysis and comparison of the results revealed beneficial information regarding the factors that are...
Show moreLeadership is a challenging task. Vibrant enduring leadership over time is a greater challenge. Cultivating "leaders that lasts" is the desire of this study. The purpose of this research was to determine the resiliency of leaders in Central Florida. Additionally, this study examined the resilience of educational leaders in Central Florida along with leaders from the business community. The analysis and comparison of the results revealed beneficial information regarding the factors that are substantial in resilient leaders and how these factors might be further cultivated. Educational leaders were randomly selected from school administrators in the Central Florida region, as well as department leaders at two primary local universities. Participants from business were selected from a list of business leaders from the Rollins College Crummer Graduate School of Business MBA Alumni, as well as participants in the Palm Beach Atlantic University Executive Leadership series. The study utilized the Resilience Factor Inventory (RFI) from Adaptive Learning Systems. The RFI is a valid 60-question on-line questionnaire that evaluates the four resilience factors identified in the Review of Literature: (a) realistic optimism, (b) emotional intelligence, (c) relational abilities, and (d) problem-solving abilities. Participants were invited to complete the RFI through a series of four emails explaining the study and the Resilience Factor Inventory with a sufficient response rate (83 leaders). Analysis of the data revealed the following findings: (a) all three of the sampled leader populations were significantly above the national norm in resilience, with those in education the highest; (b) educational leaders, both Pre K – 12 and university leaders, were statistically higher in several resilience components, with emotional intelligence being a strong component in both educational groups; (c) leaders from the business realm were significantly higher in several resilience factors with their distinguish component being problem-solving; (d) while education leaders were strong in emotional intelligence, this population could develop their problem-solving capabilities; (e) in direct contrast, the business were strong in problem-solving, but could enhance their emotional competence; and (f) an examination of leaders who have served the longest have a statistically significantly higher relational abilities and realistic optimism suggesting that these two resilience factors would be important for longevity.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2008
- Identifier
- CFE0002336, ucf:47801
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002336
- Title
- Exploration of Teaching EL Students Using the Arts with the Focus on Theatre Arts.
- Creator
-
Quintero, Carinita, Listengarten, Julia, Horn, Elizabeth, Mihai, Florin, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Education has become a revolutionary field in which constant change and diversification of students in the classroom has sought for much differentiation in lessons and instructions. One of the popular forms for differentiation is that of drama or theatre techniques. Theatre has been used in many forms for fostering education. One of the elements from ESL teacher's experience is using theatre in the English as a Second Language classroom or EL class to aid students in learning English. The...
Show moreEducation has become a revolutionary field in which constant change and diversification of students in the classroom has sought for much differentiation in lessons and instructions. One of the popular forms for differentiation is that of drama or theatre techniques. Theatre has been used in many forms for fostering education. One of the elements from ESL teacher's experience is using theatre in the English as a Second Language classroom or EL class to aid students in learning English. The study focused on the influence theatre arts components have on students learning English as a second language. I proposed to present a detailed look at the influence of taking a theatre course for the EL students, as well as, using Theatre in the Language Arts classroom. I intended to incorporate observations and evaluations throughout the process to measure the level of English. Data from the evaluations was used for the analyzing of improvement or lack thereof English.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFE0007079, ucf:52019
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007079
- Title
- Democracy and Education Equity in Latin America.
- Creator
-
Stonerook, Olen, Kinsey, Barbara, Morales, Waltraud, Kiel, Dwight, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
In the literature democratic longevity in countries transitioning from authoritarian regimes to democracy is linked to economic development; four factors of economic development are identified: industrialization, education, urbanization, and growing wealth. Education is viewed as a primary factor for effective democratic participation and economic development. This thesis examines the relationship between level of democracy and educational outputs and outcomes. Does the level of democracy ...
Show moreIn the literature democratic longevity in countries transitioning from authoritarian regimes to democracy is linked to economic development; four factors of economic development are identified: industrialization, education, urbanization, and growing wealth. Education is viewed as a primary factor for effective democratic participation and economic development. This thesis examines the relationship between level of democracy and educational outputs and outcomes. Does the level of democracy (political rights and civil liberties) have an effect on the levels of investment in education and measurable outcomes in education equity toward meeting the educational needs of the newly represented public? The expectation is that the increased scope of political participation and representation in new democratic regimes would result in higher government spending for education with implications for education equity.This study is conducted using a cross-sectional, longitudinal statistical model. The analysis is based on 18 Latin American countries over a thirty-eight-year period, from 1972 to 2010. To examine the connection between level of democracy and education equity, the study explores the effects of democracy on different levels of education, gender, and social class. In addition to the quantitative analysis, a qualitative component aims at contextualizing this relationship that is, examining closer the mechanism that underlies the connection between democracy and education equity in the cases of Mexico and Brazil.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- Identifier
- CFE0004170, ucf:49073
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004170
- Title
- FROM SHADOWMOURNE TO FOLK ART: ARTICULATING A VISION OF ELEARNING FOR THE 21ST CENTURY.
- Creator
-
Kapp, Christina, Campbell, James, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This study examines mass-market applications for some of the many theories of eLearning and blended learning, focusing most closely on a period from 2000-2010. It establishes a state of the union for K-12 immersive eLearning environments by using in-depth cases studies of five major mass-market, educational, and community-education based productsÂÂ--Gaia Online, Poptropica, Quest Atlantis, Dimenxian/Dimension U, and Folkvine. Investigating these models calls into play not...
Show moreThis study examines mass-market applications for some of the many theories of eLearning and blended learning, focusing most closely on a period from 2000-2010. It establishes a state of the union for K-12 immersive eLearning environments by using in-depth cases studies of five major mass-market, educational, and community-education based productsÂÂ--Gaia Online, Poptropica, Quest Atlantis, Dimenxian/Dimension U, and Folkvine. Investigating these models calls into play not only the voices of traditional academic and usability research, but also the ad hoc voices of the players, commentators, developers, and bloggers. These are the people who speak to the community of these sites, and their lived experiences fall somewhere in the interstices between in-site play, beta development, and external commentary (both academic and informal.) The works of experimental academic theorists play an acknowledged and fundamental role in this study, including those of Ulmer, Barab, Gee, and McLuhan. These visionary voices of academia are balanced with a consideration of both the political and financial constraints surrounding immersive educational game development. This secondary level of analysis focuses on how issues around equity of access, delivery platforms, and target disciplines can and should inform strategic goals. While this dissertation alone is unlikely to solve issues of access, emergent groups including the OLPC hold exciting promises for worldwide connectivity. My conclusion forms a synthesis of all these competing forces and proposes a pragmatic and conceptual rule-set for the development of a forward-looking and immersive educational MMORPG.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2010
- Identifier
- CFE0003549, ucf:48906
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003549
- Title
- EVALUATION OF THE EXPECTANCY CHALLENGE ALCOHOL LITERACY CURRICULUM (ECALC) FOR REDUCING ALCOHOL USE AMONG HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS.
- Creator
-
Sivasithamparam, Janani, Dunn, Michael, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Alcohol use is the single most alarming behavior among youth in the United States. Adolescents especially are at risk for increases in heavy episodic drinking and drunkenness leading to alcohol-related problems such as academic failure, interpersonal violence, risky sexual behavior and death. In an effort to address this endemic issue, a number of alcohol use prevention programs have been developed and are currently implemented in the high school setting. Many of these programs, however, lack...
Show moreAlcohol use is the single most alarming behavior among youth in the United States. Adolescents especially are at risk for increases in heavy episodic drinking and drunkenness leading to alcohol-related problems such as academic failure, interpersonal violence, risky sexual behavior and death. In an effort to address this endemic issue, a number of alcohol use prevention programs have been developed and are currently implemented in the high school setting. Many of these programs, however, lack an empirical basis and have been unable to demonstrate significant reductions in alcohol use over time. The need for the development and dissemination of effective strategies to address adolescent drinking is evident. Recommendations for newly developing approaches encourage an emphasis on empirically-based content and easily implemented protocols. Expectancy challenge-based interventions have been identified by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism as having strong evidence supporting their effectiveness in reducing alcohol use among college students. Recent efforts to translate such programs into forms effective with high school adolescents have been met with mixed results. The focus of the present study was to modify, implement and evaluate the Expectancy Challenge Alcohol Literacy Curriculum (ECALC), a program currently validated for use with college populations, for high school adolescents. The single session, high school version of the ECALC was infused into the existing Health Education high school curriculum and implemented with those in the 9th through 12th grades. Measures of alcohol expectancies and alcohol use were completed anonymously by each participant before delivery of the program and for 30 days thereafter. Impact of the ECALC was compared to classes randomly assigned to an attention-matched control condition. Findings revealed significant changes in alcohol expectancies and alcohol use reported by participants in the 11th and 12th grades following delivery of the ECALC. Changes were found across factor analytic and multidimensional scaling (MDS) statistical methods applied to the expectancy measure, as well as across measures of estimated intoxication and drinking quantity/frequency. Findings were consistent among both male and female participants. Reductions in alcohol use were not found among 9th and 10th grade participants, and expectancy changes were inconsistent. The assessment periods for baseline and follow-up were thirty days, which may reflect a limitation in that a longer follow-up may be more likely to capture significant behavioral changes over time. This study was the first to apply both factor analytic and MDS methods to analysis of the Comprehensive Effects of Alcohol questionnaire, with clear implications for expectancy measurement techniques likely to be most appropriate for capturing changes in expectancy activation patterns over time. Overall, this study represents an important advance in the development of an empirically-based and validated alcohol use prevention program effective for use with adolescents. In addition, the ECALC serves as a prevention program that is easily implemented in the high school setting, requiring only 50 minutes of class time, a classroom, and a motivated educator.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- Identifier
- CFE0003617, ucf:48846
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003617
- Title
- EDUCATION AND SPIRITUAL INTERNALIZATION.
- Creator
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Bowers, Donavan, Gay, David, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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A growing body of research has addressed the relationship between religiousness and spirituality. In addition, recent research focuses on the variations in definition and operationalization of the two concepts. Most of this literature examines spirituality as a construct under religion. Conceptualizing those who are spiritual but non-religious has received far less attention. This study uses recent data from the General Social Surveys to assess the relationship of those who are spiritual but...
Show moreA growing body of research has addressed the relationship between religiousness and spirituality. In addition, recent research focuses on the variations in definition and operationalization of the two concepts. Most of this literature examines spirituality as a construct under religion. Conceptualizing those who are spiritual but non-religious has received far less attention. This study uses recent data from the General Social Surveys to assess the relationship of those who are spiritual but not religious with education and a number of socio-demographic variables. The analysis shows that there is a positive relationship between one identifying as someone who is spiritual but secular and educational attainment. Directions for future research are discussed.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2009
- Identifier
- CFE0002775, ucf:48101
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002775
- Title
- The impact of ongoing science professional development on standardized assessments of student achievement.
- Creator
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Torres, Leah, Murray, Kenneth, Storey, Valerie A., Doherty, Walter, Everett, Robert, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The purpose of this study was to identify how ongoing science professional development impact students' achievement on standardized assessments. The students' end-of-year assessment and State Science Assessment data were collected from a Central Florida school district. The student data were divided into categories based on teachers' participation in on-going professional development opportunities. The teachers were categorized by the number of types of professional development opportunities...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to identify how ongoing science professional development impact students' achievement on standardized assessments. The students' end-of-year assessment and State Science Assessment data were collected from a Central Florida school district. The student data were divided into categories based on teachers' participation in on-going professional development opportunities. The teachers were categorized by the number of types of professional development opportunities they attended. The mean assessment scores of students whose all teachers did or did not participate were calculated, and t-tests were run to find the significance between the means. There was no significance in the difference between the means student scores of the participants and the non-participants in the science professional development opportunities. Two sub group data, 8th-grade free and reduced lunch students whose teacher attended one professional development, and 7th-grade students who scored a Level 3 on FSA mean scores on the science assessments scores were higher with significance in the 2015-16 school year, and were not higher the on the science assessments with significance in the 2014-15 school year.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFE0006810, ucf:51800
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006810
- Title
- Integration of Fundamental Research and CER: The Role of Authenticity in Developing Views on the Nature of Teaching, Learning, and Doing Science.
- Creator
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Donnelly, Julie, Hernandez, Florencio, Del Barco, Enrique, Saitta, Erin, Yestrebsky, Cherie, Underwood, Sonia, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This dissertation is an integration of fundamental research and chemical education. It begins with two nonlinear spectroscopic studies of compounds important to the study of brain chemistry. In Chapter 2, we present a novel method using quantum mechanics for modelling ligand docking and the potential of nonlinear circular dichroism for elucidating the mechanism of cannabinoids docking to their receptor, a contribution to studies of varying psychological effects of cannabinoids. Considering...
Show moreThis dissertation is an integration of fundamental research and chemical education. It begins with two nonlinear spectroscopic studies of compounds important to the study of brain chemistry. In Chapter 2, we present a novel method using quantum mechanics for modelling ligand docking and the potential of nonlinear circular dichroism for elucidating the mechanism of cannabinoids docking to their receptor, a contribution to studies of varying psychological effects of cannabinoids. Considering existent challenges with measuring this phenomenon, in Chapter 3, we evaluate two-photon absorption properties of Thioflavin T (ThT) in varying glycerol/water content solutions and discuss the enhancement of nonlinear absorption due to small micelle formation. Our results represent the potential to enhance the applications of ThT for imaging Amyloid beta plaques in vitro and ex vivo and its potential application in vivo. Next, we consider the benefits of incorporating modern research into the undergraduate curriculum. In Chapter 4, we describe the integration of nonlinear optics into the physical chemistry laboratory in a course-based undergraduate research experience and the effects on student learning and perceptions. In Chapter 5, we expand our impact to secondary students by describing the development and assessment of the Orlando Chemistry Training, Enrichment, and Tutoring (OCTET) camp and its success in conveying chemistry concepts and inspiring students to pursue chemistry. In Chapter 6, we combine the successes of the previous two studies and incorporate a research component into OCTET. We study the effect on participants' views about science and show the impact on their practical knowledge about doing science. Finally, in Chapter 6, we extend the implementation of authentic learning to the classroom, present the implementation of active learning in physical chemistry, and describe students' perceptions. The results presented in this dissertation demonstrate successful integration of fundamental research into education and the powerful impact on all parties.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFE0006997, ucf:51620
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006997
- Title
- EDUCATION POLICY IN FLORIDA: EXPLAINING COUNTY-LEVEL APPROVAL OF THE 2002 CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENTS.
- Creator
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Friant, Rachel M., Jewett, Aubrey, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This research analyzes county-level support for the 2002 Constitutional Amendments for Voluntary Universal Prekindergarten Education (VPK) and Florida's Amendment to Reduce Class Size (CSA). Three regression models are constructed for each dependent variable (support for VPK and support for CSA): a bivariate model with political party, a full model with all theoretically identified variables, and a best model with just the independent variables that have the most explanatory power. A variety...
Show moreThis research analyzes county-level support for the 2002 Constitutional Amendments for Voluntary Universal Prekindergarten Education (VPK) and Florida's Amendment to Reduce Class Size (CSA). Three regression models are constructed for each dependent variable (support for VPK and support for CSA): a bivariate model with political party, a full model with all theoretically identified variables, and a best model with just the independent variables that have the most explanatory power. A variety of socioeconomic, demographic and political independent variables are tested. Four independent variables had a statistically significant positive relationship with support for both VPK and CSA: Democratic registration, Hispanic population, higher education, and population density.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFH2000217, ucf:46060
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000217
- Title
- AN EXPLORATION OF HOW PRE-SERVICE EARLY CHILDHOOD TEACHERS USE EDUCATIVE CURRICULUM MATERIALS TO SUPPORT THEIR SCIENCE TEACHING PRACTICES.
- Creator
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Englehart, Deirdre, Boote, David, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Research indicates that a proportion of elementary teachers are not comfortable teaching science to young children. These teachers are unaware of the best methods of approaching science and don't have the science background knowledge to support teaching through inquiry methods. This case study explores the role educative curriculum materials play in supporting pre-service early childhood education teachers' knowledge with science content and teaching practices. Specifically, I examine...
Show moreResearch indicates that a proportion of elementary teachers are not comfortable teaching science to young children. These teachers are unaware of the best methods of approaching science and don't have the science background knowledge to support teaching through inquiry methods. This case study explores the role educative curriculum materials play in supporting pre-service early childhood education teachers' knowledge with science content and teaching practices. Specifically, I examine how educative materials impact pre-service teacher's content knowledge in science and their pedagogical content knowledge related to inquiry methods. Three pre-service early childhood teachers participated in this research. The teachers were initially interviewed about teaching science based upon three instruments: Views of Science Inquiry, Views of the Nature of Science and the Science Teachers Efficacy Beliefs Inventory. Each subject was observed teaching science in their internship site: the first lessons taught were guided or approved by their teachers and the next lessons were conducted using the support of educative curriculum materials. Finally, the initial instruments were once again administered along with an interview to obtain changes in teacher's knowledge, beliefs and understandings of science and science teaching. Results from this research indicate that educative curriculum was supportive of teachers in a variety of ways. Most importantly, this curriculum helped teachers to target more aspects of scientific inquiry during their science lessons than lessons without the use of educative curriculum. The important considerations regarding the effectiveness of the educative curriculum for these pre-service teachers were their underlying beliefs about how science should be taught, their uses of the curriculum materials and reflective practices regarding their own teaching. Results specifically related to early childhood educators include the level of inquiry implemented with young children and how children communicate their findings. Young children need support in their participation of inquiry learning. Successful implementation of guided inquiry practices occurred in this research. Also, the teachers in this research found insightful ways that directly supported young children in their communication of ideas. Implications for further research are also discussed. Educative materials could further support pre-service early childhood teachers if additional supports were used including accessible curricular rationales, support in classroom management and the specific use of guided inquiry.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2008
- Identifier
- CFE0002142, ucf:47520
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002142
