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- Title
- Identity and Second Language Acquisition: A Study on Adult Puerto Rican Migrants living in the United States.
- Creator
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Soares Gomes, Marcio Rubens, Vitanova-Haralampiev, Gergana, Mihai, Florin, Garcia, Martha, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Drawing on the poststructuralist construct of identity and on Norton's (1995) concept of investment, as well as on Bourdieu's (1977) notion of capital, this qualitative research study relies on data gathered through interviews conducted with two adult female participants from Puerto Rico, who migrated to Central Florida approximately ten years ago. It aims at answering the following questions: (i) what identity-related factors facilitate or hinder the acquisition of the target language by...
Show moreDrawing on the poststructuralist construct of identity and on Norton's (1995) concept of investment, as well as on Bourdieu's (1977) notion of capital, this qualitative research study relies on data gathered through interviews conducted with two adult female participants from Puerto Rico, who migrated to Central Florida approximately ten years ago. It aims at answering the following questions: (i) what identity-related factors facilitate or hinder the acquisition of the target language by Puerto Rican migrants? (ii) what social forces or barriers impact learning ESL in the context of Puerto Rican migration to the United States? The findings indicate that investment in social and academic practices can benefit students who want to learn the target language, but power inequities in interactions between native speakers and migrants can prevent the latter from interacting in the English-speaking community, making it difficult to acquire the language. The findings may serve to encourage further studies in second language and identity.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2019
- Identifier
- CFE0007531, ucf:52585
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007531
- Title
- Meeting the Needs of Students Through a Targeted Professional Development.
- Creator
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Copelin, Anthony, Hopp, Carolyn, Vitale, Thomas, Robinson, Edward, Hayes, Grant, Puig, Enrique, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This study presents a complex problem of practice occurring at Primrose Elementary school [pseudonym]. A large portion of Primrose Elementary School's population has been unable to meet Florida's state reading proficiency standards over the last twelve years. Students of Primrose Elementary have a poor foundation in language on which to build vital reading skills. Consequently, students cannot overcome this deficiency because teachers lack the content knowledge to meet the students' language...
Show moreThis study presents a complex problem of practice occurring at Primrose Elementary school [pseudonym]. A large portion of Primrose Elementary School's population has been unable to meet Florida's state reading proficiency standards over the last twelve years. Students of Primrose Elementary have a poor foundation in language on which to build vital reading skills. Consequently, students cannot overcome this deficiency because teachers lack the content knowledge to meet the students' language and subsequent reading deficiencies, in spite of 12 years of reading professional development. This dissertation in practice will propose the use of targeted professional development to address below grade level reading performance. The proposed professional development should be delivered through a cyclical model focused on six, sequentially presented key elements: (1) knowledge of language development; (2) knowledge of text complexity; (3) modeling; (4) close reading; (5) collaborative conversations; and (6) independent reading. Delivery is designed to support reading proficiency through language acquisition. Delivery steps will (a) introduce, (b) practice and plan, (c) use, (d) reflect on, and (e) review each element as a skill. A review of school performance and literature correlated impacts of low student socioeconomic status and teacher quality on student reading outcomes
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFE0005475, ucf:50336
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005475
- Title
- Understanding the Effect of Formulaic Language on ESL Teachers' Perceptions of Advanced L2 Writing: An Application of Corpus-Identified Formulaic Language.
- Creator
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Youngblood, Alison, Nutta, Joyce, Folse, Keith, Xu, Lihua, Purmensky, Kerry, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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A quantitative study was conducted to determine if the amount of formulaic language influenced ESL teachers' perceptions (n=102) of non-native writing skill, as evidenced by composite and sub-scale scores on the ESL Composition Profile (Jacobs et al., 1981). Formulaic language was operationalized as 25 three-word strings sampled from the writing sub-list of the Academic Formulas List (Simpson-Vlach (&) Ellis, 2010) and further validated as frequent in the Michigan Corpus of Upper Level...
Show moreA quantitative study was conducted to determine if the amount of formulaic language influenced ESL teachers' perceptions (n=102) of non-native writing skill, as evidenced by composite and sub-scale scores on the ESL Composition Profile (Jacobs et al., 1981). Formulaic language was operationalized as 25 three-word strings sampled from the writing sub-list of the Academic Formulas List (Simpson-Vlach (&) Ellis, 2010) and further validated as frequent in the Michigan Corpus of Upper Level Student Papers. The target formulaic sequences were divided into three experimental groups representing a low, mid, and high amount of formulaic language. Four advanced non-native writers generated argumentative, timed writing samples that incorporated the target sequences. The writing samples were then assembled into data collection packets and distributed at eight Intensive English Programs across the southeastern United States. A repeated measures ANOVA indicated that there was a significant difference in composite score (p(<).05) between the control and three experimental conditions; however, the essays that incorporated 16 and 25 formulaic sequences scored significantly lower than those with zero or eight target sequences. When the amount of syntactical and semantic errors were strictly controlled for, the composite scores also fell between the control and experimental conditions, but the decrease in score was not significant (p(>).05). The content, organization, vocabulary, language, and mechanics sub-scales were also compared using a repeated measures MANOVA. In content, organization, and language, the control and low essays outscored the mid and high conditions (p(<).05). For the vocabulary sub-scale, the control and low condition were not significantly different, but the control essays only outperformed the mid level essays. The low essays outperformed both the mid and high essays. In terms of mechanics, there was only a significant difference between the low and mid level essays. The results of the MANOVA were consistent when the amount of syntactic and semantic errors were controlled.Implications for teaching suggest that the Academic Formulas List would not benefit academically-oriented L2 learners preparing to enter a university. While corpus tools are valuable in helping teachers, material writers, and publishers improve vocabulary instruction in the English classroom, not all statistically salient lexical combinations are important for non-native writers to master and incorporate in their academic discourse.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2014
- Identifier
- CFE0005447, ucf:50397
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005447
- Title
- CLOSING THE ACHIEVEMENT GAP FOR ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS:A COMPARISON OF LANGUAGE ARTS/ESOL AND ONE-WAY DEVELOPMENTAL BILINGUAL PROGRAMS.
- Creator
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Marlow, Kimberly, Murray, Barbara, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The present study was conducted to investigate two English Language Learner programs in one Florida county and their implications for student achievement. The literature review showed that, as students progress through the educational system, the academic content becomes more and more abstract, forcing students to rely more heavily on their oral and written communication skills in English. Significant achievement gaps, sometimes extremely large, were also identified between English-only...
Show moreThe present study was conducted to investigate two English Language Learner programs in one Florida county and their implications for student achievement. The literature review showed that, as students progress through the educational system, the academic content becomes more and more abstract, forcing students to rely more heavily on their oral and written communication skills in English. Significant achievement gaps, sometimes extremely large, were also identified between English-only students and English Language Learner students. One study highlighted a 46% gap on the 2005 National Assessment of Education Progress (NAEP). The present study was designed to investigate 23 middle schools in one Florida county. The focus of the study was on two English Language Learner programs: Language Arts/ESOL and One-Way Developmental Bilingual Education. A total of 13 schools were identified that had implemented the Language Arts/ESOL program, and 10 middle schools were identified that had implemented the One-Way Developmental Bilingual Education program. The 2007 FCAT reading mean scale scores for the schools' 7th-grade English Language Learners were compared to those of standard curriculum students. For both English Language Learner programs, a statistical significance was found using t-tests. In addition, FCAT reading Levels 1-5 were investigated. At FCAT Levels 1-3, the Language Arts/ESOL program out-performed the One-Way Developmental Bilingual Education program. At FCAT Levels 4 and 5, the One-Way Developmental Bilingual Education program out-performed the Language Arts/ESOL program.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2008
- Identifier
- CFE0002059, ucf:47582
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002059
- Title
- "WE'RE BECOMING BILINGUAL AND BILITERATE!" AN ETHNOGRAPHIC STUDY ON HOW A DUAL-LANGUAGE PROGRAM IN FLORIDA CONTRIBUTES TO THE LITERACY DEVELOPMENT OF ENGLISH-LANGUAGE LEARNERS.
- Creator
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Black, Diane, Lue, Martha, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
ABSTRACT The purpose of this research was to determine whether participation in a dual-language program by English-language learners (ELLs) contributed to the literacy development of this student population. This qualitative research spanned 5 months and was conducted within an elementary school located in central Florida. It is important to note that the researcher was also a teacher within the dual-language program under study, hence possessed an inside perspective of the program and the...
Show moreABSTRACT The purpose of this research was to determine whether participation in a dual-language program by English-language learners (ELLs) contributed to the literacy development of this student population. This qualitative research spanned 5 months and was conducted within an elementary school located in central Florida. It is important to note that the researcher was also a teacher within the dual-language program under study, hence possessed an inside perspective of the program and the progression of several participating students. The study was guided by the following research questions: 1. What factors contribute to the improved literacy development for ELLs through participation in a two-way, dual-language program? 2. What factors contribute to the failure to improve the literacy development for ELLs participating in two-way, dual-language programs? As an ethnographic study, the qualitative methods of observation, interviewing, and examination of artifacts (i.e., work samples) were employed. ELLs attending the 1st through the 5th grades were observed during their Literacy Block and interviewed regarding their feelings about learning two languages. Parents and teachers were also interviewed to determine their beliefs surrounding the contribution of the dual-language program to the literacy development of the participating ELLS. Work samples, including reading scores and journal samples, were also examined. The four processes of the W. P. Thomas and V. P. Collier (1997) prism model--sociocultural processes, linguistic processes, academic development, and cognitive development--served as the theoretical framework for the data analysis. The prism model facilitated elaboration of how all processes involved in the development of the ELLs' literacy skills are related and intertwined. After triangulation of the data from the observations, interviews and work samples, ten factors affecting second-language acquisition for ELLs participating in a dual-language program were discovered in this study. Nine appeared to contribute to successful literacy development and one factor appeared to contribute to failure in the acquisition of second-language literacy skills. Based upon the findings, it appears that participation in a dual-language program indeed contributes to literacy development in ELLs. Contributions to the field and recommendations for related future research are presented.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2007
- Identifier
- CFE0001522, ucf:47134
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001522
- Title
- A PROBE INTO LEARNING APPROACHES AND ATTITUDES TOWARDS TECHNOLOGY-ENHANCED LANGUAGE LEARNING (TELL) IN CHINESE INSTRUCTION.
- Creator
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Yuan, Rong, Orwig, Gary, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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This quantitative research, carried out at the military environment at the Defense Language Institute investigated whether learning approaches could predict learners' language proficiency and learners' attitude towards technology-enhanced language learning (TELL). In addition, it also examined whether learners' demographic factors, such as age, educational backgrounds, prior experience in foreign language learning and in TELL as well as their ability to use PC and the World Wide Web could...
Show moreThis quantitative research, carried out at the military environment at the Defense Language Institute investigated whether learning approaches could predict learners' language proficiency and learners' attitude towards technology-enhanced language learning (TELL). In addition, it also examined whether learners' demographic factors, such as age, educational backgrounds, prior experience in foreign language learning and in TELL as well as their ability to use PC and the World Wide Web could predict the above mentioned language proficiency and attitude. A cluster sampling method was adopted and data was collected in four Chinese departments at the institute. Both the learning approaches inventory ASSIST and the attitudes towards TELL survey were administered to 158 Chinese language learners. 137 valid responses were obtained. All data were input into SPSS for regression and correlation analyses. Conclusions of the study are as follows: 1. The surface and apathetic approach (p<.01) was a significant predictor for both learners' measured language proficiency and their self-perception of academic performance. 2. The strategic approach was a positive predictor for learners' attitudes towards TELL; whereas, surface and apathetic approach was a negative predictor for learners' attitudes towards TELL. 3. None of the learners' demographic variables could not predict either learners' language proficiency or their attitudes towards TELL. Implications for instructional design, curriculum development, teacher education, as well as relevant research issues were discussed.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2005
- Identifier
- CFE0000829, ucf:46675
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000829
- Title
- AN INVESTIGATION OF LINGUISTIC, COGNITIVE, AND AFFECTIVE FACTORS THAT IMPACT ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS' PERFORMANCE ON A STATE STANDARDIZED READING ACHIEVEMENT TEST.
- Creator
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Strebel Halpern, Carine, Nutta, Joyce, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
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The explicit teaching of reading comprehension strategies has been proposed as a means to better prepare secondary school-aged students for today's information-dense, fast-paced, fast-changing global society, and to improve the academic performance of struggling adolescent readers. This proposition of a direct and positive impact of reading comprehension strategies on reading achievement for all students has not been investigated with English language learners (ELLs) who, by definition,...
Show moreThe explicit teaching of reading comprehension strategies has been proposed as a means to better prepare secondary school-aged students for today's information-dense, fast-paced, fast-changing global society, and to improve the academic performance of struggling adolescent readers. This proposition of a direct and positive impact of reading comprehension strategies on reading achievement for all students has not been investigated with English language learners (ELLs) who, by definition, do not possess the same level of English language skills as their native-English speaking peers. This mixed-method study investigated linguistic, cognitive, as well as affective factors that impact adolescent ELLs' performance on a standardized state reading achievement test. The quantitative portion examined the relative contributions of second language proficiency and reading comprehension strategies to a prediction model of reading achievement in 110 ninth and tenth grade ELLs. The qualitative portion of the study involved individual interviews and was aimed at deepening the understanding of ELLs' use of strategies during the standardized reading test, while also investigating affective factors that may impact their performance on this measure of academic achievement. Quantitative findings include two statistically significant prediction models of reading achievement with reading comprehension strategies and English language proficiency as predictor variables. However, only language proficiency made a significant unique contribution to the prediction variable. Qualitative findings suggest that the participants had relatively little metacognitive awareness of their comprehension during the standardized test, had overestimated their use of reading strategies as reported on a 30-item strategy survey instrument, had concentrated on sentence-level comprehension due to unknown vocabulary, and may have been hindered by testing anxiety in being able to wholly concentrate on the task. Recommendations made for the instruction of comprehension strategies consist of the raising of metacognitive awareness through the explicit modeling of the thought processes involved in reading comprehension, including determining the meaning of unknown words.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2009
- Identifier
- CFE0002931, ucf:47989
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002931
- Title
- An Investigation of the Appropriateness of the English Language Learner Accountability Mark Established by the Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015.
- Creator
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Rivera, Francisco, Johnson, Jerry, Nutta, Joyce, Doherty, Walter, Pace, Debra, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This quantitative study sought to disclose and describe differences in academic performance between English language learners (ELLs) and non-English language learners (non-ELLs) in grades sixth, seventh, and eighth during the two-year period of 2016 (-) 2018. A two-year period was utilized because of the two-year ELL accountability mark established by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) of 2015. The study used i-Ready diagnostic data, in both mathematics and reading, as the performance...
Show moreThis quantitative study sought to disclose and describe differences in academic performance between English language learners (ELLs) and non-English language learners (non-ELLs) in grades sixth, seventh, and eighth during the two-year period of 2016 (-) 2018. A two-year period was utilized because of the two-year ELL accountability mark established by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) of 2015. The study used i-Ready diagnostic data, in both mathematics and reading, as the performance measures, and used ACCESS for ELLs (WIDA) tier scores (i.e., WIDA Tier A, WIDA Tier B, and WIDA Tier C) to identify the level of English language acquisition of the ELL students for use in making comparisons among ELL students with varying levels of English proficiency.The results indicated that WIDA Tier C (i.e., ELL students with the highest English language proficiency) students outperformed the ELL students in the other WIDA tiers (i.e., WIDA Tier A and WIDA Tier B), in both mathematics and reading. Moreover, while WIDA Tier A students had lower mean scale scores, they made the largest gains from administration to administration in both subjects. Additionally, the results obtained from a two-way ANOVA indicated that ELL students are making greater gains than non-ELL students over the two-year period, in mathematics and reading. The extant literature on second language acquisition asserts that it takes an ELL student longer than two years and up to seven years to acquire academic language proficiency (Collier, 1995; MacSwan (&) Pray, 2005; Hakuta, 2011; Kieffer (&) Park, 2016). The ANOVA results also indicated that high-SES ELL students showed a higher mean gain score, in both mathematics and reading, than low-SES ELL students. Non-ESE ELL students showed a larger mean gain score than ESE ELL students in both subjects as well. Furthermore, the results of the ancillary analysis (i.e., a hypothetical additional year) indicated that non-ELL students outperformed ELL students in both mathematics and reading suggesting that it is unlikely that one additional year would make a difference.The results of the study will aid the academic decision-making of the school district studied when determining the appropriate level of supports for ELL students in the different WIDA tiers or in the different stages of language acquisition. In addition, the results of the effects of socioeconomic status (SES) and of exceptional student education (ESE) in ELL students, should support the school district when planning interventions to help mitigate these factors. Lastly, the study provides further evidence that two years is not enough time for an ELL student to acquire academic language proficiency; and expecting this subgroup of the public-school population to do so, negatively affects the academic results of the students, schools, and school districts they attend.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2019
- Identifier
- CFE0007715, ucf:52413
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007715
- Title
- Examining Facebook as a Digitally Immersive Language Environment for French Language Learners.
- Creator
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Wyatt, Shelly, Gunter, Glenda, Witta, Eleanor, Boyd, Tammy, Crevecoeur, Edwidge, Metcalf, David, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This quasi-experimental study examined the impact of interactions with native French language Facebook posts on beginning French language learners' willingness to communicate (WTC) and their attitudes towards the target language and culture in a university setting. In addition, the degree of interaction, by participants, with the French language Facebook posts was recorded and analyzed. This study was conducted during the Spring 2013 semester at the University of Central Florida in Orlando,...
Show moreThis quasi-experimental study examined the impact of interactions with native French language Facebook posts on beginning French language learners' willingness to communicate (WTC) and their attitudes towards the target language and culture in a university setting. In addition, the degree of interaction, by participants, with the French language Facebook posts was recorded and analyzed. This study was conducted during the Spring 2013 semester at the University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida. Participants in this study were recruited from two sections of FRE 1120, Elementary French Language and Civilization I. Native French language Facebook posts were (")pushed(") to participants' personal Facebook News Feeds over the course of four weeks, with posts pushed on weekdays only and Facebook polls asking for participant feedback on Fridays. Two instruments were used in this study to obtain participants' demographic information and to measure willingness to communicate as well attitudes towards the target language and culture. In addition, the researcher gathered observational data directly from Facebook.Data were analyzed using a Split-plot ANOVA and descriptive statistics. A total of 26 participants completed the study, with 14 participants in the control group and 12 participants in the treatment group. Both sections of FRE 1120 were conducted in a traditional, face-to-face format and were taught by the same instructor. Results indicated that participants' willingness to communicate in French and their attitudes towards the target language and culture were not significantly impacted by interaction with native French language Facebook posts. The level of Facebook-facilitated interactions in all areas, including (")Liking,(") Sharing,(") and (")Commenting(") was low. Self-reported interactions, including reading, viewing and translating of French language Facebook posts; Reading and viewing posts (such as simply viewing a photo) was the most frequently reported interaction, with (")Commenting(") and (")Sharing(") was the least common interaction. Opportunities for future research are numerous and include increasing the size of the sample, increasing the length of the study, and selected participants' who are more advanced in their mastery of the target language. The potential of social network sites to serve as digitally immersive environments for foreign language learners should be explored in more depth and across various languages.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2013
- Identifier
- CFE0005076, ucf:49957
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005076
- Title
- The Relationship of English Language Scores on International Students' Academic Success.
- Creator
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Shbeeb, Rebekah, Biraimah, Karen, Cintron Delgado, Rosa, Bai, Haiyan, Wolford, Anna, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
International graduate students at the University of Central Florida (UCF) are not completing graduate programs at the same rate as domestic graduate students. One of the main differences in the admissions process for international graduate students compared to domestic students is the English language test requirement. The purpose of this study was twofold: to test if the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the (International English Language Testing System) IELTS scores have...
Show moreInternational graduate students at the University of Central Florida (UCF) are not completing graduate programs at the same rate as domestic graduate students. One of the main differences in the admissions process for international graduate students compared to domestic students is the English language test requirement. The purpose of this study was twofold: to test if the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the (International English Language Testing System) IELTS scores have any statistically significant linear relationships to international graduate students' academic success as defined by their cumulative grade point average (CGPA). Secondly, this study sought to understand how international graduate students feel about the TOEFL and/or IELTS, and whether or not they feel prepared for study with regards to their English language ability. Using mixed-methods research, data were retrieved from international graduate students who graduated from UCF during the 2012 (-) 2016 academic school years. Information from a total of 583 international graduate students was included in the retrieved data collection and data analyses. A survey was also utilized to assess current international graduate students' perceptions of the English language test and requirements. A total of 235 students completed the survey. The study demonstrated that TOEFL and IELTS scores do not have any statistically significant linear relationship to international graduate students' CGPA. Therefore, results from this research study did not indicate that the English language test scores have an impact on academic success for international graduate students who met the UCF admission requirements. The findings also demonstrate that international graduate students generally feel the scores are an accurate assessment of their English language abilities. However, many international graduate students expressed a desire for additional English language resources.The findings are beneficial in able to better understand whether or not English language test scores have any impact on international graduate students' success, and to more accurately comprehend the international graduate students' perspective regarding the language requirement.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2019
- Identifier
- CFE0007725, ucf:52421
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007725
- Title
- Effects of Collaboration Between Speech-Language Pathologists and Third-Grade Teachers on Student Vocabulary Outcomes.
- Creator
-
Mitchell, Mary, Ehren, Barbara, Towson, Jacqueline, Zygouris-Coe, Vassiliki, Hahs-Vaughn, Debbie, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
A persistent literacy crisis continues to be reflected in international (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development [OECD], 2013), national (National Center for Education Statistics [NCES], 2015), and local literacy outcome data. Educators, including speech-language pathologists (SLPs), are called upon to collaborate to support students who struggle with academic language/literacy. However, few studies have operationally defined collaboration and investigated the effects of...
Show moreA persistent literacy crisis continues to be reflected in international (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development [OECD], 2013), national (National Center for Education Statistics [NCES], 2015), and local literacy outcome data. Educators, including speech-language pathologists (SLPs), are called upon to collaborate to support students who struggle with academic language/literacy. However, few studies have operationally defined collaboration and investigated the effects of collaboration on student achievement. As a result, there is insufficient guidance for educators about ways to design, implement, and assess the effectiveness of collaboration models, defined in terms of their effects on student outcomes.There were two main objectives of this research. The first objective was to investigate whether literacy partnerships between SLPs and third-grade general education teachers, who used a systematic collaboration protocol, yielded better vocabulary outcomes for students than teachers instructing without collaborating with SLPs. The second objective of the study was to examine collaborators' progress toward adopting the collaboration protocol. The quasi-experimental design involved a collaboration treatment condition (n = 2 collaborative pairs; n = 34 students) and a comparison condition (n = 2 non-collaboration teachers; n = 34 students). In both conditions, similar versions of a specific vocabulary technique were implemented over seven weeks. Students' vocabulary knowledge was measured at pretest and posttest using three researcher-created vocabulary assessments adapted from previous measures in vocabulary research. A two-factor split-plot analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed a statistically significant interaction effect on the Words-in-Context measure. The significant effect from pretest to posttest within the entire matched group changed as a result of condition; the group mean increase in the students' scores from pretest to posttest was higher in the collaboration condition than the comparison condition. Additional key findings were: (a) a statistically significant increase in group mean scores from pretest to posttest on all three measures within the entire matched group (n = 68) and (b) non-significant interactions between the collaboration and comparison groups on two of the vocabulary measures (Synonyms and Non-Examples). When Cohen's d effect sizes were calculated within each condition, there were large effects for all three tasks in the collaboration condition. In the comparison condition, there were large effects for the Synonyms task, and medium effects for the Words-in-Context and Non-Example tasks. The findings of this study also revealed that collaborators achieved high fidelity of the collaboration protocol within a seven-week collaboration segment. Collaborators demonstrated Routine use of a specific collaboration protocol according to the tools of the Concerns Based Adoption Model (Hall (&) Hord, 2015); however, they expressed concerns around managing the task demands of the collaboration protocol. Taken as a whole, these findings are promising. Collaboration between SLPs and third-grade general education teachers using a systematic collaboration protocol with a specific vocabulary technique resulted in student vocabulary gains; on one measure, the gains were significantly larger than those made by students in classrooms where teachers did not collaborate with SLPs. The findings have potential to inform a research and practice agenda for SLPs and other educators in schools. Clinical implications and specific research directions are discussed.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFE0006767, ucf:51870
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006767
- Title
- DIALOGIC READING WITH ADOLESCENT MOTHERS.
- Creator
-
Abarca, Diana L, Towson, Jacqueline, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of teaching dialogic reading (DR) strategies to adolescent mothers as measured by DR strategy use during shared book reading with their children. The secondary purpose was to determine the impact of adolescent mothers' implementation of DR strategies on their preschool children's single word vocabulary. A single subject multiple baseline across behaviors research design was implemented with one adolescent mother and her twin boys....
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of teaching dialogic reading (DR) strategies to adolescent mothers as measured by DR strategy use during shared book reading with their children. The secondary purpose was to determine the impact of adolescent mothers' implementation of DR strategies on their preschool children's single word vocabulary. A single subject multiple baseline across behaviors research design was implemented with one adolescent mother and her twin boys. Based on visual analysis of graphical representation of the data, it was determined there was a moderate to strong functional relation between educating an adolescent mother on DR and her implementation of DR strategies during shared book reading, depending on the DR strategy. Receptive and expressive scores on the individual book assessments decreased from baseline to intervention. These results provide preliminary evidence that adolescent mothers have the potential to implement new strategies during shared book reading when provided with direct support. Future research with this population should strive towards developing an intervention for adolescent mothers and their children to enhance children's language and literacy development.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2018
- Identifier
- CFH2000277, ucf:45821
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000277
- Title
- THIRD GRADE SCIENCE TEACHERS' PERSPECTIVES ON IMPLEMENTING SENTENCE FRAMES AND WORD BANKS DURING SCIENCE LECTURES TO INCREASE THE WRITING LEVELS OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS.
- Creator
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Shimada, Mary-Margaret M, Grissom, Donita, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Each year, there is an increase of English Language Learners (ELLS) entering today's classrooms. A third grade teacher can be faced with having multiple ELLs in the classroom and still be required to teach them alongside native English speakers. Furthermore, third grade science teachers are also responsible for preparing all students in the classroom to comprehend and utilize scientific academic language based upon the Florida State Standards. Additionally, students are required on the FSA...
Show moreEach year, there is an increase of English Language Learners (ELLS) entering today's classrooms. A third grade teacher can be faced with having multiple ELLs in the classroom and still be required to teach them alongside native English speakers. Furthermore, third grade science teachers are also responsible for preparing all students in the classroom to comprehend and utilize scientific academic language based upon the Florida State Standards. Additionally, students are required on the FSA Florida Assessment to write about science content. Therefore, scaffolded instruction for ELLs, which will prepare them to write about science content is critical. This research study explored two third grade teachers' perspectives on implementing sentence frames and word banks in order to increase the writing levels of ELLs during science lectures. A professional development session was conducted by the researcher with the two participating third grade teachers regarding the use of sentence frames and word banks with ELLs while teaching science content. The teachers, thereafter, conducted a science lesson using the scaffolded strategy of sentence frames and word banks. It was found that when the third grade science teachers implemented sentence frames and word banks during science lectures, the ELLs showed improvement in their writing as well as their use of scientific academic language. Both teachers stated that their ELLs were somewhat completing more of their science worksheets than before the intervention. These results can conclude that implementing sentence frames and word banks during science lectures can increase the writing levels of ELLs during science lectures.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFH2000199, ucf:45996
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000199
- Title
- IMPLEMENTING PLAIN LANGUAGE INTO LEGAL DOCUMENTS: THE TECHNICAL COMMUNICATOR'S ROLE.
- Creator
-
Bivins, Peggy, Flammia, Madelyn, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This thesis discusses the benefits of using plain language in legal documents and the role technical communicators can play to help implement plain language. Although many definitions for plain language exist, it is best described as reader-focused communication that presents information in a manner that makes it easy for a reader to find, understand, and use the information. Plain language facilitates comprehension by using shorter, less complex sentences; active voice; and common words. All...
Show moreThis thesis discusses the benefits of using plain language in legal documents and the role technical communicators can play to help implement plain language. Although many definitions for plain language exist, it is best described as reader-focused communication that presents information in a manner that makes it easy for a reader to find, understand, and use the information. Plain language facilitates comprehension by using shorter, less complex sentences; active voice; and common words. All these elements aid in processing and understanding information, especially unfamiliar concepts. Laypeople, unversed in the law, frequently have difficulty understanding traditional legal writing. The complex sentences, wordiness, and redundancy that characterize traditional legal writing often inhibit comprehension and become barriers to understanding. To demonstrate how plain language can improve legal writing, this thesis reviews before-and-after versions of documents that were revised to incorporate plain language as well as common documents that laypeople might encounter. The studies and research discussed in this thesis demonstrate that readers achieve greater comprehension with plain language documents. Technical communicators, the language experts, can work with legal professionals, the content experts, to help encourage plain language use in legal writing. By emphasizing plain language use in legal formbooks, law school courses, and continuing legal education courses, plain language will become more dominant. Technical communicators can work with governments and law firms to develop and run in-house writing programs. When organizations realize how plain language can benefit them, both economically as well as in improved consumer relations, they will be motivated to adopt plain language into their legal writing.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2008
- Identifier
- CFE0002022, ucf:47608
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002022
- Title
- SECOND LANGUAGE LEARNERS' RECOGNITION OF UNKNOWN WORDS.
- Creator
-
Lin, Chai-Wei, Folse, Keith, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Recent research has underscored the important role of second language (L2) vocabulary acquisition in the reading process. The present study examined how accurately eighteen learners of English as a Second Language (ESL) were able to identify unknown words within a reading passage. It is assumed that "noticing" unfamiliar words in a text plays an important role in being able to extract meaning from context, which may ultimately result in word learning; thus, whether or not learners are able to...
Show moreRecent research has underscored the important role of second language (L2) vocabulary acquisition in the reading process. The present study examined how accurately eighteen learners of English as a Second Language (ESL) were able to identify unknown words within a reading passage. It is assumed that "noticing" unfamiliar words in a text plays an important role in being able to extract meaning from context, which may ultimately result in word learning; thus, whether or not learners are able to recognize unknown words as unknown is a key step in vocabulary learning. The design of this study was based on previous research (Laufer and Yano, 2001) on the connection between first language background and self-assessment of L2 word knowledge. The first three steps of the Lafuer and Yano study were used in this study. In the first step, ESL learners self-assessed their ability to identify selected words in a text. After this, L2 learners explained or translated the meanings of the words. Finally, the two sets of data were analyzed to measure correlations. The findings of the study showed that teachers, as well as learners, should not underestimate the importance of vocabulary. Instead, they should provide more explicit vocabulary instruction and practice. In addition, L2 learners need to learn to identify words that are unknown. The act of "noticing" unknown words and identifying them as such is the initial step towards building vocabulary through reading. Lastly, L2 learners should not rely solely on context clues for the "guessing" strategy when they have a limited level of vocabulary because they may develop mistaken word knowledge, which would impact reading comprehension. Instead, learners should develop a wide range of strategies to comprehend academic reading.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2005
- Identifier
- CFE0000645, ucf:46550
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000645
- Title
- RATE OF GRADUATION AMONG STUDENTS WITH HISTORIES OF SPECIFIC LANGUAGE IMPAIRMENT.
- Creator
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Hadley, Amy Jean, Holt, Larry, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The rate of graduation among students with histories of specific language impairment (SLI) was investigating by comparing the target population to matched, nondisabled peers. Data regarding the graduation outcomes for 176 matched pairs of students, over a five-year period, were analyzed to determine if a significant difference in achievement of a high school diploma was observable between the two groups of students. In addition, the study addressed the variables of socioeconomic status and...
Show moreThe rate of graduation among students with histories of specific language impairment (SLI) was investigating by comparing the target population to matched, nondisabled peers. Data regarding the graduation outcomes for 176 matched pairs of students, over a five-year period, were analyzed to determine if a significant difference in achievement of a high school diploma was observable between the two groups of students. In addition, the study addressed the variables of socioeconomic status and attendance rate as related to graduation rate. For students with histories of specific language impairment, model of service delivery was also examined with regard to graduation rate. Finally, the relationship between the number of years a student was enrolled in language therapy and achievement of a high school diploma was explored. The Chi-square test for goodness of fit was utilized to compare the graduation and dropout rates of students with histories of SLI to state department of education normative data. Analysis of the data suggested that significantly more students with histories of SLI left school, however, a significantly higher than expected number also received a high school diploma. The Chi-square test for independence was used to compare the graduation rates of students with histories of SLI to the rates of their nondisabled peers. A significant difference was observed between the two groups of students with dropout rate being significantly lower for nondisabled peers. The variables of socioeconomic status and attendance rate did not yield significant results as related to graduation outcomes for the students in this study. For students with histories of SLI, model of service delivery and number of years that the student received services were each weakly correlated to graduation outcome. The results presented in the current study offer implications for appropriate service delivery to adolescents with histories of SLI. Recommendations for reducing high school dropout among students with histories of SLI were discussed.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2004
- Identifier
- CFE0000018, ucf:46137
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000018
- Title
- RECEPTIVE AND EXPRESSIVE SINGLE WORD VOCABULARY ERRORS OF PRESCHOOL CHILDREN WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES.
- Creator
-
Hirn, Juliana L, Towson, Jacqueline, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
Vocabulary growth during the preschool years is critical for language development. Preschool children with developmental disabilities often have more difficulty with learning and developing language, therefore making more errors in vocabulary. It is important to recognize what type of errors children are demonstrating, especially as it relates to receptive and expressive language abilities. This study explores the error patterns preschool children with developmental disabilities make during...
Show moreVocabulary growth during the preschool years is critical for language development. Preschool children with developmental disabilities often have more difficulty with learning and developing language, therefore making more errors in vocabulary. It is important to recognize what type of errors children are demonstrating, especially as it relates to receptive and expressive language abilities. This study explores the error patterns preschool children with developmental disabilities make during receptive and expressive single word vocabulary tests. A secondary analysis of preexisting data was conducted from a sample of 68 preschool children with developmental disabilities ranging in severity. Based on a coding system developed by the author, errors were classified according to type. The majority of the errors children made were classified as No Response types of errors, with the second most common error being Semantic Perceptual errors of receptive and expressive picture naming tasks. Understanding the types of errors preschool children with disabilities make will help to enhance their language and therapy needed to thrive as a learner, especially as they begin elementary school.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2017
- Identifier
- CFH2000261, ucf:46010
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000261
- Title
- THE LITERACY EXPERIENCES OF NINTH-GRADERS AND THEIR TEACHER IN AN ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS WORKSHOP.
- Creator
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Scanlon, Elizabeth, Ousley, Denise, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The question guiding this qualitative study was: What are the literacy experiences of ninth-grade students in an English language arts workshop classroom? This study is an autoethnography and it chronicles six months in my ninth grade English classroom where I played the role of observant participant. It examines the process of reading and writing and how my perspective as a reader and a writer shapes my curricular decisions and influences my students as readers and writers.
- Date Issued
- 2005
- Identifier
- CFE0000804, ucf:46682
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000804
- Title
- INVESTIGATION OF THE OUTCOMES OF DELIVERING TRAINING TO SPANISH SPEAKERS IN STANDARD SPANISH VERSUS THEIR NATIVE DIALECT.
- Creator
-
Kosarzycki, Mary, Pritchard, Robert, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
The present study explored the outcomes of delivering training to Spanish speakers in either their native dialect or in Standard Spanish in the context of a self-running, narrated PowerPoint presentation on a health topic, "The Importance of Vaccinations." The training outcomes that were examined included learning scores; attitudes toward the training; and attitudes toward employment with organizations that employed the same or different dialect-speaking employees, supervisors, and trainers....
Show moreThe present study explored the outcomes of delivering training to Spanish speakers in either their native dialect or in Standard Spanish in the context of a self-running, narrated PowerPoint presentation on a health topic, "The Importance of Vaccinations." The training outcomes that were examined included learning scores; attitudes toward the training; and attitudes toward employment with organizations that employed the same or different dialect-speaking employees, supervisors, and trainers. In addition to examining the effects of ethnicity upon outcomes, this study also examined the effect of age, education level, time in the U.S., and familiarity with the locally dominant subgroup's dialect. Overall, results showed mixed support for the effect of presenting training to participants in their native dialect, as compared to the non-native dialect. The results of this study are discussed in terms of the theoretical implications for acquiring a better understanding of the cognitive and affective factors underlying the role of training language in the learning process. Practical implications for training design are presented within the context of cognitive load theory and the need for a theory-based approach to delivering training to non-English speakers. Implications for organizational efforts toward employee attraction and retention are discussed.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2005
- Identifier
- CFE0000881, ucf:46636
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000881
- Title
- COLLECTIVE TEACHER EFFICACY AND READING ACHIEVEMENT FOR HISPANIC STUDENTS IN READING FIRST AND NON-READING FIRST SCHOOLS IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA.
- Creator
-
Hylemon, Larry, Holt, Larry, University of Central Florida
- Abstract / Description
-
This study examined explicit and systematic reading instruction for Hispanic, limited English, lower SES students in a southwest Florida school district. Additionally, collective teacher efficacy was assessed to determine if differences existed between a Reading First and a non-Reading First school. A total of 68 students participated in the study and were divided equally between a Reading First and non-Reading First school. While the Reading First school concentrated resources on grades 2...
Show moreThis study examined explicit and systematic reading instruction for Hispanic, limited English, lower SES students in a southwest Florida school district. Additionally, collective teacher efficacy was assessed to determine if differences existed between a Reading First and a non-Reading First school. A total of 68 students participated in the study and were divided equally between a Reading First and non-Reading First school. While the Reading First school concentrated resources on grades 2 and 3, all students received some degree of Reading First strategies. Available reading measures for analyses at the time of the study included the Group Reading Assessment and Diagnostic Evaluation (GRADE), the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT), and the Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills (DIBELS). Results from two-way analyses of variance (ANOVA) did not reveal significant differences between the two groups on a pre and posttest administration of the GRADE. When the two groups were combined, repeated measures ANOVA indicated a significant difference between pre and post administrations of the GRADE with the posttest being significantly higher. Grades 4 and 5 showed significant gains between pre and posttest while grades 2 and 3 did not. It was hypothesized that as students' English proficiency improved, reading instruction became more meaningful and thus positively influenced the posttest. Both the GRADE and the DIBELS Oral Reading Fluency test were significantly correlated with the FCAT. Regression analyses revealed that both were significant predictors individually and combined of the FCAT reading score. Collective teacher efficacy was assessed with the short-form of the Collective Teacher Efficacy Scale (CTES). A total of 38 Reading First teachers and 30 non-Reading First teachers completed the CTES and a brief biographical questionnaire. Results indicated significantly higher collective teacher efficacy in the non-Reading First school. Findings did not support the hypothesis that the intensity of the Reading First program and the teacher training required would result in significantly higher collective efficacy. Differences in level of teacher education, experience, and years teaching in a school were speculated as potential variables influencing the level of collective efficacy. Implications from this study were discussed along with recommendations for future research.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2005
- Identifier
- CFE0000737, ucf:46570
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000737
