View All Items

Title: Volusia System For Empowering Teachers (VSET): Influence On Teacher Practice And Student Achievement.
Creator: Sileo-Robinson, Lesley, Hewitt, Randall, Hopp, Carolyn, Vitale, Thomas, Taylor, Rosemarye, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This study provides an empirical analysis of the primary assumptions of a newly implemented teacher evaluation system, namely that the specific teaching practices evaluated are related to student achievement, and that teacher-directed professional growth plans effectively shape teacher practices in a particular domain. Results of the study are intended to inform the interpretation and the refinement of the Volusia System for Empowering Teachers (VSET), which aims to build capacity in the...
Show moreThis study provides an empirical analysis of the primary assumptions of a newly implemented teacher evaluation system, namely that the specific teaching practices evaluated are related to student achievement, and that teacher-directed professional growth plans effectively shape teacher practices in a particular domain. Results of the study are intended to inform the interpretation and the refinement of the Volusia System for Empowering Teachers (VSET), which aims to build capacity in the Volusia teacher work force and ultimately to improve student performance (School Board of Volusia County Team Volusia, Race to the Top application, 2011). This study focused on 14 pilot schools within one school district that implemented VSET as a new teacher evaluation system. The data used in this study were drawn from a multi-metric teacher assessment used in VSET and measures of student achievement. The VSET evaluation model consists of three metrics that are assigned according to the specific categories of a teacher. Two of the metrics, the professional growth plan rating and the educator observation rating are based on Charlotte Danielson's (")Framework for Teaching(") (Danielson, 2007). The third metric, the valued added score is a measure of the teacher's impact on student learning. The current study focused on determining if there was a correlation between teaching practice and student achievement and to what extent teaching practice was impacted by teacher self-selection of components for professional growth in the teacher evaluation model. The findings suggest that there is not a statistically significant and reliable relationship between the value added score and teacher practices across components, as assessed by VSET evaluators. Follow up analyses did, however, show that higher evaluator observation scores are associated with improved school grades, suggesting a relationship between teacher impact on student performance. The results support the assumption that the successful completion of the VSET professional development growth plan is associated with teacher's instructional practices in the identified component.
Show less
Date Issued: 2013
Identifier: CFE0004938, ucf:49614
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004938

Title: Doctoral Supervision: An Analysis of Doctoral Candidates' and Graduates' Perception of Supervisory Practices.
Creator: Tapoler, Colton, Taylor, Rosemarye, Vitale, Thomas, Doherty, Walter, Marshall, Nancy, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this study was to collect and examine the reported supervisory practices experienced by professional doctoral candidates in the last year of their program, and recent program graduates, within the last three years, from across multiple disciplines. Doctoral supervisors, specifically in the United States, are not usually provided a set of practices or concrete training prior to advising doctoral candidates (Walker, 2008, p. 35). With this in mind, and the limited amount of...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to collect and examine the reported supervisory practices experienced by professional doctoral candidates in the last year of their program, and recent program graduates, within the last three years, from across multiple disciplines. Doctoral supervisors, specifically in the United States, are not usually provided a set of practices or concrete training prior to advising doctoral candidates (Walker, 2008, p. 35). With this in mind, and the limited amount of research available on doctoral supervision in professional doctoral programs in the United States, it was critical to analyze the experienced supervision of professional doctoral candidates and its perceived effectiveness. Current candidates and recent graduates were asked to participate in interviews based on the supervision they received. Ultimately, 3 current candidates and 15 recent graduates were interviewed for this study. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and then analyzed using grounded theory (Corbin (&) Strauss, 1990). The interviews were carefully analyzed for emerging trends that went on to represent individual supervisory practices, or concepts. After several additional readings the concepts were grouped together based on similarity into categories. Finally, the concepts and categories were analyzed for connections to candidate success, which developed into the findings of this study.Ultimately, candidates and recent graduates discussed 19 supervisory practices. The 19 supervisory practices, or concepts, were: frequency of communication, quality of communication, mode of communication, accessibility, feedback, the use of articles and research, the use of a timeline for candidates, utilization of the supervisor's existing expertise, workshop offerings, use of the supervisor's network, building a personal connection, showing enthusiasm, candor, trust, encouragement, autonomy, guidance, providing advice academically, and developing a colleague-to-colleague relationship. Each of the 19 concepts was discussed as having varying levels of impact on candidates successfully completing their programs. Doctoral supervisors, and doctoral programs, should consider the implementation of these supervisory practices and the training that helps supervisors develop their supervisory experiences.
Show less
Date Issued: 2017
Identifier: CFE0006667, ucf:51252
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006667

Title: Taxonomy of Affective Curriculum for Gifted Learners.
Creator: Cavilla, Derek, Eriksson, Gillian, Hynes, Mike, Hopp, Carolyn, Vitale, Thomas, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Teaching and learning in the current milieu of standards-based accountability has resulted in a near-exclusive focus on academic growth and development for students in today's schools. This is particularly acute for gifted students, whose label inherently focuses on superior intellectual capacity and aptitude for academic success. However, there is a growing demand for equal support of social-emotional learning (SEL) across the globe. In the United States, the Collaborative for Academic,...
Show moreTeaching and learning in the current milieu of standards-based accountability has resulted in a near-exclusive focus on academic growth and development for students in today's schools. This is particularly acute for gifted students, whose label inherently focuses on superior intellectual capacity and aptitude for academic success. However, there is a growing demand for equal support of social-emotional learning (SEL) across the globe. In the United States, the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) has shed significant light on the power of affective development for school-aged children, indicating that, without it, students are limited in their ability to reach their full potential. The proposed Taxonomy of Affective Curriculum for Gifted Learners is intended to provide a framework to reduce the disparity in focus between cognitive and social-emotional development for a population that requires affective support in response to the effects of asynchronous development as well as an inherent proclivity for heightened capacity for emotional intelligence and moral development. Through the research-based definition and sequence of specific affective constructs, the taxonomy leads gifted learners toward their full potential through the eventual development of specific social-emotional abilities, such as harmonious passion (Vallerand et. al, 2003), acceptance of ambiguity (Urban, 2014), willingness to view failure as opportunity for growth (Dweck, 2006), and an increased ability to set and attain meaningful goals (Dweck, 1986). Qualitative data from both practitioners and experts as well as suggested implementation and evaluation of a pilot study further inform the framework's development with implications surrounding the stimulation of greater levels of internal locus of control as well as a clarification of the role of teacher versus counselor of the gifted.
Show less
Date Issued: 2016
Identifier: CFE0006087, ucf:50946
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006087

Title: A Case Study Evaluation of Quality Standards and Online Faculty Development.
Creator: O'Brien, Erin, Gunter, Glenda, Hartshorne, Richard, Thompson, Kelvin, Vitale, Thomas, Haggerty, Dorothy, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This dissertation in practice was designed to provide an evaluation case study of two institutions, one college and one university, in the field of online learning and quality assurance. The writer evaluated these two institutions of higher learning to discover what online teaching criteria are required and what quality assurance processes are being used to assess the quality of the institutions' online courses. An analysis of the data revealed that both institutions were at the appropriate...
Show moreThis dissertation in practice was designed to provide an evaluation case study of two institutions, one college and one university, in the field of online learning and quality assurance. The writer evaluated these two institutions of higher learning to discover what online teaching criteria are required and what quality assurance processes are being used to assess the quality of the institutions' online courses. An analysis of the data revealed that both institutions were at the appropriate stage of development, support, training and quality assurance measures for their sizes, online populations and for the length of time they have been involved in online learning. Findings revealed that both institutions had a quality assurance process in place that is appropriate to their location, population and faculty. There is much to be learned by examining the two different credentialing and quality assurance approaches to online teaching and learning that these two different institutions employ for anyone interested in improving their institutions' processes.
Show less
Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFE0005855, ucf:50919
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005855

Title: Perceptions of Secondary Education Teachers Working in an Inclusive Setting.
Creator: Pacha, Destiny, Hopp, Carolyn, Reyes, Maria, Vitale, Thomas, Pratt Marrett, Caroline, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This dissertation in practice addresses the continuous underperformance of students with disabilities (SWD) on standardized assessments when compared to their non-disabled peers. This dissertation on the complex problem of practice investigates secondary education teachers' perceptions of students with disabilities and their ability to be included in the general education classroom. The purpose of this research is to develop a professional development framework to enhance inclusive practices....
Show moreThis dissertation in practice addresses the continuous underperformance of students with disabilities (SWD) on standardized assessments when compared to their non-disabled peers. This dissertation on the complex problem of practice investigates secondary education teachers' perceptions of students with disabilities and their ability to be included in the general education classroom. The purpose of this research is to develop a professional development framework to enhance inclusive practices. Students with disabilities nationwide are increasingly taught in the general education classroom in order to provide them access to their least restrictive environment and instruction of the general education curriculum. The beliefs held by teachers about students with disabilities and their inclusion in the general education classroom is one key variable to the successful inclusion as measured by student outcomes. To provide necessary support, it is imperative to understand teachers' attitude towards students with disabilities and their inclusion in the general education classroom. Based on the survey results and relevant research, the professional development framework to enhance inclusive practices was developed and will focus on three elements: (a) school culture and understanding of inclusion, (b) effective inclusive teaching strategies, and (c) collaboration models and techniques. The goal of the professional development framework is for administrators and other school leaders to provide appropriate learning opportunities for teachers to enhance their understanding of inclusion and to provide them strategies and techniques to improve student outcomes in an effort to close the achievement gap between students with and without disabilities.
Show less
Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFE0006368, ucf:51495
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006368

Title: Supporting Prekindergarten Teachers Through Appropriate Professional Development Practices.
Creator: Twyman, Catherine, Hopp, Carolyn, Vitale, Thomas, Boote, David, Culp, Anne, Englehart, Deirdre, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The problem of practice that this dissertation in practice addresses is the creation of a professional development model designed to assist voluntary prekindergarten (VPK) teachers and directors with the implementation of the 2011 Early Learning and Developmental Standards for Four-Year-Olds; specifically the mathematical thinking benchmark. Because the standards serve as a planning guide to assist teachers and directors of VPK children in the attainment of skills required by the end of their...
Show moreThe problem of practice that this dissertation in practice addresses is the creation of a professional development model designed to assist voluntary prekindergarten (VPK) teachers and directors with the implementation of the 2011 Early Learning and Developmental Standards for Four-Year-Olds; specifically the mathematical thinking benchmark. Because the standards serve as a planning guide to assist teachers and directors of VPK children in the attainment of skills required by the end of their prekindergarten school year, it is important that those utilizing the Standards have a concrete understanding of their components and how to use them as the foundation for all lesson planning. The pilot study included informal interviews with both VPK teachers and directors concerning their understanding of the 2011 Early Learning and Developmental Standards for Four-Year-Olds and the assistance they received with the implementation of the standards into their daily lesson plans. An additional survey was administered electronically to a target group of VPK teachers and directors concerning their personal beliefs about preschoolers and mathematics, their confidence in helping preschoolers learn mathematical concepts, and their confidence in their personal mathematics abilities.This dissertation in practice provides a professional development framework, that demonstrates how to facilitate a comprehensive professional development program that addresses all of the essential components including pre-assessment, the use of appropriate practices when working with adult learners, providing coaching and technical assistance to the practitioners, and using communities of practice (CoP) to provide ongoing support for teachers and directors of VPK children. Utilizing a combination of these strategies can help to ensure that those working with this targeted group have an inclusive understanding of the standards as well as a support system to effectively provide VPK students with a developmentally appropriate education.
Show less
Date Issued: 2016
Identifier: CFE0006407, ucf:51463
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006407

Title: An Examination of Post Implementation Adoption of Business Intelligence Technologies and the Role of Training Programs during this Process.
Creator: Robertson, Juliana, Gunter, Glenda, Thompson, Kelvin, Vitale, Thomas, Morrow, Patricia Bockelman, Lagasse, Paul, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This research study sought to determine if there was any difference in the perception of training modality delivery between participants who attended a face-to-face (F2F) training session or participated in blended training that supported business intelligence (BI) technology adoption. There is minimal information available identifying how training can influence an individual's intention to fully adopt BI technology into daily work processes. Identification of key factors influencing training...
Show moreThis research study sought to determine if there was any difference in the perception of training modality delivery between participants who attended a face-to-face (F2F) training session or participated in blended training that supported business intelligence (BI) technology adoption. There is minimal information available identifying how training can influence an individual's intention to fully adopt BI technology into daily work processes. Identification of key factors influencing training modalities' effect on technology adoption promotes strategies that allow trainers to better facilitate and develop content that can help organizations to integrating BI technologies into their workflow. This study analyzed survey responses that captured the perceptions of end-users who completed training by attending a F2F or blended training and their readiness to utilize the BI technologies post-training. The sample for this study consisted of 62 individuals who completed both the training session survey (F2F or blended) and the client implementation survey; to qualify for this study, all participants completed both surveys; 33 participants attended the F2F training sessions, and 29 participants attended the blended training sessions. Survey responses related to the training session and the training consultant were used to identify differences in perception when comparing the two different groups and their feelings of preparedness to accept responsibility for the technology. While there was an indication that the feeling of preparedness to adopt the BI technology was more heavily influenced by the blended training, it is important to consider methods for improving participant satisfaction in all areas related to blended training. Overall, this study provides the basis for an executive summary indicating the need to implement more effective training strategies, policies, and training processes before and after implementing BI technologies within organizations.
Show less
Date Issued: 2017
Identifier: CFE0006911, ucf:51699
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006911

Title: Can a Multiple Intervention Approach Improve College Students' Persistence, GPA, and Credits Earned?.
Creator: Guillemette, Joshua, Sivo, Stephen, Swan, Bonnie, Hahs-Vaughn, Debbie, Vitale, Thomas, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: 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: A Formative Process Evaluation Study of Teacher Usage of a Learning Management System in a K-12 Public School.
Creator: Franzese, Victoria, Gunter, Glenda, Swan, Bonnie, Hartshorne, Richard, Vitale, Thomas, Rath, Victoria, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this study is to explore teacher perceptions, concerns, and integration of a Learning Management System (LMS) in a K-12 public school. With more educational institutions adopting LMSs, it is imperative to examine teachers' concerns regarding the tool as teachers have an important role in how effectively an innovation(-)such as an LMS(-)is implemented (Lochner, Conrad, (&) Graham, 2015). Ultimately, adoption of an innovation can be successful if teachers have an understanding of...
Show moreThe purpose of this study is to explore teacher perceptions, concerns, and integration of a Learning Management System (LMS) in a K-12 public school. With more educational institutions adopting LMSs, it is imperative to examine teachers' concerns regarding the tool as teachers have an important role in how effectively an innovation(-)such as an LMS(-)is implemented (Lochner, Conrad, (&) Graham, 2015). Ultimately, adoption of an innovation can be successful if teachers have an understanding of the components leading to the innovation's success, such as the innovation's value in enhancing both the curriculum and the students' learning experiences (Lochner et al., 2015). This study used the Concerns-Based Adoption Model (CBAM) as a main framework to not only measure implementation of the LMS, but to also increase the likelihood of the LMS effecting positive change in schools (George, Hall, (&) Stiegelbauer, 2006). The framework's Stages of Concern Questionnaire (SoCQ) was used with participants to determine teachers' concerns. The sample population for this study consisted of secondary teachers at a public high school in central Florida in 2017. Out of the 125 teachers employed at the school, a total of 36 (n = 36) participated in the online survey. Three of the teachers surveyed then participated in interviews to provide additional insight.Data was analyzed and organized into five main topics: (a) Stages of Concern Profile; (b) teacher concerns; (c) benefits of the LMS; (d) barriers to the LMS; and (e) teacher needs. An analysis of the survey data revealed that the study's survey participants, on average, had the highest concerns at Stage 0 (Unconcerned), Stage 1 (Informational) and Stage 2 (Personal), thus indicating the group conformed to a non-user profile when it comes to LMS use. An analysis of the interview data revealed an overall positive disposition toward the LMS with the self-awareness that participants have more to learn about its capabilities. Results suggested that LMS implementation should be refined in order to allow participants to advance to higher stages of concern (George et al., 2006). Further research should be conducted on other areas of LMS implementation, including the students' perceptions and concerns when it comes to using the LMS.
Show less
Date Issued: 2017
Identifier: CFE0006739, ucf:51834
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006739

Title: Defining and Building Excellence: A Model for Professional Development at Arete Charter School.
Creator: Kerness, Shloe, Hopp, Carolyn, Vitale, Thomas, Hayes, Grant, Robinson, Edward, Knight, Monica, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: In the U.S., there is increased awareness that what teachers know and are able to do play a significant role in the achievement of their students (Sanders (&) Rivers, 1996). Consequently, there is an unprecedented interest in improving instruction, a job that is normally assumed by the schools and school districts where teachers are employed. However, long-established professional development options provided by school districts usually fail to have any significant positive impact on teachers...
Show moreIn the U.S., there is increased awareness that what teachers know and are able to do play a significant role in the achievement of their students (Sanders (&) Rivers, 1996). Consequently, there is an unprecedented interest in improving instruction, a job that is normally assumed by the schools and school districts where teachers are employed. However, long-established professional development options provided by school districts usually fail to have any significant positive impact on teachers' instructional practices and often have the unintended consequence of making teachers feel more like workers on an assembly line than professionals doing emotionally complicated work (Borko (&) Putnam, Cohen (&) Hill, 1995; Darling-Hammond, 2009. Aret(&)#233; Charter School, a rapidly growing charter school franchise, does not currently have a clearly defined model of professional development that supports its unique instructional model. Results of the Standards Assessment Inventory 2 and higher than average teacher attrition due to both voluntary and involuntary leavers indicate that a change initiative is needed. With little time and limited resources available for professional development, it is of particular importance to develop an unambiguous model for teacher learning at Aret(&)#233; that leads to program choices with a high probability of increasing teacher capacity as well as improving student learning. The purpose of this dissertation in practice is to advance/promote a viable model for professional development at Aret(&)#233; Charter School that will (")alter the professional practices, beliefs, and understanding of school persons toward an articulated end(") (Griffin, 1983, p. 2). A model for professional development utilizing the Partnership Approach (Knight, 2007, 2011) and aligned to Learning Forward's Standards for Professional Development with the goal of humanizing the profession and offering a clearly articulated philosophy and set of actions is presented. Core elements of the model include the principal as a designer, instructional coaching, workshops that make an impact, intensive learning teams, and partnership communication that, when used together, results in humanizing professional learning that is both focused and leveraged to not only sustain school success but propel it forward. This model has implications for other schools struggling with teacher professional learning including how to maximize professional development to enhance teacher repertoires while simultaneously utilizing it to humanize the profession.
Show less
Date Issued: 2014
Identifier: CFE0005360, ucf:50500
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005360

Title: Applying Problem-of-Practice Methods from the Discipline of Higher Education within the Justice System: Turning the Concept of Therapy Dogs for Child Victims into a Statewide Initiative.
Creator: Holton, Jessie, Hopp, Carolyn, Vitale, Thomas, Williams-Fjeldhe, Karri, Mustaine, Elizabeth, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This Dissertation-in-Practice introduces a law enforcement concept-to-practice model designed by combining tested methods of organizational analysis often utilized by those in the discipline of education. The model incorporates a two phase design with the first phase focusing on implementing and evaluating innovative changes within a medium size law enforcement agency for a micro-level analysis. A second phase examines the ability to replicate the concept program on a statewide, macro-level,...
Show moreThis Dissertation-in-Practice introduces a law enforcement concept-to-practice model designed by combining tested methods of organizational analysis often utilized by those in the discipline of education. The model incorporates a two phase design with the first phase focusing on implementing and evaluating innovative changes within a medium size law enforcement agency for a micro-level analysis. A second phase examines the ability to replicate the concept program on a statewide, macro-level, by incorporating a re-design method utilizing organizational resource and structure frames. The concept applied to this model was the introduction of a therapy dog interaction during investigations involving crimes against children to reduce anxiety and increase communication. The first phase concluded that the introduction of therapy dogs during law enforcement investigations had a statistical significance in the reduction of anxiety and increased disclosure rates with child victims, without interfering with judicial policies and procedures. The second phase produced a series of flexible options allowing law enforcement agencies of all types to replicate therapy dog programs that are consistent, cost effective, and sustainable. The overall results indicate the use of this concept-to-practice model was successful in examining and introducing an innovative concept that provided a significant impact in the complex organizations of the justice system.
Show less
Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFE0005807, ucf:50029
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005807

Title: Meeting the Needs of Students Through a Targeted Professional Development.
Creator: Copelin, Anthony, Hopp, Carolyn, Vitale, Thomas, Robinson, Edward, Hayes, Grant, Puig, Enrique, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This study presents a complex problem of practice occurring at Primrose Elementary school [pseudonym]. A large portion of Primrose Elementary School's population has been unable to meet Florida's state reading proficiency standards over the last twelve years. Students of Primrose Elementary have a poor foundation in language on which to build vital reading skills. Consequently, students cannot overcome this deficiency because teachers lack the content knowledge to meet the students' language...
Show moreThis study presents a complex problem of practice occurring at Primrose Elementary school [pseudonym]. A large portion of Primrose Elementary School's population has been unable to meet Florida's state reading proficiency standards over the last twelve years. Students of Primrose Elementary have a poor foundation in language on which to build vital reading skills. Consequently, students cannot overcome this deficiency because teachers lack the content knowledge to meet the students' language and subsequent reading deficiencies, in spite of 12 years of reading professional development. This dissertation in practice will propose the use of targeted professional development to address below grade level reading performance. The proposed professional development should be delivered through a cyclical model focused on six, sequentially presented key elements: (1) knowledge of language development; (2) knowledge of text complexity; (3) modeling; (4) close reading; (5) collaborative conversations; and (6) independent reading. Delivery is designed to support reading proficiency through language acquisition. Delivery steps will (a) introduce, (b) practice and plan, (c) use, (d) reflect on, and (e) review each element as a skill. A review of school performance and literature correlated impacts of low student socioeconomic status and teacher quality on student reading outcomes
Show less
Date Issued: 2014
Identifier: CFE0005475, ucf:50336
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005475

Title: Linking a Business Capstone Course to Employer Needs in Central Florida.
Creator: De George, Lauren, Hopp, Carolyn, Vitale, Thomas, Hutchinson, Cynthia, Boote, David, Porter, Robert, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Capstone courses are well embedded into the curriculum of undergraduate programs in Colleges of Business and are often used to assess program outcomes and curricular goals. Assessment of best practices of Capstone programs and skills within Capstone courses are examined as assurance of learning requirements under AACSB mandates. The conceptual framework of problem-based learning serves as the foundation for national Capstone course models with student-centered pedagogies that enhance learning...
Show moreCapstone courses are well embedded into the curriculum of undergraduate programs in Colleges of Business and are often used to assess program outcomes and curricular goals. Assessment of best practices of Capstone programs and skills within Capstone courses are examined as assurance of learning requirements under AACSB mandates. The conceptual framework of problem-based learning serves as the foundation for national Capstone course models with student-centered pedagogies that enhance learning about a subject through the experience of problem solving by using thinking strategies and domain knowledge. Rubrics assess student mastery of content, professionalism, organization, language structure and presentation skills.The main purpose of this study was to determine to what extent students provided evidence of skills and competencies, as demonstrated through Capstone projects and presentations at a large metropolitan university in Central Florida, which were required to meet the needs of potential employers. Using focus group research, this study examined and interpreted Capstone student papers and presentations to determine to what extent the skill sets evidenced were sufficient for hiring entry-level positions in community business partners' respective organizations. This study served to contribute to an understanding of the factors that should be embedded in course design, linking assignments to course objectives, and overall curricular goals in order to fulfill assurance of learning requirements as established by AACSB mandates.
Show less
Date Issued: 2014
Identifier: CFE0005478, ucf:50330
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005478

Title: A PROFESSIONAL LEARNING COMMUNITY DESIGN: USING CLOSE READING TECHNIQUES TO IMPROVE U.S. HISTORY COMPREHENSION.
Creator: Tinsley, Maureen, Hopp, Carolyn, Zygouris-Coe, Vassiliki, Williams-Fjeldhe, Karri, Vitale, Thomas, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This dissertation in practice presents a research-based model for staff development utilizing the elements of a professional learning community. The focus of this problem of practice was determined through an analysis of one high school's reading data indicating that 36% of the student body was reading below grade level according to the state assessment test for reading. Researchers have noted that reading demands for college and careers have increased (Alliance for Excellent Education, 2011;...
Show moreThis dissertation in practice presents a research-based model for staff development utilizing the elements of a professional learning community. The focus of this problem of practice was determined through an analysis of one high school's reading data indicating that 36% of the student body was reading below grade level according to the state assessment test for reading. Researchers have noted that reading demands for college and careers have increased (Alliance for Excellent Education, 2011; Barton, 2000; Common Core State Standards, 2014). If students do not develop reading proficiency to graduate with a high school diploma, they are at risk of limited career choices without college and possible unemployment. Drawing upon a review of related literature in reading education, adolescent literacy, disciplinary literacy, and staff development, a professional learning community model was proposed to address improvement in teacher capacity by demonstrating the knowledge, dispositions, and skills of pedagogical knowledge of the Common Core State Standards (Florida Department of Education, Language Arts Florida Standards, 2014) and the use of close reading techniques to increase reading comprehension of U.S. History students. This design utilizes the five elements of the DuFour (2010) model of a professional learning community including (a) focus of learning; (b) collaborative culture; (c) collaborative inquiry; (d) commitment to continuous improvement; and (e) results oriented mindset. A logic model further delineates the priorities, program plan, and intended outcomes for the implementation of this model.
Show less
Date Issued: 2014
Identifier: CFE0005429, ucf:50409
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005429

Title: A needs analysis for K-12 school improvement projects and their use as the dissertation in practice for the professional practice education doctorate program at the University of Central Florida.
Creator: Biddle, Jeffrey, Boote, David, Taylor, Rosemarye, Vitale, Thomas, Hayes, Grant, Flanigan, Jacquelyn, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This study conducted at the University of Central Florida was completed to inform the Ed. D. in Education program within the College of Education and Human Performance. The main purpose of the study was to determine the Dissertation in Practice (DiP) project types that should be allowed for use as the capstone requirement based on a needs analysis of K-12 schools and school districts. The secondary purpose was to inform the instructional design of the program to ensure the necessary skills...
Show moreThis study conducted at the University of Central Florida was completed to inform the Ed. D. in Education program within the College of Education and Human Performance. The main purpose of the study was to determine the Dissertation in Practice (DiP) project types that should be allowed for use as the capstone requirement based on a needs analysis of K-12 schools and school districts. The secondary purpose was to inform the instructional design of the program to ensure the necessary skills and knowledge required are included in the program.The study was conducted in the University of Central Florida's Ed. D. in Education program and employed a qualitative approach to a needs analysis. Interviews were conducted with two distinctly different participant groups. The first group was comprised of administrators and teacher-leaders identified by a superintendent of a rural school district in Central Florida as (")highly effective("). The second group of participants was comprised of current Ed. D. students working in K-12 education with more than 10 years' experience.This research identified specific project types that best support school improvement and should therefore be integrated into the Ed. D. in Education program as allowable project types for use as the Dissertation in Practice. The results also identified qualities of highly effective administrators and teacher-leaders that may be considered by program faculty for inclusion in the design and implementation of the curriculum for the Ed. D. in Education program.Implications of this research include using the results to inform instructional practices and the allowable DiP projects for the Ed. D. in Education program. As this study was a needs analysis that serves as a basis for program instructional decisions, the results of this study may inform other Carnegie Project on the Education Doctorate (CPED) member institutions how to modify or enhance their programs as well.The focus on this study was exclusively on K-12 education. However many students enrolled in the program work in business, government, or non-profit settings. This research could be replicated to determine improvement project types that are commonly implemented in those settings in order to better meet the needs of all students enrolled in the Ed. D. in Education program.
Show less
Date Issued: 2014
Identifier: CFE0005306, ucf:50539
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005306

Title: Internet Reading and Learning in a Guided Reading Context.
Creator: Van Allen, Jennifer, Zygouris-Coe, Vassiliki, Boote, David, Damico, Nicole, Vitale, Thomas, Butler, Lorrie, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Many employers are calling for high school graduates who are equipped with skills to research, manage, and process information from multiple sources and communicate effectively to others through a variety of sources. Yet, students are not being appropriately prepared with online research and comprehension skills in schools today. A major factor impacting this problem is that teachers do not possess the knowledge and skills to effectively address online research and comprehension skills in the...
Show moreMany employers are calling for high school graduates who are equipped with skills to research, manage, and process information from multiple sources and communicate effectively to others through a variety of sources. Yet, students are not being appropriately prepared with online research and comprehension skills in schools today. A major factor impacting this problem is that teachers do not possess the knowledge and skills to effectively address online research and comprehension skills in the intermediate grades. This dissertation in practice proposes a solution to this problem of practice through the design of an educative curriculum that introduces online research and comprehension skills to upper elementary students. It also provides teachers with necessary knowledge to aid their pedagogical design capacity throughout the curriculum. Prior to the development of the curriculum, a case study was conducted to determine how a fourth-grade teacher integrates digital tools during guided reading lessons to support students' development of online research and comprehension skills. The results showed that the implementation was challenging and resulted in role changes for both the teacher and students. These findings supported the design choices of the base curriculum for students, set within the guided reading framework, and educative features to support teachers.
Show less
Date Issued: 2016
Identifier: CFE0006702, ucf:51909
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006702

professional development (9)	+ -
education (5)	+ -
Professional Development (4)	+ -
blended learning (4)	+ -
achievement gap (3)	+ -

framework (3)	+ -
higher education (3)	+ -
hybrid (3)	+ -
online education (3)	+ -
poverty (3)	+ -
21st century skills (2)	+ -
CPED (2)	+ -
Dissertation in Practice (2)	+ -
Ed.D. (2)	+ -
Higher Education (2)	+ -
Persistence (2)	+ -
Propensity Score Matching (2)	+ -
attrition (2)	+ -
blended (2)	+ -
doctoral students (2)	+ -
doctoral supervision (2)	+ -
elementary (2)	+ -
evaluation (2)	+ -
graduate students (2)	+ -
hybrid learning (2)	+ -
inclusion (2)	+ -
induction (2)	+ -
instruction (2)	+ -
instructional design (2)	+ -
mathematics (2)	+ -

University of Central Florida (76)	+ -
Vitale, Thomas (76)	+ -
Hopp, Carolyn (33)	+ -
Boote, David (23)	+ -
Hayes, Grant (16)	+ -

Robinson, Edward (12)	+ -
Gunter, Glenda (10)	+ -
Cox, Dr. Thomas (9)	+ -
Swan, Bonnie (8)	+ -
Taylor, Rosemarye (8)	+ -
Doherty, Walter (7)	+ -
Hewitt, Randall (6)	+ -
Cox, Thomas (4)	+ -
Hayes, Burnice (4)	+ -
Little, Mary (4)	+ -
Flanigan, Jacquelyn (3)	+ -
Hartshorne, Richard (3)	+ -
Border, Harold (2)	+ -
Campbell, Laurie (2)	+ -
Ellis, Amanda (2)	+ -
Fine, Terri (2)	+ -
Goodman, Constance (2)	+ -
Hahs-Vaughn, Debbie (2)	+ -
Hines, Rebecca (2)	+ -
Johnson, Jerry (2)	+ -
Lue, Martha (2)	+ -
McAfee, Morgan (2)	+ -
Olan, Elsie (2)	+ -
Ortiz, Enrique (2)	+ -
Owens, J. Thomas (2)	+ -

Search In

Pages

Pages

Sort Results By:

Narrow results by:

Topical Subject

Collection

Type of Resource

Language

Creator

Format

Owner