Current Search: persistence (x)
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- Title
- A RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CAREER DECISION AND MOTIVATION TO PERSIST.
- Creator
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Ferguson, Patricia, Sivo, Stephen, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
During the past few decades, research on student retention has been primarily focused on the constructs of social integration, lack of financial support and academic under-preparedness (Astin, 1975; Bean & Metzner, 1985; Cabrera, 1993; Pascarella,1982; Tinto, 1975). This study examined the phenomenal occurrence of low retention due to "lack of major and career direction." The Career Decision Scale and the Achievement Motivation Profile assessments were administered to 105 students at a...
Show moreDuring the past few decades, research on student retention has been primarily focused on the constructs of social integration, lack of financial support and academic under-preparedness (Astin, 1975; Bean & Metzner, 1985; Cabrera, 1993; Pascarella,1982; Tinto, 1975). This study examined the phenomenal occurrence of low retention due to "lack of major and career direction." The Career Decision Scale and the Achievement Motivation Profile assessments were administered to 105 students at a comprehensive community college. Six linear regressions were conducted to determine if there were statistical relationships between:(a) career decision and the motivation to persist and; (b) career indecision and the lack of motivation to persist. Of the three regressions conducted on career decision and motivation to persist; two of the scores from the motivation profile indicated that a statistical relationship existed, whereas the third score did not. Of the three regressions conducted on career indecision and the lack of motivation to persist; two scores from the motivation profile indicated a statistical relationship between career indecision and the lack of motivation to persist, whereas the third score was not statistically significant. Recommendations were made to community colleges and universities to cultivate an environment where major and career decision initiatives become a top priority for students. Suggestions included creating courses in career planning and one-on-one career counseling sessions.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2007
- Identifier
- CFE0001978, ucf:47456
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001978
- Title
- New Student Orientation and First Year Retention Rate of Associate Degree Nursing Students.
- Creator
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Yanni, Molly, Cintron Delgado, Rosa, Owens, J. Thomas, Olan, Elsie, Morgan, Mark, Penfold Navarro, Catherine, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This study was conducted to explore the relationship between a program-specific orientation program for associate degree nursing students and first semester course grades, retention, and persistence to graduation. Previous research of orientation programs for associate degree nursing students has proved inconclusive in promoting student success. A significant difference was identified in first semester course grades between the orientation and no orientation groups, with the orientation group...
Show moreThis study was conducted to explore the relationship between a program-specific orientation program for associate degree nursing students and first semester course grades, retention, and persistence to graduation. Previous research of orientation programs for associate degree nursing students has proved inconclusive in promoting student success. A significant difference was identified in first semester course grades between the orientation and no orientation groups, with the orientation group having an average lower course grade. The potential for confounding variables was discussed. There were no significant differences found in the relationship between orientation participation and first-year retention rates or orientation participation and persistence to graduation. Data analysis also determined that student age did not influence the prediction of first-year retention rates for students who did or did not participate in the orientation program. The results of this study suggest that there is no relationship between a program-specific orientation program for associate degree nursing students and their first-year retention and persistence rates.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFE0006201, ucf:51107
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006201
- Title
- Puerto Rican Women in Pursuit of the Ph.D.: A Qualitative Analysis of Persistence.
- Creator
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Morales, Cyndia, Cintron Delgado, Rosa, Owens, James, Laureano Fuentes, Gloria, Rivera, Fernando, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This study explores the phenomenon of Puerto Rican women who have achieved a Ph.D. degree. The researcher utilized a qualitative research methodology to investigate the social aspects that influenced Puerto Rican women to persist in their doctoral programs. Due to the national pool of potential participants, interviews were conducted with Puerto Rican women using video chat software. The researcher utilizes 5 tenets of Critical Race Theory (CRT) as the framework for this study, in an effort...
Show moreThis study explores the phenomenon of Puerto Rican women who have achieved a Ph.D. degree. The researcher utilized a qualitative research methodology to investigate the social aspects that influenced Puerto Rican women to persist in their doctoral programs. Due to the national pool of potential participants, interviews were conducted with Puerto Rican women using video chat software. The researcher utilizes 5 tenets of Critical Race Theory (CRT) as the framework for this study, in an effort to address the varying aspects that contribute to the persistence of Puerto Rican women in graduate study, despite the challenges often cited in the literature as deterrents to academic achievement. The participants' experiences are examined on an individual, interactional, and institutional level, in order to gain insight into their persistence. This study captures the stories of Puerto Rican women raised in the mainland U.S. as well as those raised on the island itself. Ultimately, this study addresses two main gaps in the literature: (1) research is lacking on Latinas who are successful in higher education, and (2) traditional research tends to describe Latino/a academic achievement as a collective, with little attention given to the cultural distinctions of Latino subgroups in their educational trajectories.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFE0004725, ucf:49828
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004725
- Title
- Persistence of Physical Activity Among Veterans.
- Creator
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Davis, Jean, Edwards, Joellen, Loerzel, Victoria, Weiss, Josie, Kehinde, Julius, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The global burden of disease is staggering in terms of financial costs and human suffering. The general public is aware that physical activity is healthy, although the fact that physical activity can treat and reverse diseases, reduce the risk of cancers, prevent many chronic diseases, stave off cognitive decline, and contribute to quality longevity is less well known. Healthcare practitioners and policymakers are impeded in efforts to support physical activity due to the lack of knowledge of...
Show moreThe global burden of disease is staggering in terms of financial costs and human suffering. The general public is aware that physical activity is healthy, although the fact that physical activity can treat and reverse diseases, reduce the risk of cancers, prevent many chronic diseases, stave off cognitive decline, and contribute to quality longevity is less well known. Healthcare practitioners and policymakers are impeded in efforts to support physical activity due to the lack of knowledge of factors associated with physical activity persistence. The purpose of this dissertation was to determine these factors and identify which predict persistent physical activity among veterans to inform future programs and policies to support physical activity for health. The theorized influence of physical activity habit is addressed in the initial dissertation manuscript. Habits being more difficult to lapse from than to continue made them suitable for investigation to address the knowledge gap identified when no reports of long-term physical activity habits were found. Veterans provided an ideal population to study long-term physical activity habits with, as research indicates that veterans likely formed physical activity habits through recurrent physical activity required to meet the fitness requirements of active duty service. This led to the research reported in the second manuscript. The research was based on theory, literature review, and input from veterans. The integrated theory of health behavior change informed the predictor variables investigated. The explanatory and predictive cross-sectional study of community-dwelling veterans used the web survey method to answer questions of which factors were associated with sufficient or insufficient physical activity among veterans, and which factors were predictive. Recruitment of veterans occurred through Amazon's Mechanical Turk (MTurk(&)#174;) and linked veterans to the survey on Qualtrics(&)#174;. Findings revealed direct associations of exercise self-regulation, social support for exercise, and some service-related and other demographic factors with sufficient or insufficient physical activity. Qualtrics(&)#174; allowed for the presentation of survey questions in a variety of formats. To determine the best format for survey items, a state of the knowledge review was conducted. This review is presented in the final dissertation manuscript. Implications for future research, health education, clinical practice, and health policy are identified. It is expected that the knowledge gained in this study will inform future Veterans Affairs programs, provider practices, public health initiatives, and health care policies to support physical activity practices for healthy longevity.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2019
- Identifier
- CFE0007886, ucf:52783
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007886
- Title
- THE ORIGINS OF LACTASE PERSISTENCE AND ONGOING CONVERGENT EVOLUTION.
- Creator
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Keller, Beth, McIntyre, Matthew, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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As a primary factor in human evolution, natural selection is an important component of genetic research. Studies of lactase persistence suggest that positive selection has played a powerful role in the adaptation to a lifelong consumption of fresh milk. Using multiple research studies of lactase persistence and suspected corresponding single nucleotide genetic polymorphisms, this study combines data sources to determine whether evidence exists for natural selection of a specific cytosine-to...
Show moreAs a primary factor in human evolution, natural selection is an important component of genetic research. Studies of lactase persistence suggest that positive selection has played a powerful role in the adaptation to a lifelong consumption of fresh milk. Using multiple research studies of lactase persistence and suspected corresponding single nucleotide genetic polymorphisms, this study combines data sources to determine whether evidence exists for natural selection of a specific cytosine-to-thymine genetic mutation located 13,910 base pairs (T-13910) upstream from the lactase gene. This polymorphism has potential to be a causal element for lactase persistence, and data suggest that natural selection has played a role in the rising frequency and distribution of this allele, if only in some regions. European and neighboring regions appear to have the highest frequencies with little or no frequency in Asia, Africa and Indonesia; however the presence of lactase persistence in those areas suggests convergent evolution may be occurring on a phenotypic level. To examine this possibility several other identified polymorphisms in the same region as the T-13910 will be included in this study.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- Identifier
- CFE0003608, ucf:48890
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003608
- Title
- Can a Multiple Intervention Approach Improve College Students' Persistence, GPA, and Credits Earned?.
- Creator
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Guillemette, Joshua, Sivo, Stephen, Swan, Bonnie, Hahs-Vaughn, Debbie, Vitale, Thomas, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The research conducted tested a theory based on work by Tinto (1999), Astin (1984), and the Center for Community College Student Engagement (CCCSE, 2012) that multiple interventions are needed to significantly improve graduation rates at community colleges. The literature says little about this approach for community college students; therefore, this dissertation contributes to the knowledge base for educational programs.A first-year program at a large, diverse community college using...
Show moreThe research conducted tested a theory based on work by Tinto (1999), Astin (1984), and the Center for Community College Student Engagement (CCCSE, 2012) that multiple interventions are needed to significantly improve graduation rates at community colleges. The literature says little about this approach for community college students; therefore, this dissertation contributes to the knowledge base for educational programs.A first-year program at a large, diverse community college using multiple interventions assisted in determining the validity of the theory. The interventions built into the first-year program included learning communities, a student success course (SSC), proactive advising, and experiential learning. The CCCSE and others identified these components as high-impact practices for improving student achievement. A common theme and faculty tied interventions together across the first year of the program. The small sample (n = 21) and the fact this was the pilot year represent the most critical limitations in ascertaining the efficacy of the theory.The program's outcomes were evaluated using propensity score matching (PSM). Updates in statistical software continue to make the method easier to implement and evaluate. Consequently, this method is increasing in popularity in education to determine causality where random assignment is not feasible. Hence, the dissertation spends some time describing the method, so others can benefit from the method in their research. The author compared the program group to matched students from the same campus in the fall and spring terms. Characteristics of the match were chosen based on a careful search of the literature and historical data of the institution to ensure that students in the match group would be comparable. Differences in persistence, grade point average (GPA), and credits earned served to determine the effectiveness of the theory in this pilot.The program did not show a statistically significant increase (p (>) .1) in persistence, GPA, or credits earned over the matched group. Yet, a small effect was measured for GPA (d = 0.51, fall and d = 0.12, spring), credits earned (d = 0.17, fall and d = 0.13, spring), and persistence (OR = 1.28, fall and OR = 1.25, spring). The positive finding encourages more research into the theory of multiple interventions for community college students.In conclusion, future research should include following up with the participants in year two to determine how long the intervention effect persists. Also, increasing the sample size by including other first-year programs run by the institution improves the ability to detect differences and improve confidence. Finally, multiple interventions need to be tried on many different types of students to determine who benefits most.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFE0006879, ucf:51717
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006879
- Title
- Predicting Undergraduate Retention in STEM Majors Based on Demographics, Math Ability, and Career Development Factors.
- Creator
-
Belser, Christopher, Shillingford-Butler, Ann, Van Horn, Stacy, Taylor, Dalena, Daire, Andrew, Witta, Eleanor, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields are currently facing a crisis with respect to filling jobs with qualified workers (NSF, 2013; NAS, 2011). While advancements in these industries have translated into job growth, post-secondary declaration and retention rates within STEM majors lag behind industry needs (Carnevale et al., 2011; Chen, 2013; Koenig et al., 2012). Although researchers previously investigated demographic variables and math-related variables in the context of...
Show moreScience, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields are currently facing a crisis with respect to filling jobs with qualified workers (NSF, 2013; NAS, 2011). While advancements in these industries have translated into job growth, post-secondary declaration and retention rates within STEM majors lag behind industry needs (Carnevale et al., 2011; Chen, 2013; Koenig et al., 2012). Although researchers previously investigated demographic variables and math-related variables in the context of STEM retention (Beasley (&) Fischer, 2012; CollegeBoard, 2012; Cundiff et al., 2013; Gayles (&) Ampaw, 2014; Le et al., 2014; Nosek (&) Smyth, 2011; Riegle-Crumb (&) King, 2010), the need exists for additional research examining the impact of career-related variables (Belser et al., 2017; Folsom et al., 2004; Parks et al., 2012; Reardon et al., 2015). Additionally, prior STEM retention research primarily focused on students with declared STEM majors, as opposed to undeclared students considering STEM majors. In the present study, the researcher sought to determine the degree to which demographic variables (gender and ethnicity), math ability variables (SAT Math scores and Math Placement Test--Algebra scores), and career development related variables (initial major, STEM course participation, and Career Thoughts Inventory [CTI] change scores) could predict undergraduate retention in STEM for participants in a STEM recruitment and retention program. Using binary logistic regression, the researcher found that initially having a declared STEM major was the best predictor of STEM retention. Higher scores on math variables consistently predicted higher odds of STEM success, and the data revealed higher odds of STEM retention for ethnic minority students. Gender only showed to be a significant predictor of STEM attrition with the undecided students with first-to-third year retention. Finally, larger decreases in CTI scores predicted increased odds of STEM retention. Implications from the findings relate to a variety of professionals from higher education, counseling, and research. The findings provide guidance and new perspectives on variables associated with better rates of STEM retention, and as such, inform STEM initiatives targeting undergraduate STEM recruitment and retention.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFE0006565, ucf:51326
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006565
- Title
- Mechanism of Actin Bundle Assembly, Mechanics and Structure by Ion Interaction.
- Creator
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Castaneda, Nicholas, Kang, Hyeran, Huo, Qun, Gesquiere, Andre, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The assembly of actin filaments into bundles plays an essential role in mechanical strength and dynamic reorganization of cytoskeleton. Divalent counterions at high concentrations promote bundle formation through electrostatic attraction between charged filaments. Although it has been hypothesized that specific cation interactions may contribute to salt-induced bundling, molecular mechanisms of how salt modulates bundle assembly and mechanics are not well established. Here we determine the...
Show moreThe assembly of actin filaments into bundles plays an essential role in mechanical strength and dynamic reorganization of cytoskeleton. Divalent counterions at high concentrations promote bundle formation through electrostatic attraction between charged filaments. Although it has been hypothesized that specific cation interactions may contribute to salt-induced bundling, molecular mechanisms of how salt modulates bundle assembly and mechanics are not well established. Here we determine the mechanical and dynamic properties of actin bundles with physiologically relevant cations. Using total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy, we measure the bending stiffness of actin bundles determined by persistence length analysis. We characterize real-time formation of bundles by dynamic light scattering intensity and direct visualization using TIRF microscopy. Our results show that divalent cations modulate bundle stiffness as well as time-dependent average bundle size. Furthermore, molecular dynamic simulations propose specificity for cation binding on actin filaments to form bundles. The work suggests that cation interactions serve a regulatory function in bundle assembly dynamics, mechanics, and structure.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFE0006572, ucf:51307
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006572
- Title
- Tunable Effect of Metal Ions on Polyelectrolyte Mechanics.
- Creator
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Diaz, Angie, Kang, Hyeran, Zhai, Lei, Tetard, Laurene, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Polyelectrolyte based hydrogel fibers can mimic extracellular matrix and have applications such as drug delivery and tissue scaffolding. Metal ions play a critical role in hydrogel fiber stability via electrostatic interactions, but knowledge of how they modulate mechanical properties of individual polyelectrolyte polymers is lacking. In this study, electrospun polyacrylic acid with chitosan is used as a model system to evaluate ferric ion effect on nanofiber mechanics. Using dark field...
Show morePolyelectrolyte based hydrogel fibers can mimic extracellular matrix and have applications such as drug delivery and tissue scaffolding. Metal ions play a critical role in hydrogel fiber stability via electrostatic interactions, but knowledge of how they modulate mechanical properties of individual polyelectrolyte polymers is lacking. In this study, electrospun polyacrylic acid with chitosan is used as a model system to evaluate ferric ion effect on nanofiber mechanics. Using dark field microscopy imaging and persistence length analysis, we demonstrate that ferric ions modulate the bending stiffness of nanofibers. Young's modulus of individual nanofibers is estimated at values of a few kilopascals, suggesting that electrospun nanofibers possibly exist in a hydrated state. Furthermore, Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectra indicate the effect of ferric ions on polyacrylic acid molecular bonds. Our results suggest that metal ions can regulate single nanofiber stiffness, thereby providing designs to fabricate hydrogels in a tunable fashion.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFE0006993, ucf:51625
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006993
- Title
- The Effectiveness of Placement Exams and a Free Remedial Summer Program at a Midsized Selective Private University.
- Creator
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Mullins, Kadie, Murray, Kenneth, Baldwin, Lee, Doherty, Walter, Lindsley, Boyd, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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In order to explore the effectiveness of MSSPU's remedial placement practices and the impacts of participation in the Free Remedial Summer Program on student outcomes, this ex post facto study examined performance in remedial courses, persistence to graduation, and time to graduation as it relates to mathematics and English composition placement level, high school grade point averages, entrance exam scores, and participation in the Free Remedial Summer Program. Five unique statistical tests...
Show moreIn order to explore the effectiveness of MSSPU's remedial placement practices and the impacts of participation in the Free Remedial Summer Program on student outcomes, this ex post facto study examined performance in remedial courses, persistence to graduation, and time to graduation as it relates to mathematics and English composition placement level, high school grade point averages, entrance exam scores, and participation in the Free Remedial Summer Program. Five unique statistical tests were utilized to address fifteen hypothesis related to seven research questions. Several major findings were a result of this study. First, students who complete the mathematics placement exam and enroll outside of their recommended level, either above or below their placement level, perform better in both their first and second mathematics courses, on average, than those who enroll at the recommended level. The same was found for English composition. Second, students who place at a non-remedial level are more likely to persist to graduation, statistically. Third, neither high school grade point average nor entrance exam scores alone are strong indicators of time or persistence to graduation. However, fourth, the factors of high school grade point average, entrance exam score, and placement exam performance may be a better indicator of persistence to graduation when analyzed in a combined fashion. Finally, students who enroll in the Free Remedial Summer Program are less likely to persist to graduation than those who enroll in remedial coursework as part of their first term. These students also are more likely to fail their first and subsequent mathematics courses. This study concludes with a brief analysis of implications for practice, recommendations for further research, and a review of best practices.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFE0006150, ucf:51138
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006150
- Title
- COOPERATIVE EDUCATION AS A PREDICTOR OF BACCALAUREATE DEGREE COMPLETION.
- Creator
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Pacheco, Amanda, Tubbs, LeVester, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Baccalaureate degree completion statistics are surprisingly low. National four-year graduation rates hover around 38%, and six-year graduation rates have remained steady at approximately 63% (Berkner, He, & Cataldi, 2002). At the University of Central Florida, as at many public research institutions, the numbers are even lower. Literature has emerged, however, which suggests that students who participate in cooperative education programs may experience increased motivation to continue the...
Show moreBaccalaureate degree completion statistics are surprisingly low. National four-year graduation rates hover around 38%, and six-year graduation rates have remained steady at approximately 63% (Berkner, He, & Cataldi, 2002). At the University of Central Florida, as at many public research institutions, the numbers are even lower. Literature has emerged, however, which suggests that students who participate in cooperative education programs may experience increased motivation to continue the formal education process (Avenoso & Totoro, 1994; Schambach & Dirks, 2002; Somers, 1986). This study investigated the effect of co-op participation on undergraduate degree completion in the context of several risk factors for attrition. The population for this study was the cohort of full-time, bachelor's degree-seeking undergraduate students who entered the University of Central Florida as first-time-in-college (FTIC) students in the fall semester of 1999. Group One (Co-op Students) consisted of full-time FTIC students who successfully participated in the University of Central Florida Cooperative Education program and Group Two (Non-Participants) included full-time FTIC students with at least 20 credit hours completed and consistent grade point averages of at least 2.5 who did not participate in the University of Central Florida Cooperative Education program. The additional parameters on the Non-Participant group were included to control for any potential differences between the two groups due to increased requirements for participation in the co-op program. The two groups arrived at the University of Central Florida with nearly identical high school grade point averages and standardized test scores, and also were remarkably similar in age, ethnic composition, and college at entry. Results indicated that students who graduated within four years seemed to do so regardless of co-op participation, but for those who took longer, there was a correlation between co-op and degree completion. There was also some evidence to suggest that internships are associated with degree completion as well. Further, some of the known risk factors for attrition (lower high school grade point average, male gender, and non-White/non-Asian ethnicity) may be mitigated by the student's participation in their institution's co-op program, though additional research in this area is suggested.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2007
- Identifier
- CFE0001856, ucf:47354
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001856
- Title
- The Influences of Roles and Support Systems on the Baccalaureate Degree Attainment of Nontraditional Learners.
- Creator
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Roberts, Shirdricka, Cox, Dr. Thomas, Vitale, Thomas, Hopp, Carolyn, Campbell, Laurie, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The purpose of the research study was to examine the influences of roles and support systems on the baccalaureate attainment of nontraditional learners. A qualitative bounded case study was conducted that include ten face-to-face interviews with nontraditional learners attending the same University during the same time period. The study provided a brief overview on the challenges, support systems, and motivations of these nontraditional learners. Theories used to frame the study's conceptual...
Show moreThe purpose of the research study was to examine the influences of roles and support systems on the baccalaureate attainment of nontraditional learners. A qualitative bounded case study was conducted that include ten face-to-face interviews with nontraditional learners attending the same University during the same time period. The study provided a brief overview on the challenges, support systems, and motivations of these nontraditional learners. Theories used to frame the study's conceptual framework and address its research questions included Biddle's (1979) Role Theory, McClusky's Theory of Margin, Load and Power (1971) and Tinto's (1975, 1993, 2012) and Bean and Metzner's (1985) Theory of Persistence.The results of the study indicated: 1) The role management that adult learners employed while being a full-time or part-time student. 2) The challenges that adult learners had to address as it relates to their multiple roles and degree attainment. 3) The support systems that adult learners used to assist them in their efforts to role manage and persist towards graduation. 4) The motivations behind an adult learner's pursuit of an undergraduate degree.iii
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFE0006648, ucf:51220
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006648
- Title
- A NEW FRAMEWORK FOR QOS PROVISIONING IN WIRELESS LANS USING THE P-PERSISTENT MAC PROTOCOL.
- Creator
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Anna, Kiran Babu, Bassiouni, Mostafa, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The support of multimedia traffic over IEEE 802.11 wireless local area networks (WLANs) has recently received considerable attention. This dissertation has proposed a new framework that provides efficient channel access, service differentiation and statistical QoS guarantees in the enhanced distributed channel access (EDCA) protocol of IEEE 802.11e. In the first part of the dissertation, the new framework to provide QoS support in IEEE 802.11e is presented. The framework uses three...
Show moreThe support of multimedia traffic over IEEE 802.11 wireless local area networks (WLANs) has recently received considerable attention. This dissertation has proposed a new framework that provides efficient channel access, service differentiation and statistical QoS guarantees in the enhanced distributed channel access (EDCA) protocol of IEEE 802.11e. In the first part of the dissertation, the new framework to provide QoS support in IEEE 802.11e is presented. The framework uses three independent components, namely, a core MAC layer, a scheduler, and an admission control. The core MAC layer concentrates on the channel access mechanism to improve the overall system efficiency. The scheduler provides service differentiation according to the weights assigned to each Access Category (AC). The admission control provides statistical QoS guarantees. The core MAC layer developed in this dissertation employs a P-Persistent based MAC protocol. A weight-based fair scheduler to obtain throughput service differentiation at each node has been used. In wireless LANs (WLANs), the MAC protocol is the main element that determines the efficiency of sharing the limited communication bandwidth of the wireless channel. In the second part of the dissertation, analytical Markov chain models for the P-Persistent 802.11 MAC protocol under unsaturated load conditions with heterogeneous loads are developed. The Markov models provide closed-form formulas for calculating the packet service time, the packet end-to-end delay, and the channel capacity in the unsaturated load conditions. The accuracy of the models has been validated by extensive NS2 simulation tests and the models are shown to give accurate results. In the final part of the dissertation, the admission control mechanism is developed and evaluated. The analytical model for P-Persistent 802.11 is used to develop a measurement-assisted model-based admission control. The proposed admission control mechanism uses delay as an admission criterion. Both distributed and centralized admission control schemes are developed and the performance results show that both schemes perform very efficiently in providing the QoS guarantees. Since the distributed admission scheme control does not have a complete state information of the WLAN, its performance is generally inferior to the centralized admission control scheme. The detailed performance results using the NS2 simulator have demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed framework. Compared to 802.11e EDCA, the scheduler consistently achieved the desired throughput differentiation and easy tuning. The core MAC layer achieved better delays in terms of channel access, average packet service time and end-to-end delay. It also achieved higher system throughput than EDCA for any given service differentiation ratio. The admission control provided the desired statistical QoS guarantees.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2010
- Identifier
- CFE0003243, ucf:48513
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003243
- Title
- Examination of the Challenges Faced by Foreign-born Students in a State College that may Prolong/Prevent Graduation.
- Creator
-
Soremi, Modupe, Hopp, Carolyn, Cox, Dr. Thomas, Vitale, Thomas, Joe, Richelle, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This research study stems from several reports indicating the increasing competitiveness of the world economy, the requirement of at least an associate degree in the fastest growing jobs in the U.S. labor market, and the unprecedented increase in the foreign-born population in the United States since the 1970s (U.S. Census Bureau Web, 2016; Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projection, 2009; President's Council of Economic Advisers (CEA), 2009). Understanding the challenges faced by...
Show moreThis research study stems from several reports indicating the increasing competitiveness of the world economy, the requirement of at least an associate degree in the fastest growing jobs in the U.S. labor market, and the unprecedented increase in the foreign-born population in the United States since the 1970s (U.S. Census Bureau Web, 2016; Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projection, 2009; President's Council of Economic Advisers (CEA), 2009). Understanding the challenges faced by foreign-born students at state colleges will create an avenue for recommending solutions to many these challenges, thereby increasing their educational attainment and economic productivity, hence preparing more Americans for the competitive 21st century global market.Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, the researcher explored, interpreted, and described challenges faced by foreign-born students (FBS) in a State college that could prevent/prolong their graduation. In addition, the researcher solicited recommendations for improvement in order to gather the necessary information to inform the creation of a comprehensive support center to address the challenges identified. Pilot study data were collected from two sources including focus group discussions and survey. The survey was administered to all students enrolled in college credit classes at the college and two focus group discussions were held in 2017 spring semester. The result of the survey provided the preliminary data on FBS and collected information from those interested in further research participation via focus group discussions. Data were analyzed using suggested methods of analysis by Moustakas (1994) and Creswell (2007).Using the College Impact Model and Socio-cultural theory as a framework, this pilot study found that foreign-born students experience social, academic, personal, organizational, and mentorship challenges. Based on participants' recommendations, the conclusion is for the college to provide more opportunities to engage with both faculty, staff, native students, and other FBS; provide proper advising; provide avenues for cultural engagement for all; provide financial advising; consolidate and publicize all resources available to support students at the college (such as information regarding the honors society, volunteer society…); offer formal and informal English classes to FBS; hire qualified staff with proper training to each department (for example, placement services, advisors…); and hire bi/tri- lingual staff. In phase II of this dissertation, an Academic and Social Engagement Center (ASEC) was created as a comprehensive support center for foreign-born students. It is the intent of the researcher that the findings from this study will inform and provide clear direction for programs and policy implementations that will enhance the success of foreign-born students at Victory State College.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFE0006798, ucf:51820
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006798
- Title
- Faculty Perspectives and Participation in Implementing an Early Alert System and Intervention in a Community College.
- Creator
-
Bentham, Claudine, King, Kathy (Kathleen), Cox, Dr. Thomas, Hopp, Carolyn, Bosley, Michael, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Early alert systems have been recognized as a high impact practice designed to improve student engagement and student success. Early alert is designed to identify students with at-risk behaviors early in the semester before they decide to drop-out, withdraw, or fail their classes, using resources such as a predictive analysis tool or advising. For an early alert to be successful and efficient, faculty should be included in the process of early alert. This qualitative study examined faculty's...
Show moreEarly alert systems have been recognized as a high impact practice designed to improve student engagement and student success. Early alert is designed to identify students with at-risk behaviors early in the semester before they decide to drop-out, withdraw, or fail their classes, using resources such as a predictive analysis tool or advising. For an early alert to be successful and efficient, faculty should be included in the process of early alert. This qualitative study examined faculty's perspective and experiences when implementing early alert strategies and intervention in a two-year institution. Using Cranton's seven facets of transformative learning as a conceptual framework, this study examined the changes, perception, and experiences of faculty as a result of implementation. The literature reviews best practices that can be considered when faculty designs their early alert strategies and intervention. Participants shared their During and After Implementation Journal experience by completing reflection journals. After careful analysis of their journals and initial interview, the following major themes emerged: a) at-risk behaviors, b) high-impact practices, c) intentionality, d) personal connection, e) perspective transformation, and f) value. As a result of these themes, recommendations were provided to assist faculty development and change agents in two-year institutions in improving early alert methods to increase student success.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFE0006857, ucf:51742
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006857
- Title
- An Investigation of State College to University Transfer Students' Sense of Belonging.
- Creator
-
Brady, Claire, Taylor, Rosemarye, Baldwin, Lee, Doherty, Walter, Cavanaugh, Pam, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The purpose of this mixed methods study was to examine the sense of belonging of state college transfer students who enroll at a large research-intensive university through structured and unstructured transfer pathways using the Sense of Belonging Instrument (SBI; Hoffman, Richmond, Morrow, (&) Solomon, 2002). The SBI includes five subscales (Peer Support, Faculty Support, Classroom Comfort, Isolation, and Empathetic Faculty Understanding). To date, no systematic investigation has considered...
Show moreThe purpose of this mixed methods study was to examine the sense of belonging of state college transfer students who enroll at a large research-intensive university through structured and unstructured transfer pathways using the Sense of Belonging Instrument (SBI; Hoffman, Richmond, Morrow, (&) Solomon, 2002). The SBI includes five subscales (Peer Support, Faculty Support, Classroom Comfort, Isolation, and Empathetic Faculty Understanding). To date, no systematic investigation has considered the construct of belonging with this population or transfer pathway. The findings from this study (n = 54) found a positive statistically significant correlation between Peer Support and Isolation (r(52) =.801, p = .000) and a statistically significant difference between the mean values of Empathetic Faculty Understanding between the structured and unstructured pathways (p = 0.027). This study showed that structured transfer pathway student sense of belonging was grounded in the classroom experience, empathetic faculty, and faculty support. Unstructured transfer pathway student sense of belonging was grounded in peer relationships, the classroom experience, and empathetic faculty. First generation participants were more likely to perceive isolation than non-first generation participants and structured pathway participants were more likely to perceive faculty empathetic understanding than unstructured pathway participants. There were also differences in the qualitative data between the pathway groups, including differing perceptions of faculty care and empathy, peer engagement, and the role of Advisors and online support systems in the transfer experience. The data and findings presented in this study show that the academic experience in the classroom and the perception of empathetic faculty are central to state college transfer student experience and contributes to transfer student sense of belonging.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFE0006569, ucf:51332
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006569
- Title
- An Investigation of the Academic Impact of the Freshman Transition Course at One Urban Central Florida High School.
- Creator
-
Flynn, Timothy, Taylor, Rosemarye, Baldwin, Lee, Doherty, Walter, Bradshaw, Leigh, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The purpose of this research was to identify the extent to which a high school freshman transition program aligned with research based recommendations and to determine the extent to which the intervention impacted persistence to the tenth grade, on-track-to-graduation status, and academic success. Documents relevant to the program were collected and analyzed for research based themes. Students in the program at the target school were compared to students in a similar high school and a...
Show moreThe purpose of this research was to identify the extent to which a high school freshman transition program aligned with research based recommendations and to determine the extent to which the intervention impacted persistence to the tenth grade, on-track-to-graduation status, and academic success. Documents relevant to the program were collected and analyzed for research based themes. Students in the program at the target school were compared to students in a similar high school and a historical cohort of students who attended the target school. The impact of the course was statistically significant for persistence to the tenth grade, on-track to graduation status, and academic success; however ANOVA found statistical significance favored Algebra 1 EOC and not FCAT Reading. Effect size statistics revealed little to no effect among Freshman Experience and the dependent variables. These findings will help school-level and district administrators design research-based transition interventions which encourage academic success and graduation.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFE0006684, ucf:51902
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006684
- Title
- Secondary World: The Limits of Ludonarrative.
- Creator
-
Dannelly, David, Adams, JoAnne, Price, Mark, Poindexter, Carla, Kovach, Keith, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Secondary World: The Limits of Ludonarrative is a series of short narrative animations that are a theoretical treatise on the limitations of western storytelling in video games. The series covers specific topics relating to film theory, game design and art theory: specifically those associated with Gilles Deleuze, Jean Baudrillard, Jay Bolter, Richard Grusin and Andy Clark. The use of imagery, editing and presentation is intended to physically represent an extension of myself and my thinking...
Show moreSecondary World: The Limits of Ludonarrative is a series of short narrative animations that are a theoretical treatise on the limitations of western storytelling in video games. The series covers specific topics relating to film theory, game design and art theory: specifically those associated with Gilles Deleuze, Jean Baudrillard, Jay Bolter, Richard Grusin and Andy Clark. The use of imagery, editing and presentation is intended to physically represent an extension of myself and my thinking process and which are united through the common thread of my personal feelings, thoughts and experiences in the digital age.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFE0005155, ucf:50704
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005155