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- Title
- An Urban School District's Preparing New Principals Program: Completers' Perceptions of Program Effectiveness Related to Florida Principal Leadership Standards Adopted in 2011.
- Creator
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Pelletier, Kelly, Taylor, Rosemarye, Doherty, Walter, Baldwin, Gordon, Kennedy, Mary, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The purpose of this study was to measure the extent to which school leaders who completed the preparing new principals program in a large urban school district perceived the program's effectiveness in preparing them to demonstrate Florida's principal leadership standards as adopted in November 2011. This study also identified the components of the preparing new principals program that influenced the professional practice of the program completers in their current leadership roles. The...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to measure the extent to which school leaders who completed the preparing new principals program in a large urban school district perceived the program's effectiveness in preparing them to demonstrate Florida's principal leadership standards as adopted in November 2011. This study also identified the components of the preparing new principals program that influenced the professional practice of the program completers in their current leadership roles. The Preparing New Principals Program Completer Survey was sent to 90 administrators in School District A who completed the preparing new principals program between 2008 and 2011. Follow-up interviews were conducted with six volunteers in order to further clarify responses to the survey and gather additional input from program completers. Survey results as well as interview data were analyzed in order to give information for designing a new principal preparation program for School District A.The literature review and the results of this study supported the premise that preparing principals for school leadership in 2013 involves more than developing management skills and knowledge of the functions of a school. Principals must be instructional leaders with an unwavering focus on student achievement. Overall, results of the study found the PNPP in the urban school district supported the participant's awareness of the FPLS and also showed they perceived they were prepared to demonstrate the majority of the standards. However, the individual requirements and experiences of the PNPP had varying levels of perceived value to the professional practice of the participants. Results of the study recommended the PNPP experiences perceived to be invaluable or not practical should be evaluated for applicability, revised accordingly or possibly eliminated to improve the effectiveness of the PNPP.Although the structure of principal preparation programs in the state of Florida are unique due to laws that created a two leveled principal certification process, the findings and conclusions of this research study could be useful to any school district working to develop future principals. Suggested improvements to the PNPP included a longer principal internship, a strengthened mentor relationship, an application process for initial program entry, differentiated experiences, and an emphasis on increasing teacher effectiveness.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFE0004909, ucf:49619
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004909
- Title
- Five School District Mentor Models for Secondary Mathematics and Science Teachers in a Job Embedded University Teacher Preparation Program.
- Creator
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Karcinski, Lisa, Taylor, Rosemarye, Swan, Bonnie, Doherty, Walter, Baldwin, Lee, Wilson, Corbet, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Mentoring was a component of the Resident Teacher Professional Preparation Program (RTP3), a Race to the Top (RTTT) program funded project. RTTT funded efforts reward states that have demonstrated success in raising student achievement and have the best plans to accelerate learning in the future (U.S. Department of Education, 2014). Five Florida school districts implemented different variations of the RTP3 mentor model and due to the unique needs of each school district, context differences...
Show moreMentoring was a component of the Resident Teacher Professional Preparation Program (RTP3), a Race to the Top (RTTT) program funded project. RTTT funded efforts reward states that have demonstrated success in raising student achievement and have the best plans to accelerate learning in the future (U.S. Department of Education, 2014). Five Florida school districts implemented different variations of the RTP3 mentor model and due to the unique needs of each school district, context differences in effectiveness may have emerged. The purpose of the study was to determine the differences among the five mentor models, the extent to which these differences may relate to variances in mentoring effectiveness, and the impact on persistence of the resident teachers in teaching. School district designee interviews were conducted and mentor and resident teacher surveys were administered. Interview and survey data were analyzed using the grounded theory approach (Glaser (&) Strauss, 1967) and open coding (Strauss (&) Corbin, 1990) to determine mentor and resident teacher perceptions of the effectiveness of the RTP3 mentoring support.The findings of the research suggest that the decisions of the five partner school districts to add additional targeted supports to their mentor models had an impact on increased persistence rates and decreased rates of resident teachers leaving the field of teaching. The majority of mentors perceived that common professional learning increased their capacity as a mentor to a moderate or large degree. The findings suggest that resident teachers who had school-based mentors perceived that their mentors were somewhat to very influential in assisting them in being more effective teachers. There were limitations to this study. Five school districts in the state of Florida were used in the study, and the sample of survey and interview participants were limited. Therefore results may not be able to be generalized to other school districts in Florida or other states. Additionally, the objectivity of survey and interview participants may be questioned because the participants were employees of the school district. However, it was assumed that participant's responses to the survey and interview questions were candid.Further research is recommended that would examine variations in school district mentor preparation and selection processes. Further recommendations would include evaluating different mentor models within the same context to better examine the impact of specific components of mentoring programs and considering the effectiveness of the mentee based on not only mentee perception of increased effectiveness, but effectiveness as determined by the school district-adopted evaluation system. Another avenue for future research to broaden and support the findings in this study would be to access whether effective mentoring models differ depending on the context and based on the needs and experiences of the beginning teachers.?
Show less - Date Issued
- 2015
- Identifier
- CFE0005639, ucf:50231
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005639
- Title
- Analysis of Commercial Online Training Videos for Teachers who Instruct Students with Characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorder.
- Creator
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Schaffer, Kelly, Vasquez, Eleazar, Dieker, Lisa, Hines, Rebecca, Pearl, Cynthia, Blakely, Elbert, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
A deficit currently exists in teacher preparation programs for teaching students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) using evidence-based practices, specifically in the area of Applied Behavior Analysis. As communication deficits are a primary characteristic associated with the diagnosis of ASD teaching communication skills is a common educational goal for students with ASD, and this skill needs to be addressed in teacher education. Mand training is one evidence-based practice applied to...
Show moreA deficit currently exists in teacher preparation programs for teaching students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) using evidence-based practices, specifically in the area of Applied Behavior Analysis. As communication deficits are a primary characteristic associated with the diagnosis of ASD teaching communication skills is a common educational goal for students with ASD, and this skill needs to be addressed in teacher education. Mand training is one evidence-based practice applied to teach independent requesting skills to students with ASD.In this study, four teachers serving students with characteristics of ASD in the classroom participated in a multiple-probe across-participants study evaluating the extent to which online training videos prepare teachers in mand training procedures for students with ASD. Concurrent with teacher participants, changes in rates of student mands were evaluated for four students receiving instruction in a multiple probe design. Data analysis consisted of visual analysis of graphically displayed results and calculation of effect sizes. Results indicate that the Online Training Videos (OTV) were not effective as a standalone intervention for preparation of teachers to teach mands, however three student participants showed improved student outcomes.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFE0005411, ucf:50418
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005411
- Title
- The Effect of Allocated Assessment Time and Allocated Instructional Time on Student Achievement in Small, Medium, and Large School Districts in Florida.
- Creator
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Crupi, Samuel, Jeanpierre, Bobby, Gresham, Gina, Haciomeroglu, Erhan, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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To date, there is little current research which explores the effect of allocated assessment time and allocated instructional time as related to student achievement (Spanjers, Burns, (&) Wagner, 2008). Current educational reform has placed accountability and assessment at the forefront of public education (Hirsh, 2007; Jennings, 2012; Kallemeyn, 2009; NCLB, 2001; Supovitz, 2009). Research of time on task has demonstrated that there may be a positive correlation between the amount of time on...
Show moreTo date, there is little current research which explores the effect of allocated assessment time and allocated instructional time as related to student achievement (Spanjers, Burns, (&) Wagner, 2008). Current educational reform has placed accountability and assessment at the forefront of public education (Hirsh, 2007; Jennings, 2012; Kallemeyn, 2009; NCLB, 2001; Supovitz, 2009). Research of time on task has demonstrated that there may be a positive correlation between the amount of time on task in learning activities and student achievement (Fredricks, McColskey, Meli, Mordica, Montrosse, (&) Mooney, (2011). There is current legislation to increase the time demands of assessment and the resulting decrease of allocated instructional time may result in lower levels of student achievement (Butler, 1926; 1936; Brophy, Rohrkemper, Rashid, (&) Goldwater, 1982; Carroll, 1963; Doppelt, Mehalik, Schunn, Silk, (&) Krysinski, 2008; Spanjers, Burns, (&) Wagner, 2008; Wyss, Dolenc, Kong, (&) Tai, 2013). The purpose of this study was to compare allocated assessment time to allocated instructional time in small, medium, and large school districts in Florida. A sample of 12 school districts was selected representing small, medium, and large school districts based on student enrollment from Florida Education Finance Plan (FEFP) data. Data related to State and school district mandated assessments were collected for each school district using school district testing calendars and State assessment calendars. These data were examined and the number of minutes spent on each assessment was calculated. The calculation was used to determine the amount of time spent on State and school district mandated assessment. Allocated instructional time was calculated using the difference in allocated time and allocated assessment time. In addition, data were analyzed to determine what, if any, relationship existed between allocated assessment time and school district size as well as student achievement. Time lost to assessment preparation was also included in the determination of allocated assessment time.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2015
- Identifier
- CFE0005777, ucf:50056
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005777
- Title
- The perceived effectiveness of mixed reality experiences in a master of arts in teaching (MAT) program for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics degreed individuals.
- Creator
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Speir, Chana, Taylor, Rosemarye, Baldwin, Lee, Doherty, Walter, Mitchell, Paul, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The purpose of this study was to examine the perceived effectiveness of mixed reality experiences on resident teachers who successfully completed an undergraduate Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) degree and were enrolled in a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree program as part of RTP3 at a large research university in Orlando, Florida. The population for this study consisted of those selected to be in the RTP3, which included being in the Masters in the Art of...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to examine the perceived effectiveness of mixed reality experiences on resident teachers who successfully completed an undergraduate Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) degree and were enrolled in a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) degree program as part of RTP3 at a large research university in Orlando, Florida. The population for this study consisted of those selected to be in the RTP3, which included being in the Masters in the Art of Teaching (MAT) and becoming a middle or high school science, mathematics, or engineering teacher. The resident teachers experienced mixed reality as a method of practice on two occasions. The first was to introduce a lesson with avatar middle school students and a second time to conduct a parent conference with an avatar parent. This study was focused on the resident teachers' perceptions of (a) the effectiveness of mixed reality in the lesson experience and parent conference, (b) the coach's helpfulness after the lesson introduction experience and the parent conference experience, and (c) the extent to which the resident teachers believe that their confidence was increased and they were prepared for future classroom instruction and parent interactions through the use of mixed reality.Data were gathered with a feedback form with Likert-type items and open ended items completed immediately upon completion of each experience, as well as an additional open response document completed at a later time after reflection on the entire experience. The researcher analyzed the two qualitative data sources independently to determine trends and themes. Findings in this study were that the mixed-reality laboratory experience did have a positive effect on the perceptions of the resident teachers regarding their level of preparedness. They were more confident and comfortable teaching a lesson and conducting a parent conference after practicing both experiences with the avatars. Resident teachers overwhelmingly responded that the mixed reality experiences should remain a part of the MAT pedagogy and that they gained insight and confidence through the mixed reality practice. ?
Show less - Date Issued
- 2015
- Identifier
- CFE0005718, ucf:50127
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005718
- Title
- An Investigation of Science of Reading and Learning Representation in Undergraduate Elementary Education Reading Courses in the State University System of Florida.
- Creator
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Camara, Jessica, Taylor, Rosemarye, Ceballos, Marjorie, Doherty, Walter, Gordon, William, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This study investigated the extent to which the science of reading instruction components and five science of learning principles were addressed in undergraduate elementary education required reading courses in the State University System (SUS) of Florida institutions. A document analysis of textbooks and syllabi was completed and evidence recorded in The Matrix for State University System (SUS) of Florida Scoring(&)copy;. The results were reported in summary tables and an analysis of the...
Show moreThis study investigated the extent to which the science of reading instruction components and five science of learning principles were addressed in undergraduate elementary education required reading courses in the State University System (SUS) of Florida institutions. A document analysis of textbooks and syllabi was completed and evidence recorded in The Matrix for State University System (SUS) of Florida Scoring(&)copy;. The results were reported in summary tables and an analysis of the data was conducted on the extent to which each science of reading component and science of learning principle were labeled explicitly, indirectly stated, or not present in syllabi and textbooks. Data showed that the science of reading instruction components were addressed in undergraduate elementary education reading courses and the five selected science of learning principles were not. These findings may inform elementary teacher preparation faculty in textbook selection and course syllabi development who are interested in assisting teacher candidates to adopt teaching practices consistent with how children learn.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2019
- Identifier
- CFE0007437, ucf:52716
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007437
- Title
- Exploring Stress for Novice Teachers' in Low Socio-Economic Elementary Schools Through Breathing Biofeedback.
- Creator
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Fulchini, Angelica, Dieker, Lisa, Hines, Rebecca, Lue, Martha, Hynes, Mike, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Teachers who serve children of color in schools that support students from low socio-economic status have turnover rates reported to be as high as 70% (SES; Carver-Thomas (&) Darling-Hammond, 2017). Numerous approaches to teacher retention in low SES settings have been discussed in the literature (Chester (&) Beaudin, 1996; Donaldson, 2009; Ingersoll (&) Kralik, 2004; Jacob, 2007; McKinney, Haberman, Stafford-Johnson, (&) Robinson, 2008; McLaurin, Smith, (&) Smillie, 2009; Siwatu, Frazier,...
Show moreTeachers who serve children of color in schools that support students from low socio-economic status have turnover rates reported to be as high as 70% (SES; Carver-Thomas (&) Darling-Hammond, 2017). Numerous approaches to teacher retention in low SES settings have been discussed in the literature (Chester (&) Beaudin, 1996; Donaldson, 2009; Ingersoll (&) Kralik, 2004; Jacob, 2007; McKinney, Haberman, Stafford-Johnson, (&) Robinson, 2008; McLaurin, Smith, (&) Smillie, 2009; Siwatu, Frazier, Osaghae, (&) Starker, 2011; Sutcher, Darling-Hammond, (&) Carver-Thomas, 2016; Taylor (&) Frankenberg, 2009), but the use of emerging biofeedback technology is an unexplored territory. This type of technology could help novice teachers understand basic changes in stress levels through awareness of the body and mind while teaching. Hence, the potential use of biofeedback strategies to reduce stress levels in teachers, in inclusive settings, that serve students with low SES is explored. To help potentially reduce novice teachers' stress levels (Friedman, 2000; Day (&) Hong, 2016; Isenbarger (&) Zembylas, 2006), the researcher explored the effectiveness of biofeedback on breathing rates of teachers in inclusive classrooms serving more than 50% of students from low SES backgrounds. The researcher found, by tracking the rate of stressed breathing of 9 teachers during the instructional day, that teachers reported they were more mindful of their breathing. The researcher found meetings, paperwork, and student behaviors increased their stress and suggested better mentorship as a way to help reduce stress. The paper concludes with implications for practice, and recommendations for future research for teachers is provided.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFE0007179, ucf:52266
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007179
- Title
- PRE-SERVICE SECONDARY SOCIAL STUDIES TEACHERS' EFFICACY TOWARDSCHARACTER EDUCATION: A COMPARATIVE STUDY.
- Creator
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Waters, Kevin, Russell, William, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Character education is one of the most controversial aspects of academic institutions in the United States. The responsibility of educating children about democratic principles and moral values is something many states and schools are taking very seriously as a vital part of a teacher's role in the classroom. This study investigated the personal teaching efficacy and general teaching efficacy beliefs of pre-service secondary teachers at a large university in the state of Florida. This study...
Show moreCharacter education is one of the most controversial aspects of academic institutions in the United States. The responsibility of educating children about democratic principles and moral values is something many states and schools are taking very seriously as a vital part of a teacher's role in the classroom. This study investigated the personal teaching efficacy and general teaching efficacy beliefs of pre-service secondary teachers at a large university in the state of Florida. This study investigated the responses of 130 pre-service secondary teachers in language arts, science, social studies, and mathematics within one teacher education program. The questionnaire utilized in this quantitative research study was the Character Education Efficacy Belief Instrument (CEEBI), which was designed by Milson and Mehlig (2002). This instrument is composed of 24 items designed to understand personal teaching efficacy (PTE) and general teaching efficacy (GTE) beliefs. This study examined if there was a statistically significant difference in PTE and GTE scores between secondary pre-service teachers based on the independent variables of a) program/major, b) gender, c) race/ethnicity, and d) coursework in character education. The results of this survey adds to a rich field of research and literature on character education and teacher education by taking a closer look at the specific beliefs of secondary preservice teachers regarding their PTE and GTE for character education. This study was an attempt to better understand the teaching efficacy beliefs for secondary pre-service teachers graduating from a teacher preparation program within a state that mandates character education.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- Identifier
- CFE0003686, ucf:48839
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003686
- Title
- Using a Mixed-Reality Classroom Environment Including English Learners: The Perceptions of Teacher Candidates.
- Creator
-
Ashtari, Nooshan, Nutta, Joyce, Hutchinson, Cynthia, Mihai, Florin, Jahani, Shiva, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Technological modernization has impacted various fields such as the field of education, teaching, and learning. The traditional classroom and teaching methodologies no longer meet the needs of the new tech-savvy generation. Thus, recently there have been changes in teacher preparation programs in order to prepare teacher candidates to have the skills to respond to such high technological demands. Additionally, the demographics of students attending schools in countries with exceptionally high...
Show moreTechnological modernization has impacted various fields such as the field of education, teaching, and learning. The traditional classroom and teaching methodologies no longer meet the needs of the new tech-savvy generation. Thus, recently there have been changes in teacher preparation programs in order to prepare teacher candidates to have the skills to respond to such high technological demands. Additionally, the demographics of students attending schools in countries with exceptionally high numbers of immigrants such as the United States is another reason to seek novel ways to prepare teachers who have had adequate practice and developed teaching skills needed to reach the English learners (ELs) in their classrooms. Using Multi-User Virtual Environments (MUVEs) has been one solution in order to bridge this gap. EL TLE TeachLivE(TM), which was the focus of this study, is a computer simulated environment that combines real-life participants and digital personas or avatars. The participants of this study were teacher candidates who experienced using EL TLE TeachLivE(TM) to practice the teaching strategies and skills they had been learning about during their teacher preparation program (n=20). This research investigated the perceptions of these teacher candidates about using this mixed-reality classroom environment through observations, questionnaires, focus groups, and individual interviews. A qualitative transcendental phenomenological approach was taken to have a more in-depth understanding of the participants' perceptions about the phenomenon of EL TLE TeachLivE(TM) as a mixed-reality classroom environment in teacher preparation and the meaning they made of their experiences. Through the data analysis three main categories emerged: TCs' general perceptions about the avatars and EL TLE TeachLivE(TM) as a mixed-reality classroom environment, TCs' perceptions of the current use of the EL TLE TeachLivE(TM) in their teacher preparation program, and TCs' perceptions about the future use of EL TLE TeachLivE(TM). The Teacher Candidates' General Perceptions of EL TLE TeachLivE(TM) consisted of the following sub-themes: (a) Video game dissimilarities, (b) Avatar believability and real-life features, (c) Personification of the EL cases, (d) Fear of the unknown, (e) Avatar movement restrictions, and (f) Suspension of disbelief. The Teacher Candidates' Perceptions about the Current Use of EL TLE TeachLivE(TM) included: (a) Importance of prerequisites, (b) Advantages over role-playing, (c) Teaching in front of peers, (d) Group teaching and random selection, (e) Importance of feedback, and (f) Teaching strategies and aha moments.Finally, the Teacher Candidates' Perceptions about the Future Use of EL TLE TeachLivE(TM) incorporated: (a) Changes in the implementation, (b) Elementary vs secondary classrooms, and (c) Gradual practice.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFE0006255, ucf:51048
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006255
- Title
- Impact of the Education Level of Voluntary Prekindergarten Teachers upon Kindergarten Student Readiness Rates.
- Creator
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Wright, Teresa, Murray, Barbara, Murray, Kenneth, Doherty, Walter, Williams-Fjeldhe, Karri, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This study addressed the problem of insufficient information concerning the impact of variability in requirements and credentials for Florida Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) teachers statewide on VPK program quality. This study examined the variance in the professional credentials of VPK lead instructors in Florida school districts and whether or not this variability makes a significant difference in program quality as measured by VPK Provider Kindergarten Readiness Rates.Analysis of variance...
Show moreThis study addressed the problem of insufficient information concerning the impact of variability in requirements and credentials for Florida Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) teachers statewide on VPK program quality. This study examined the variance in the professional credentials of VPK lead instructors in Florida school districts and whether or not this variability makes a significant difference in program quality as measured by VPK Provider Kindergarten Readiness Rates.Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) statistical tests were conducted, as appropriate, for each of four research questions. Research findings indicated there was no statistically significant difference in the mean VPK Provider Kindergarten Readiness Rates based on the professional credentials for VPK lead instructors when controlling for the socio-economic status of the children enrolled at each site.Recommendations were made for future research to replicate the study using a different indicator of program quality, perhaps a measure of student progress throughout the school year. Also, the first groups of students to participate in Florida's voluntary prekindergarten (VPK) program are now enrolled in upper elementary grades making a longitudinal study both feasible and worthwhile in evaluating the effectiveness of a large-scale preschool program. The researcher further recommended that the idea of improving the qualifications of the prekindergarten workforce must persist, supported by continued research and adequate funding.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2012
- Identifier
- CFE0004619, ucf:49928
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004619
- Title
- PREPARING ELEMENTARY TEACHERS TO TEACH STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES: A COMPARISON OF PROGRAM STRUCTURES & ELEMENTS ACROSS TEACHER PREPARATION INSTITUTIONS.
- Creator
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Close, Jessica, Williams, Karri, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Students with disabilities have the right to the least restrictive environment (IDEA, 2004). Elementary teachers are teaching more of these students in the inclusive classroom because of this right. Elementary teachers are willing to take on this responsibility, but most feel they are not prepared to do so. In order to address this concern, elementary teacher preparation at the institution level must be addressed. This is a descriptive thesis which identifies and compares methods that...
Show moreStudents with disabilities have the right to the least restrictive environment (IDEA, 2004). Elementary teachers are teaching more of these students in the inclusive classroom because of this right. Elementary teachers are willing to take on this responsibility, but most feel they are not prepared to do so. In order to address this concern, elementary teacher preparation at the institution level must be addressed. This is a descriptive thesis which identifies and compares methods that different institutions across the country use to prepare teachers to teach students with disabilities. Institutions chosen for this thesis were recognized by either the U.S. News and World Report (2010) or the Report of the Blue Ribbon Panel (2010) for effective preparation of preservice elementary teachers. This thesis addresses the University of Central Florida with the aforementioned institutions. A continuum with three main types of structures was used to identify programs ranging from "discrete" meeting minimum requirements, to completely "merged" programs between special education and elementary education. While "merged" results in dual certification and the most effective preparation according to Blanton and Pugach (2007), it is most often offered as a choice and not as a requirement. Through analysis of program requirements of elementary education and special education programs, course descriptions, and syllabi, this investigator concluded that there were inconsistencies across teacher preparation programs. Institutions are distributed widely across the continuum. If elementary teachers are required to teach to all students, then teacher preparation programs should address all students thoroughly. The investigator's hope is that the evidence presented and the suggestions made in this thesis will incite changes in institutions that are preparing elementary teachers to teach students with disabilities.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2011
- Identifier
- CFH0004072, ucf:44781
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004072
- Title
- EXPLORING THE VALUE OF THE BACHELOR'S DEGREE FOR TEACHERS IN THE EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION FIELD: A RESEARCH SYNTHESIS.
- Creator
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Hogan, Melissa A, Macy, Marisa, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The implementation of standardized testing has changed education in the United States resulting in a content ripple effect from the higher grades down to preschool aged children. To match that ripple effect early childhood education can be evaluated and reformed accordingly by exploring many factors that make up the early childhood education system. This manuscript addressed one factor, early childhood teacher preparation, through a synthesis of literature related to the potential benefits of...
Show moreThe implementation of standardized testing has changed education in the United States resulting in a content ripple effect from the higher grades down to preschool aged children. To match that ripple effect early childhood education can be evaluated and reformed accordingly by exploring many factors that make up the early childhood education system. This manuscript addressed one factor, early childhood teacher preparation, through a synthesis of literature related to the potential benefits of earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Development and Education, or a BS. The theories of early brain development were explored first and then studies of the social components affecting an Early Childhood Educator's, or ECE's, choice in teacher preparation were reviewed. The review then defined and compared the Child Development Associate or CDA, the Associate of Arts degree, or AA, and the BS. Professional recommendations and standards according to the National Association for Young Children, or NAEYC were included to understand how valuable the BS is to these trend setters of the field. The review then explored how the BS is currently being used nationally in a state-funded program known as VPK, utilizing the National Institute for Early Education Research, or NIEER. This data provided a snapshot of the national demand for the BS in the early childhood field. The pay disparities were then correlated with levels of education and compared with primary and upper grade compensation. The final value explored was research of how the BS directly affected results of the quality in the early childhood classroom and teacher-child interactions. These studies used two quality rating scales, the ECERS and CLASS, which were defined and compared. The findings of the synthesized literature review provided understanding of a young field that is growing and implies where further research and change could happen to match the effects of an evolving education system in the United States of America.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFH2000420, ucf:45866
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000420
- Title
- WHY EVIDENCE MATTERS: EXAMINING THE KNOWLEDGE AND PERCEPTION OF PRE-SERVICE TEACHERS.
- Creator
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Campbell, Stefanie, Storey, Valerie, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Evidence-based educational policymaking has become a global phenomenon (Wiseman, 2010). According to the Institute of Education Sciences, evidence-based education is "an integration of the professional wisdom and the best available empirical evidence on making decision about how to deliver instructions" (IES, US Department of Education, 2012). This suggests that best practice requires teachers to ensure that instructional strategies and programs implemented in their classroom have been...
Show moreEvidence-based educational policymaking has become a global phenomenon (Wiseman, 2010). According to the Institute of Education Sciences, evidence-based education is "an integration of the professional wisdom and the best available empirical evidence on making decision about how to deliver instructions" (IES, US Department of Education, 2012). This suggests that best practice requires teachers to ensure that instructional strategies and programs implemented in their classroom have been studied in scientific experiments to determine their effectiveness. The general public, as well as practicing teachers, holds an assumption that educators have knowledge as to what is evidence-based education. However, this is not always the case. The objective of this these include: to document how pre-service teachers access research findings and what types of findings they use in their practice, to identify the purposes of its utilization, to identify the factors that influence research utilization, and to ensure the accessibility of the findings of this study. The population for this study will be pre-service teachers at a large public higher education institution and one state college. In order to meet these objectives I conducted a survey, a pre-service teacher focus group, and an interview with faculty. Research findings will impact pre-service teacher preparation programs and increase our understanding of the link between the researchers and educators
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFH0004707, ucf:45406
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004707
- Title
- Doctoral Supervision: An Analysis of Doctoral Candidates' and Graduates' Perception of Supervisory Practices.
- Creator
-
Tapoler, Colton, Taylor, Rosemarye, Vitale, Thomas, Doherty, Walter, Marshall, Nancy, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The purpose of this study was to collect and examine the reported supervisory practices experienced by professional doctoral candidates in the last year of their program, and recent program graduates, within the last three years, from across multiple disciplines. Doctoral supervisors, specifically in the United States, are not usually provided a set of practices or concrete training prior to advising doctoral candidates (Walker, 2008, p. 35). With this in mind, and the limited amount of...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to collect and examine the reported supervisory practices experienced by professional doctoral candidates in the last year of their program, and recent program graduates, within the last three years, from across multiple disciplines. Doctoral supervisors, specifically in the United States, are not usually provided a set of practices or concrete training prior to advising doctoral candidates (Walker, 2008, p. 35). With this in mind, and the limited amount of research available on doctoral supervision in professional doctoral programs in the United States, it was critical to analyze the experienced supervision of professional doctoral candidates and its perceived effectiveness. Current candidates and recent graduates were asked to participate in interviews based on the supervision they received. Ultimately, 3 current candidates and 15 recent graduates were interviewed for this study. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and then analyzed using grounded theory (Corbin (&) Strauss, 1990). The interviews were carefully analyzed for emerging trends that went on to represent individual supervisory practices, or concepts. After several additional readings the concepts were grouped together based on similarity into categories. Finally, the concepts and categories were analyzed for connections to candidate success, which developed into the findings of this study.Ultimately, candidates and recent graduates discussed 19 supervisory practices. The 19 supervisory practices, or concepts, were: frequency of communication, quality of communication, mode of communication, accessibility, feedback, the use of articles and research, the use of a timeline for candidates, utilization of the supervisor's existing expertise, workshop offerings, use of the supervisor's network, building a personal connection, showing enthusiasm, candor, trust, encouragement, autonomy, guidance, providing advice academically, and developing a colleague-to-colleague relationship. Each of the 19 concepts was discussed as having varying levels of impact on candidates successfully completing their programs. Doctoral supervisors, and doctoral programs, should consider the implementation of these supervisory practices and the training that helps supervisors develop their supervisory experiences.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFE0006667, ucf:51252
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006667
- Title
- World Language Teachers' Preparation, Beliefs, and Instruction in Central Florida.
- Creator
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Mann-Grosso, Valerie, Taylor, Rosemarye, Baldwin, Lee, Doherty, Walter, Nutta, Joyce, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The purpose of this study was to investigate: (1) the extent to which world instructors report using specific communicative instructional strategies; (2) the difference between instructional strategies used by ESL only instructors, versus instructors of ESL and foreign languages, or instructors of only foreign languages; (3) the relationship between instructors' academic preparation and target language use in class; and (4) the relationship between instructors' pedagogical beliefs about...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to investigate: (1) the extent to which world instructors report using specific communicative instructional strategies; (2) the difference between instructional strategies used by ESL only instructors, versus instructors of ESL and foreign languages, or instructors of only foreign languages; (3) the relationship between instructors' academic preparation and target language use in class; and (4) the relationship between instructors' pedagogical beliefs about second language learning and their reported target language use in class. The World Language Communicative Instructional Strategies Survey was administered to world language instructors from three academic institutions. Upon sending two requests, 48 instructors returned usable instruments (55%). Descriptive statistics revealed extensive use of communicative instructional strategies, yet a difference in application of these strategies exists. A comparison of means revealed that assuring that students learn collaboratively in 85% to 100% in target language, integration of all four language skills, and assuring students' independent target language practice were applied less than other strategies. ESL instructors reported a higher use of communicative instructional strategies than instructors of ESL and foreign languages, or foreign languages only. A comparison of means indicated the differences in communicative instructional strategies use are in integration of all four language skills and in assuring 85% to 100% in-target-language collaborative learning. Findings also revealed a discrepancy between the reported use of communicative instructional strategies and the academic preparation received in order to do so. This study provides implications for the preparation of world language instructors. Specifically, the findings focused on mastery of language taught, on specific instructional methodology courses, and the practicum experience.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2015
- Identifier
- CFE0005836, ucf:50899
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005836
- Title
- An Analysis of the Variables in Implementation of the Marzano Causal Teacher Evaluation System in the State of Florida.
- Creator
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Phillips, Matthew, Murray, Barbara, Murray, Kenneth, Baldwin, Lee, Hutchinson, Cynthia, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This was a non-experimental, mixed methods study to research the different ways in which the Marzano casual teacher evaluation system was implemented in 25 school districts in the state of Florida during the 2012-2013 school year. Based on seven implementation variables, the teacher evaluation systems were compared to the implementation model and research-based best practice. The researcher then sought to determine what relationships may or may not exist in teacher performance ratings between...
Show moreThis was a non-experimental, mixed methods study to research the different ways in which the Marzano casual teacher evaluation system was implemented in 25 school districts in the state of Florida during the 2012-2013 school year. Based on seven implementation variables, the teacher evaluation systems were compared to the implementation model and research-based best practice. The researcher then sought to determine what relationships may or may not exist in teacher performance ratings between districts that followed the research-based implementation model and districts that did not. Two stated purposes of the Marzano causal teacher evaluation system were to improve the accuracy of teacher performance ratings and to improve the accuracy of feedback provided to teachers. Variation in implementation may possibly occur among school districts. To date no research has been conducted to analyze how variations in implementation may relate to teacher performance ratings. The purpose of this study was to provide data to support best-practice in the implementation of the Marzano causal teacher evaluation system and to guide instructional leaders on the implementation of this evaluation system. The researcher also sought to ensure the Marzano causal teacher evaluation system provides both accurate teacher feedback and accurate teacher evaluations. Data was collected from the Florida Department of Education published reports and information. School district implementation plans were gathered from state submitted documentation. Implementation plans were analyzed and read. Data was collected on a data collection sheet and then analyzed in SPSS using a crosstab Chi square test to determine if a statistically significant relationships existed between districts that followed the research-based implementation model and districts that did not. It was determined that implementation of the Marzano causal evaluation system varies widely. In six out of the seven implementation variables, it was determined that there were statistically significant relationships in teacher evaluation scores between districts that followed the research-based implementation variables and districts that did not. Further research should include validity and reliability studies on the Marzano causal evaluation system. Research should continue to analyze different ways in which the Marzano causal evaluation system is implemented, and what relationship there is between implementation and teacher performance ratings. Research should be conducted to analyze the effectiveness of feedback provided to teachers through the Marzano causal teacher evaluation system. This research indicates that the Marzano causal teacher evaluation system should be used following research based best-practice and how it is intended to be used. The research in this study shows that when implementation variables are altered in the Marzano causal teacher evaluation system, teacher performance ratings may become inaccurate. Based on misunderstandings of the Marzano causal evaluation system, it is recommended school leaders receive additional training on the understanding and implementation of the Marzano casual teacher evaluation system.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFE0005399, ucf:50460
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005399
- Title
- Staffing Practices of Elementary School Principals for Teachers in Primary Grades and Implications for the PreK-3rd Continuum.
- Creator
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Albers-Biddle, Laura, Boote, David, Culp, Anne, Levin, Judith, Hayes, Grant, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Principals are considered the educational leaders of their schools and face pressure to improve the quality of education across all levels and disciplines. Principals were interviewed to understand their beliefs, knowledge, and dispositions on staffing teachers in the primary grades. A purposive sample of elementary school principals was drawn from one mid-size suburban district in Florida. Data were analyzed using Bolman and Deal's four-frame organizational theory framework, Cohen's...
Show morePrincipals are considered the educational leaders of their schools and face pressure to improve the quality of education across all levels and disciplines. Principals were interviewed to understand their beliefs, knowledge, and dispositions on staffing teachers in the primary grades. A purposive sample of elementary school principals was drawn from one mid-size suburban district in Florida. Data were analyzed using Bolman and Deal's four-frame organizational theory framework, Cohen's cognitive frame, and Boote's theory of professional discretion.The data strongly suggest that principals do not understand the foundations of early childhood practice. In addition, they do not understand the differences between Early Childhood Education (ECE) and Elementary Education (EE). The principals tend to hire teachers with EE certification as opposed to ECE training. This is partially due to their lack of understanding of ECE and to the perceived advantage of being able to place teachers in a wide range of grade levels. Although all principals stated that primary teaching requires specialized knowledge, most principals consider flexibility to move teachers into the upper grades more important.Three main implications for practice are suggested based on recommendations for advocacy and public education for young children within PreK(-)3rd continuum initiatives. (1) Professional development in ECE should be implemented at the district level for principals to learn and understand the differences in preparation between ECE and EE teacher preparation and to demonstrate the importance of the early years of child development and education. (2) Curriculum enrichment in ECE needs to be added to higher education, graduate teacher leadership programs to demonstrate the importance of the early years of child development and education. (3) The policy for hiring should be centralized at the district level and require teachers with training in ECE for the primary grades. The limitations of the study and recommendations for future research are also discussed.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFE0005294, ucf:50547
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005294
- Title
- Pre-service teacher perceptions on the education of children with critical illness and preparation to teach mathematics to children with critical illness.
- Creator
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Fralish, Bethany, Nickels, Megan, Bush, Sarah, Kelley, Michelle, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This research study presents data on three pre-service elementary teachers in an ethnographic study outlining the experiences of the pre-service elementary teachers during the semester of their first education internship. During the first internship semester, the three pre-service teachers completed a 12-week internship placement, 6-weeks at a hospital-based school program and 6-weeks at a brick-and-mortar public school, and three co-requisite courses (i.e., elementary mathematics methods,...
Show moreThis research study presents data on three pre-service elementary teachers in an ethnographic study outlining the experiences of the pre-service elementary teachers during the semester of their first education internship. During the first internship semester, the three pre-service teachers completed a 12-week internship placement, 6-weeks at a hospital-based school program and 6-weeks at a brick-and-mortar public school, and three co-requisite courses (i.e., elementary mathematics methods, diagnostic and corrective reading, and teaching exceptional students). The data collected includes the pre-service teacher applications to participate in internship at the hospital-based school program, pre-interview questionnaire, end-of-day reflections, post-interview questionnaire, and background information questionnaire. The questions of study were: (1) How prepared do pre-service teachers feel to educate children with critical illness and address the needs of children with critical illness in the classroom as a result of completion of a 6-week internship at a hospital-based school program? (2) How prepared do pre-service teachers feel to teach mathematics to children with critical illness after completing a 6-week internship at a hospital-based school program? The results show that the participants' reported an increase in preparation to teach children with critical illness and teach them mathematics, but their views about the education of children with a critical illness and mathematics remain consistent. Thus, the results illuminated two themes across all participants: 1) children as a homogenous group 2) procedural mathematics. Study implications include the need to add specific professional learning on the educational impacts of a critical illness and the need to involve pre-service teachers in reflective practices of what they learn and observe and how that informs actions in the classroom.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2019
- Identifier
- CFE0007804, ucf:52354
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007804
- Title
- Defining Effective Teacher Practices among Students with Emotional Behavioral Disabilities.
- Creator
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Mayes, Zerek, Martin, Suzanne, Boote, David, Butler, S. Kent, Berrio, Gabriel, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This phenomenological study examined the lived experiences of special education teachers who worked with students with emotional behavioral disabilities (EBD) across various urban settings and educative environments. Given that the overall percentage of students receiving special education services has increased, the overall percentage of students with EBD served among all school-aged children and youth has remained below 1% (U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education...
Show moreThis phenomenological study examined the lived experiences of special education teachers who worked with students with emotional behavioral disabilities (EBD) across various urban settings and educative environments. Given that the overall percentage of students receiving special education services has increased, the overall percentage of students with EBD served among all school-aged children and youth has remained below 1% (U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, 2018). The current failings of reform efforts to improve the academic achievement of students with EBD brings the roles, responsibilities and practices of teachers and their preparation into view. This study examined the impact of culture on the attitudes, beliefs, and practices of special education teachers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight participants (N = 8). A thematic analysis resulted in three overarching themes. The three themes included: (a) the essentials: keys to student engagement, (b) the frustrations regarding effective program implementation, and (c) elements of an effective program. This study exposed multiple factors affecting the effectiveness of special educators' practices as well as offered recommendations for teachers, schools, districts, policies, and future research.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2019
- Identifier
- CFE0007682, ucf:52510
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007682
- Title
- An Examination of Novice and Expert Teachers' Pedagogy in a Mixed-Reality Simulated Inclusive Secondary Classroom Including a Student Avatar With Autism Spectrum Disorders.
- Creator
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Bousfield, Taylor, Dieker, Lisa, Marino, Matthew, Hines, Rebecca, Hynes, Mike, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Teachers, special and general educators alike, are required to teach a variety of students including students with ASD. With a rise in the prevalence of autism by 119.4% since 2000 (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2016) and 39% of students with ASD being served in general education classrooms for over 80% of the school day (U.S. Department of Education, 2015), teachers need to be prepared to effectively teach this population. To better prepare teachers, the researcher...
Show moreTeachers, special and general educators alike, are required to teach a variety of students including students with ASD. With a rise in the prevalence of autism by 119.4% since 2000 (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2016) and 39% of students with ASD being served in general education classrooms for over 80% of the school day (U.S. Department of Education, 2015), teachers need to be prepared to effectively teach this population. To better prepare teachers, the researcher conducted a two-phase study, situated in the framework of the Skill Acquisition Model (Dreyfus (&) Dreyfus, 1986) to explore the behaviors of novice and expert teachers in a simulated secondary inclusive environment. This classroom included a virtual student with autism. In phase one, the researcher conducted a Delphi Study to determine the best practices, perceived by experts in the field, for teachers who serve students with ASD in inclusive secondary environments. During phase two, the researcher used the list of skills identified as a framework to observe and interview 10 teachers, five novices and five experts, in a simulated secondary inclusive environment. The researcher identified 11 high leverage simulation practices (HLSP) that expert teachers should use while teaching in a simulated secondary inclusive environment. Observations and reflections of expert and novice teachers were analyzed, finding only 4 HLSP among experts and 5 HLSP among novice teachers. Additional HLSP were seen through the teachers' reflections. Data were analyzed and discussed in detail. Implications for practice and recommendations for future research in teacher preparation is provided.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFE0006722, ucf:51877
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006722
