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Pages
- Title
- Determinants of continuance intention and word of mouth for hotel branded mobile app users.
- Creator
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Cobos, Liza, Wang, Youcheng, Kaufman, Tammie, Okumus, Fevzi, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This study examined the cognitive and affective factors that influence users' post-adoption behavioral intention. Specifically, based on the Expectation Confirmation Model (ECM) (Bhattacherjee, 2001b) the impact of cognitive factors (i.e., perceived usefulness, confirmation of expectations, mobility, personalization and responsiveness) and affective factors (i.e., satisfaction, perceived enjoyment) on hotel branded mobile applications (apps) users' continuance intention and WOM were examined....
Show moreThis study examined the cognitive and affective factors that influence users' post-adoption behavioral intention. Specifically, based on the Expectation Confirmation Model (ECM) (Bhattacherjee, 2001b) the impact of cognitive factors (i.e., perceived usefulness, confirmation of expectations, mobility, personalization and responsiveness) and affective factors (i.e., satisfaction, perceived enjoyment) on hotel branded mobile applications (apps) users' continuance intention and WOM were examined. Hospitality firms invest considerable resources on technology solutions that are aimed at improving the consumer experience. However, for investments to be profitable firms must ensure that technology solutions are continuously used and ensure post-adoptive behaviors such as continuance intention and WOM. Data for the study were collected from 550 hotel branded mobile app users. After data were collected and cleaned, Partial Least-Square Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to analyze the data. The results of the structural model indicated that continuance intention and WOM were directly influenced by satisfaction and perceived enjoyment; with satisfaction exerting the most influence on continuance intention. Conversely, perceived enjoyment was most influential to WOM. All cognitive factors were found to influence satisfaction and enjoyment, except for responsiveness and perceived usefulness. The results show that contextual factors have a more significant impact than previously established constructs. The results of the study allow hoteliers and hospitality technology consultants to identify the influential factors impacting post-adoptive behaviors. The study extends the literature on post-adoptive behavior and the ECM by including context specific factors (i.e. perceived mobility, personalization and responsiveness). This study contributes to the scare literature in the lodging industry literature examining users' evaluations of mobile apps and post-adoptive behaviors in the hospitality industry. The study adds to the post-adoptive behavior literature by adding WOM as a second outcome to continuance intention. The treatment of contextual factors in this study, allowed to show the impact technology characteristics have on technology post-adoption.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFE0006868, ucf:51743
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006868
- Title
- Examination of Attitude-Behavior Discrepancy in Familism and its Relation to Symptoms of Depression among Latinos.
- Creator
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Nicasio, Andel, Cassisi, Jeffrey, Negy, Charles, Jentsch, Florian, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This research examines the discrepancy between attitudinal and behavioral familism and its relation to depressive symptoms. The overarching hypothesis was that discrepancy between family values and the actual experiences of those values influences psychological health. Previous research has primarily focused on self-report measures of familial attitudes, and not whether these values are actually experienced by the individual. To address this gap in the literature, this study developed a new...
Show moreThis research examines the discrepancy between attitudinal and behavioral familism and its relation to depressive symptoms. The overarching hypothesis was that discrepancy between family values and the actual experiences of those values influences psychological health. Previous research has primarily focused on self-report measures of familial attitudes, and not whether these values are actually experienced by the individual. To address this gap in the literature, this study developed a new behavioral familism scale. A total of 431 Latinos and non-Latino Whites from a large university in Florida participated in this study. Overall, the new behavioral familism scale demonstrated good psychometric properties. Test-retest reliability was established with a sample of 109 participants who completed the measures twice, two weeks apart. Test-retest reliability was high (r = .85) and excellent (ICC = .92) for the total composite score. The internal consistency was examined with a sample of 323 participants. Results showed good internal consistency for the total composite score (Cronbach Alpha = .85). The convergent validity was evaluated with another measure of familism, as well as measures of perceived social support and family environment. Correlation analyses indicated significant positive relationships with all related measures in the expected direction. The divergent validity was evaluated with measures of social desirability and acculturation. Correlation analyses indicated non-significant and low relationships with both measures as expected. Polynomial regression and response surface analyses demonstrated that discrepancy between attitudinal and behavioral familism scores predicted symptoms of depression in a sample of 118 Latinos. Specifically, this study found that depressive symptoms increased as the discrepancy between the total composite scores of attitudinal and behavioral familism increased in either direction. Furthermore, the discrepancy in the family interconnectedness subscale indicated that symptoms of depression increased when attitudinal family interconnectedness was higher than behavioral family interconnectedness, but not when the relationship was reversed. Discrepancies between attitudinal and behavioral familism total composite scores and subscales did not predict symptoms of anxiety. These findings highlight the importance of understanding the role that culturally specific variables, such as familism, play in the psychological health of Latinos.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFE0006484, ucf:51438
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006484
- Title
- Hyperactivity in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Testing functional relationships with phonological working memory performance and attention.
- Creator
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Sarver, Dustin, Rapport, Mark, Beidel, Deborah, Mouloua, Mustapha, Vasquez, Eleazar, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Excessive gross motor activity is currently considered a ubiquitous and disruptive feature of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); however, an alternative model challenges this premise and hypothesizes a functional relationship between activity level, attention, and working memory. The current study investigated whether, and the extent to which, particular forms of gross motor activity are functionally related to children's attention and phonological working memory performance....
Show moreExcessive gross motor activity is currently considered a ubiquitous and disruptive feature of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); however, an alternative model challenges this premise and hypothesizes a functional relationship between activity level, attention, and working memory. The current study investigated whether, and the extent to which, particular forms of gross motor activity are functionally related to children's attention and phonological working memory performance. Objective observations of children's gross motor movements and attention by independent observers were conducted while children with ADHD (n = 29) and typically developing children (n = 23) completed multiple counterbalanced tasks entailing low and high phonological working memory demand. The tasks were then sequenced hierarchically to reflect the lowest to highest activity level condition for each child. Results revealed that (a) ADHD-related phonological working memory performance deficits are moderated by increases in intra-individual activity level, (b) heightened activity level impacts performance independently of changes in observed attention, and (c) increases in particular forms of movement (foot movement and out-of-chair movement) contribute to greater phonological working memory performance within the context of attentive behavior. The findings collectively indicate that phonological working memory deficits in children with ADHD are associated with an inability to up-regulate motor activity to facilitate optimal task performance, and that behavioral treatments targeting reductions in certain forms of hyperactivity may have unintended consequences on working memory functioning in ADHD.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFE0004930, ucf:49630
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004930
- Title
- Predictors of School Engagement for Females with Emotional and Behavioral Disabilities.
- Creator
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Hardin, Stacey, Dieker, Lisa, Hines, Rebecca, Marino, Matthew, Kea, Cathy, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Women in general have been historically overlooked in society and, more recently, in research females with emotional and behavioral disabilities (EBD) have been unnoticed (Rice, Merves, (&) Srsic, 2008). The purpose of the current study is to build a foundation of knowledge and practices for educators and researchers to better support and education this unique population of females. To better understand females with EBD, the researcher imposed a three-phase study, situated in two frameworks(-...
Show moreWomen in general have been historically overlooked in society and, more recently, in research females with emotional and behavioral disabilities (EBD) have been unnoticed (Rice, Merves, (&) Srsic, 2008). The purpose of the current study is to build a foundation of knowledge and practices for educators and researchers to better support and education this unique population of females. To better understand females with EBD, the researcher imposed a three-phase study, situated in two frameworks(-)the Culturally Responsive Theory Framework (Wlodkowski (&) Ginsberg, 1995) and the Participation-Identification Model (Finn, 1989), to look into the predictors of school engagement for females with EBD. In the first phase the researcher utilized quantitative data from the National Longitudinal Transition Study 2 to build three structural equation models (SEM) on the predictors of school engagement for students with EBD. Results and procedures are discussed for each SEM created. During phase two the researcher shifted the focus to females with EBD and interviewed six current females with EBD, ages 14-17. The participants were engaged in separate interviews that allowed the researcher to uncover additional variables necessary for females with EBD to engage in the school setting. The third phase consisted of an intersection of phases one and two to create a newly developed SEM model for females with EBD merging the interviews and the SEM built in phase one. The newly developed SEM is provided for future research, as well as are the provision of recommendations and implications of the results from the study.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFE0005348, ucf:50473
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005348
- Title
- Modeling Risk for Sexually Transmitted Infections in Women in a Court-Ordered Substance Treatment Program.
- Creator
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Deavers, Frances, Cassisi, Jeffrey, Bowers, Clint, Eldridge, Gloria, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Developing a comprehensive model of Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) risk factors and their inter-relationships is vital to improving methods of risk identification and treatment delivery. The CDC posed three general categories that may serve as a framework for such a model: sexual network, individual behavior, and social/ structural risk. None of the extant risk models incorporate measures from all three categories. Additionally, none of these models, generally focused on individual...
Show moreDeveloping a comprehensive model of Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) risk factors and their inter-relationships is vital to improving methods of risk identification and treatment delivery. The CDC posed three general categories that may serve as a framework for such a model: sexual network, individual behavior, and social/ structural risk. None of the extant risk models incorporate measures from all three categories. Additionally, none of these models, generally focused on individual behavior, use medical data on infection as their outcome variable. This is problematic because the ultimate outcome of infection is also influenced by sexual network and social/ structural variables, in addition to individual behaviors. Therefore the current study aimed to develop a comprehensive model of risk incorporating sexual network, individual behavior, and social/ structural risk variables, using medical data on infection status as the outcome variable. The sample consisted of 506 women in a court-ordered substance treatment program. An Exploratory Factor Analysis provided preliminary evidence for a three factor model corresponding to the CDC framework. However, a Confirmatory Factor Analysis failed to confirm this model. Additionally, a logistic regression suggested that this model has limited clinical utility for this sample. Future studies may more conclusively determine the importance of various STI risk variables, the relationships between them, and whether they mirror the CDC theoretical framework. With rates of infection still high in the United States, and even increasing among women for certain STIs, this is a critical public health issue that should continue to be examined.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFE0005323, ucf:50502
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005323
- Title
- ORGANIZATIONAL SAFETY CULTURE AND IDIVIDUAL SAFETY BEHAVIOR: A CASE STUDY OF THE TURKISH NATIONAL POLICE AVIATION DEPARTMENT.
- Creator
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Uryan, Yildirim, T. H. Wan, Thomas, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Human related accidents in high-risk industries amount to a significant economic hazard and incur tremendous damages, causing excessive operational costs and loss of life. The aviation industry now observes human-related accidents more frequently than in the past, an upswing attributable to cutting-edge technology usage and the complex systems employed by aviation organizations. Historically, aviation accidents have been attributed to individual unsafe behavior. However, contemporary accident...
Show moreHuman related accidents in high-risk industries amount to a significant economic hazard and incur tremendous damages, causing excessive operational costs and loss of life. The aviation industry now observes human-related accidents more frequently than in the past, an upswing attributable to cutting-edge technology usage and the complex systems employed by aviation organizations. Historically, aviation accidents have been attributed to individual unsafe behavior. However, contemporary accident causation models suggest that organizational-level factors influence individual safety performance, as human-related accidents take place in an organizational context. The present study examines the formation of organizational safety culture and influence on individualsÂÂ' safety behavior in a police aviation environment. The theory of planned behavior guides the study model in explaining individual variability in safety behavior via organizational safety culture. The study conceptualized organizational safety culture and individual safety behavior as multidimensional constructs. Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted for each latent construct to validate the construct validity for each measurement model. Organizational safety culture was observed via safety climate facets, which contained four subcomponents including individual attitude, group norms, management attitude, and workplace pressures. Individual safety behavior contained violation and error components observed by self-reported statements. Structural equation modeling was conducted to test the study hypotheses. Utilizing a sample of 210 employees from the Turkish National Police Aviation Department, a 53-item survey was conducted to measure individualsÂÂ' safety culture perceptions and self-reported safety behaviors. The results suggest that individual safety behavior is significantly influenced by organizational safety culture. Except for the relation between workplace pressures and intention, all suggested relations and correlations were statistically significant. The four-factor measurement model of organizational safety climate fit reasonably well to the data, and most correlations between the safety climate components were significant at the .05 level. IndividualsÂÂ' self-reported error behavior is positively associated with age, and individualsÂÂ' self-reported violation behavior is positively associated with years of service. Overall, along with organizational safety culture, age and service-year variables accounted for 65% of the variance in intention, 55% of the variance in violation behavior, and 68% of the variance in error behavior. Lastly, no significant difference manifested among pilots, maintenance personnel, and office staff according to their self-related safety behaviors. The findings have theoretical, policy, and managerial implications. First, the theory of planned behavior was tested, and its usefulness in explaining individualsÂÂ' safety behavior was demonstrated. The survey instrument of the study, and multi-dimensional measurement models for organizational safety climate and individual safety behavior were theoretical contributions of the study. Second, the emergence of informal organizational structures and their effects on individuals indicated several policy implications. The study also revealed the importance of informal structures in organizations performing in high-risk environments, especially in designing safety systems, safety policies, and regulations. Policy modification was suggested to overcome anticipated obstacles and the perceived difficulty of working with safety procedures. The influences of age on error behavior and years of service on violation behavior point to the need for several policy modifications regarding task assignment, personnel recruitment, health reports, and violation assessment policies. As well, managerial implications were suggested, including changing individualsÂÂ' perceptions of management and group attitudes toward safety. The negative influence of anticipated obstacles and the perceived difficulties of safety procedures on individual safety behavior pointed out managementÂÂ's role in reducing risks and accidents by designing intervention programs to improve safety performance, and formulating proactive solutions for problems typically leading to accidents and injuries.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2010
- Identifier
- CFE0003190, ucf:48587
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003190
- Title
- An Analysis of Sustained Positive Behavior Intervention Support in Florida and Related Disciplinary Outcomes.
- Creator
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Sweeney, Kristin, Taylor, Rosemarye, Doherty, Walter, Baldwin, Lee, LaFrance, Jason, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The purpose of this study was to examine the outcomes associated with sustained school-wide Positive Behavior Intervention Support (PBIS) programs in the State of Florida and the impact the length of time of implementation of these programs had on those outcomes. The link between discipline outcomes, as measured by the number of office discipline referrals (ODRs) written over the course of a school year per 100 students and sustained implementation of PBIS systems with documented fidelity, as...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to examine the outcomes associated with sustained school-wide Positive Behavior Intervention Support (PBIS) programs in the State of Florida and the impact the length of time of implementation of these programs had on those outcomes. The link between discipline outcomes, as measured by the number of office discipline referrals (ODRs) written over the course of a school year per 100 students and sustained implementation of PBIS systems with documented fidelity, as well as the connection between discipline outcomes for subgroups of students and sustained PBIS programs were examined for schools in the initial implementation phase (one to three years of implementation) compared to schools in the sustaining phase of implementation (four or more years of implementation). As more schools move to implement school-wide PBIS programs, little research is available to educational leaders focusing on sustainability of school-wide PBIS programs (Coffey (&) Horner, 2012, McIntosh, Kim, Mercer, Strickland-Cohen, (&) Horner, 2015). This study aimed to address this lack of research by analyzing the link between sustained school-wide PBIS programs and discipline outcomes. Schools in the State of Florida (987 schools - 654 elementary, 210 middle, and 123 high schools), representing 842,430 students were analyzed in a series of five research questions. The discipline outcomes, as measured by the rate of office discipline referrals per 100 students, from schools in the initial phase of implementation were compared to those of schools with sustained implementation of their school-wide PBIS programs. Research questions focused on whole school data as well as specific subgroups to determine if there was a difference in discipline outcomes. Overall, the analysis of this data found limited significant differences when examining the impact length of implementation has on discipline outcomes. While not statistically significant, several educationally important trends emerged that can help inform educational leaders as they make decisions about the allocation of time and resources for the future of school-wide PBIS programs in their schools and districts.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFE0006957, ucf:51652
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006957
- Title
- Designing Calorie Counter Smartphone Applications for Effective Weight Loss.
- Creator
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Milliard, Sharlin, Fanfarelli, Joseph, Bockelman, Patricia, Hartshorne, Richard, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Poor dietary choices and lack of physical activity are two main contributing factors for the increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity in the United States. Overweight and obese individuals are at risk for developing major life-threatening diseases. Weight loss is an effective means for reversing these adverse health effects, and smartphone applications (apps) may be an effective means for supporting weight loss outside of formal clinical settings. This study involved identifying...
Show morePoor dietary choices and lack of physical activity are two main contributing factors for the increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity in the United States. Overweight and obese individuals are at risk for developing major life-threatening diseases. Weight loss is an effective means for reversing these adverse health effects, and smartphone applications (apps) may be an effective means for supporting weight loss outside of formal clinical settings. This study involved identifying factors that contribute to effective weight loss to compare with functionality commonly found in a sample of calorie counter apps. A content analysis was performed using a design framework that included a conceptual model describing the interaction of behaviors for effective weight loss and functional design requirements based upon behavior change and motivation to achieve weight loss. The requirements were used to analyze the presence of features in a sample of popular calorie counting apps, to infer their capability in supporting users' motivation to achieve weight loss. Results indicated that app features might not provide sufficient support to facilitate effective weight loss. Lack of supportive features affects perceived autonomy, relatedness, and competence, reducing motivation. This study provided guidelines to improve the design of calorie counter apps to include more features that support users as they engage in weight loss behaviors. The guidelines may become practical for use in mHealth apps used as part of formal and informal weight management strategies. Implications for future research involving wearable technologies and the use of gamified design strategies are discussed.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2019
- Identifier
- CFE0007838, ucf:52824
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007838
- Title
- DOMESTIC PARENT-CHILD INTERACTION PROBLEMS AND WORKING MEMORY: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF INATTENTIVE ADHD SYMPTOMS.
- Creator
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Mohan, Svetha, Rapport, Mark, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The intent of this thesis is to explore the mediating effects of ADHD Inattentive symptoms on domestic parent-child interaction problems and working memory. Inattentive symptoms in children with ADHD are known to cause forgetfulness, slow processing speed, and negative parent-child interactions. Working memory deficits in phonological short term memory and the central executive are also well-established in children with ADHD. However, it is currently unknown to what extent inattentive...
Show moreThe intent of this thesis is to explore the mediating effects of ADHD Inattentive symptoms on domestic parent-child interaction problems and working memory. Inattentive symptoms in children with ADHD are known to cause forgetfulness, slow processing speed, and negative parent-child interactions. Working memory deficits in phonological short term memory and the central executive are also well-established in children with ADHD. However, it is currently unknown to what extent inattentive symptoms are responsible for home behavior problems in conjunction with phonological working memory deficits. The aims are tested using two validated, common clinical questionnaires: The Teacher Report Form and the Home Situations Questionnaire. Additionally, working memory and executive function are tested using a phonological letter-number sequencing task and a visuospatial dot-in-the-box task. Results show that inattentive symptoms mediate the relationship between working memory and parent-child interaction problems. Teacher reports of inattention affect the degree to which the child experiences behavior problems at home, and also affects the phonological working memory system implicated in this behavior. Future directions include using a more diverse sample, investigating a wider range of ADHD symptoms, investigating effects across multiple settings, and exploring possibilities of additional executive functioning mediators.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFH2000161, ucf:45976
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000161
- Title
- THE EFFECT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON SEXUAL COGNITIONS AND BEHAVIORS.
- Creator
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Duarte, Joshua, Wright, Chrysalis, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Pop culture and social media have become a prime source of entertainment and communication. The current study focuses on the potential effects of consuming this form of media and how it affects our sexual cognitions and behaviors. A sample of nine hundred and two university students were given self-reporting questionnaires concerning demographics, sexual cognitions, and exposure to sexual content in music. An analysis of music artist's posts on social media was also performed. It was...
Show morePop culture and social media have become a prime source of entertainment and communication. The current study focuses on the potential effects of consuming this form of media and how it affects our sexual cognitions and behaviors. A sample of nine hundred and two university students were given self-reporting questionnaires concerning demographics, sexual cognitions, and exposure to sexual content in music. An analysis of music artist's posts on social media was also performed. It was hypothesized that artists who have sexual content published in their work will also have the same amount of sexual content on social media. However, there were no significant correlations found between these sources. This study found that exposure to sexual content on social media could increase the chances of acquiring certain sexual cognitions. The current study also aimed to analyze the common characteristics of artist's that post a higher frequency of sexual content on social media. This study found that female artists tend to post more sexual content on social media compared to male artists, as well as music groups containing both male and female artists.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000136, ucf:46062
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000136
- Title
- EVOLVING MODELS FROM OBSERVED HUMAN PERFORMANCE.
- Creator
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Fernlund, Hans Karl Gustav, Gonzalez, Avelino J., University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
To create a realistic environment, many simulations require simulated agents with human behavior patterns. Manually creating such agents with realistic behavior is often a tedious and time-consuming task. This dissertation describes a new approach that automatically builds human behavior models for simulated agents by observing human performance. The research described in this dissertation synergistically combines Context-Based Reasoning, a paradigm especially developed to model tactical...
Show moreTo create a realistic environment, many simulations require simulated agents with human behavior patterns. Manually creating such agents with realistic behavior is often a tedious and time-consuming task. This dissertation describes a new approach that automatically builds human behavior models for simulated agents by observing human performance. The research described in this dissertation synergistically combines Context-Based Reasoning, a paradigm especially developed to model tactical human performance within simulated agents, with Genetic Programming, a machine learning algorithm to construct the behavior knowledge in accordance to the paradigm. This synergistic combination of well-documented AI methodologies has resulted in a new algorithm that effectively and automatically builds simulated agents with human behavior. This algorithm was tested extensively with five different simulated agents created by observing the performance of five humans driving an automobile simulator. The agents show not only the ability/capability to automatically learn and generalize the behavior of the human observed, but they also capture some of the personal behavior patterns observed among the five humans. Furthermore, the agents exhibited a performance that was at least as good as agents developed manually by a knowledgeable engineer.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2004
- Identifier
- CFE0000013, ucf:46068
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000013
- Title
- EXAMINING EMPLOYEE USE OF FAMILY-FRIENDLY BENEFITS WITH THE THEORY OF PLANNED BEHAVIOR.
- Creator
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Seiser, Heather, Fritzsche, Barbara, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The purpose of the present study was to investigate the factors that may be related to employees' decisions to use the family-friendly benefits (e.g., maternity/paternity leave, flexible work schedule) that are offered to them by their employers. Research has shown that both employees and organizations benefit when employees use family-friendly benefits. However, research has also shown that many employees do not take advantage of such benefits. Studies examining this issue are limited,...
Show moreThe purpose of the present study was to investigate the factors that may be related to employees' decisions to use the family-friendly benefits (e.g., maternity/paternity leave, flexible work schedule) that are offered to them by their employers. Research has shown that both employees and organizations benefit when employees use family-friendly benefits. However, research has also shown that many employees do not take advantage of such benefits. Studies examining this issue are limited, and much of the research that has been conducted is anecdotal and atheoretical. The present study overcame this problem by empirically examining the use of family-friendly benefits within the theoretical context of Ajzen's (1991) theory of planned behavior. The results of this study support the theory of planned behavior. Specifically, the results indicated that whether an individual perceived he/she had control over the use of family-friendly benefits was the most predictive of whether he/she intended to use them. Whether the individual perceived that others would approve of these behaviors was also predictive of intention to perform the behaviors. In addition, an individual's intention to take leave or use a flexible work schedule was the most predictive of whether he or she actually engaged in the behaviors. Implications for practice as well as future research directions are also discussed.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2006
- Identifier
- CFE0001399, ucf:46959
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001399
- Title
- THE EFFECT OF NUTRITION KNOWLEDGE ON FOOD CHOICES AND BODY MASS INDEX PERCENTILE RANKINGS OF ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CHILDREN: RESULTS FROM AN IN-SCHOOL NUTRITION EDUCATION PROGRAM.
- Creator
-
Ellis, Nancy, Abel, Eileen, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The prevalence of overweight and obese children has increased dramatically in the United States over the past 20 years and is a symptom of multiple systemic and cultural changes that have significantly influenced alterations in energy intake, energy expenditures, and the energy balance of children across the nation. School-based obesity prevention programs addressing nutrition and healthy eating behaviors within the school environment and cultural context provide a unique opportunity to...
Show moreThe prevalence of overweight and obese children has increased dramatically in the United States over the past 20 years and is a symptom of multiple systemic and cultural changes that have significantly influenced alterations in energy intake, energy expenditures, and the energy balance of children across the nation. School-based obesity prevention programs addressing nutrition and healthy eating behaviors within the school environment and cultural context provide a unique opportunity to educate and engage students in healthy food consumption practices. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a three-year elementary school nutrition education program for students in grades kindergarten through fifth using a longitudinal analysis of two separate data sets, a nutrition skills behavior assessment survey of self-reported eating behaviors, and body mass index (BMI) scores derived from height and weight measurements of program participants. Nutrition survey results indicated that students reported making healthier food choices from August 2001 to November 2004, with a significant decrease in reported consumption of fats/oils/sweets and significant increases in reported consumption of milk, meat, vegetables, fruit and grains. BMI results indicated a 7.8% decline in the percentage of students in the "overweight" and "at-risk for overweight" categories between August 2001 and October 2004. The combined results of both measures indicate that the nutrition education program appeared to positively affect eating behaviors and body mass index percentages. Implications of the study and strategies for further research are proposed.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2007
- Identifier
- CFE0001745, ucf:47311
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001745
- Title
- A REINFORCEMENT LEARNING TECHNIQUE FOR ENHANCING HUMAN BEHAVIOR MODELS IN A CONTEXT-BASED ARCHITECTURE.
- Creator
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Aihe, David, Gonzalez, Avelino, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
A reinforcement-learning technique for enhancing human behavior models in a context-based learning architecture is presented. Prior to the introduction of this technique, human models built and developed in a Context-Based reasoning framework lacked learning capabilities. As such, their performance and quality of behavior was always limited by what the subject matter expert whose knowledge is modeled was able to articulate or demonstrate. Results from experiments performed show that subject...
Show moreA reinforcement-learning technique for enhancing human behavior models in a context-based learning architecture is presented. Prior to the introduction of this technique, human models built and developed in a Context-Based reasoning framework lacked learning capabilities. As such, their performance and quality of behavior was always limited by what the subject matter expert whose knowledge is modeled was able to articulate or demonstrate. Results from experiments performed show that subject matter experts are prone to making errors and at times they lack information on situations that are inherently necessary for the human models to behave appropriately and optimally in those situations. The benefits of the technique presented is two fold; 1) It shows how human models built in a context-based framework can be modified to correctly reflect the knowledge learnt in a simulator; and 2) It presents a way for subject matter experts to verify and validate the knowledge they share. The results obtained from this research show that behavior models built in a context-based framework can be enhanced by learning and reflecting the constraints in the environment. From the results obtained, it was shown that after the models are enhanced, the agents performed better based on the metrics evaluated. Furthermore, after learning, the agent was shown to recognize unknown situations and behave appropriately in previously unknown situations. The overall performance and quality of behavior of the agent improved significantly.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2008
- Identifier
- CFE0002466, ucf:47715
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002466
- Title
- THE IMPACT OF RELIGIOSITY ON SEXUAL VICTIMIZATION EXPERIENCES AND REPORTING BEHAVIORS AMONG COLLEGE STUDENTS.
- Creator
-
Bauer, Nicole, Jasinski, Jana, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This study investigated the relationship between religiosity of female college students and sexual victimization experiences. These experiences include the reporting behaviors that take place subsequent to an act of sexual victimization. The study utilized secondary data gathered from the forth wave of a longitudinal study funded by the National Institute of Justice between 1990 and 1995. The study used multidimensional levels of religiosity to analyze and to assess its impact on the sexual...
Show moreThis study investigated the relationship between religiosity of female college students and sexual victimization experiences. These experiences include the reporting behaviors that take place subsequent to an act of sexual victimization. The study utilized secondary data gathered from the forth wave of a longitudinal study funded by the National Institute of Justice between 1990 and 1995. The study used multidimensional levels of religiosity to analyze and to assess its impact on the sexual victimization experiences. Findings ascertained that certain behavioral measures of religiosity were consistently found to be a protective factor against sexual victimization. On the other hand, subjective measures of religiosity were not found to be a protective measure for victimization. Instead, this measure was statistically determined to be related to experiencing acts of sexual victimization. Recommendations were given for a greater focus on campus resources pertaining to student victimization and more in-depth research on the role churches have in dealing with this issue.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2008
- Identifier
- CFE0002389, ucf:47759
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002389
- Title
- FROM SECLUSION TO INCLUSION: A COMPARATIVE CASE STUDY OF STUDENTS WITH EMOTIONAL AND BEHAVIORAL DISORDERS IN MIDDLE SCHOOLS.
- Creator
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Young, Cheryl, Boote, Dave, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The transition of students with emotional and behavioral disorders has often been difficult when the move is made from self-contained classes to a less restrictive environment in general education classes. This study analyzed the perceptions of students and teachers when six middle school students with emotional and behavioral disorders moved from self-contained classes to inclusive placements in general education classes in three schools that were part of a large metropolitan school district...
Show moreThe transition of students with emotional and behavioral disorders has often been difficult when the move is made from self-contained classes to a less restrictive environment in general education classes. This study analyzed the perceptions of students and teachers when six middle school students with emotional and behavioral disorders moved from self-contained classes to inclusive placements in general education classes in three schools that were part of a large metropolitan school district in the southeastern United States. Data were collected over a 2 month period using semi-structured student interviews and teacher surveys, as well as student records and other school reports and observations. Data were analyzed to develop a grounded theory that explained the differences between students who had successful experiences (no discipline referrals or failing grades) and students who experienced problems with inclusion. The students attributed their success to: (a) support from their teachers, (b) quiet, well-managed inclusive classrooms, and (c) planned systems for the inclusion process. The teachers attributed student success to: (a) general education teacher willing to take a student with EBD into their class, (b) academic and behavioral support systems, and (c) positive home-school relationships between the teacher and the child's family. The grounded theory developed in this study predicted that students have a greater chance of successful inclusion if they have (a) behavioral supports aimed at managing academic frustration, (b) a plan that encourages and rewards self-determination and (c) supportive teachers or family members. These findings also related important elements of research and provided insight on current practice for the inclusion of students with emotional and behavioral disorders.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2005
- Identifier
- CFE0000777, ucf:46587
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000777
- Title
- A STUDY OF MILLENIAL STUDENTS AND THEIR REACTIVE BEHAVIOR PATTERNS IN THE ONLINE ENVIRONMENT.
- Creator
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Yonekura, Francisca, Dziuban, Charles, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The goal of this study was to identify patterns or characteristics unique to online millennial students in higher education from two perspectives: the generational traits for an understanding of millennial students as a cohort, and the Long reactive behavior patterns and traits for an understanding of millennials as individuals. Based on the identified patterns and characteristics of these millennial students, the researcher highlighted instructional and curricular implications for online...
Show moreThe goal of this study was to identify patterns or characteristics unique to online millennial students in higher education from two perspectives: the generational traits for an understanding of millennial students as a cohort, and the Long reactive behavior patterns and traits for an understanding of millennials as individuals. Based on the identified patterns and characteristics of these millennial students, the researcher highlighted instructional and curricular implications for online learning. A profile depicting online millennial students based on the demographic data and their overall satisfaction levels with online learning is provided. For a holistic understanding, the study included an inquiry into measures of independence between overall satisfaction with online learning, reactive behavior patterns and traits among participating millennials, and an account of what millennial students are saying about quality, preferences, and aversions in their online learning experience. Overall, the great majority, especially aggressive dependent and compulsive millennial students were satisfied with their online learning experience. Also, more female millennial students were satisfied with their experience compared to male millennial students. The role of the instructor, course design, and learning matters were the themes most frequently mentioned by millennial students when asked about the quality of online learning. Overwhelmingly, convenience, time management, flexibility, and pace were the aspects these millennial students liked most about their online encounter. On the contrary, lack of interaction, instructor's role, course design, and technology matters were the most frequent themes regarding millennials' dislikes about their online learning experience. Finally, the study includes recommendations for future research.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2006
- Identifier
- CFE0000968, ucf:46710
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000968
- Title
- POLYMER-DERIVED CERAMICS: ELECTRONIC PROPERTIES AND APPLICATION.
- Creator
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xu, weixing, An, Linan, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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In this work, we studied the electronic behavior of polymer-derived ceramics (PDCs) and applied them for the synthesis of carbon nanotube reinforced ceramic nanocomposites and ceramic MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) structures. Polymer-derived SiCN ceramics were synthesized by pyrolysis of a liquid polyureasilazane with dicumyl peroxide as thermal initiator. The structural evolution during pyrolysis and post-annealing was studied using FTIR, solid state NMR and Raman. The results...
Show moreIn this work, we studied the electronic behavior of polymer-derived ceramics (PDCs) and applied them for the synthesis of carbon nanotube reinforced ceramic nanocomposites and ceramic MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) structures. Polymer-derived SiCN ceramics were synthesized by pyrolysis of a liquid polyureasilazane with dicumyl peroxide as thermal initiator. The structural evolution during pyrolysis and post-annealing was studied using FTIR, solid state NMR and Raman. The results revealed that the resultant ceramics consisted of SiCxNx-4 as major building units. These units were connected with each other through C-C/C=C bonds or by shearing N/C. The amount of sp2 free carbon strongly depends on composition and processing condition. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) was used to investigate electronic structure of PDCs; the results revealed that the materials contain unpaired electron centers associated with carbons. Electronic behavior of the SiCN ceramics was studied by measuring their I-V curves, temperature dependence of d.c.-conductivities and impendence. The results revealed that the SiCN ceramics exhibited typical amorphous semiconductor behavior, and their conductivity varied in a large range. The results also revealed that the materials contain more than one phase, which have the different electronic behavior. We explored possibility of using polymer-derived ceramics to make ceramic MEMS for harsh environmental applications with a lithography technique. The cure depth of the polymer precursor was measured as a function of UV intensity and exposure time. The experimental data was compared with the available theoretical model. A few typical SiCN parts were fabricated by lithography technique. We also prepared carbon nanotube reinforced ceramic nanocomposites by using PDC processing. The microstructures of the composites were characterized using SEM and TEM; the mechanical properties were studied characterized using nanoindentation. The significant improvement in mechanical properties was observed for the nanocomposites.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2006
- Identifier
- CFE0001228, ucf:46885
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001228
- Title
- INVESTIGATING A POTENTIAL RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SIBLING GENDER COMPOSITION AND HEALTH BEHAVIOR INDICATORS IN YOUNG ADULT AND ADOLESCENT MALES.
- Creator
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Goss, Taylor N, Rovito, Michael J., Jasinski, Jana, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The presence of siblings during childhood and adolescence has a significant impact on the behaviors and perceptions of adults later in life. Effects of mixed-gendered sibling dyads on delinquent behavior, gender typing, and romantic and sexual relationships are of interest. These behaviors can lead to notable health disparities, making it imperative to gain insight into factors associated with such behaviors in young adult and adolescent males. This project explored possible correlations...
Show moreThe presence of siblings during childhood and adolescence has a significant impact on the behaviors and perceptions of adults later in life. Effects of mixed-gendered sibling dyads on delinquent behavior, gender typing, and romantic and sexual relationships are of interest. These behaviors can lead to notable health disparities, making it imperative to gain insight into factors associated with such behaviors in young adult and adolescent males. This project explored possible correlations between gender composition of siblings and health behavior indicators for violence, competition and risk, and sexual and romantic relationships. Analysis of these variables was performed using data from the Young Adult and Adolescent Male Health Behavior Indicator Scale [YAAMHBIS]. Descriptive analyses showed YAAM understanding of abuse and successful marriage and relationship qualities, as well as a conditional acceptance of violence, competition, and risk. Means testing between those with and without sisters indicated that those with sisters acknowledged abuse, marriage qualities, and the consequences of infidelity. Additionally, those with sisters had, on average, an earlier age of sexual debut than those without supporting previous research regarding the effects of female communication in childhood on adult interactions. The correlations found between sibling gender and YAAM perceptions later in life could lay the groundwork for future studies further investigating sibling gender or split households and an association with health behaviors.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFH2000317, ucf:45807
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000317
- Title
- STUDENT PERCEPTION OF BARRIERS TO STUDY ABROAD.
- Creator
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Walker, Jessica, Valdez, Carlos, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Studying abroad during the collegiate experience is an idea sought by the many high school seniors and college freshmen alike. The social, intellectual, and cultural benefits received from participating makes it a seemingly easy decision. Yet, lack of action plagues the nation as there exists a miniscule number of students who follow through with their desire to study abroad. Prior research exemplifies that students rely on the perceptions of their peers and family when approaching an...
Show moreStudying abroad during the collegiate experience is an idea sought by the many high school seniors and college freshmen alike. The social, intellectual, and cultural benefits received from participating makes it a seemingly easy decision. Yet, lack of action plagues the nation as there exists a miniscule number of students who follow through with their desire to study abroad. Prior research exemplifies that students rely on the perceptions of their peers and family when approaching an unfamiliar subject. These perceptions result in concocted barriers that dissuade the student from participating in study abroad before they seek concrete information. There are a limited number of studies completed at universities to identify these specific barriers. Thus, this research examines the student population at the University of Central Florida, the perceived barriers they possess concerning study abroad, and their sources of these perceptions. This is a qualitative and quantitative study that investigates the effects of perceived cost and graduation delay on the willingness of a student to study abroad. The unexpected ramifications of the marketing mix, utilized by the department of Study Abroad, will shed light upon the steps necessary to revise their position in order to transform student intent into action.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2015
- Identifier
- CFH0004876, ucf:45418
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004876
