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- Title
- A CASE STUDY OF FOUR YEARS DOCUMENTING THE CHANGES IN THE PROCESS OF SELF-REPORTING ACADEMIC PROGRAM PLANS ALONGSIDE THE PERCEPTIONS OF PROGRAM COORDINATORS.
- Creator
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Kulkarni, Kedar, Martin, Suzanne, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Major Advisors: Suzanne Martin, Ph.D., Laura Blasi, Ph.D. Universities in the United States of America are faced with numerous challenges concerning quality assurance such as the quest for Continuous Quality Improvement. Implementation of technology has been a priority of many developing institutions of higher education. A large metropolitan institution of higher education has put into practice a technology based, on-line program quality assessment system, for its academic and administrative...
Show moreMajor Advisors: Suzanne Martin, Ph.D., Laura Blasi, Ph.D. Universities in the United States of America are faced with numerous challenges concerning quality assurance such as the quest for Continuous Quality Improvement. Implementation of technology has been a priority of many developing institutions of higher education. A large metropolitan institution of higher education has put into practice a technology based, on-line program quality assessment system, for its academic and administrative programs. This dissertation was a study of the changes reported over four years, 2001-2005, within ten initial teacher preparation undergraduate programs at the College of Education at this institution. Using a mixed method approach, this study addressed the following primary questions: 1. Since the system was introduced; a. Has the process of monitoring quality in the academic units changed? b. If changes have occurred in the program plans, how have they been documented and implemented? 2. What are the limitations/benefits of the system, as perceived by its users? This study is a case for its readers to understand the process of quality improvement as practiced in a college of education within a metropolitan university.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2006
- Identifier
- CFE0001042, ucf:46805
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001042
- Title
- A Case Study of High School Administrators' Self-Perceived Readiness to be Digital Instructional Leaders.
- Creator
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Sanchez Corona, Brian, Taylor, Rosemarye, Baldwin, Lee, Ceballos, Marjorie, Shepherd, Andrew, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The purpose of this study was to determine the readiness of an administrative team (N = 7) to provide digital instructional leadership, in the context of one high school, as well as examine possible outcomes related to student achievement, as measured by Florida Standards Assessment English Language Arts scale scores (FSA, 2018). This instrumental case study design (Fraenkel, Wallen, (&) Hyun, 2015) incorporated mixed-methods data collection and qualitative analysis. Data were collected from...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to determine the readiness of an administrative team (N = 7) to provide digital instructional leadership, in the context of one high school, as well as examine possible outcomes related to student achievement, as measured by Florida Standards Assessment English Language Arts scale scores (FSA, 2018). This instrumental case study design (Fraenkel, Wallen, (&) Hyun, 2015) incorporated mixed-methods data collection and qualitative analysis. Data were collected from three distinct sources for triangulation: qualitative semi-structured interviews, Digital Instructional Leadership Readiness Instrument [DILRI(&)copy;] (Taylor (&) Shepherd, 2016) knowledge and confidence construct participant item selections, and Grade 9 and Grade 10 Florida Standards Assessment (FSA) English Language Arts 2018 student scale scores (FSA, 2018). Administrator perceptions of teachers' integration of technology in instruction were examined via constructs of (a) characteristics of learning and (b) levels of technology integration contained within the Technology Integration Matrix [TIM(&)copy;] (FCIT, 2018) framework. Findings support administrators' ability to recognize emergent levels of teachers' integration of technology in instruction. Findings also inform professional learning experiences for administrators supporting teachers in one-to-one digital school environments. Implications for practice include a need for sustained ongoing professional learning for administrators on the selected technology integration framework. School district administrators may seek to ensure that the selected technology integration framework, the TIM(&)copy; (FCIT, 2018) in this instrumental case study (Fraenkel et al., 2015), is presented as a sustained shared vision (Richardson (&) Sterrett) for both instructional and administrative personnel within the organization. Recommendations for future research include collecting similar data from multiple schools within a school district and from numerous school districts. Replication of this study is suggested in various regions of the United States. Also, a longitudinal follow-up study is suggested to examine change in administrator digital instructional leadership over time.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2019
- Identifier
- CFE0007722, ucf:52454
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007722
- Title
- A Case Study of High School Teacher Induction Programs in One Urban Florida School District.
- Creator
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Bray, Tayler, Taylor, Rosemarye, Ceballos, Marjorie, Baldwin, Lee, Swan, Bonnie, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The purpose of this mixed-method study was to investigate high school teacher induction programs in one large urban Florida school district according to criteria identified in the literature, referred to as constructs in the study. In addition, this study sought to determine the relationship, if any, between school-based teacher induction programs and retention rates of first-year high school teachers. Using a triangulation approach, qualitative data were collected through a document analysis...
Show moreThe purpose of this mixed-method study was to investigate high school teacher induction programs in one large urban Florida school district according to criteria identified in the literature, referred to as constructs in the study. In addition, this study sought to determine the relationship, if any, between school-based teacher induction programs and retention rates of first-year high school teachers. Using a triangulation approach, qualitative data were collected through a document analysis of individual high school faculty handbooks and online platforms, and by conducting interviews with the high school induction program designees. Grounded theory and the constant comparative method were utilized to code and further analyze data. Evidence of induction program constructs was recorded and scored using the High School Teacher Induction Matrix. Analysis of quantitative data utilized Pearson's r Correlation and an independent samples t-test. Findings, generated from seven high school induction program designees (N = 7) demonstrated varied implementation of induction program practices across the participant schools. The presence of research-based induction program constructs in high school induction programs did not exceed the 60% threshold. Additionally, qualitative findings demonstrated high school induction coordinators establish program practices and guidelines differently across the high schools. While the majority of high school induction program coordinators in this study received support from their school or the school district, other induction coordinators were left on their own. Statistical analysis revealed no statistical significance between participation in high school teacher induction programs and first-year high school teacher retention. Furthermore, inferential statistics discovered no statistically significant difference in the relationship of first-year high school teacher retention and certification type. However, due to a small n, the results of the study were limited to this context and not generalizable. The conclusions and recommendations of this study can support school district leaders and high school administrators in determining the practices, guidelines, and implementation related to teacher induction programs that are consistent with retaining first-year teachers.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2019
- Identifier
- CFE0007605, ucf:52553
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007605
- Title
- A CASE STUDY OF NATIONAL IDENTITY: AN ANALYSIS OF THE AMERICAN DREAM IN POLITICS AND LITERATURE.
- Creator
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Horning, Sarah-Marie, Houghton, David, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The American Dream has been the inspiration of many political speeches, political writings, and works of literature throughout American history. Most recently, it has inspired political groups like the Center for the New American Dream and academic groups like the Xavier University Center for the Study of the American Dream. As of late, the notion of the American Dream has begun to crop up more often than not in main stream political discourse, especially surrounding the topic of immigration...
Show moreThe American Dream has been the inspiration of many political speeches, political writings, and works of literature throughout American history. Most recently, it has inspired political groups like the Center for the New American Dream and academic groups like the Xavier University Center for the Study of the American Dream. As of late, the notion of the American Dream has begun to crop up more often than not in main stream political discourse, especially surrounding the topic of immigration with the aptly named Dream Act. Why has the American Dream drawn this new attention and inquiry? Why and how is it important to American Political thought? What does it mean? Why does it endure? As a complex issue of American culture, this thesis will use disparate methods of analysis to form answers to these questions. The American Dream is often referred to as our national myth. It is comprised of the many ideals and narratives which undergird American politics and culture. Through examination of literary works of fiction and of political texts, this research will examine the meaning and the history of the American Dream. Then, using secondary survey data, this research will examine the implications and state of the American Dream. Finally, to answer the question of why the American Dream endures, this research will employ elements of psychoanalytic and Marxist theory to argue that the Dream works as a cycle of American political thought.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFH0004422, ucf:45116
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004422
- Title
- A CASE STUDY OF THE EFFECTS OF INQUIRY BASED PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT THROUGH THE USE OF A MENTOR ON AN ALTERNATIVELY CERTIFIED ELEMENTARY TEACHER'S SCIENCE TEACHING SELF-EFFICACY.
- Creator
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Thrift, Michelle, Jeanpierre, Bobby, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
One alternatively certified elementary teacher was the subject of this sixteen week research study on science teaching self-efficacy. The researcher taught inquiry based student level science lessons to the fourth grade teacher. The teacher participant, in turn, taught those same lessons to her class while the researcher observed and took field notes. The participant responded to specific open ended questions in a journal after each science experience and also completed three interviews with...
Show moreOne alternatively certified elementary teacher was the subject of this sixteen week research study on science teaching self-efficacy. The researcher taught inquiry based student level science lessons to the fourth grade teacher. The teacher participant, in turn, taught those same lessons to her class while the researcher observed and took field notes. The participant responded to specific open ended questions in a journal after each science experience and also completed three interviews with the researcher. Each sequential lesson from the researcher was then modified based on participant needs. The participant completed the STEBI (Science Teaching Efficacy Belief Instrument) as a pre and post test to measure the effects of the above mentioned activities. The collected data from the STEBI was reported quantitatively. The collected data from the reflective journal entries and interviews were reported qualitatively. After careful analysis of the data gathered for this case study, the researcher came to the conclusion that inquiry based professional development through the use of a mentor affected the alternatively certified elementary teacher's science teaching self-efficacy. The subject maintained a positive attitude about the use of a mentor for the duration of the study and her Personal Science Teaching Efficacy increased or stayed the same on all of the STEBI questions. Limitations of the study as well as recommendations for further research were also discussed.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2007
- Identifier
- CFE0001618, ucf:47189
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001618
- Title
- A CASE STUDY OF THE LIBRARIES IN THE VANGUARD LEARNING COLLEGES.
- Creator
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Swaine, Linda G, Magann, Doug, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This study was conducted to determine the characteristics of a learning-centered library from the perspective of the libraries in the 12 Vanguard Learning Colleges which were participants in the Learning College Project sponsored by the League for Innovation in the Community College. The 12 Vanguard Learning Colleges were: Cascadia Community College (WA), Community College of Baltimore County (MD), Community College of Denver (CO), Humber College, (Ontario), Kirkwood Community College (IA),...
Show moreThis study was conducted to determine the characteristics of a learning-centered library from the perspective of the libraries in the 12 Vanguard Learning Colleges which were participants in the Learning College Project sponsored by the League for Innovation in the Community College. The 12 Vanguard Learning Colleges were: Cascadia Community College (WA), Community College of Baltimore County (MD), Community College of Denver (CO), Humber College, (Ontario), Kirkwood Community College (IA), Lane Community College, OR), Madison Area Technical College (WI), Moraine Valley Community College (IL), Palomar College (CA), Richland College (TX), Sinclair Community College (OH), and Valencia Community College (FL).Furthermore, the researcher was interested in discovering the extent to which the learning-centered concept had been implemented in these libraries as it related to the objectives of the Learning College Project and to chronicle the journeys of the libraries to become more learning-centered. The case study methodology was selected as the most appropriate method for collecting data from the libraries. The researcher interviewed the library administrators or their designees using a semi-structured telephone interview format. The interview questions were open-ended in nature and were developed based on the objectives of the Learning College Project under the guidance of a panel of experts from the fields of information studies and qualitative research. An analysis of the data derived from the telephone interviews and archival documents was analyzed using qualitative analysis strategies. The researcher sought to identify recurring patterns. Findings indicated that a learning-centered library: (a) supports the teaching and learning processes of the college, (b) empowers library staff to be facilitators of learning, (c) conducts strategic planning and assessment, (d) markets its services and resources to its learning community, (e) has facilities that are welcoming and conducive to the learning needs of its users, and (f) uses benchmarking with peer libraries and other organizations to improve its resources and services. When the library administrators or their designees rated the level of learning-centeredness attained by their libraries on a scale of one to ten with one being lowest and ten being highest, the most frequently reported level was 7 and the mean was 6.75. Findings on the implementation of the objectives of the Learning College Project suggested that while the libraries had made tremendous strides in this endeavor, their journeys were not yet completed.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2004
- Identifier
- CFE0000045, ucf:46123
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000045
- Title
- A CASE STUDY OF THE LIBRARIES IN THE VANGUARD LEARNING COLLEGES.
- Creator
-
Swaine, Linda G, Magann, Doug, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This study was conducted to determine the characteristics of a learning-centered library from the perspective of the libraries in the 12 Vanguard Learning Colleges which were participants in the Learning College Project sponsored by the League for Innovation in the Community College. The 12 Vanguard Learning Colleges were: Cascadia Community College (WA), Community College of Baltimore County (MD), Community College of Denver (CO), Humber College, (Ontario), Kirkwood Community College (IA),...
Show moreThis study was conducted to determine the characteristics of a learning-centered library from the perspective of the libraries in the 12 Vanguard Learning Colleges which were participants in the Learning College Project sponsored by the League for Innovation in the Community College. The 12 Vanguard Learning Colleges were: Cascadia Community College (WA), Community College of Baltimore County (MD), Community College of Denver (CO), Humber College, (Ontario), Kirkwood Community College (IA), Lane Community College, OR), Madison Area Technical College (WI), Moraine Valley Community College (IL), Palomar College (CA), Richland College (TX), Sinclair Community College (OH), and Valencia Community College (FL).Furthermore, the researcher was interested in discovering the extent to which the learning-centered concept had been implemented in these libraries as it related to the objectives of the Learning College Project and to chronicle the journeys of the libraries to become more learning-centered. The case study methodology was selected as the most appropriate method for collecting data from the libraries. The researcher interviewed the library administrators or their designees using a semi-structured telephone interview format. The interview questions were open-ended in nature and were developed based on the objectives of the Learning College Project under the guidance of a panel of experts from the fields of information studies and qualitative research. An analysis of the data derived from the telephone interviews and archival documents was analyzed using qualitative analysis strategies. The researcher sought to identify recurring patterns. Findings indicated that a learning-centered library: (a) supports the teaching and learning processes of the college, (b) empowers library staff to be facilitators of learning, (c) conducts strategic planning and assessment, (d) markets its services and resources to its learning community, (e) has facilities that are welcoming and conducive to the learning needs of its users, and (f) uses benchmarking with peer libraries and other organizations to improve its resources and services. When the library administrators or their designees rated the level of learning-centeredness attained by their libraries on a scale of one to ten with one being lowest and ten being highest, the most frequently reported level was 7 and the mean was 6.75. Findings on the implementation of the objectives of the Learning College Project suggested that while the libraries had made tremendous strides in this endeavor, their journeys were not yet completed.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2004
- Identifier
- CFE0000141, ucf:46165
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000141
- Title
- A CASE STUDY OF THE PERCEPTIONS OF PRINCIPALS OF VOUCHER ELIGIBLE HIGH SCHOOLS IN FLORIDA.
- Creator
-
Bolen, Robert, Taylor, Rosemarye, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The publication of A Nation at Risk in 1983 has prompted a series of attempts to revise the educational system's outcomes. Legislative and executive reform bills have resulted in Educational Vouchers being a prime source of reform. A case study of the perceptions of public high school principals in Florida that are at Voucher Eligible high schools to those perceptions of principals at schools graded 'A' as of the 2002-03 academic school year was the focus of this study. Four...
Show moreThe publication of A Nation at Risk in 1983 has prompted a series of attempts to revise the educational system's outcomes. Legislative and executive reform bills have resulted in Educational Vouchers being a prime source of reform. A case study of the perceptions of public high school principals in Florida that are at Voucher Eligible high schools to those perceptions of principals at schools graded 'A' as of the 2002-03 academic school year was the focus of this study. Four public high school principals from two Florida districts were used in this study. Two schools were identified as Voucher Eligible and graded "F" and two were examples of best practices or graded "A" or "B". Analyzed data identified recurring patterns between the four schools.Both advocates and detractors view of vouchers would be given a full historical review. Included in the research were the four major educational criteria of educational vouchers that were used in voucher development policy. The three major components of Florida's Voucher Programs, along with the No Child Left Behind Act were examined along with accountability measures and parent/student rights. The data revealed that there was a positive relationship between the minority rate of a school and the school's grade. Data also revealed that it would be beneficial for all schools and communities to work together to address the reading level issue as these programs have shown a positive relationship between the overall reading level and the school's grade.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2007
- Identifier
- CFE0001565, ucf:47152
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001565
- Title
- A Case Study of the Percieved Effectiveness of the Two-Semester, Job-Embedded Internship.
- Creator
-
Osmond, Stephanie, Taylor, Rosemarye, Baldwin, Lee, Kennedy, Mary, Zugelder, Bryan, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The purpose of the study was to examine the perceived effectiveness of the two-semester, job-embedded internship for the development of effective Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) teachers. Students who were enrolled in the Resident Teacher Professional Preparation Program (RTP3) were able to earn a Master's in the Art of Teaching (MAT), which included a two-semester, job-embedded internship. This study was designed to analyze the perceived effectiveness of the two...
Show moreThe purpose of the study was to examine the perceived effectiveness of the two-semester, job-embedded internship for the development of effective Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) teachers. Students who were enrolled in the Resident Teacher Professional Preparation Program (RTP3) were able to earn a Master's in the Art of Teaching (MAT), which included a two-semester, job-embedded internship. This study was designed to analyze the perceived effectiveness of the two-semester, job-embedded internship model at one urban high school from not only the resident teachers', but also designees and stakeholders of the RTP3. Resident teachers participated in the two-semester, job-embedded internship with the support of school site based mentors, school district and school site coaches, and university intern coordinators. The resident teachers participated in all aspect of the teaching process, and were evaluated using the school site evaluation instrument. As part of their internship, the resident teachers were evaluated using the Internship Assessment Summary Sheet. The resident teachers were also asked to participate in Lesson Study. Data were gathered through both qualitative and quantitative sources. To collect qualitative data, interviews were conducted with the resident teachers, school site designees, school district designees and university designees. Each respondent was asked 10 questions developed by the researcher and vetted by experts in the field. The questions were designed to gather perceptions of effectiveness in preparation of the resident teachers, as well as strengths and weaknesses of the model. Recommendations for future use of the two-semester, job-embedded internship model were also gathered. Quantitative data were collected and analyzed using the Internship Assessment Summary Sheet to assess the perception of the intern coordinators.The findings were that the two-semester, job-embedded internship was overall perceived as an effective model in preparing STEM teachers. The model allowed resident teachers to be engaged in the teaching process from the beginning of the school year. The support that was given throughout the internship was beneficial in helping resident teachers with teaching practice. It was recommended that using frequent and actionable feedback should be continued. The one weakness of the model was the need for more pedagogical preparation, especially in the area of classroom management.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2015
- Identifier
- CFE0005860, ucf:50935
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005860
- Title
- A CASE STUDY OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PROFESSIONAL LEARNING COMMUNITY IMPLEMENTATION AND ADEQUATE YEARLY PROGRESS OF CENTRAL FLORIDA URBAN SCHOOLS.
- Creator
-
Ellis, Amanda, Taylor, Rosemarye, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The focus of this research was to examine the professional learning of school instructional and administrative staff as they focused on the elements of becoming a professional learning community. Existing research examined the components and behaviors collectively or independently. This research describes the relational data between the critical elements of focus, the leader, teams, and individual teacher as related to student achievement. It was determined through the literature review and...
Show moreThe focus of this research was to examine the professional learning of school instructional and administrative staff as they focused on the elements of becoming a professional learning community. Existing research examined the components and behaviors collectively or independently. This research describes the relational data between the critical elements of focus, the leader, teams, and individual teacher as related to student achievement. It was determined through the literature review and results of this study that there were constructs of professional learning communities that were related to student achievement. In particular, a statistically significant relationship between proficiency in reading and teacher reflection was found. Additional behaviors of teachers and leaders were discussed in relation to increased student achievement. Suggested uses for the study included the consideration of practices by leaders in creating professional learning communities that support student achievement. An additional suggestion was the utilization of reflective practice and action research as means for increased student achievement.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2010
- Identifier
- CFE0003179, ucf:48619
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003179
- Title
- A Case Study of the Self-efficacy of High School Aged Underrepresented Minority Women Entering the Medical Pipeline.
- Creator
-
Dames, Jennifer, Jeanpierre, Bobby, Butler, Malcolm, Hopp, Carolyn, Beverly, Monifa, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This study focused on the self-efficacy and experiences described by a purposively sampled case (n = 8) of high school-aged underrepresented minority women (URMW) as they entered the medical career pipeline through their participation in a formal medical pipeline program. The study was framed by three theories: intersectionality, positionality, and self-efficacy. Research questions were analyzed qualitatively, using case study methods, and quantitatively, using a paired sample t-test. Study...
Show moreThis study focused on the self-efficacy and experiences described by a purposively sampled case (n = 8) of high school-aged underrepresented minority women (URMW) as they entered the medical career pipeline through their participation in a formal medical pipeline program. The study was framed by three theories: intersectionality, positionality, and self-efficacy. Research questions were analyzed qualitatively, using case study methods, and quantitatively, using a paired sample t-test. Study data revealed that participants came into the program with high levels of self-efficacy in several self-efficacy factors. Yet, participants in the pipeline program made significant improvements in their self-assertive efficacy.Analysis of other data revealed that students remained motivated and persisted in the pursuit of their aspirations in spite of challenges they encountered because of their ethnicities and gender. Also, students described a lack of engagement with science courses, indicated poor relationships with science instructors, and revealed inadequate understanding of important high science content that, along with ethnic and gendered factors, caused them to negatively position themselves in science. This study provides valuable information to K-12 science educators, medical education institutions, and policy makers concerned with extending science education and healthcare-related career opportunities to minority women.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFE0005321, ucf:50522
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005321
- Title
- A CASE STUDY OF THE STUDENT ACADEMIC SUPPORT SYSTEM: STATE UNIVERSITY SYSTEM OF FLORIDA.
- Creator
-
Hill, Helen, Magann, Douglas, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
ABSTRACT In 1985, the Florida Legislature mandated the development of a computer assisted academic advisement program for the State University System. This study of the Student Academic Support System (SASS) explored the administrator and advisor viewpoints, rather than traditional student perception assessments, in order to add to the understanding of computer assisted advising as it now stands in the State of Florida. The goal of this research was to determine the best practices of computer...
Show moreABSTRACT In 1985, the Florida Legislature mandated the development of a computer assisted academic advisement program for the State University System. This study of the Student Academic Support System (SASS) explored the administrator and advisor viewpoints, rather than traditional student perception assessments, in order to add to the understanding of computer assisted advising as it now stands in the State of Florida. The goal of this research was to determine the best practices of computer assisted advising throughout the State University System. Individuals who use or have responsibility for the advising system were identified in each institution in the State University System. An instrument was developed to identify the use of key components of the Student Academic Support System and interviews were scheduled. A review of the literature and results of this study found that there were many factors that influenced the success or failure of a computer assisted advising system. Factors such as funding, administrative sponsorship from the highest levels of the institution, institutional culture, advisor computer proficiency, and the existence of alternate computer advising technologies played significant roles in the development and implementation of the mandated state computer advising system. The qualitative interviews utilized in this case study highlighted the complexities of computer assisted advising. This research studied the perceptions and practices of administrators and advisors in the 11 State Universities in Florida. This research study documents the history of the development and implementation of computer assisted advising within the Florida State University System. As such, this research provides insight for administrators, technology professionals, and policy makers in the field of student advisement. Implications of this study, for the Florida State University System, show that strong administrative support and acceptance of the value of the system by advisors are necessary for successful implementation of a computer assisted advising system. Continued assessment, modification, and funding must be a priority for any institution that utilizes computer assisted advising systems. A properly implemented advising tool, such as the Student Academic Support System, results in a better informed student and a more effective sharing of information between students, advisors, and the university. Properly advised students will reach their educational goals in a timely and efficient fashion. The use of computer assisted advising was found to result in a satisfying academic experience for the advisor and to increase a student's level of satisfaction with the advising encounter.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2004
- Identifier
- CFE0000228, ucf:46246
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000228
- Title
- A CASE STUDY OF VETERAN AND CIVILIAN STUDENT ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA.
- Creator
-
Diehl, Floyd C, Seigler, Daniel, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This study seeks to provide a brief overview of academic standards and performance of veterans of the United States military and civilians who attend the University of Central Florida. Whether a student is a veteran or a civilian, he or she must learn how to adapt to the requirements of an academic community in order to be successful in that environment. It may be difficult for some. In able for society to discern the importance of the academic performance of both veterans and civilians alike...
Show moreThis study seeks to provide a brief overview of academic standards and performance of veterans of the United States military and civilians who attend the University of Central Florida. Whether a student is a veteran or a civilian, he or she must learn how to adapt to the requirements of an academic community in order to be successful in that environment. It may be difficult for some. In able for society to discern the importance of the academic performance of both veterans and civilians alike, research is vital. There are various assumptions about veterans. For example, it can be assumed vets do not know how to adapt after leaving the military. It is important to demonstrate that most military veterans are very good at adapting and overcoming stressful situations. Time is evident for adaptability for some. As veterans re-enter society, most make clear and decisive decisions as to the life they desire to have. The modus operandi of veterans is intrinsic as it pertains to an academic setting. This research compares the academic success of both veterans and civilians at the University of Central Florida to begin this conversation. While there has been some research conducted on this topic, there seem to be various ecological fallacies pertaining to conclusions of the research that has been conducted. Academic performance needs to be researched further as well as the effects of standards regarding the performance of veterans and civilians in an academic setting.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFH2000357, ucf:45904
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000357
- Title
- A CASE STUDY: ALTERNATIVE CERTIFICATION.
- Creator
-
Marshall, Neleffra, Pawlas, George, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This study was a heuristic, descriptive case study of the Alternative Certification Program in 4 central Florida counties. The purpose of this study was to: (a) identify the awareness of the existence of the reported alternative certification components implemented by 4 counties in Florida, and identify any additional components; (b) determine the importance of the targeted teaching criteria needed for successful teaching as identified in the literature to the ACP teacher, principal and...
Show moreThis study was a heuristic, descriptive case study of the Alternative Certification Program in 4 central Florida counties. The purpose of this study was to: (a) identify the awareness of the existence of the reported alternative certification components implemented by 4 counties in Florida, and identify any additional components; (b) determine the importance of the targeted teaching criteria needed for successful teaching as identified in the literature to the ACP teacher, principal and coordinator; (c) determine the advantages/disadvantages of the program as viewed by the ACP participants, principals, and coordinators; (d) identify how many of the 4 counties kept data on participants entering and leaving the program; (e) determine how many participants exited the ACP before completion; and (f) identify if a particular subject area had a higher percentage of ACP teachers. The study was based on data gathered using the Alternative Certification Program Survey, a survey created by the researcher. The population for this study was 4 public school districts in central Florida. The completed surveys yielded a usable return rate of 41% (N= 258). The researcher conducted the data analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. Results were presented as a whole, as well as disaggregated and presented by county. Analysis of the data revealed: (a) that the awareness of the ACP components varied between counties and respondent groups of teacher participants, principals, and coordinators; (b) the teachers and principals did not agree on rating the importance of the teaching criteria needed for an ACP teacher to be successful, and the coordinators rated all the criteria equally; (c) the perceptions of advantages of the ACP differed between the teacher participants, principals, and coordinators; (d) the perceptions of disadvantages of the ACP differed between the teacher participants, principals, and coordinators; (e) three of the counties kept entrance and exit data on the ACP; (f) one county had <1% non-completion rate for ACP participants; and (g) highest number of ACP participants were entering into the subject areas of math and science. Conclusions, recommendations for future research, and recommendations for alternative certification in central Florida were made. One recommendation for further research was for a study to be replicated with ACP teachers hired for another school year, and repeated in future years, to gather information concerning awareness of the existence of the ACP components, importance of teaching criteria needed for successful teaching, and advantages/disadvantages of the program as perceived by the teacher participants, principals, and coordinators. Another recommendation for future research was to replicate and conduct this study in other Florida counties in order to compare results with those of this study concerning the Alternative Certification Program.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2006
- Identifier
- CFE0001388, ucf:47003
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001388
- Title
- A CASE-STUDY OF THE AFRICAN LEOPARD (PANTHERA PARDUS PARDUS) POPULATION ON THE NAMBITI PRIVATE GAME RESERVE.
- Creator
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Castaneda, Erica, Borgon, Robert, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The Nambiti Private Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa is a nature reserve that aids in the conservation of some of the world's most renown species. This includes members of the "Big Five," which is comprised of the African lion (Panthera leo), the African elephant (Loxidonta africana), the Cape buffalo (Syncerus caffer), the black and white rhinoceroses (Diceros bicornis and Ceratotherium simum, respectively), and the African leopard (Panthera pardus pardus). These animals represent...
Show moreThe Nambiti Private Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa is a nature reserve that aids in the conservation of some of the world's most renown species. This includes members of the "Big Five," which is comprised of the African lion (Panthera leo), the African elephant (Loxidonta africana), the Cape buffalo (Syncerus caffer), the black and white rhinoceroses (Diceros bicornis and Ceratotherium simum, respectively), and the African leopard (Panthera pardus pardus). These animals represent the top five African animals desired by trophy hunters and by tourists hoping to view wildlife (Caro and Riggio, 2014). While studies concerning the African leopard population status have been completed on surrounding game reserves (Balme et al., 2009; Chapman and Balme, 2010), there have not been any studies done investigating the African leopard population on Nambiti. It is important that the population on Nambiti be identified since conservation management of leopards is largely influenced by their population numbers. For example, southern African countries rely on population estimates to establish trophy hunting quotas (Balme et al., 2010). Furthermore, knowledge on the reserve's leopard population can also lead to ecotourism benefits by attracting tourists to visit areas of known leopard activity (Lindsey et al., 2007). This case study investigated baited camera trapping footage, obtained by Nambiti rangers between May 2015 - May 2017, to determine the African leopard population on Nambiti. Camera footage results revealed that there were four leopards identified in six different locations on the reserve between May 2015 - May 2017. Baited Location J in the Western region of the reserve showed the greatest amount of leopard activity, indicating that it is the baited location most likely to provide ecotourism benefits. Furthermore, 23 non-target species were identified from the camera trapping footage, providing insight into the reserve's biodiversity, prey availability, and competition among predators.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFH2000285, ucf:45908
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000285
- Title
- A Causal Comparative Analysis of a Computer Adaptive Mathematics Program Using Multilevel Propensity Score Matching.
- Creator
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Seabolt, Justin, Sivo, Stephen, Bai, Haiyan, Swan, Bonnie, Vitale, Thomas, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of a computer adaptive mathematics program, i-Ready(&)#174; Mathematics Instruction in Central Florida School District (CFSD) using a variety of quantitative analyses. In particular, students in the fifth grade at CFSD were examined in relation to the gains made on their end-of-year statewide mathematics assessment, known as the Florida Standards Assessment (FSA Math). Per i-Ready(&)#174;, students who use i-Ready(&)#174; Mathematics...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of a computer adaptive mathematics program, i-Ready(&)#174; Mathematics Instruction in Central Florida School District (CFSD) using a variety of quantitative analyses. In particular, students in the fifth grade at CFSD were examined in relation to the gains made on their end-of-year statewide mathematics assessment, known as the Florida Standards Assessment (FSA Math). Per i-Ready(&)#174;, students who use i-Ready(&)#174; Mathematics Instruction for a minimum of 45 minutes per subject per week for at least 25 weeks show significantly greater gains than those who do not (Curriculum Associates, 2017b). Therefore, two propensity score matching methods (one considering the multilevel structure of the data) were examined and compared to split students into the following two comparison groups: those who used the program with fidelity and those who did not. Next, a series of multilevel models, using both propensity score matching methods, and dependent t-tests were examined to evaluate the effectiveness of i-Ready(&)#174; Mathematics Instruction. In conclusion, the use of the multilevel propensity score matching technique yielded a better fit for explaining the variation in relation to gains students in the fifth grade made on the FSA Math assessment. Additionally, i-Ready(&)#174; Mathematics Instruction did positively impact fifth grade students in Central Florida School District who used the program with fidelity with relation to their FSA Math score gains, compared to those who did not use the program with fidelity.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFE0007245, ucf:52210
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007245
- Title
- A chemical and genetic approach to study the polyamine transport system in Drosophila.
- Creator
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Wang, Minpei, Vonkalm, Laurence, Phanstiel, Otto, Teter, Kenneth, Ballantyne, John, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Polyamines are small cationic molecules that play important roles in most vital cellular processes including cell growth and proliferation, regulation of chromatin structure, translation and programmed cell death. Cellular polyamine pools are maintained by a balance between biosynthesis and transport (export and import). Increased polyamine biosynthesis activity and an active transport system are characteristics of many cancer cell lines, and polyamine depletion has been shown to be a viable...
Show morePolyamines are small cationic molecules that play important roles in most vital cellular processes including cell growth and proliferation, regulation of chromatin structure, translation and programmed cell death. Cellular polyamine pools are maintained by a balance between biosynthesis and transport (export and import). Increased polyamine biosynthesis activity and an active transport system are characteristics of many cancer cell lines, and polyamine depletion has been shown to be a viable anticancer strategy. Polyamine levels can be depleted by ?-difluoromethylornithine (DFMO), an inhibitor of the key polyamine biosynthesis enzyme ornithine decarboxylase. However, malignant cells often circumvent DFMO therapy by up-regulating polyamine import; therefore, there is a need to develop compounds that inhibit polyamine transport. Collectively, DFMO and polyamine transport inhibitors provide the basis for a combination therapy leading to effective intracellular polyamine depletion. Using a Drosophila leg imaginal disc model for polyamine transport, I studied three candidate transport inhibitors (Ant444, Trimer44 and Triamide44) for their ability to inhibit transport in the Drosophila model. Ant444 and Trimer44 effectively inhibited the uptake of the toxic polyamine analog Ant44 that gains entry to cells via the polyamine transport system. Ant444 and Trimer44 were also able to inhibit the import of exogenous polyamines into DFMO-treated imaginal discs. Triamide44 was an ineffective inhibitor, however a structurally redesigned compound, Triamide444, showed a 50-fold increase in transport inhibition and was comparable to Ant444 and Trimer44. Ant444 and Trimer44 showed differences in their relative abilities to block import of specific polyamines, and I therefore asked if a cocktail of these inhibitors would be more effective than either alone. My data show that a cocktail of polyamine transport inhibitors is more effective than single inhibitors when used in combination with DFMO, and suggests the existence of multiple polyamine transport systems. To further the development of effective transport inhibitors it is important to identify components of the transport system. The mechanism of polyamine transport in multicellular organisms including mammals is still unknown. Our laboratory has developed a simple assay to detect components of the transport system using RNAi knockdown and over-expression of candidate genes. However, the assay requires that animals live until the pupal stage of development. Pleiotropic effects of individual gene products following over-expression or knockdown may result in early developmental lethality for reasons unrelated to polyamine transport. Our assay is based on the GAL4/UAS system and involves the use of enhancers driving GAL4 expression (GAL4 driver). GAL4 in turn determines the expression level of UAS-candidate gene constructs (UAS responder). I reasoned that in some cases it might be possible to bypass early lethality by judicious choice of drivers that reduce responder expression, thus permitting survival to the pupal phase. To this end, I used five imaginal disc drivers (30A, 71B, 32B, 69B, and T80) as well as a ubiquitously expressed control driver to over-express and knockdown EGFR and components of the Rho signaling pathway. The relative strength of each driver was ranked, and I was able to demonstrate in principle that animals could survive to later stages of development in a manner that correlated with the relative strength of the driver. The approach I developed is broadly applicable to other studies of Drosophila development.To identify new components of the polyamine transport system I studied the role of proteoglycans in this process. The proteoglycan glypican-1 has been previously implicated in mammalian polyamine transport. In particular, the heparin sulfate side chains of glypican-1 appear to play an important role. In order to extend our knowledge of the role of proteoglycans in polyamine transport, I examined the role of the core proteoglycans perlecan and syndecan as well as genes encoding enzymes in the heparin sulfate and chondroitin sulfate biosynthetic pathways. I was able to confirm a role for glypican-1 in polyamine transport in imaginal discs but not in whole animals. This may indicate that glypican-1 is not required for polyamine uptake through the gut. Studies of genes encoding perlecan, syndecan and enzymes in the heparin sulfate and chondroitin sulfate biosynthetic pathways did not reveal a role for these genes in polyamine transport. These studies were conducted in whole animals and my data may reflect tissue-specific differences between the imaginal disc and gut transport systems where transport in imaginal discs is proteoglycan dependent and transport in the gut is not.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFE0007297, ucf:52162
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007297
- Title
- A CHORUS LINE: DOES IT ABIDE BY RULES ESTABLISHED BY ACTORS' EQUITY ASSOCIATION FOR THE AUDITION PROCESS?.
- Creator
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Hardin, Mark, Weaver, Earl, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
I have been cast as "Bobby" in A Chorus Line at Orlando Broadway Dinner Theatre in Orlando. I will use this opportunity as my thesis role. As part of my thesis defense, I will combine an analysis of the character of "Bobby" in A Chorus Line with an assessment of Actors' Equity Association's audition policies from 1970 to the present, and investigate whether the audition held in the show abides by the policies established by AEA for Broadway calls. "Bobby" has an interesting arc of development...
Show moreI have been cast as "Bobby" in A Chorus Line at Orlando Broadway Dinner Theatre in Orlando. I will use this opportunity as my thesis role. As part of my thesis defense, I will combine an analysis of the character of "Bobby" in A Chorus Line with an assessment of Actors' Equity Association's audition policies from 1970 to the present, and investigate whether the audition held in the show abides by the policies established by AEA for Broadway calls. "Bobby" has an interesting arc of development as he actually gives the director what he (the director) does not want, yet is still cast in the fictitious Broadway show. Why he would choose to stray from the director's instructions is an interesting question and demanding study. To facilitate my research on the character (aside from script and score analysis), I will interview Thommie Walsh (about for whom the role was written and the original "Bobby" on Broadway) as well as other men who have played the role to get insights into the character that will enhance my performance. Mr. Walsh will also elaborate on his real-life relationship with Michael Bennett and how that compares and contrasts with the relationship between "Bobby" and "Zach." I also will interview as many of the original cast members as possible (namely Baayork Lee) to get contributing memories and anecdotal evidence from the original production. A Chorus Line captures the one element all performers experience – the audition. The audition process has changed over the years, and I will focus on the development of protocol from the early 1970's (when A Chorus Line takes place) to the present. I will explore the manner in which the process has evolved and what A Chorus Line's contribution was (if any) to that process. This show has become so much a part of the musical theatre vernacular that historical exploration of procedures would also clarify how this work was structured. Were actors subjected to that intense style of audition on a huge stage in the early 1970s? Are they still today? My research will trace the history and rules governing auditions, performers and staff as delineated by Actors' Equity Association. I will also include a comparison of Equity to the variety of non-Equity auditions. Other sources will include rulebooks from AEA and interviews with dancers (past and present), AEA staff and Patrick Quinn, President of AEA.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2006
- Identifier
- CFE0000927, ucf:46753
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000927
- Title
- A CLOSER LOOK AT THE NECESSITY OF MANAGING MONETARY POLICY EXPECTATIONS.
- Creator
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Annoni-Fuertes, Vanessa, Ramanlal, Pradupkumar, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Monetary policy changes that are unexpected by the investing public can generate great volatility and illiquidity in the equities market, and therefore may severely compromise the Federal Reserve's ability to control the economy. Given the investing public's power, their fear of uncertainty, and their impulsive nature to create and act upon uninformed expectations, it is imperative that the Federal Reserve uses any and all communication about monetary policy with the purpose of further...
Show moreMonetary policy changes that are unexpected by the investing public can generate great volatility and illiquidity in the equities market, and therefore may severely compromise the Federal Reserve's ability to control the economy. Given the investing public's power, their fear of uncertainty, and their impulsive nature to create and act upon uninformed expectations, it is imperative that the Federal Reserve uses any and all communication about monetary policy with the purpose of further advancing the their stability objectives. Initially, the Federal Reserve felt that changes in monetary policy were most effective if decided and implemented in private however over 50 years after its establishment, Ben Bernanke began to realize the power of transparency and communication. Given how recently its power was recognized and utilized, it is still a relatively new topic with various facets that have yet to be explored. This paper will carefully analyze these different facets of transparency. First it will explain why a lack of communication was originally considered to be the most effective way to implement monetary policy. Next, it will explore the relationship between the investing public's power and their need for communication. And lastly, it will attempt estimate the best way to use communication to the Federal Reserve's benefit, with special attention to the recent financial crisis of 2008 and how Ben Bernanke handled it. These results will reiterate the value of transparency between the Federal Reserve and the investing public about target federal funds rates and expected inflation, which will ultimately allow them to work together to achieve the same objectives.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFH0004637, ucf:45315
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004637
- Title
- A Clutch, A Pride, A Murder.
- Creator
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Miles, John, Rushin, Patrick, Neal, Mary, Poissant, David, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
A Clutch, A Pride, A Murder is a linked collection of seven short fiction pieces and one novella that examine a world much like our own, but with the cover revealed(-)a world laid bare, exposed by its desires, its emotions, its beauties, and all its machinations. All of the stories involve, either directly or indirectly, the fictional Ohio city of Milton. Some of the stories take place within this seemingly typical American city, while others only involve characters coming from or in some...
Show moreA Clutch, A Pride, A Murder is a linked collection of seven short fiction pieces and one novella that examine a world much like our own, but with the cover revealed(-)a world laid bare, exposed by its desires, its emotions, its beauties, and all its machinations. All of the stories involve, either directly or indirectly, the fictional Ohio city of Milton. Some of the stories take place within this seemingly typical American city, while others only involve characters coming from or in some cases returning to this unassuming location. Regardless, the events of these stories either in cause or effect all have their roots in Milton.The world at large also plays a part within these pages. While the stories themselves are completely fictitious, many of the peripheral events that happen beyond the principle storylines are pulled from today's real-world headlines: a series of increasingly devastating tornadoes in the American heartland; a mysterious suicide of a wealthy industrialist; the amazing technological feats of a nation's space program; the heinous crimes of a serial kidnapper. These events, each a worthy story in their own right, filter into the events of this collection, much as they do in our world(-)through the media. Television, radio, newspapers, social media all are outlets of information and current events making the stories of others part of our lives as we all live out our own personal adventures. I utilize these true-life events to add scope and breadth to the world of my fictions so that these events might at times inform and offer new perspective on the principle narratives. And while these true-life stories unfold in the backgrounds of their fictitious hosts, the hope is that the reader will be able to have a better sense of the timeline as the events unfold over the days, months, and years that these stories inhabit.Humanity in all its wonder and woe is on full display within this collection. From the journey of idyllic love to tragic romance, and the thin line that turns passion to obsession, we will see all the places theses complex emotions lead: a young botanist travels half-way around the world for a chance to reconnect with a lost love; a young girl's love for her family pushes her to extremes to protect her brother; a man's love for his city challenges his morality; the bond between brothers is put to the test; and a young man's reverence for history, and his love of family leads him down a dark path. How far will someone go to protect themselves? Their loved ones? Or even their way of life? The lengths these characters will go, or in some cases will not go, are central to the stories in this collection. I intend to show those lengths and tell my characters' all too human stories.?
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFE0005034, ucf:49988
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005034
