Current Search: elementary (x)
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- Title
- Principals' Perceptions on Educating Elementary Students who are Gifted.
- Creator
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Cumming, Ingrid, Martin, Suzanne, Little, Mary, Zygouris-Coe, Vassiliki, Ellis, Amanda, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Students who are gifted need student centered academic challenges and authenticproblems to spark reflection and enhance student outcomes. When academic needs are not met,students who are gifted may not reach their full academic potential and may lose motivation for learning. A primary reason for students who are gifted to underachieve in academics is equated to school factors including lack of instructional resources, social/emotional support, and teacherswho are unprepared to teach students...
Show moreStudents who are gifted need student centered academic challenges and authenticproblems to spark reflection and enhance student outcomes. When academic needs are not met,students who are gifted may not reach their full academic potential and may lose motivation for learning. A primary reason for students who are gifted to underachieve in academics is equated to school factors including lack of instructional resources, social/emotional support, and teacherswho are unprepared to teach students who are gifted. The purpose of this phenomenologicalresearch study is to explore the perceptions and lived experiences of participating elementary school principals in an urban school district. The research questions explore elementary school principals' perceptions of the implementation of practices, programs and instructional methodsthat support their programs for students who are gifted and the teachers of students who are gifted.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2015
- Identifier
- CFE0005937, ucf:50822
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005937
- Title
- Computer Programming with Early Elementary Students with and without Intellectual Disabilities.
- Creator
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Taylor, Matthew, Dieker, Lisa, Vasquez, Eleazar, Hines, Rebecca, Nickels, Megan, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Researchers suggest students at the preschool and kindergarten grade levels are active learners and creators and need to be exposed to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) curriculum. The need for student understanding in STEM curriculum is well documented, and positive results in robotics, computer programming, and coding are leading researchers and policy makers to introduce new standards in education. The purpose of this single case design study is to research the...
Show moreResearchers suggest students at the preschool and kindergarten grade levels are active learners and creators and need to be exposed to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) curriculum. The need for student understanding in STEM curriculum is well documented, and positive results in robotics, computer programming, and coding are leading researchers and policy makers to introduce new standards in education. The purpose of this single case design study is to research the abilities of kindergarten students, with and without intellectual disabilities (ID), to learn skills in computer programming and coding through explicit instruction, concrete manipulatives, and tangible interfaces. While constructionist methodology is typically used to teach robotics, best practice for students with ID is explicit instruction. For this reason, a group of students with ID and a group of students without ID were taught to program a robot to move in a square, through explicit instruction, and by using the iPad application, Blockly. It was discovered that students in both groups were capable of programming the robot, though students learned at different rates. Introducing STEM to students with and without ID at an early age could prepare students for future STEM careers and encourage students with ID to pursue STEM-related paths.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFE0006807, ucf:51802
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006807
- Title
- The Impact of Access to Books on the Reading Motivation and Achievement of Urban Elementary Students.
- Creator
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Trimble Spalding, Lee-Anne, Hynes, Michael, Kelley, Michelle, Hoffman, Bobby, Clark, Margaret, Williams, Robert, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The focus of this research was to study the association that reading motivation and reading achievement have with increased access to books provided by the non-profit program Book Trust, could have on urban elementary students, specifically second graders being educated in a large school district in Central Florida. Teacher data collection sheets, the Motivation to Read Profile (MRP): Reading Survey and the Florida Assessment for Instruction in Reading (FAIR) were used to measure the...
Show moreThe focus of this research was to study the association that reading motivation and reading achievement have with increased access to books provided by the non-profit program Book Trust, could have on urban elementary students, specifically second graders being educated in a large school district in Central Florida. Teacher data collection sheets, the Motivation to Read Profile (MRP): Reading Survey and the Florida Assessment for Instruction in Reading (FAIR) were used to measure the aforementioned associations. Findings revealed that increased access to books in these elementary schools did not have a statistically significant impact on reading motivation or reading achievement scores. In addition, teachers' demographic data, such as age, number of years teaching or highest degree held, did not impact their student reading achievement.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2012
- Identifier
- CFE0004611, ucf:49933
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004611
- Title
- A JOURNEY OF TEACHING AND LEARNING IN SCIENCE EDUCATION: THE MICROCULTURE OF EMERGING INQUIRY-BASED SCIENCE INSTRUCTION IN AN URBAN, LOW SOCIOECONOMIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SCIENCE LAB.
- Creator
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Dahl, Kimberly, Holt, Larry, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This ethnographic study of emerging inquiry-based science instruction in an urban, low socioeconomic elementary school science lab was designed to gain insight into the perspectives of the teacher and students. The study involved a Central Florida elementary school whose population was over 80 percent African-American. In this six month study, the researcher examined the classroom setting of a science lab teacher and her fourth and fifth grade students during a six month period of time. Data...
Show moreThis ethnographic study of emerging inquiry-based science instruction in an urban, low socioeconomic elementary school science lab was designed to gain insight into the perspectives of the teacher and students. The study involved a Central Florida elementary school whose population was over 80 percent African-American. In this six month study, the researcher examined the classroom setting of a science lab teacher and her fourth and fifth grade students during a six month period of time. Data sources included interviews, field notes, reflections, and student work , which were used to identify the emerging themes and patterns in the study. The emergent themes were grouped into two categories: the perspective of the teacher and students in the inquiry environment and the microculture of the teacher and students in that environment. The teacher's perspectives on instructional strategies, standard based instructional guidelines, and the realities of teaching in an urban low socioeconomic setting were the major emergent themes. The students' perspectives into environment and sense-making of elementary school students were the other major emergent themes. Chapter I provides background and the significance of the study. Chapter II provides a research of the literature surrounding inquiry-based instruction in science education. Chapter III describes the methodology, specifically the ethnographic approach to this study. A metaphoric journey down the river of perspectives in science lab classroom sets the tone for Chapter IV. This chapter provides a "view from the shore," an introduction to the general background of the elementary school. Chapter V explores the teacher perspectives, and uses vignettes to analyze instructional strategies, questioning, assessment, standards state and district guideline and the realities of teaching. Chapter VI discusses the student perspectives, and uses vignettes to analyze behaviors and actions, responsibility of learners, assessment, and ways of knowing. Chapter VII pulls together conclusions, implications, and recommendations for further research.This study contributes to the total body of research of science education in two ways: 1. It provides student and teacher perspectives on science in an urban, low socioeconomic elementary school. 2. It provides research with a teacher and student perspective of inquiry-based science instruction.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2004
- Identifier
- CFE0000064, ucf:46128
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000064
- Title
- HEALTH ATTITUDES, KNOWLEDGE AND LITERACY OF PRIMARY CAREGIVERS WITH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CHILDREN.
- Creator
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Stuib, Susan, Sivo, Stephen, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Previous research has indicated that physical activity and healthy eating in elementary school children are the exception rather than the norm. Increased attention to the rising rates of childhood obesity, coupled with the recognition that changes in the school environment are critical to reducing this trend, has intensified the need to adopt better practices in school nutrition, physical activity and physical education. Apart from being physically active, children need to learn fundamental...
Show morePrevious research has indicated that physical activity and healthy eating in elementary school children are the exception rather than the norm. Increased attention to the rising rates of childhood obesity, coupled with the recognition that changes in the school environment are critical to reducing this trend, has intensified the need to adopt better practices in school nutrition, physical activity and physical education. Apart from being physically active, children need to learn fundamental motor skills and develop health related physical fitness (cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, and body composition). Primary caregivers play an important part in developing and teaching children these things through example and through conversations with their children. The purpose of this study was to examine the level of knowledge primary caregivers have about health and nutritional practices and whether primary caregivers' health practices, health knowledge or health literacy about nutrition and health affects their children's well-being and health practices. Based on the results from the questionnaire in this study targeted at primary caregivers of elementary school-age children, primary caregivers' health literacy, knowledge and attitudes of health were directly linked with their children's health and well-being and children's health practices.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2006
- Identifier
- CFE0001383, ucf:46990
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001383
- Title
- THE EFFECT OF SCHOOL CULTURE ON SCIENCE EDUCATION AT AN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: AN ETHNOGRAPHIC CASE STUDY.
- Creator
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Meier, Lori, Boote, David, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This ethnographic case study investigated one elementary school to understand how the school's culture influenced its science curriculum design and instruction. The main data was formal and informal semi-structured interviews with key teachers to understand their values, beliefs, practices, materials, and problems with science instruction. To triangulate these data, the researcher observed classroom practice, school-wide activities, and collected artifacts and documents. Data were...
Show moreThis ethnographic case study investigated one elementary school to understand how the school's culture influenced its science curriculum design and instruction. The main data was formal and informal semi-structured interviews with key teachers to understand their values, beliefs, practices, materials, and problems with science instruction. To triangulate these data, the researcher observed classroom practice, school-wide activities, and collected artifacts and documents. Data were analyzed using a theoretical framework that emphasizes that culture cannot be reduced to beliefs, values, practices, materials or problems, but rather each aspect of culture is interdependent and mutually reinforcing. The main finding suggests that the school's culture is organized to accomplish other curricular goals than effective science education. Science is rarely taught by most teachers and rarely taught well when it is. While the teachers know the rhetoric of effective science education and value it enough to not dismiss it entirely, most value it less than most other subjects and they are not proficient with science instruction and materials. This study builds upon the literature by reiterating that school culture plays a central role in elementary science education, but adds to that literature by emphasizing that culture cannot be reduced to one or a few factors and must be seen as an organic whole.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2006
- Identifier
- CFE0001412, ucf:47061
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001412
- Title
- THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MENTORING AND ELEMENTARY BEGINNING TEACHERS' INTENT TO STAY IN THE TEACHING FIELD.
- Creator
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Partridge, Deborah, Sivo, Stephen, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The purpose of this survey research study was to determine if a relationship existed between mentoring for beginning elementary teachers and teachers' intent to stay in the teaching field. The key attribute analyzed was the significance of having or not having a mentor. Teachers' perceptions regarding mentoring were analyzed and teacher opinions of the most important elements of a mentoring program were discussed. Results indicated there was not a statistical significance between...
Show moreThe purpose of this survey research study was to determine if a relationship existed between mentoring for beginning elementary teachers and teachers' intent to stay in the teaching field. The key attribute analyzed was the significance of having or not having a mentor. Teachers' perceptions regarding mentoring were analyzed and teacher opinions of the most important elements of a mentoring program were discussed. Results indicated there was not a statistical significance between mentoring and teachers' intent to stay in the teaching field. The qualitative portion of the survey revealed that beginning teachers felt availability, accessibility, and receptivity of the mentor were the three most important elements of a mentoring program. Data from the returned surveys were processed through SPSS Version 11 using a t-test and an analysis of variance (One-Way ANOVA). Based upon the findings, specific recommendations are made to administrators and district level personnel. This cross sectional study was based on theories surrounding effective mentoring practices and job satisfaction leading to employment retention. Dr. Jeffrey Scott created the survey instrument and piloted it in West Alabama in 2004 where it was approved for use. Dr. Scott approved innovations made to the survey instrument. The study was grounded in the theoretical framework of Maslow's Needs Hierarchy and Bandura's Social Cognitive Theory. A total of 71 elementary beginning teachers, out of a total of 135 (52.5%) from ten school sites in a community in Central Florida, completed and returned the anonymous questionnaire that was mailed to them. The ten school sites included both urban and non-urban student population classifications.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2007
- Identifier
- CFE0001747, ucf:47282
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001747
- Title
- PERCEPTIONS OF TEACHERS AND ADMINISTRATORS OF THE ORGANIZATIONAL SUPPORTS FOR INCLUSION PROGRAMS IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS.
- Creator
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Moore, Brian, House, Jess, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The success of exceptional student education, although dependent upon the teachers involved, is largely made possible both by the role the school principal performs and the organizational support provided by the school district. The primary purpose of this study was to identify the sources and components of organizational support required to implement the inclusion of students with disabilities into general education classrooms. The provision of resources by administrators, particularly the...
Show moreThe success of exceptional student education, although dependent upon the teachers involved, is largely made possible both by the role the school principal performs and the organizational support provided by the school district. The primary purpose of this study was to identify the sources and components of organizational support required to implement the inclusion of students with disabilities into general education classrooms. The provision of resources by administrators, particularly the building principal, is an example of an organizational support that helps students with disabilities learn successfully in this setting. These resources include funding, special curricula, adaptive technology, organizational resources such as time for training, and hiring of additional personnel to assist these students. The role of educational leader in inclusive education has evolved beginning with changes in federal and state legislation that were initiated in the early 1970s. Administrators are legally responsible for the education of students with special needs in the least restrictive environment. This study identifies organizational supports as well as attitudes toward inclusion reported by teachers and principals in a medium sized southwest Florida school district.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2005
- Identifier
- CFE0000615, ucf:46544
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000615
- Title
- THE EFFECTS OF LOOPING ON STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT AND SELF-EFFICACY OF EXCEPTIONAL EDUCATION STUDENTS.
- Creator
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Thomas, Marybeth, Ezell, Dan, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The focus of the current study was to examine the effects of looping on academic achievement and self-efficacy for Exceptional Student Education (ESE) students. The basic design of this study was causal comparative, or ex post facto, because the researcher was seeking to identify a difference in achievement based on developmental scale scores between the two groups of looping and non-looping students with ESE classifications. A retrospective causal comparative study was chosen because the...
Show moreThe focus of the current study was to examine the effects of looping on academic achievement and self-efficacy for Exceptional Student Education (ESE) students. The basic design of this study was causal comparative, or ex post facto, because the researcher was seeking to identify a difference in achievement based on developmental scale scores between the two groups of looping and non-looping students with ESE classifications. A retrospective causal comparative study was chosen because the researcher began with a potential cause, looping, and studied the potential effects on achievement and self efficacy. The hypotheses were that the experimental group would outperform the control group on student achievement measures in reading and math as a result of participation in the looping classroom. In addition, it was hypothesized that the experimental group would outperform the control group on measures of self-efficacy and that there would be a correlation between reading and math developmental scale scores and self-efficacy scores. Results indicated no statistically significant difference between the experimental and control groups on measures of achievement in reading and math. Additionally, no statistically significant difference was found between the groups on measures of self-efficacy. However, moderate and statistically significant relationships were found between self-efficacy scores and reading and math development, respectively. The findings of this study indicate further research may be warranted to explore the benefits of looping in providing a more positive environment for students' emotional growth.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2005
- Identifier
- CFE0000773, ucf:46561
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000773
- Title
- A SURVEY OF THE BIG FIVE PERSONALITY TRAITS AMONG ELEMENTARY TEACHERS.
- Creator
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Rohani, Afrina R, Roberts, Sherron, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This research examined the possibility that personality traits play a part in career longevity and job satisfaction in the education field. The current study examined trends among the Big Five personality traits (Openness to Experience, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism) and their relation to job satisfaction in the elementary classroom. This researcher hypothesized that some common personality traits that are shared by teachers who persist in the classroom for...
Show moreThis research examined the possibility that personality traits play a part in career longevity and job satisfaction in the education field. The current study examined trends among the Big Five personality traits (Openness to Experience, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism) and their relation to job satisfaction in the elementary classroom. This researcher hypothesized that some common personality traits that are shared by teachers who persist in the classroom for five or more years, who are satisfied with their jobs and do not intend to leave. This researcher hypothesized that more experienced teachers would be high in Conscientiousness, and Agreeableness. This researcher hypothesized that less experienced teachers would have Big Five personality scores that are more diverse than those of experienced teachers and that are more representative of the personalities of the general population. This researcher also hypothesized that teachers who score higher in the areas of Neuroticism and lower on Conscientiousness and Extraversion, would be dissatisfied with their jobs. The survey was completed by 202 participants. Experienced teachers (those working in the classroom for five or more years), and less experienced teachers (those working in the classroom for four years or less) completed the Big Five personality survey, along with additional survey questions that assess job satisfaction, and intent to leave. This research found no trend among personality traits in experienced teachers compared to inexperienced teachers. There was, however, a correlation between intention to leave and Neuroticism as well as a correlation between job satisfaction and Neuroticism, Extraversion, and Conscientiousness.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFH2000257, ucf:45965
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000257
- Title
- CHALLENGING A TRADITIONAL SOCIAL NORM IN A SECOND GRADE MATHEMATICS CLASSROOM.
- Creator
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Egendoerfer, Lisa, Dixon, Juli K., University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
In an attempt to examine classroom dialogue within a second grade classroom, I encouraged students to participate in mathematics discussions without needing to raise their hands before speaking. I challenged this traditional social norm and established sociomathematical norms as the study progressed. My study showed the effects of this change on the dialogue of students in my classroom. Focus was placed on the participation in classroom discussions when traditional social and...
Show moreIn an attempt to examine classroom dialogue within a second grade classroom, I encouraged students to participate in mathematics discussions without needing to raise their hands before speaking. I challenged this traditional social norm and established sociomathematical norms as the study progressed. My study showed the effects of this change on the dialogue of students in my classroom. Focus was placed on the participation in classroom discussions when traditional social and sociomathematical norms were in place as well as when new norms were established. The study helped determine the effects of student-centered dialogue on conceptual understanding as demonstrated in the students' discussions, participation, and written expression.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2006
- Identifier
- CFE0000946, ucf:46734
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000946
- Title
- THE EFFECTS OF INQUIRY AND SINGLE-GENDER GROUPING ON SECOND GRADE GIRLS' ATTITUDES AND PARTICIPATION IN SCIENCE.
- Creator
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Estrada, Elsy, Jeanpierre, Bobby, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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Disparities between males and females in attitudes toward science have been the focus of extensive investigations. Studies have found that females feel intimidated by their male peers in science and mathematics classes, making girls less likely to participate. Their confidence in these areas decreases and they become less likely to follow related career paths. Researchers and educators are at task to find methods to provide equal learning opportunities for all students. The purpose of this...
Show moreDisparities between males and females in attitudes toward science have been the focus of extensive investigations. Studies have found that females feel intimidated by their male peers in science and mathematics classes, making girls less likely to participate. Their confidence in these areas decreases and they become less likely to follow related career paths. Researchers and educators are at task to find methods to provide equal learning opportunities for all students. The purpose of this action research was to investigate the effects of single-gender grouping and inquiry-based teaching on girls' participation and attitude in science class. This study took place in a second grade classroom at a suburban school in the fall of 2005. Surveys and interviews were used to investigate students' attitudes before and after working with inquiry learning single-gender groups. Using observations, female students' participation was recorded according to the kind of participation they exhibited passive/assisting, active/leading, or active/manipulating. Students maintained journals to record their understanding of science content and rated the lessons. In addition to improving female students' attitudes towards science, inquiry learning fostered an increase in active student participation. Six out of the eight female students perceived that girls participated more in single-gender groups during the study than they did before the study in their regular mixed-gender groups. However, they did not report a change in their own participation in relation to their peers after working in single-gender groups. Further research with control groups was suggested with a larger and more socio-economically diverse population.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2006
- Identifier
- CFE0000991, ucf:46703
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000991
- Title
- LISTENING TO STUDENT VOICES: FIFTH GRADERS' PERCEPTIONS OF THEIR MATHEMATICS LEARNING WITHIN THE CONTEXT OF A MATHEMATICS REFORM EFFORT.
- Creator
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Hoffman, Elizabeth, Killingsworth Roberts, Sherron, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This qualitative study explored fifth graders' perceptions of their mathematics learning within the context of a reform effort. Students' voices are the focus of this study due to the paucity of literature on student learning from the students' perspective (Erickson & Shultz, 1992), particularly the elementary student (Gentilucci, 2004). The participants of this study, who in the past have been given a variety of labels including "disadvantaged" or "at-risk," clearly articulated, even in...
Show moreThis qualitative study explored fifth graders' perceptions of their mathematics learning within the context of a reform effort. Students' voices are the focus of this study due to the paucity of literature on student learning from the students' perspective (Erickson & Shultz, 1992), particularly the elementary student (Gentilucci, 2004). The participants of this study, who in the past have been given a variety of labels including "disadvantaged" or "at-risk," clearly articulated, even in nonstandard English, their perceptions of their mathematics learning. They passionately explained what helped them learn mathematics as well as what impeded their mathematics learning and were often incredibly insightful in their commentary. In an effort to hear and present the student voices, the data gathering methods used in this study included the use of focus groups, one-on-one interviews, and classroom observations as well as the use of a student survey. Several ethnographic methods and practices were employed to help ensure the credibility of this study, including triangulation and member checking. Data analysis involved a highly detailed, organic process which culminated in the emergence of a number of significant themes involving students' perspectives of mathematics, their mathematics experiences prior to fifth grade, and finally their perspectives of their learning during the first year of a mathematics reform effort. A number of valuable lessons learned as a result of this study are presented and translated into implications for the elementary mathematics classroom. These lessons, based on the students' own voices, urge teachers to prioritize mathematics instruction, effectively utilize manipulatives, games, and alternative algorithms as well as encourage classroom discourse about mathematics. If teachers would follow this outline, provided by the students' voices, students' mathematical power will be more deeply realized. Additionally, the promise of true reform due to the transformational power of students' voices is discussed and the possibilities defined.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2006
- Identifier
- CFE0000973, ucf:46693
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000973
- Title
- THE EFFECTS OF THE 5E LEARNING CYCLE MODEL ON STUDENTS' UNDERSTANDING OF FORCE AND MOTION CONCEPTS.
- Creator
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Campbell, Meghann, Sweeney, Aldrin, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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As advocated by the National Research Council [NRC] (1996) and the American Association for the Advancement of Science [AAAS] (1989), a change in the manner in which science is taught must be recognized at a national level and also embraced at a level that is reflected in every science teacher's classroom. With these ideas set forth as a guide for change,this study investigated the fifth grade students' understanding of force and motion concepts as they engaged in inquiry-based science...
Show moreAs advocated by the National Research Council [NRC] (1996) and the American Association for the Advancement of Science [AAAS] (1989), a change in the manner in which science is taught must be recognized at a national level and also embraced at a level that is reflected in every science teacher's classroom. With these ideas set forth as a guide for change,this study investigated the fifth grade students' understanding of force and motion concepts as they engaged in inquiry-based science investigations through the use of the 5E Learning Cycle. The researcher's journey through this process was also a focus of the study. Initial data were provided by a pretest indicating students' understanding of force and motion concepts. Four times weekly for a period of 14 weeks, students participated in investigations related to force and motion concepts. Their subsequent understanding of these concepts and their ability to generalize their understandings was evaluated via a posttest. Additionally, a review of lab activity sheets, other classroom-based assessments, and filmed interviews allowed for the triangulation of pertinent data necessary to draw conclusions from the study. Findings showed that student knowledge of force and motion concepts did increase although their understanding as demonstrated on paper lacked completeness versus understanding in an interview setting. Survey results also showed that after the study students believed they did not learn science best via textbook-based instruction.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2006
- Identifier
- CFE0001007, ucf:46831
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001007
- Title
- SURVEYING EDUCATIONS PROFESSIONALS TO EXPLORE HOW TO INCORPORATE TRAUMA EDUCATION IN UCF'S TEACH PREPARATION PROGRAM.
- Creator
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Doman, Jordan, Jennings-Towle, Kelly, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Traumatic events do not discriminate based on economic status, race, culture, or age. This is true for the hundreds of thousands of students who walk into classrooms every day having experienced trauma. Our teachers are then challenged to support these students in a time when their ability to learn may be affected by trauma. The goal of my thesis is to show the need to educate preservice teachers in the University of Central Florida's elementary education teacher preparation program about...
Show moreTraumatic events do not discriminate based on economic status, race, culture, or age. This is true for the hundreds of thousands of students who walk into classrooms every day having experienced trauma. Our teachers are then challenged to support these students in a time when their ability to learn may be affected by trauma. The goal of my thesis is to show the need to educate preservice teachers in the University of Central Florida's elementary education teacher preparation program about students experiencing trauma and how to best support these students. By analyzing existing literature and through interviews with professionals working with children experiencing trauma in and out of the classroom, a quick guide containing the definition of childhood trauma, how it affects the lives of students in elementary classrooms, and best practices to support these students will be constructed. Additionally, this thesis will survey UCF elementary education students preexisting knowledge of childhood trauma and their desire to learn more about the subject. This survey was completed by preservice teachers in the University of Central Florida elementary education preparation program The results of the survey will determine student interest in learning about teaching students who are experiencing trauma, as well as student knowledge of students experiencing trauma. The results from this survey suggest students are interested in learning more on how to support students going through trauma and that their depth of knowledge on the subject can be expanded.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFH2000416, ucf:45735
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000416
- Title
- IMPLEMENTING GROWTH MINDSET PRINCIPLES FOR GIRLS IN STEM ELEMENTARY CLASSROOMS THROUGH THE CREATION OF A CHILDREN'S BOOK.
- Creator
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Van Westering, Jessica, Buchoff, Rita, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
With an emphasis on STEM education in schools, young girls begin to have an idea that math and science skills are based on one's natural ability. A fixed mindset is the belief that one possesses an ability that comes naturally. Many girls, starting at the elementary level tend to interpret a lack of skill for being dumb, and therefore, give up on difficult subjects like math and science. On the other hand, a fluid theory of intelligence, or growth mindset is when a student values effort and...
Show moreWith an emphasis on STEM education in schools, young girls begin to have an idea that math and science skills are based on one's natural ability. A fixed mindset is the belief that one possesses an ability that comes naturally. Many girls, starting at the elementary level tend to interpret a lack of skill for being dumb, and therefore, give up on difficult subjects like math and science. On the other hand, a fluid theory of intelligence, or growth mindset is when a student values effort and understands that these "abilities" come from hard work and taking on new challenges. Students in a growth mindset see intelligence as something that can be developed overtime, while every learning opportunity, challenge, and failure is seen as an important step to becoming more knowledgeable. As a teacher, promoting a growth mindset in the classroom is key for student success; praising and encouraging students through the process of learning is more valuable then giving a grade for the final product. This thesis not only researched the differences between a growth versus fixed mindset, but also the value of fluid theories of intelligence, and the effects on elementary aged girls. This thesis includes a children's book that promotes the idea of a growth mindset with a protagonist who learns to see the importance of persevering, working hard, and attaining success. With the picturebook intended for elementary aged students, its hope is to bring awareness to students and teachers that having a growth mindset mentality is important.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2016
- Identifier
- CFH2000089, ucf:45505
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000089
- Title
- EXPLORING ELEMENTARY TEACHERS' PERCEPTIONS OF TEACHING SOCIAL STUDIES THROUGH HISTORICAL FICTION USING GOOGLE LIT TRIPS.
- Creator
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Bider, Kristin, Killingsworth Roberts, Sherron, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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There is a new generation of students entering our school systems called "Digital Natives"; students who are more technologically inclined than their teachers. With the new cohort of students, it is becoming problematic for teachers to implement engaging lessons. Because social studies is not a state tested subject, teachers and administrators find it very difficult to retrieve the time and the passion for the subject in the everyday classroom. One new Google application called Google Lit...
Show moreThere is a new generation of students entering our school systems called "Digital Natives"; students who are more technologically inclined than their teachers. With the new cohort of students, it is becoming problematic for teachers to implement engaging lessons. Because social studies is not a state tested subject, teachers and administrators find it very difficult to retrieve the time and the passion for the subject in the everyday classroom. One new Google application called Google Lit Trips is an appealing way to teach social studies for the new generation of students. Prior research on Google Lit Trips showed that this application is well suited for creating lessons that can satisfy standards for a multitude of subjects, and in a way that catches the students' attentions. After I completed research on the 21st century learner, how teachers can integrate social studies into their classroom, and Google Literature Trips; I studied many virtual field trips of various books or novels. These Google Literature Trips allows teachers to utilize Google Earth to pin locations of importance for students in order to gain a visual, while simultaneously exploring educational activities. Then, I created my own Google Lit Trip. Before teachers participated in exploring the Google Lit Trip I created, a survey was conducted on the five teachers; getting their perceptions of technology, social studies education, and Google Lit Trips. They were then asked to read the picture book The Story of Ruby Bridges (Coles, 1995). The computer application was then shown to teachers to get their opinions on its perceived effectiveness. A post-survey was then conducted on the teachers' perceptions of the Google Literature Trip. The results of the teachers' discernments of the teaching tool proved it to be an effective application to use in the classroom to enhance cross-curricular education from technology, art, reading, and most importantly for this thesis, social studies. Future research should be conducted on students' perceptions, and whether or not it sustains engagement, and whether or not their knowledge of the subject matter improves.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFH0004497, ucf:45072
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004497
- Title
- THE COMMITMENT OF ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEACHERS TO INCLUSIVE EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES.
- Creator
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Cox, Margaret, Martin, Suzanne, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The purpose of this study was to investigate the commitment of elementary school teachers to inclusive education for students with disabilities (SWD), and whether the commitment to inclusive education between general and special education teachers was equal. Measurements were based on Richard Clarke's Commitmemt and Necessary Effort (CANE) theory, severity of disability, and demographic factors including teaching assignment, number of students in class, number of years teaching and number...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to investigate the commitment of elementary school teachers to inclusive education for students with disabilities (SWD), and whether the commitment to inclusive education between general and special education teachers was equal. Measurements were based on Richard Clarke's Commitmemt and Necessary Effort (CANE) theory, severity of disability, and demographic factors including teaching assignment, number of students in class, number of years teaching and number of years working in an inclusive setting. A four-point Likert-type survey(Appendix A) adapted from a combination of Spencer Salend's (2008) "Teacher's Inclusion Survey and Interview Question to examine the Experience of Educators Working in Inclusive Classrooms" was used to collect the data. The data indicated that 57% of the respondents were committed to inclusive education, with special education teachers displaying a greater committment than their general education counterparts. In addition some of the earlier roadblocks to inclusive education such as needed support from administrators and ancillary personnel dealing with SWD, lack of resources, time for collaboration and consulation, along with a need for more training, still appear to be pervasive problems in implementing a fully inclusive program for all students nearly two decades later in contemporary schools.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2009
- Identifier
- CFE0002858, ucf:48070
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002858
- Title
- A STUDY OF AN ATTEMPT TO IMPROVE THE RELIABILITY OF TEACHERS' HOLISTIC SCORES OF ELEMENTARY WRITING THROUGH IN-HOUSE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT.
- Creator
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Farmer, Lisa, Hynes, Michael, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This study evaluated the effectiveness of a school-based training that attempted to improve the reliability of holistic scores teachers assigned to the writings of elementary school students. Seventeen teachers at one suburban elementary school located in the Southeastern United States participated in three training sessions that allowed for scoring practice and group discussions. The trainers, or presenters, were "faculty-experts." A comparison of scores the participants assigned to students...
Show moreThis study evaluated the effectiveness of a school-based training that attempted to improve the reliability of holistic scores teachers assigned to the writings of elementary school students. Seventeen teachers at one suburban elementary school located in the Southeastern United States participated in three training sessions that allowed for scoring practice and group discussions. The trainers, or presenters, were "faculty-experts." A comparison of scores the participants assigned to students' writings before and after the training was conducted. The analyses included t-tests that compared the participants' mean scores to the scores assigned by raters from the state, a within-group analysis of reliability as measured by Cronbach's Alpha, and percentage agreement analyses. The results suggested that the in-house training activities promoted higher inter-rater reliability of scores assigned to students' writings by the teachers in this study. This study also compared teachers identified as being highly confident writers with teachers who reported low levels of self-confidence related to writing. Prior to the training, the highly confident teachers' scores tended to be lower than the state scores and the scores assigned by their less confident peers. During group discussions, however, the "high-confidence" group was just as likely to change their scores to a higher level as to a lower level, and by the end of the training, both groups demonstrated more consistent score patterns.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2008
- Identifier
- CFE0002297, ucf:47855
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002297
- Title
- The Relationship of Computer Science Immersion in Elementary Schools to Achievement of High Poverty Students.
- Creator
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Erickson, Keith, Taylor, Rosemarye, Ceballos, Marjorie, Gordon, William, Clark, M. H., University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The purpose of this study was to determine if a relationship existed between the implementation of a computer science immersive learning experience and achievement on the Florida Standards Assessment (FSA) English Language Arts (ELA) or the FSA Mathematics. Two research questions, each with two sub-questions, guided the research of the study. The sub-questions addressed historically underrepresented groups in computer science. These subgroups included African Americans, Hispanics, Mixed Race...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to determine if a relationship existed between the implementation of a computer science immersive learning experience and achievement on the Florida Standards Assessment (FSA) English Language Arts (ELA) or the FSA Mathematics. Two research questions, each with two sub-questions, guided the research of the study. The sub-questions addressed historically underrepresented groups in computer science. These subgroups included African Americans, Hispanics, Mixed Race individuals, and females. Research Question 1 analyzed the relationship between the implementation of the computer science immersive learning experience when a cohort control group design was used. Research Question 2 determined if a relationship existed when the treatment schools were compared to demographically similar schools that did not receive the treatment of computer science immersion. A two-way analysis of variances (ANOVA) was run for each of the research questions with the subgroups of students used as moderators for the treatment. Statistical significance was found for the following groups; fourth grade ELA Hispanic cohort, fourth grade Hispanic mathematics cohort, third grade ELA cohort, third grade mathematics cohort, the ELA treatment group, and the mathematics treatment group. Statistically significant findings showed negative, positive, and neutral effects on the treatment groups. These findings provide implications for the implementation of computer science immersion in other elementary schools with similar student demographic variables. Further investigation is needed to determine other potential impacts on student achievement over time.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2019
- Identifier
- CFE0007627, ucf:52559
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007627