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Title: STRENGTHS AND TALENTS OF POTENTIAL ADMINISTRATORS IN ORANGE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS, FLORIDA.
Creator: Anderson, Arthur, Taylor, Rosemarye, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: With the increased demands on principals and a shortage of qualified, acceptable candidates, school districts that have to replace principals are in a difficult position. These factors, combined with the importance that the principal role has in relation to student achievement, make the identification of potential administrators and the hiring process for new administrators a top priority for all school districts. This study answered the following two major questions; a) what characteristics...
Show moreWith the increased demands on principals and a shortage of qualified, acceptable candidates, school districts that have to replace principals are in a difficult position. These factors, combined with the importance that the principal role has in relation to student achievement, make the identification of potential administrators and the hiring process for new administrators a top priority for all school districts. This study answered the following two major questions; a) what characteristics or talents, as identified by the StrengthsFinder profile, did Orange County Public School principals in 2007 look for in identifying potential school administrators and b) what differences, if any, exist within the existing variables (school level, certification, gender, and prior experiences). The Clifton StrengthsFinder Profile was utilized to identify the strengths or talents of a group of 61 teachers within Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) who were identified by their principals as potential school based administrators. Of those 61 participants in the Aspiring Leader Academy, the following five strengths were most commonly identified: a) Relator (45.9%), b) Achiever (37.8%), c) Responsibility (37.7%), d) Learner (36.1%) and e) Maximizer (25.9%). In comparing talents across demographic data, the talents identified for participants at all levels (elementary, middle, and high) were not statistically different, supporting the notion that talents principals looked for in identifying potential administrators were relatively the same at all three levels.
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Date Issued: 2008
Identifier: CFE0002412, ucf:47768
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002412

Title: Media Literacy Implementation in Florida: Perceptions of High School Principals and Language Arts Curriculum Leaders.
Creator: Ritchie, Andrew, Taylor, Rosemarye, Cartwright, Vickie, Murray, Kenneth, Gunter, Glenda, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this study was to measure the extent to which educators in Florida public high schools perceived the Florida Media Literacy Standard to be implemented within their schools. This study also identified strategies that school leaders were using to successfully implement the Florida Media Literacy Standard and any perceived barriers to the implementation process. The Florida Media Literacy Standard was designed to address decision-making and critical thinking skills with regards to...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to measure the extent to which educators in Florida public high schools perceived the Florida Media Literacy Standard to be implemented within their schools. This study also identified strategies that school leaders were using to successfully implement the Florida Media Literacy Standard and any perceived barriers to the implementation process. The Florida Media Literacy Standard was designed to address decision-making and critical thinking skills with regards to research, evaluation, and communication with various types of media. The standard was introduced in Florida public schools in 2007 with its inclusion in the Next Generation Sunshine State Standards. High school principals and Language Arts Curriculum Leaders (LACLs) in the English/ Language Arts area were participants in this research because of their role in determining curriculum goals in Florida public schools. The Media Literacy Standard Questionnaire was sent to the principal and the department head of the English department in each participating school district. The results of this study suggested that those high school principals and LACLs that completed the Media Literacy Standard Questionnaire perceived the Florida Media Literacy Standard to be implemented in their schools. Over 80% of principals and LACLs reported (")strongly agree(") or (")agree(") with statements that reflected active implementation processes in school classrooms. Principals and LACLS reported use of the school Media Specialist, attendance at professional development and learning sessions, and making use of Professional Learning Communities as valuable strategies toward implementing the Florida Media Literacy Standard. Time and access to technology were two of the most commonly cited perceived barriers to the implementation process. Principals and LACLs both reported limited Media Center access for teachers due to standardized testing practices in Florida public high schools. Although many principals and LACLs reported that they perceived the Florida Media Literacy Standard to be implemented in their schools, the low response rate of 24.18% and conflicting data with regards to perceived barriers raise questions about the extent to which the results of this study can be generalized to the population of Florida public high schools. Further research is recommended to clarify the conflicting responses related to perceived barriers to implementation such as interviewing participants.
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Date Issued: 2011
Identifier: CFE0004159, ucf:49069
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004159

Title: IN THE PROCESS OF BECOMING: THE ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE OF THE METROPOLITAN ACADEMIC LIBRARY.
Creator: Martin, Michael, Cintron, Rosa, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Organizational culture may be defined as the shared norms, values, and beliefs of an organization. The culture expresses itself through symbols and sagas. Organizational culture shapes the behavior of those within the organization and provides a lens through which its members can interpret reality. This study sought to define the organizational culture of the Metropolitan Academic Library. The study was guided by Schein's five levels of cultural assumptions: assumptions about external...
Show moreOrganizational culture may be defined as the shared norms, values, and beliefs of an organization. The culture expresses itself through symbols and sagas. Organizational culture shapes the behavior of those within the organization and provides a lens through which its members can interpret reality. This study sought to define the organizational culture of the Metropolitan Academic Library. The study was guided by Schein's five levels of cultural assumptions: assumptions about external adaptation issues; assumptions about internal integration; assumptions about the nature of truth and reality; assumptions about the nature of time and space; and assumptions about human nature, activity, and relationships. In order to triangulate data, I gave the librarians and library technical assistants of the Metropolitan Academic Library the Martin Culture Survey. I then conducted a multi-day, on-site visit, where I interviewed members of the Metropolitan Academic Library, made observations about the library, and performed document analysis. I found the culture of the Metropolitan Academic Library to be "in the process of becoming." The culture present in the library was not deep or rich; however, I did find some shared values, symbols, and sagas. With a recent turnover in administration, change was a dominant story of the Metropolitan Academic Library. The librarians and library technical assistants valued campus engagement, the people within the library, and service to the library patrons. These values find symbolic recognition in the coffee shop located in the library, the Christmas party, and the reference desk. Popular sagas of the Metropolitan Academic Library include the story of its humble origins and the building renovation.
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Date Issued: 2011
Identifier: CFE0003585, ucf:48922
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003585

Title: ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT: AN ANALYSIS OF SCHOOL SIZE AND STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT.
Creator: Odom, Natalie, Murray, Kenneth, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Student achievement is the cornerstone of educational intuitions. Having a comprehensive understanding of what factors into having a successful student achievement rate requires the use of previous research and analyzing of historical accounts. The purpose of this study was to determine if there was a difference in student achievement when elementary school size was a factor. The analysis of the results offered beneficial information pertaining to Florida's public schools while providing...
Show moreStudent achievement is the cornerstone of educational intuitions. Having a comprehensive understanding of what factors into having a successful student achievement rate requires the use of previous research and analyzing of historical accounts. The purpose of this study was to determine if there was a difference in student achievement when elementary school size was a factor. The analysis of the results offered beneficial information pertaining to Florida's public schools while providing a stepping stone towards future research. The results of this study and subsequent studies can provide information and guidance to decision makers regarding school size relative to student achievement. The population for this data was obtained from the Florida Department of Education's Florida Schools Indicator Reports. Three elementary schools were selected from each school district in the state of Florida based on its student enrollment. A small school consisted of an enrollment of 1-300 students, a medium school consisted of 301-500 students, and a school was considered large if its enrollment was 600 students or more. From these schools, the 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) mathematics and reading scores were analyzed. Analysis of the data revealed that there was no statistically significant difference found for student achievement in mathematics when school size was a factor. However, there was a statistically significant difference found in student achievement in reading. The significance was found to lie between medium and large schools, with large schools scoring significantly better than medium schools.
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Date Issued: 2009
Identifier: CFE0002696, ucf:48207
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002696

Title: Mixed Reality Experiences in the M.Ed. Educational Leadership Program: Student Perceptions.
Creator: Buckridge, Hilary, Taylor, Rosemarye, Doherty, Walter, Baldwin, Lee, Olan, Elsie, Mitchell, Paul, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of the study was to ascertain the perception of students in the M.Ed. in Educational Leadership program of mixed reality experiences using TeachLivE(TM) in preparation for the challenges of school leadership. Specifically, the study analyzed the use of mixed reality virtual practice with immediate coaching and feedback in the preparation of educational leadership masters' level students before they engaged in real time communications with parents and teachers. The study...
Show moreThe purpose of the study was to ascertain the perception of students in the M.Ed. in Educational Leadership program of mixed reality experiences using TeachLivE(TM) in preparation for the challenges of school leadership. Specifically, the study analyzed the use of mixed reality virtual practice with immediate coaching and feedback in the preparation of educational leadership masters' level students before they engaged in real time communications with parents and teachers. The study encapsulates the perceptions of the master's degree in educational leadership students through the following research questions: (a) To what extent, if any, do Educational Leadership M.Ed. students believe the TeachLivE(TM) parent conference and teacher post observation conference simulation experiences to be helpful in developing their communications skills with parents and teachers? (b) To what extent, if at all, do Educational Leadership M.Ed. students believe the TeachLivE(TM) coaching feedback was helpful in developing their communications skills with parents and teachers? (c) To what extent do student reflections of the TeachLivE(TM) experience indicate it is beneficial in increasing skill in communicating with parents and teachers immediately following the mixed reality simulation? (d) To what extent do Educational Leadership M.Ed. students perceive the TeachLivE(TM) experience to be beneficial in influencing leadership behaviors as they relate to communication with parents and teachers at the end of the second semester administrative internship?Students from the college of education in a large university participated in the study (N = 141). Results show a high-perceived value of the simulation experience and the coaching and feedback in the development of administrative conferencing and communication skills. Descriptive statistics used to answer the research questions show the highest mean for the perceived value of the coaching and feedback, close to (")strongly agree("), from parent conference participants (M = 4.86), followed by teacher conference participants (M = 4.76).Responses for the simulation being beneficial from parent conference participants were also high (M = 4.71), close to (")strongly agree(") and from the teacher conference participants between agree and (")strongly agree(") (4.59). The perceptions of the simulation being realistic practice were between (")agree(") and (")strongly agree(") with parent conference were (M = 4.63) and teacher conferences (M = 4.46).The participant perceptions for the simulation being helpful in building confidence in communication skills was between (")agree(") and (")strongly agree(") for the parent conference (M = 4.41) and close to (")agree(") for the teacher conference (M = 4.14).Participant responses at the conclusion of the internship in practice indicated high value of the mixed reality simulation with mean scores between (")agree(") and (")strongly agree("), in relation to the experience was beneficial to the development of speaking confidence when conferencing with parents (M = 3.57), and the coaching feedback was helpful (M = 3.56). Responses were consistent in rating between (")agree(") and (")strongly agree(") for program continuance immediately following the simulation (M = 4.62), and after the internship (M = 3.67).Recommendations of the study were to ensure that all students have access to the authentic practice model provided by the TeachLivETM mixed reality simulation lab through identified target courses. In addition, it was recommended that more practice opportunities are integrated into the program. These additional experience should include multiple opportunities within the same target courses, as well as investigate additional course work within the Educational Leadership M.Ed. program to integrated the mixed reality simulation to practice specific leadership skills. A final recommendation of this study was to provide opportunities for students to schedule additional practice time in the lab to improve personal professional practice. These recommendations will support the continued development of administrative communication skills of Educational Leadership M.Ed. students, through accurate, realistic and complex situational practice.
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Date Issued: 2016
Identifier: CFE0006081, ucf:50950
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006081

Title: A VIEW FROM THE FIELD: URBAN SPECIAL EDUCATION DIRECTORS' PERCEPTIONS OF ESSENTIAL COMPETENCIES FOR NEWLY APPOINTED SPECIAL EDUCATION ADMINISTRATORS.
Creator: Pratt Marrett, Caroline, Martin, Suzanne, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: ABSTRACT The purpose of this exploratory study was to determine what competencies urban directors of special education perceived to be essential for newly appointed urban special education administrators. Two research questions and two null hypotheses were generated to investigate the underlying factors in competencies perceived by urban special education directors to be essential for newly appointed special education administrators and to investigate the relationship between years of...
Show moreABSTRACT The purpose of this exploratory study was to determine what competencies urban directors of special education perceived to be essential for newly appointed urban special education administrators. Two research questions and two null hypotheses were generated to investigate the underlying factors in competencies perceived by urban special education directors to be essential for newly appointed special education administrators and to investigate the relationship between years of experience as a director of special education and these underlying factors. A factor analysis revealed that there were three underlying factors reported to be essential for newly appointed special education administrators. A multiple regression analysis indicated that the relationship between the years of experience as a director of special education and the underlying factors (Management, Instruction and Change; Supervision of Faculty; and Team Building Skills) was not statistically significant. A post hoc test was conducted to further detect differences in years of experience as an urban director of special education and the underlying factors. The results were sufficient to reject the null hypotheses in both cases.
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Date Issued: 2008
Identifier: CFE0002120, ucf:47545
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002120

Title: A Phenomenological Study of High School Assistant Principals who Supervise Special Education.
Creator: Vacchio, Erin, Martin, Suzanne, Vasquez, Trey, Jahani, Shiva, Helton, Julie, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This phenomenological study examined the lived experiences of high school assistant principals who lead the Exceptional Student Education (ESE) departments at their respective schools. The role of the school leader is critical and complex. Second to only the classroom teachers, school leaders have the ability to shape the school wide attitude and vision for students with disabilities. Knowing that in the past 30 years, the number of students with disabilities has nearly doubled in size, the...
Show moreThis phenomenological study examined the lived experiences of high school assistant principals who lead the Exceptional Student Education (ESE) departments at their respective schools. The role of the school leader is critical and complex. Second to only the classroom teachers, school leaders have the ability to shape the school wide attitude and vision for students with disabilities. Knowing that in the past 30 years, the number of students with disabilities has nearly doubled in size, the expertise of school leaders in special education must also increase. Research on the experiences of high school administrators who serve students with intellectual disabilities and how their experiences and beliefs shape opportunities for students is limited. In addition, there is limited research regarding the prevalence of students with intellectual disabilities and their participation in vocational education and independent skills instruction to support independent functioning and future employment. This study used a phenomenological approach to examine the experiences and beliefs of high school assistant principals who supervise the ESE department at their school. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven participants (N=7). Through thematic analysis, six major themes and 21 subthemes emerged. The six major themes were: (a) compliance of special education; (b) administrators' role in faculty/staff supervision; (c) inclusion of students with disabilities in opportunities with their non-disabled peers; (d) lack of leadership preparation; (e) meeting student needs; (f) preparing students for life after school. This study concluded with a thorough examination of each of the major themes and subthemes, and provided implications for leadership development, induction programs for special education leaders, and best practices for serving students with intellectual disabilities.
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Date Issued: 2019
Identifier: CFE0007739, ucf:52452
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007739

Title: A Case Study of High School Administrators' Self-Perceived Readiness to be Digital Instructional Leaders.
Creator: Sanchez Corona, Brian, Taylor, Rosemarye, Baldwin, Lee, Ceballos, Marjorie, Shepherd, Andrew, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this study was to determine the readiness of an administrative team (N = 7) to provide digital instructional leadership, in the context of one high school, as well as examine possible outcomes related to student achievement, as measured by Florida Standards Assessment English Language Arts scale scores (FSA, 2018). This instrumental case study design (Fraenkel, Wallen, (&) Hyun, 2015) incorporated mixed-methods data collection and qualitative analysis. Data were collected from...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to determine the readiness of an administrative team (N = 7) to provide digital instructional leadership, in the context of one high school, as well as examine possible outcomes related to student achievement, as measured by Florida Standards Assessment English Language Arts scale scores (FSA, 2018). This instrumental case study design (Fraenkel, Wallen, (&) Hyun, 2015) incorporated mixed-methods data collection and qualitative analysis. Data were collected from three distinct sources for triangulation: qualitative semi-structured interviews, Digital Instructional Leadership Readiness Instrument [DILRI(&)copy;] (Taylor (&) Shepherd, 2016) knowledge and confidence construct participant item selections, and Grade 9 and Grade 10 Florida Standards Assessment (FSA) English Language Arts 2018 student scale scores (FSA, 2018). Administrator perceptions of teachers' integration of technology in instruction were examined via constructs of (a) characteristics of learning and (b) levels of technology integration contained within the Technology Integration Matrix [TIM(&)copy;] (FCIT, 2018) framework. Findings support administrators' ability to recognize emergent levels of teachers' integration of technology in instruction. Findings also inform professional learning experiences for administrators supporting teachers in one-to-one digital school environments. Implications for practice include a need for sustained ongoing professional learning for administrators on the selected technology integration framework. School district administrators may seek to ensure that the selected technology integration framework, the TIM(&)copy; (FCIT, 2018) in this instrumental case study (Fraenkel et al., 2015), is presented as a sustained shared vision (Richardson (&) Sterrett) for both instructional and administrative personnel within the organization. Recommendations for future research include collecting similar data from multiple schools within a school district and from numerous school districts. Replication of this study is suggested in various regions of the United States. Also, a longitudinal follow-up study is suggested to examine change in administrator digital instructional leadership over time.
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Date Issued: 2019
Identifier: CFE0007722, ucf:52454
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007722

Title: The Influences of Roles and Support Systems on the Baccalaureate Degree Attainment of Nontraditional Learners.
Creator: Roberts, Shirdricka, Cox, Dr. Thomas, Vitale, Thomas, Hopp, Carolyn, Campbell, Laurie, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of the research study was to examine the influences of roles and support systems on the baccalaureate attainment of nontraditional learners. A qualitative bounded case study was conducted that include ten face-to-face interviews with nontraditional learners attending the same University during the same time period. The study provided a brief overview on the challenges, support systems, and motivations of these nontraditional learners. Theories used to frame the study's conceptual...
Show moreThe purpose of the research study was to examine the influences of roles and support systems on the baccalaureate attainment of nontraditional learners. A qualitative bounded case study was conducted that include ten face-to-face interviews with nontraditional learners attending the same University during the same time period. The study provided a brief overview on the challenges, support systems, and motivations of these nontraditional learners. Theories used to frame the study's conceptual framework and address its research questions included Biddle's (1979) Role Theory, McClusky's Theory of Margin, Load and Power (1971) and Tinto's (1975, 1993, 2012) and Bean and Metzner's (1985) Theory of Persistence.The results of the study indicated: 1) The role management that adult learners employed while being a full-time or part-time student. 2) The challenges that adult learners had to address as it relates to their multiple roles and degree attainment. 3) The support systems that adult learners used to assist them in their efforts to role manage and persist towards graduation. 4) The motivations behind an adult learner's pursuit of an undergraduate degree.iii
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Date Issued: 2017
Identifier: CFE0006648, ucf:51220
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006648

Title: An Examination of School Principals' Moral Reasoning and Decision-Making along the Principalship Track and across Years of Experience.
Creator: Ling, Trent, Murray, Barbara, Baldwin, Lee, Murray, Kenneth, Holt, Larry, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Previous research by Vitton (&) Wasonga (2009) and Strenth (2013) found public school K-12 principals struggling in the moral reasoning and decision-making measures of the second Defining Issues Test ((")DIT-2(")). In response to these studies, this research sought to collect, to examine, and to compare DIT-2 data for educational leaders at various stages of the principalship track in an effort to determine and/or to isolate the locus of principals' reported underperformance. The moral...
Show morePrevious research by Vitton (&) Wasonga (2009) and Strenth (2013) found public school K-12 principals struggling in the moral reasoning and decision-making measures of the second Defining Issues Test ((")DIT-2(")). In response to these studies, this research sought to collect, to examine, and to compare DIT-2 data for educational leaders at various stages of the principalship track in an effort to determine and/or to isolate the locus of principals' reported underperformance. The moral reasoning and decision-making of regular-education K-12 public school principals and assistant principals in Florida, and current master's degree students in educational leadership programs at a large public Florida university were measured and compared. Research questions were posed: 1) to find the levels of moral reasoning and decision-making reached by acting principals, acting assistant principals, and current master's students in educational leadership programs; 2) to determine if there was a difference between these principals, assistant principals, and master's students in moral reasoning and decision-making; and 3) to see if there was a difference in moral reasoning and decision-making between principals across various years of experience. The DIT-2 was administered anonymously to participants through an online link, and was scored by the University of Alabama's Office for the Study of Ethical Development. Data were analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistical methods principally to determine the degree to which participants reasoned and made decisions based upon personal interests, upon the maintenance of norms, or upon the basis of more sophisticated principles.Results showed master's students in educational leadership outperforming active principals and assistant principals in moral reasoning and decision-making by more often employing sophisticated principles and by more often avoiding choices associated with personal interests. With regard to principals, the difference was statistically significant on DIT-2 N-2 scores (based on ANOVA and t-test results) and P-scores (based on t-test results, but not based on ANOVA results). Principals not only underperformed master's students in educational leadership statistically significantly, but also underperformed active assistant principals in comparisons of group means on DIT-2 sub-scores.This research confirms the prior works of Strenth (2013) and Vitton (&) Wasonga (2009), where principals had been found to struggle in measures of moral reasoning and decision-making. These consecutive and consistent findings now require consideration, discussion, and action by the array of K-12 public school stakeholders. In response to the startling findings that K-12 principals are significantly underperforming those still aspiring for the principalship, a substantial, alarmed, and sober re-examination must take place as to what has happened to principals in K-12 public schools, and as to what can and must be done about it.
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Date Issued: 2014
Identifier: CFE0005368, ucf:50485
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005368

Title: An Analysis of the Readiness and Confidence of High School Administrators to Provide Instructional Leadership in Digital School Environments.
Creator: Shepherd, Andrew, Taylor, Rosemarye, Doherty, Walter, Johnson, Jerry, Border, Harold, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this study was to analyze the perceived knowledge and confidence of high school administrators to lead in a digital school environment. This study utilized an exploratory mixed-methods case study analysis along with the 62-item Digital Instructional Leadership Readiness Instrument (DILRI)(&)copy; to measure school administrators' knowledge and confidence to lead in a digital school environment. High school administrators within the target school district were requested to...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to analyze the perceived knowledge and confidence of high school administrators to lead in a digital school environment. This study utilized an exploratory mixed-methods case study analysis along with the 62-item Digital Instructional Leadership Readiness Instrument (DILRI)(&)copy; to measure school administrators' knowledge and confidence to lead in a digital school environment. High school administrators within the target school district were requested to complete the DILRI(&)copy; at two separate points in time: September 2016 and June 2017. Based on these two administrations, this study's six Research Questions were answered. Research Questions 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6 were addressed quantitatively using descriptive statistics, along with two MANOVA analyses for Research Question 6. Research Question 5 was answered qualitatively by examining open-ended responses found within the DILRI(&)copy;. Based on the data collected, Experience Supervising Others and Colleagues were two factors ranked highest by administrators as influencing their knowledge and confidence. Additionally, high school administrators perceive themselves to be knowledge and confident in recognizing Student Engagement and Student Collaboration, and in developing digital school culture factors of Leadership Teams, Empowering Teachers, and Shared Vision. Overall means increased for knowledge and confidence on each scale between the September 2016 and June 2017 DILRI(&)copy; administrations. Much research relating to the digital school environment has only focused on the preparation required of teachers; therefore, this study provides administrators, directors, school boards, superintendents, and other school district leaders with relevant information relating to the self-reported readiness of high school administrators to lead in a digital school environment.
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Date Issued: 2017
Identifier: CFE0007295, ucf:52173
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007295

Title: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY OF FLORIDA HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL PRACTICES THAT IMPROVE STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT.
Creator: Reynolds, Donna, Taylor, Rosemarye, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The primary purpose of this study was to examine the leadership practices of high school principals in the state of Florida who improved student achievement in schools with a 30% or greater economically disadvantaged student rate. The secondary purpose of this study was to examine principal and student demographics of the identified schools and determine what relationship existed between student demographics, principal demographics, and principal practices. The results of this study offered...
Show moreThe primary purpose of this study was to examine the leadership practices of high school principals in the state of Florida who improved student achievement in schools with a 30% or greater economically disadvantaged student rate. The secondary purpose of this study was to examine principal and student demographics of the identified schools and determine what relationship existed between student demographics, principal demographics, and principal practices. The results of this study offered guidance for principals across the state of Florida who struggled to close the achievement gap between economically advantaged and disadvantaged students. To achieve the purpose of the study, a 53 item survey instrument was distributed to principals in high schools that met the characteristics of a 30% economically disadvantaged student population that had shown growth on the 10th grade FCAT Reading test over three years from 2007 - 2009. 50 principals in 10 school districts were contacted. 18 of those principals responded to the online survey, and 5 principals participated in a follow-up phone interview. The survey instrument gathered quantitative data in four subdomains of principal practices: Implementing a Standards Based Coherent Instructional Program; Providing Teacher Support and Encouraging Teacher Collaboration; Engaging Families; and Using Assessment to Improve Student Achievement and Instruction. Quantitative data regarding principal demographics was also collected through the survey instrument. Qualitative data concerning principal practices was gathered through three open-ended response questions on the survey instrument as well as through follow-up phone interviews. The descriptive statistics gathered from responses to the survey instrument showed the highest mean averages for principal practices associated with the following items: Clear vision on student learning outcomes; Set high standards for student learning; Expect teachers to take responsibility for student achievement; and Expect staff to adjust instruction based on various data. The lowest mean averages for principal practices were associated with the following practices: Model exemplary instructional practices; Remove teachers not committed to improving student achievement; Ensure families are engaged in subject-area events; and Use assessment data to determine professional development. In addition to the survey responses, research question one was addressed through the open-ended survey responses and the follow-up phone interviews. The qualitative data collected found the most self-reported best practices under the subdomain of Providing Teacher Support and Encouraging Teacher Collaboration. The most prevalent practices that emerged as a result of the interviews were fostering personal relationships with students and celebrating student success; conducting classroom walkthroughs in a meaningful and purposeful manner; implementing Professional Learning Communities; and reviewing assessment data with teachers to inform instruction. The results of the Mann-Whitney statistical procedure found a significant difference between male and female respondents in the subdomain of Providing Teacher Support and Encouraging Teacher Collaboration. Males scored significantly lower than females. The Spearman correlations found a significant negative correlation between practices in the Teacher Support subdomain and the percentage of disadvantaged students at a school. In other words, the lower the percentage of disadvantaged students in a school, the higher the principal rated Teacher Support as an important practice. The low number of respondents in this study (N = 18) limited the findings as well as the generalizability to schools with similar populations inside and outside of Florida. However, the results may provide guidance for principals in Florida high schools with high economically disadvantaged student populations. The results of this study placed emphasis on the need for principals to have a clear vision for their school and communicate high expectations for their students. According to the results of this study, principals should also find ways to connect with students and celebrate their successes, create avenues for teacher collaboration, and use assessment data to work with teachers in order to inform instructional decisions.
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Date Issued: 2011
Identifier: CFE0003989, ucf:48672
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003989

Title: Towards a Theory of Autism Spectrum Disorder Program Implementation.
Creator: Gesundheit, Ian, Martin, Suzanne, Vasquez, Eleazar, Boote, David, Edwards, John, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: With the increased prevalence of students qualifying for services within Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) programs (Odom, Cox and Brock, 2013), it is imperative that the field comes to better understand how successful programs can be replicated at scale. The implementation of effective instructional programs for students with ASD across school systems on a large scale is a difficult task. School systems have tried to replicate successful programs for diverse learners but have been largely...
Show moreWith the increased prevalence of students qualifying for services within Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) programs (Odom, Cox and Brock, 2013), it is imperative that the field comes to better understand how successful programs can be replicated at scale. The implementation of effective instructional programs for students with ASD across school systems on a large scale is a difficult task. School systems have tried to replicate successful programs for diverse learners but have been largely unable to do so. For students with disabilities, who perform poorly compared to their peers without disabilities (Odom et al., 2013), the need to replicate successful programs is even more pressing. This need is most pressing for students in programs for ASD whose educational outcomes lag behind those of students in programs designed for all other exceptionality categories (Cook (&) Cook, 2013). The quality with which a program is designed matters little if the fidelity with which that program is implemented is lacking. For students with disabilities who perform poorly compared to their peers without disabilities (Odom et al., 2013), the need to replicate successful programs is even more pressing. The school leader plays an important role in the development, implementation, and maintenance of effective programs for students with ASD.The purpose of this study was to document the lived experiences of school leaders who have developed and/or managed successful programs for students with ASD within their school sites. It is clear that leadership matters in school and, therefore, influences program quality (Darling-Hammond, 2010; Reeves, 2006; Waters, Marzano, (&) McNulty, 2003). School and system change is difficult work, prone to being unsuccessful(-)but improvement is possible and sustainable (Fullan, 2007).The research questions for this study were:1.What are the characteristics of a school administrator who oversees effective self-contained classroom(s) for students with ASD?2.What are the lived experiences of principals who have led teachers to implement effective classrooms for students with ASD across their school setting?3.What rewards and challenges are associated with being a school administrator with an effective exceptional education program for students with ASD?In sum, these principal participants showed an intense interest in improving support services for students with ASD. They emphasized their vision that, if given the proper support and environment, all students can succeed. The principals were diligent in supporting that vision themselves and in making connections that could help reinforce that vision. A tremendous part of supporting that vision was ensuring that staff has the appropriate skills to work effectively with students with ASD. Once success was realized in these programs, it was reinforced by the success of the students and the emotional compensation received from parents. However, leading such programs is not without its challenges. Overall, though, all of these principals were clear about setting forth a path where the schools they were leading would do what is necessary to help their students with ASD be successful.
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Date Issued: 2016
Identifier: CFE0006309, ucf:51586
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006309

Title: Inclusion: A Question of Practice, Stance, Values and Culture.
Creator: Sellers, June, Martin, Suzanne, Little, Mary, Hewitt, Randall, Bernier, Christopher, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Exclusionary practices based on a deficit perspective of disability are not supported by law and are inconsistent with the rigorous standards for teaching, learning, and accountability in our public schools. Moreover, consequences of failed change will continue to have significant negative effects on the performance of educational organizations. The purpose of this mixed-methods phenomenological research (MMPR) study was to explore the lived experience of teachers who identify as champions of...
Show moreExclusionary practices based on a deficit perspective of disability are not supported by law and are inconsistent with the rigorous standards for teaching, learning, and accountability in our public schools. Moreover, consequences of failed change will continue to have significant negative effects on the performance of educational organizations. The purpose of this mixed-methods phenomenological research (MMPR) study was to explore the lived experience of teachers who identify as champions of inclusion, including their views, perceptions and appraisal of the status of inclusion in a large urban school system. The research questions were designed to generate insight and recommendations for establishing norms, values, practices and policies that might mitigate teacher resistance to inclusion, support and reinforce inclusive culture, and position the organization (school district) itself as a facilitator of implementation and agent of change in cultivating positive attitudes and beliefs about inclusion as a social justice imperative in the public schools. The lived experiences of teachers who have this distinct perspective and insight into the phenomenon of inclusion were explored through focus group sessions and individual interviews. The results of the study suggest that (1) organizations can build and strengthen a culture of inclusion by identifying individuals who demonstrate a commitment and competency for supporting inclusion, by supporting them as they promote change through coaching, educating, networking and mentoring efforts and embed and reinforce inclusive values throughout the system; and (2) educational organizations must be responsive to norms, values, practices and policies that both support and work against inclusive organizational culture. The findings suggest that this type of research may be of value to organizations in identifying contextual factors which either facilitate or inhibit inclusive education and therefore either advance or diminish educational outcomes for students with disabilities.
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Date Issued: 2016
Identifier: CFE0006180, ucf:51339
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006180

Title: A STUDY OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SECOND-ORDER CHANGE LEADERSHIP BEHAVIORS OF PRINCIPALS AND SCHOOL GRADES OF FLORIDA TITLE I ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS.
Creator: La Cava, Gonzalo, Taylor, Rosemarye, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between second-order change leadership behaviors and the grade assigned to schools in large urban districts by the Florida Department of Education (FLDOE). A total of 101 Title I elementary school principals from large urban school districts with 60+% students on Free and Reduced School Lunch participated in the study. Specifically, this study analyzed 7 of the 21 second-order change factor responsibilities. They include (a)...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between second-order change leadership behaviors and the grade assigned to schools in large urban districts by the Florida Department of Education (FLDOE). A total of 101 Title I elementary school principals from large urban school districts with 60+% students on Free and Reduced School Lunch participated in the study. Specifically, this study analyzed 7 of the 21 second-order change factor responsibilities. They include (a) knowledge of curriculum, instruction, assessment, (b) optimizer, (c) intellectual stimulation, (d) change agent, (e) monitoring/evaluating, (f) flexibility, and (g) ideals/beliefs. The findings of this study were delineated through an examination of the data as it was related to the following questions: (a) What are the differences, if any, in the Principal Actions Survey scores of Title I elementary principals based on the 2008 school grade, according to the FLDOE? (b) What relationship, if any, exists among professional demographics of the principals (years at the school, years as an educator, years as an administrator prior to becoming a principal, years as a principal, highest degree earned, age, gender) and the second-order change leadership behaviors? (c) What are the differences, if any, in the second-order change leadership behavior subgroup scores based on the 2008 school grade according to the FLDOE? Although Research Question 1 had no statistical significance, principals who had a higher mean on the Principal Actions Survey led A and B-rated schools. Statistical significance was found in Research Question 2 for the second-order change leadership behavior of Change Agent and Ideals/Beliefs. Though statistical significance was not found in Research Question 3, each mean score for each sub-group in each grade group indicated consistent answers between Strongly Agree and Agree, which demonstrated a large degree of agreement. Additionally, comments from telephone interviews with selected principals determined that these leadership behaviors could positively impact elementary schools and the field of education. Recommendations of the study were to: (a) Conduct a follow-up study to gather the perceptions of teachers from the same Title I schools regarding their principals' second-order change leadership behaviors, (b) conduct a similar study with principals in Title I middle and high school settings, (c) conduct a qualitative study on second-order change leadership behaviors of non-Title I elementary, middle, and high school principals, (d) engage in further research to investigate professional development activities that may assist principals in enhancing second-order change leadership behaviors and improve instruction, (e) investigate the relationship between principals' second-order change leadership behaviors and achievement of Adequate Yearly Progress (f) replicate the study in states other than Florida (g) explore the relationship between second-order change leadership behaviors of district administrators and their district's academic success.
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Date Issued: 2009
Identifier: CFE0002876, ucf:48031
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002876

Title: SELF-EFFICACY BELIEFS OF FLORIDA SCHOOL PRINCIPALS REGARDING FEDERAL AND STATE ACCOUNTABILITY MEASURES.
Creator: McCullers, John, Bozeman, WIlliam, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This study examined how self-efficacy beliefs, a central construct of social cognitive theory, might be used to inform educational leadership and policy decisions related to school accountability measures. A survey of 112 principals in Florida was used to investigate the degree to which principals believed the goals of federal and state school accountability measures (the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 and the Florida School Grades Plan) were actually attainable, and to what degree they...
Show moreThis study examined how self-efficacy beliefs, a central construct of social cognitive theory, might be used to inform educational leadership and policy decisions related to school accountability measures. A survey of 112 principals in Florida was used to investigate the degree to which principals believed the goals of federal and state school accountability measures (the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 and the Florida School Grades Plan) were actually attainable, and to what degree they believed their leadership actually helped achieve these goals. A large majority (83.8%) of respondents believed the state goals to be attainable, whereas only a minority (20.7%) believed the federal goals could be attained. This disparity was associated with a significant difference in self-efficacy beliefs related to the plans, and in the associated leadership behavior of principals. This significant difference in principal self-efficacy beliefs could predict a disparity in leadership effort toward goal attainment. The study suggested that policymakers should be cautious about revising the goals of the Florida School Grades Plan, since principals' self-efficacy beliefs related to the plan were already quite high. In contrast, the findings suggested that policymakers should look to revising the goals of the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 to correct the dearth of principal belief in the actual attainability of its goals.
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Date Issued: 2009
Identifier: CFE0002849, ucf:48047
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002849

educational leadership (14)	+ -
leadership (7)	+ -
Educational Leadership (6)	+ -
principals (6)	+ -
Leadership (4)	+ -

Special Education (4)	+ -
special education (4)	+ -
instructional leadership (3)	+ -
student achievement (3)	+ -
Co-teaching (2)	+ -
FCAT (2)	+ -
Higher Education (2)	+ -
K-12 (2)	+ -
education (2)	+ -
principal (2)	+ -
students with disabilities (2)	+ -
1:1 (1)	+ -
21st Century School (1)	+ -
ASD program implementation (1)	+ -
Adult Learners (1)	+ -
Assistant Principals (1)	+ -
Autism Spectrum Disorder (1)	+ -
Bandura (1)	+ -
Beliefs (1)	+ -
Confidence (1)	+ -
DIT-2 (1)	+ -
Degree Attainment (1)	+ -
Digital Classroom (1)	+ -
Digital Instructional Leadership Readiness (1)	+ -
Digital Leadership (1)	+ -

University of Central Florida (36)	+ -
Taylor, Rosemarye (13)	+ -
Martin, Suzanne (9)	+ -
Baldwin, Lee (4)	+ -
House, Jess (4)	+ -

Boote, David (3)	+ -
Bozeman, William (3)	+ -
Doherty, Walter (3)	+ -
Little, Mary (3)	+ -
Murray, Kenneth (3)	+ -
Dieker, Lisa (2)	+ -
Johnson, Jerry (2)	+ -
Mitchell, Paul (2)	+ -
Shepherd, Andrew (2)	+ -
Steinke, Kimberly (2)	+ -
Amburgey, William (1)	+ -
Anderson, Arthur (1)	+ -
Bai, Haiyan (1)	+ -
Baldwin, Gordon (1)	+ -
Bendriss, Rachid (1)	+ -
Bennett, Roseann (1)	+ -
Bernier, Christopher (1)	+ -
Border, Harold (1)	+ -
Bozeman, WIlliam (1)	+ -
Buckridge, Hilary (1)	+ -
Bugden, Lisa (1)	+ -
Campbell, Laurie (1)	+ -
Cartwright, Vickie (1)	+ -
Ceballos, Marjorie (1)	+ -
Chang, Mary (1)	+ -

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