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Title: RELIGIOUS WOMEN AND HOMOSEXUALITY: A DENOMINATIONAL BREAKDOWN.
Creator: Barrringer, Mandi, Gay, David, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this research is to examine women's attitudes toward homosexuality by religiosity, and how these attitudes may vary across denominations. To examine this, I will use the General Social Survey to analyze the extent to which women's attitudes toward same-sex relations vary by denominational affiliation, religious participation, and spirituality. Based on the current literature, women are generally considered to be more tolerant than men regarding homosexuality. However, research...
Show moreThe purpose of this research is to examine women's attitudes toward homosexuality by religiosity, and how these attitudes may vary across denominations. To examine this, I will use the General Social Survey to analyze the extent to which women's attitudes toward same-sex relations vary by denominational affiliation, religious participation, and spirituality. Based on the current literature, women are generally considered to be more tolerant than men regarding homosexuality. However, research has not examined the extent to which their attitudes vary across denominational affiliation. This research will contribute to the current literature by examining variations by denomination, religiosity, and spirituality in regards to women's attitudes on a controversial, hot-button issue in our society. Following the analysis and explanation of the results, directions for future research are discussed.
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Date Issued: 2011
Identifier: CFE0003712, ucf:48787
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003712

Title: THE EFFECTS OF INFORMAL SCIENCE EDUCATION ON STUDENTS' ATTITUDES AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE.
Creator: Ashley, Samuel, Everett, Robert, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Will student attitudes towards science change when they are given a chance to explore an area of science in which they have indicated an interest? This action research thesis investigated this question over a period of nine weeks. The subjects of this study included twelve students enrolled in the same seventh grade physical science class. The school was located in a suburban setting in the Southeast United States. Data for this study was collected with anecdotal notes, participation grid,...
Show moreWill student attitudes towards science change when they are given a chance to explore an area of science in which they have indicated an interest? This action research thesis investigated this question over a period of nine weeks. The subjects of this study included twelve students enrolled in the same seventh grade physical science class. The school was located in a suburban setting in the Southeast United States. Data for this study was collected with anecdotal notes, participation grid, science attitude survey, student interviews, and student journals. This study found that when students are given the opportunity to pursue an area of science in which they demonstrate an interest, they are more likely to participate in their regular curriculum and increase positive attitudes' towards science. As a result of this increased engagement and improved attitudes' towards science, students academic performance in science also improved.
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Date Issued: 2008
Identifier: CFE0002166, ucf:47508
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002166

Title: THE USE OF SCIENCE REFORM INSTRUCTIONAL METHODS AND THEIR EFFECT ON 3RD GRADE STUDENTS' PARTICIPATION AND ATTITUDE TOWARDS SCIENCE.
Creator: Robinson, Heather, Gresham, Gina, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this research study was to determine whether the use of science reform instructional methods had an effect on student participation in and attitudes towards science education. The participants in this 12 week study were third grade students. Data were collected using a pre and post attitudinal survey, student journals, a participation log, and a researcher reflection journal. Several conclusions were made. The use of science reform instructional methods did affect student...
Show moreThe purpose of this research study was to determine whether the use of science reform instructional methods had an effect on student participation in and attitudes towards science education. The participants in this 12 week study were third grade students. Data were collected using a pre and post attitudinal survey, student journals, a participation log, and a researcher reflection journal. Several conclusions were made. The use of science reform instructional methods did affect student participation and attitudes towards science. Student journals indicated that students enjoyed the use of technology, hands-on science equipment, working in pairs or small groups and the opportunity to share their ideas and learn from their classmates. This study does lend itself to additional research. Due to the small sample size, the shortened time for research, and the population, these research questions should be investigated with another group of students in order to make more definitive decisions regarding the methods to use in their classroom. If the research is conducted again using a different group of students, a larger population will be needed, as well as a lengthened period for research.
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Date Issued: 2007
Identifier: CFE0001626, ucf:47182
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001626

Title: THE EFFECTS OF DISCOURSE AND JOURNAL WRITING ON STUDENTS' ATTITUDES TOWARDS MATHEMATICS IN A FIFTH GRADE CLASSROOM: AN ACTION RESEARCH STUDY.
Creator: Rose, Anna, Ortiz, Enrique, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate how my use of discourse and journal writing affected students' attitudes and conceptions of mathematics in a 5th grade mathematics classroom. The nature of students' strengths and weaknesses with mathematics using discourse and journal writing were described. To show students' attitudes towards the two teaching methods transcription of teacher and student discourse on digital audio recordings, observational notes, journal writing, and pre and post...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to investigate how my use of discourse and journal writing affected students' attitudes and conceptions of mathematics in a 5th grade mathematics classroom. The nature of students' strengths and weaknesses with mathematics using discourse and journal writing were described. To show students' attitudes towards the two teaching methods transcription of teacher and student discourse on digital audio recordings, observational notes, journal writing, and pre and post attitude surveys were used. The research approach was qualitative and quantitative. The participants in this twelve-week study were twenty fifth grade students from a private school in central Florida. Through analysis of the data collected, the students showed positive improvement in attitude towards discourse and journal writing in the mathematics classroom. The study supported that discourse and journal writing are important to student learning.
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Date Issued: 2005
Identifier: CFE0000722, ucf:46616
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000722

Title: Ego-involvement as an alternative measure of resistance to persuasion.
Creator: Snider, William J., Pryor, Albert, Social Sciences
Abstract / Description: Florida Technological University College of Social Sciences Thesis;
Date Issued: 1975
Identifier: CFR0004329, ucf:52984
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFR0004329

Title: Keep Your Thoughts Off My Body: Social Attitudes Toward Rape-Related Abortions.
Creator: Fernandez, Ketty, Huff-Corzine, Lin, Corzine, Harold, Gay, David, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Since the legalization of abortion in 1973, abortion continues to be an ongoing debate among pro-choice and pro-life groups, and politicians, and is one of the many barriers women may face. As rape continues in being a significant social issue, rape-related pregnancies and abortions have been understudied. By using the General Social Survey (GSS), this paper analyzes various sociodemographic variables which may influence social attitudes toward rape-related abortions. Findings indicate that...
Show moreSince the legalization of abortion in 1973, abortion continues to be an ongoing debate among pro-choice and pro-life groups, and politicians, and is one of the many barriers women may face. As rape continues in being a significant social issue, rape-related pregnancies and abortions have been understudied. By using the General Social Survey (GSS), this paper analyzes various sociodemographic variables which may influence social attitudes toward rape-related abortions. Findings indicate that Blacks, women, those living in the South, and age were not significant predictors of whether a pregnant woman should have a legal abortion as a result of rape. Other sociodemographic variables were significant; many supporting previous studies. However, this paper adds to the literature since social attitudes related to rape-related abortions have not been thoroughly studied. As this issue may arise, it is critical for professionals working with victims/survivors to understand, offer, and not judge women's decision should they decide to terminate their pregnancy. Due to various potential barriers women face, we may never obtain an accurate number of rape-related abortions or pregnancies. Because women may not report their rape, future research should focus on women in hospitals, abortion clinics, etc. to get a better understanding of the issue.
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Date Issued: 2017
Identifier: CFE0006590, ucf:51283
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006590

Title: POLITICAL SOCIALIZTION: CHANGE AND STABILITY IN POLITICAL ATTITUDES AMONG AND WITHIN AGE COHORTS.
Creator: Hale, Michael, Pollock, Philip, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: For as long as people have held opinions in the political realm, there has been research trying to decipher exactly what people think and believe as well as when they begin to hold these beliefs. This present study sorts the respondents studied into age cohorts and then follows them throughout the data. All of the data used in this study are from the National Election Study Data from 1984, 1988, 1992, 1996, 2000, and 2004. This study is a repeated cross-sectional study since different...
Show moreFor as long as people have held opinions in the political realm, there has been research trying to decipher exactly what people think and believe as well as when they begin to hold these beliefs. This present study sorts the respondents studied into age cohorts and then follows them throughout the data. All of the data used in this study are from the National Election Study Data from 1984, 1988, 1992, 1996, 2000, and 2004. This study is a repeated cross-sectional study since different individuals are used throughout the study, and this study measures opinions only on the aggregate level. Sorting the respondents into age cohorts allows this study to track people of similar age as they respond to different life experiences as well as world events as they age. When appropriate, the data are compared to the main models of political socialization to determine how accurate these generally accepted models are. The items analyzed in this study vary greatly in subject as well as how specific they are. Everything from United States Presidential vote choices, opinions on affirmative action and federal welfare spending to political knowledge is analyzed to ascertain if these things interact with age, and if they do interact with age, to what extent. Besides observing opinions on these issues, certain issues will have their saliency measured throughout the years using the Somers' D statistic. This will help determine what issues people are thinking of when they are forming their ideology. The results from this paper show that some issues and beliefs, such as self-described ideology and political knowledge, are very strongly related to age. Other issues and beliefs in the political realm, such as strength of United States Presidential vote choice and opinions on federal welfare spending, seem to not be related to age or influenced heavily by period effects and other things besides age.
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Date Issued: 2011
Identifier: CFH0003713, ucf:44746
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0003713

Title: THE IMPACT OF MEDIA ON ATTITUDES TOWARD WOMEN AND SEXUAL ATTITUDES IN EMERGING ADULTS.
Creator: Patrick, Melissa, Wright, Chrysalis, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this research was to explore the relationship between exposure to media variables and emerging adults' attitudes toward women and sex. Previous research indicated that exposure to media variables can influence the thoughts, behaviors, and attitudes of those exposed. The current study examined how age at exposure to media variables impacted attitudes about sex and attitudes toward women. Six-hundred and ninety four college students were given a questionnaire containing an...
Show moreThe purpose of this research was to explore the relationship between exposure to media variables and emerging adults' attitudes toward women and sex. Previous research indicated that exposure to media variables can influence the thoughts, behaviors, and attitudes of those exposed. The current study examined how age at exposure to media variables impacted attitudes about sex and attitudes toward women. Six-hundred and ninety four college students were given a questionnaire containing an attitudes toward women scale, a sexual attitudes scale, and a media viewing questionnaire. ANOVAS and linear regressions were performed on the data and results for the study were significant. Results indicated that age of media exposure impacted sexual attitudes and attitudes toward women.
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Date Issued: 2013
Identifier: CFH0004521, ucf:45171
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004521

Title: THE EFFECTS OF JOURNAL WRITING ON STUDENT ATTITUDES AND PERFORMANCE IN PROBLEM SOLVING.
Creator: Quinones, Christine, Dixon, Juli, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This study summarizes research conducted in a second grade classroom at a rural elementary school in the fall of 2004. This study investigated the practice of using writing activities in mathematics to improve student attitudes and performance in problem solving. The classroom teacher supplemented traditional mathematics instruction with daily problem solving activities and affective journal writing. Students were asked to complete daily problem solving prompts and write about their problem...
Show moreThis study summarizes research conducted in a second grade classroom at a rural elementary school in the fall of 2004. This study investigated the practice of using writing activities in mathematics to improve student attitudes and performance in problem solving. The classroom teacher supplemented traditional mathematics instruction with daily problem solving activities and affective journal writing. Students were asked to complete daily problem solving prompts and write about their problem-solving solutions. Attitude data was collected using a pre and post attitude survey as well as affective journal writing assignments. Performance data was collected using a performance based problem-solving rubric. Results of this study showed change in students' attitudes towards problem solving in the areas of willingness to participate and perseverance in completing problem solving tasks. Student performance gains were recorded and analyzed throughout the six-week study period. Thirteen out of the 17 students who participated in this study showed performance growth in problem solving.
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Date Issued: 2005
Identifier: CFE0000429, ucf:46391
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000429

Title: AN ALGORITHM FOR DETERMINING SATELLITE ATTITUDE BY COMPARING PHYSICAL FEATURE MODELS TO EDGES DETECTED IN SATELLITE OR GROUND-BASED TELESCOPE IMAGERY.
Creator: Reinhart, Eric, Johnson, Roger, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This thesis discusses the development and performance of an algorithm created to calculate satellite attitude based on the comparison of satellite "physical feature" models to information derived from edge detection performed on imagery of the satellite. The quality of this imagery could range from the very clear, close-up imagery that may come from an unmanned satellite servicing mission to the faint, unclear imagery that may come from a ground-based telescope investigating a satellite...
Show moreThis thesis discusses the development and performance of an algorithm created to calculate satellite attitude based on the comparison of satellite "physical feature" models to information derived from edge detection performed on imagery of the satellite. The quality of this imagery could range from the very clear, close-up imagery that may come from an unmanned satellite servicing mission to the faint, unclear imagery that may come from a ground-based telescope investigating a satellite anomaly. Satellite "physical feature" models describe where an edge is likely to appear in an image. These are usually defined by physical edges on the structure of the satellite or areas where there are distinct changes in material property. The theory behind this concept is discussed as well as two different approaches to implement it. Various simple examples are used to demonstrate the feasibility of the concept. These examples are well-controlled image simulations of simple physical models with known attitude. The algorithm attempts to perform the edge detection and edge registration of the simulated image and calculate the most likely attitude. Though complete autonomy was not achieved during this effort, the concept and approach show applicability.
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Date Issued: 2007
Identifier: CFE0001942, ucf:47450
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001942

Title: FRAMING RACIAL INEQUALITY: REASSESSING THE EFFECT OF RELIGION ON RACIAL ATTITUDES.
Creator: Kaufman II, Jerrold, Carter, J. Scott, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Building on previous work on racial attitudes among the religious, this study reassesses the effects of religion on individuals' beliefs about racial inequality. This study relies on recent developments in the sociology of culture, which conceives of culture as a frame through which individuals interpret the world in which they inhabit (Benford and Snow 2000; Harding 2007; Small 2002, 2004). Religion is held to be an important social institution that provides substance to the frames that...
Show moreBuilding on previous work on racial attitudes among the religious, this study reassesses the effects of religion on individuals' beliefs about racial inequality. This study relies on recent developments in the sociology of culture, which conceives of culture as a frame through which individuals interpret the world in which they inhabit (Benford and Snow 2000; Harding 2007; Small 2002, 2004). Religion is held to be an important social institution that provides substance to the frames that individuals employ for interpreting racial inequality. Two particular developments from this literature inform this study: first, that individuals can employ different, even contradictory, frames simultaneously, and second, that frames are dynamic processes that can change over time. This study utilizes the General Social Survey from 1985 to 2008 and uses a theoretically informed and improved methodology for assessing beliefs about racial inequality. Three conclusions are drawn: 1) religion continues to play a role in shaping individuals' beliefs about racial inequality, 2) it is important to differentiate between "pure" frames and frames that combine different explanations for racial inequality when understanding the role of religion in forming beliefs about black-white inequality, and 3) frames for racial inequality undergo change over time, though the pattern of change depends upon the frame for racial inequality.
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Date Issued: 2011
Identifier: CFE0003650, ucf:48842
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003650

Title: HOMOPHOBIA IN REGISTERED NURSES.
Creator: Berry, Matthew, Blackwell, Christopher, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Homophobia plays a significant role in the treatment of individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT). The purpose of this study is to explore the presence of these types of negative attitudes as they present themselves in the nursing workforce. 520 registered nurses were contacted via email to partake in a survey assessing homophobic attitudes and perceptions regarding nursing care of LGBT persons. A total of 27 registered nurses responded and the resulting data...
Show moreHomophobia plays a significant role in the treatment of individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT). The purpose of this study is to explore the presence of these types of negative attitudes as they present themselves in the nursing workforce. 520 registered nurses were contacted via email to partake in a survey assessing homophobic attitudes and perceptions regarding nursing care of LGBT persons. A total of 27 registered nurses responded and the resulting data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. A majority of registered nurses were female (89.3%), greater than 40 years of age (75%), white (75%), heterosexual (96.4%), and Christian (67.9%) with a Bachelor's degree or less (57.1%). Homophobia scores averaged 27 on a scale from 12-60, higher scores translating to greater homophobia levels. This value is on the lower end of the scale, which interprets to lower levels of homophobia among the participants. While some of these scores did show the existence of negative attitudes toward LGBT individuals among participants, further investigation is needed with a larger, more representative sample. As a result, it is difficult to determine whether LGBT relations are improving with registered nurses.
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Date Issued: 2018
Identifier: CFH2000280, ucf:45873
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000280

Title: A SURVEY OF PRESERVICE TEACHERS IN REGARDS TO THEIR ATTITUDES AND PERCEPTIONS OF SCIENCE FICTION AND ITS USE IN THE CLASSROOM.
Creator: Kosky, Amy, Hoffman, Elizabeth, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: In 1957 at the University of Chicago, Robert Heinlein asserted that through science fiction humanity can wonder upon important questions without causing harm to the real world. "Through such speculative experiments science fiction can warn against dangerous solutions, urge toward better solutions. Science fiction joyously tackles the real and pressing problems of our race, wrestles with them, never ignores them—problems which other forms of fiction cannot challenge. For this reason I assert...
Show moreIn 1957 at the University of Chicago, Robert Heinlein asserted that through science fiction humanity can wonder upon important questions without causing harm to the real world. "Through such speculative experiments science fiction can warn against dangerous solutions, urge toward better solutions. Science fiction joyously tackles the real and pressing problems of our race, wrestles with them, never ignores them—problems which other forms of fiction cannot challenge. For this reason I assert that science fiction is the most realistic, the most serious, the most significant, the most sane and healthy and human fiction being published today" (Davenport, 1959). Preservice teachers enrolled in the education program at a large metropolitan university were surveyed to determine if they had preconceived notions about science fiction, if they would use science fiction within their classrooms and if science fiction would be available to the students in their classrooms. Also explored was if these future educators believed science fiction was too complex for English language learners and students with exceptionalities. Analysis of this survey revealed that although most preservice teachers believe science fiction literature has value within the classroom and they planned to use it at least part of the time, about one in five believed the concepts and themes were too complex for English language learners and students with exceptionalities. The researcher of this study hopes the information contained in this study can help educators encourage students to read science fiction as well as provide the educators with a resource of science fiction literature book titles which are grade level and ability level appropriate for their students.
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Date Issued: 2014
Identifier: CFH0004633, ucf:45313
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004633

Title: DO YOU HAVE A FRIEND?: THE IMPACT OF PERSONAL KNOWLEDGE OF SOMEONE WITH AIDS ON ATTITUDES TOWARDS AIDS.
Creator: Lombas, Leith Leonce, Gay, David, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: ABSTRACT The study of attitudes towards those with AIDS is relatively recent. Most studies have examined attitudes concerning health and medical concerns. Little research has focused on attitudes toward social and behavior concerns. The few that have focused on such attitudes have employed relatively small samples collected primarily out of convenience. The studies that have used national samples have primarily addressed public policy issues. Using national data from the 1988 General Social...
Show moreABSTRACT The study of attitudes towards those with AIDS is relatively recent. Most studies have examined attitudes concerning health and medical concerns. Little research has focused on attitudes toward social and behavior concerns. The few that have focused on such attitudes have employed relatively small samples collected primarily out of convenience. The studies that have used national samples have primarily addressed public policy issues. Using national data from the 1988 General Social Survey, this paper examines the effects of personal knowledge about the AIDS virus and other attitudinal variables on four dimensions of social and behavioral concern for those with AIDS in American society. Sociodemographic variables, which prior studies have demonstrated as important predictors of attitudes toward AIDS, are included as controls in this research that presents findings from a multivariate analysis. Results suggests that the impact of personal knowledge of someone with AIDS does not strongly lead to more supportive attitudes regarding the rights of people with AIDS, except when the economic costs of AIDS care is concerned. Directions for future research are presented and discussed.
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Date Issued: 2004
Identifier: CFE0000010, ucf:46071
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000010

Title: EXPLORING PRESERVICE TEACHER ATTITUDES TOWARD BLACK STUDENTS.
Creator: Greuel, Audra L, Puig, Enrique A., University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The majority of the preservice teacher population is young, White, and female; however, the urban school system student population continues to become increasingly diverse, including an increasing population of underserved Black students in urban schools. The racial differences between the preservice teacher population and the urban student population complicates the challenges faced in educating Black students effectively. Teachers and students often encounter misunderstandings, and thus,...
Show moreThe majority of the preservice teacher population is young, White, and female; however, the urban school system student population continues to become increasingly diverse, including an increasing population of underserved Black students in urban schools. The racial differences between the preservice teacher population and the urban student population complicates the challenges faced in educating Black students effectively. Teachers and students often encounter misunderstandings, and thus, utilize incompatible styles of classroom management and instruction, often resulting in Black students experiencing difficulties with learning. Many of these complications derive from the profound presence of race, racial difference, and racial inequality throughout U.S. history. The purpose of this research was to explore the racial ideas, experiences, and attitudes of preservice teachers, who self-identify as White, toward future Black students at a large, southeastern, Research I university through a qualitative interview process. More specifically, this study examined preservice teachers' cultural sensitivity towards Black students. This study also observed preservice teachers' ability to discuss these issues. Using information from a 10-question qualitative interview of three (3) research participants, this thesis explored the following questions: Research question one (RQ1): How do preservice teachers define race and racism?, Research question two (RQ2): What factors contribute to preservice teachers' racial perspectives?, and Research question three (RQ3): What are preservice teachers' attitudes towards students who are racially different from themselves, specifically Black students?
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Date Issued: 2016
Identifier: CFH2000121, ucf:46027
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000121

Title: THE EFFECTS OF INTEGRATING TECHNOLOGYINTO AN 8TH GRADE SCIENCE CURRICULUM.
Creator: Brunton, Gregory, Jeanpierre, Bobby, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The growing need for technological literacy has increased its presence in public classrooms more than ever before. The purpose of this research study was to study the effects of technology integration on student achievement and attitudes toward science and technology. The participants in this 18-week study involved the 86 8th grade students at Winding Hills School in Orlando, Florida. Data were collected using a pre and post vocabulary assessment, weekly vocabulary quizzes, student attitude...
Show moreThe growing need for technological literacy has increased its presence in public classrooms more than ever before. The purpose of this research study was to study the effects of technology integration on student achievement and attitudes toward science and technology. The participants in this 18-week study involved the 86 8th grade students at Winding Hills School in Orlando, Florida. Data were collected using a pre and post vocabulary assessment, weekly vocabulary quizzes, student attitude surveys, student and parent correspondence as it relates to the study such as parent notes and e-mails, and classroom observation notes. Several conclusions were made. The effects of technology on student performance as originally planned was inconclusive in this study. It was found that there was no correlation between typing assignments and student performance. Students felt that technology increased their academic performance. Students had positive attitude towards science class though the percentage decreased during the study. Students enjoyed using technology, saw it as a benefit, felt it helped them with publishing and improved their attitudes towards technology.
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Date Issued: 2005
Identifier: CFE0000375, ucf:46338
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000375

Title: THE EFFECT OF AN INQUIRY-BASED SCIENCE CURRICULUM ON STUDENT ATTITUDES AND PARTICIPATION.
Creator: Perlmutter, James, Jeanpierre, Bobby, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This study was designed as a collaborative action research study and focused on the use of an inquiry-based unit in an eighth grade honors science class at a middle school with a diverse population in the southeastern portion of the United States in the Spring of 2005. The inquiry-based unit was taught through the use of the electronics unit in Full Option Science System (FOSS). The purpose of the study was to investigate the effects of an inquiry based curriculum on the level of...
Show moreThis study was designed as a collaborative action research study and focused on the use of an inquiry-based unit in an eighth grade honors science class at a middle school with a diverse population in the southeastern portion of the United States in the Spring of 2005. The inquiry-based unit was taught through the use of the electronics unit in Full Option Science System (FOSS). The purpose of the study was to investigate the effects of an inquiry based curriculum on the level of participation in, attitudes of, and academic performance of students towards science. This collaborative action research study used both qualitative and quantitative methods. The qualitative forms consisted of written notes taken by the classroom teacher and I that included observations of the whole class as well as observations of students in smaller inquiry groups and conversation and interview notations of student comments while they were doing inquiry work, both individual and group, as well as my notations of interviews and conversations with the classroom teacher. Although used to a lesser degree, quantitative data was collected from pre and post attitude surveys as well as from students' scores on inquiry-based investigations, paper activities and formal assessments. All data was triangulated across a variety of data sources so that any resulting patterns or themes would be supported. My access to this middle school was based on my role as the science coach assigned to the school. As the science coach, I worked with teachers and students to integrate the FOSS middle school curriculum unit into the school's science curriculum. The FOSS kits, workbooks and related reading books were designed to increase the use of inquiry and hands-on activities within middle and elementary school science classrooms.
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Date Issued: 2007
Identifier: CFE0001699, ucf:47193
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001699

Title: AWARENESS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ATTITUDE ABOUT ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION: RESPONSES FROM ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALISTS, HIGH SCHOOL INSTRUCTORS, STUDENTS, AND PARENTS.
Creator: Lasso de la Vega, Ernesto, Holt, Larry, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Over the last 30 years, environmental education has been part of the curriculum in Southwest Florida public schools. Curriculum objectives, such as, environmental attitude, knowledge, and awareness (AKA), have been investigated in the literature as ways to improve the overall behavior of future citizens toward the environment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the aforementioned objectives among the following groups: environmental specialists, high school instructors, high school...
Show moreOver the last 30 years, environmental education has been part of the curriculum in Southwest Florida public schools. Curriculum objectives, such as, environmental attitude, knowledge, and awareness (AKA), have been investigated in the literature as ways to improve the overall behavior of future citizens toward the environment. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the aforementioned objectives among the following groups: environmental specialists, high school instructors, high school students, and the parents of the corresponding students in three Southwest Florida counties during the 2003-2004 school year. An instrument was developed to measure the groups' levels of awareness, knowledge, and attitude as well as their levels of self-efficacy. The returned surveys represented responses from: 27 environmental specialists, 15 high school instructors, 224 high school students, and 222 parents. This study found statistically significant differences among the groups regarding the levels of awareness, knowledge, and attitude as related to environmental issues. The environmental specialists scored highest for all AKA components as compared to the lowest levels presented by parent awareness, parent attitude, and high school student knowledge. In addition, factors such as socioeconomic status, ethnicity, and preference of leisure activities resulted in differences among the groups regarding their levels of environmental AKA. This study supports the evaluation of AKA levels among participants as an appropriate approach to the evaluation of environmental curriculum objectives. In addition, the study suggests a simplified measurement of AKA as an attempt to unify the parameters measured by numerous instruments found throughout environmental education literature. The results of this study may assist environmental specialists, instructors, and school districts in the evaluation of environmental education curricula.
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Date Issued: 2004
Identifier: CFE0000207, ucf:46266
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000207

Title: UGH...STATISTICS! COLLEGE STUDENTS' ATTITUDES AND PERCEPTIONS TOWARD STATISTICS.
Creator: Doyle, Drew A, Brophy-Ellison, James, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Statistics is a course that is required for a majority of undergraduate college students in a wide variety of majors. It is not just required for Statistics or Mathematics majors, but also for those undergraduate college students majoring in Biology, Engineering, Sociology, and countless other majors. It can often be seen as a daunting course, especially for those who feel that mathematics is not their strongest subject. Students begin to dislike the course before even starting and this can...
Show moreStatistics is a course that is required for a majority of undergraduate college students in a wide variety of majors. It is not just required for Statistics or Mathematics majors, but also for those undergraduate college students majoring in Biology, Engineering, Sociology, and countless other majors. It can often be seen as a daunting course, especially for those who feel that mathematics is not their strongest subject. Students begin to dislike the course before even starting and this can carry on throughout the entirety of the course. This thesis will focus primarily on students' perceptions and attitudes toward their statistics courses rather than their performance. Many courses are taught a specific way that is conducive to all learning styles, which may lead to the students not enjoying or understanding their statistics course. The students' learning style may also be correlated to their attitude and perception of statistics. The goal of this thesis is to better understand the college students in order to adapt the current methods so that student can enjoy the course, appreciate the knowledge they learn and its impact on their future career paths.
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Date Issued: 2017
Identifier: CFH2000165, ucf:45988
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000165

Title: HISPANICS' ATTITUDES TOWARD SEEKING COUNSELINGAS A FUNCTION OF PSYCHOSOCIAL AND DEMOGRAPHIC VARIABLES.
Creator: Rojas-Vilches, Angela, Negy, Charles, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Using variables identified in the social science literature believed to influence attitudes toward seeking professional counseling, an attempt was made to develop a model for predicting Hispanics' willingness to obtain professional help. A second purpose of this study was to compare college students (n = 158) with their parents on their attitudes toward mental illness and toward seeking counseling. Among predictor variables, social stigma and the belief that mental illnesses are untreatable...
Show moreUsing variables identified in the social science literature believed to influence attitudes toward seeking professional counseling, an attempt was made to develop a model for predicting Hispanics' willingness to obtain professional help. A second purpose of this study was to compare college students (n = 158) with their parents on their attitudes toward mental illness and toward seeking counseling. Among predictor variables, social stigma and the belief that mental illnesses are untreatable were the primary variables predicting attitudes toward seeking counseling. The more college students and their parents perceived there to be social stigma attached to those seeking therapy, and the more parents believed that mental illnesses are untreatable, the less favorable attitudes they had about seeking professional help. These attitudes were linked to their acculturation levels; in general, the more acculturated they were toward the Hispanic culture, the more pejorative their attitudes were toward mental illness and their willingness to seek professional help. Last, college students in general had significantly more positive attitudes toward mental illness and professional counseling than their parents. Recommendations for providing counseling with Hispanic clients are provided in the context of the present findings.
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Date Issued: 2006
Identifier: CFE0001028, ucf:46804
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001028

attitudes (20)	+ -
Attitudes (12)	+ -
attitude (6)	+ -
job attitudes (4)	+ -
mathematics (4)	+ -

perceptions (4)	+ -
Knowledge (3)	+ -
United States (3)	+ -
college students (3)	+ -
elementary (3)	+ -
marketing (3)	+ -
science (3)	+ -
student attitudes (3)	+ -
Attitude (2)	+ -
CubeSat (2)	+ -
Education (2)	+ -
European Union (2)	+ -
Hispanics (2)	+ -
Mathematics (2)	+ -
Performance (2)	+ -
Persuasion (Psychology) (2)	+ -
Problem Solving (2)	+ -
Public Opinion (2)	+ -
Sexual Orientation (2)	+ -
Undergraduate Students (2)	+ -
achievement (2)	+ -
advertising (2)	+ -
anxiety (2)	+ -
attitude control (2)	+ -
behavioral engagement (2)	+ -

ETD Collection (69)	+ -
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University of Central Florida (90)	+ -
Ortiz, Enrique (7)	+ -
Gay, David (6)	+ -
Fritzsche, Barbara (5)	+ -
Dixon, Juli (4)	+ -

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Donley, Amy (3)	+ -
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Joseph, Dana (3)	+ -
Lin, Kuo-Chi (3)	+ -
Negy, Charles (3)	+ -
Xu, Yunjun (3)	+ -
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Jentsch, Florian (2)	+ -
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