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Title: THE EFFECTS OF INTEGRATING TECHNOLOGYINTO AN 8TH GRADE SCIENCE CURRICULUM.
Creator: Brunton, Gregory, Jeanpierre, Bobby, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The growing need for technological literacy has increased its presence in public classrooms more than ever before. The purpose of this research study was to study the effects of technology integration on student achievement and attitudes toward science and technology. The participants in this 18-week study involved the 86 8th grade students at Winding Hills School in Orlando, Florida. Data were collected using a pre and post vocabulary assessment, weekly vocabulary quizzes, student attitude...
Show moreThe growing need for technological literacy has increased its presence in public classrooms more than ever before. The purpose of this research study was to study the effects of technology integration on student achievement and attitudes toward science and technology. The participants in this 18-week study involved the 86 8th grade students at Winding Hills School in Orlando, Florida. Data were collected using a pre and post vocabulary assessment, weekly vocabulary quizzes, student attitude surveys, student and parent correspondence as it relates to the study such as parent notes and e-mails, and classroom observation notes. Several conclusions were made. The effects of technology on student performance as originally planned was inconclusive in this study. It was found that there was no correlation between typing assignments and student performance. Students felt that technology increased their academic performance. Students had positive attitude towards science class though the percentage decreased during the study. Students enjoyed using technology, saw it as a benefit, felt it helped them with publishing and improved their attitudes towards technology.
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Date Issued: 2005
Identifier: CFE0000375, ucf:46338
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000375

Title: THE EFFECTS OF ATHLETIC PARTICIPATION, EXPECTATIONS ABOUT COUNSELING AND GENDER ON ATTITUDES TOWARD HELP SEEKING BEHAVIORS AMONG COMMUNITY COLLEGE STUDENTS.
Creator: Fernandez, Jose, Bozeman, William, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Researchers have determined that college student-athletes are an underrepresented population when it comes to utilizing college counseling services. Traditional students have appeared for counseling services more so than student-athletes. The primary purpose of this study was to assess the relationships between attitudes toward help seeking behavior and (a) expectations about counseling, (b) athlete status, and (c) gender of respondent among community college students. The study included 195...
Show moreResearchers have determined that college student-athletes are an underrepresented population when it comes to utilizing college counseling services. Traditional students have appeared for counseling services more so than student-athletes. The primary purpose of this study was to assess the relationships between attitudes toward help seeking behavior and (a) expectations about counseling, (b) athlete status, and (c) gender of respondent among community college students. The study included 195 students at a central Florida community college, 74 student-athletes and 121 non-athlete students. The participants were asked to convey their counseling expectations by completing the Expectations About Counseling-Brief Form. Respondents were also asked to complete the Attitudes Toward Seeking Professional Psychological Help Scale to measure their attitudes toward help seeking behavior. Further qualitative data was accumulated during an interview with one student-athlete from each of the five intercollegiate athletic teams. For this study, two hypotheses were considered. First, it was hypothesized that a significant relationship existed between attitudes toward help seeking behavior and expectations about counseling and that expectations about counseling were expected to account for a significant amount of variance in attitudes toward help seeking behavior. Results of the data analyses revealed that respondents' attitudes toward help-seeking behavior correlated significantly with only two of the four counseling expectation factors. A positive correlation was discovered for the factor of Personal Commitment and a negative correlation for the factor of Counselor Expertise. Linear regression analysis supported that expectations about counseling were expected to account for a significant amount of variance in attitudes toward help-seeking behavior. The second hypothesis hypothesized that there would be no statistically significant difference in attitudes toward help-seeking behavior based on athletic participation (student-athlete versus non-athlete students) or gender of respondent. The results of a MANOVA indicated that gender of respondent did have a statistically significant effect on attitudes toward help-seeking behavior; therefore this hypothesis was only partially supported. Based on these findings, implications for counseling student-athletes and non-athlete students are discussed. Interpretations of data analyses are included and study limitations and delimitations are identified. Finally, suggestions for future research are identified and discussed.
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Date Issued: 2005
Identifier: CFE0000391, ucf:46335
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000391

Title: LEADERSHIP BEHAVIORS GAINED AS A RESULT OF INVOLVEMENT IN A COMMUNITY COLLEGE STUDENT LEADER PROGRAM.
Creator: Torres, Chanda, Kaplan, Jeffrey, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this study was to assess whether participation in a community college student leader program had an effect on the leadership behaviors of students based on five (5) practices measured by a student leadership practices inventory. By assessing these leadership behaviors, the community college was able to determine the effectiveness of the program and ways to improve the program's curriculum. This study addressed the following: 1) whether students who participated in a student...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to assess whether participation in a community college student leader program had an effect on the leadership behaviors of students based on five (5) practices measured by a student leadership practices inventory. By assessing these leadership behaviors, the community college was able to determine the effectiveness of the program and ways to improve the program's curriculum. This study addressed the following: 1) whether students who participated in a student leader program in a community college showed significant growth in leadership behaviors; 2) whether the growth in leadership behaviors of students who participated in a student leader program in a community college were significantly different from each other in regard to gender; 3) whether the growth in leadership behaviors of students who participated in a student leader program in a community college were significantly different from each other in regard to age. The student Leadership Practices Inventory (LPI) developed by Kouzes and Posner (2002) was used as the main instrument in this study. The student Leadership Practices Inventory (LPI) is a questionnaire with thirty (30) behavioral statements--six (6) for each of The Five Practices. The population of this study consisted of 62 student leaders who were participants in a student leader program at a community college. A pre LPI was given to 62 student leaders in the beginning of the school term. A post LPI was given to 62 student leaders at the end of the school term. Thirteen of the original student leaders dropped out of the program and were replaced by new student leaders. Thus, the total number of useable inventories for data input in this study was 49; this yielded a 79% return rate. This study supports the research that students who were involved in a leadership program gained leadership behaviors. In comparing the student leaders' pretest and posttest scores of the LPI, it showed that there was a significant difference in each leadership behavior. These leadership behaviors were: Challenging the Process, Inspiring a Shared Vision, Enabling Others to Act, Modeling the Way, and Encouraging the Heart. The results of this study also showed no significant difference in the student leaders' scores in the LPI in relation to the student's age group. According to Astin (1993), the student's age at the time of college entry was not significantly associated with changes in Leadership scores. This evidence supports the argument that increases in leadership skills during undergraduate years is associated with the college experience rather than the student's maturation. There were no significant differences between the male and female student leaders in regard to the five leadership practices with the exception of the leadership practice Challenging the Process. In this study, the male student leaders scored higher, 24.79, than the female student leaders, 22.37, in Challenging the Process. The focus group in this study highlighted the leadership behaviors the student leaders gained as a result of their involvement in the student leader program. Not only did the students grow in the leadership behaviors measured by the LPI, they also gained other leadership skills. In regard to their growth as a student leader, the students felt that they grew in many different areas. The opportunity allowed them to network with students, faculty, administration and staff, and gain leadership skills. These leadership skills included: listening skills, communication skills, stress management, multitasking and customer service. The students also believed in the importance of taking initiative, practicing patience and developing others.
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Date Issued: 2008
Identifier: CFE0002049, ucf:47604
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002049

Title: AN ANALYSIS OF ACCREDITATION PROCESSES, QUALITY CONTROL CRITERIA, HISTORICAL EVENTS, AND STUDENT PERFORMANCE.
Creator: Burris, Robert, Murray, Barbara, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this study was to determine to what extent student performance has been influenced by historical events, legislative mandates, and accreditation processes. This study consists of comparing the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accreditation processes with those of the Association of Christian Schools International. In completing this qualitative study, the following procedures were implemented: Related research was used to provide a background of the role that...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to determine to what extent student performance has been influenced by historical events, legislative mandates, and accreditation processes. This study consists of comparing the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools accreditation processes with those of the Association of Christian Schools International. In completing this qualitative study, the following procedures were implemented: Related research was used to provide a background of the role that historical events, legislation, and accreditation processes have on student performance; data were collected to establish time line shifts in an historical perspective. The data collected included assessment, accountability, high school drop out rates, high school graduation rates, academic readiness for higher education, standardized testing, grade inflation, acceleration of dual enrollment and advanced placement courses, and national SAT and ACT averages. Data were also collected from historical record of accreditation processes, which included standards, teacher certification requirements, committee responsibilities, visiting team responsibilities, and self-study materials. As a result of content analysis, the researcher decided to focus on three key areas that were integral to the study. The three categories identified in the review of literature were used to analyze the content of these events and processes. The categories were: (a) Student Performance, (b) Historical Events, and (c) SACS and ACSI Accreditation Processes. The following results were obtained from this research. Findings indicated that a criterion-based accreditation process potentially results in more consistent student performance outcomes than an open-ended process.
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Date Issued: 2008
Identifier: CFE0002052, ucf:47569
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002052

Title: HOW AMERICAN STUDENT JOURNALISTS AT A COLLEGE NEWSPAPER CONSUME, PERCEIVE, AND DISSEMINATE NEWS AND INFORMATION ABOUT CHINA.
Creator: Wang, Xiaohua, Kenney, Rick, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: With the increase of cooperation between America and China, the average person's perception of the other country could be an important factor that influences the development of the relationship between these countries. This study was designed to explore how Americans student journalists view China and how these student journalists select the news for a campus newspaper that might influence their readers' perceptions of China. Student journalists not only represent American youth but...
Show moreWith the increase of cooperation between America and China, the average person's perception of the other country could be an important factor that influences the development of the relationship between these countries. This study was designed to explore how Americans student journalists view China and how these student journalists select the news for a campus newspaper that might influence their readers' perceptions of China. Student journalists not only represent American youth but also act as connectors and filters between a huge flow of information outside and students on campus. A convenience census sample of student journalists at a campus newspaper were surveyed and interviewed. The results showed that although Americans student journalists know more about China than before, Orientalism is still alive in their perceptions and representations of China. They have both strange "Other" and romantic images about China. They view China as a communist evil with less democracy; yet at the same time think of China as a romantic mystery with a fabulous history and colorful culture. In the process of American student journalists constructing their perceptions about China, mass media play a role of agenda-setter. Subjects depended on mass media to get to know China, and their perceptions of China mirror the orientation of the government's policy and mass media's coverage.
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Date Issued: 2008
Identifier: CFE0002076, ucf:47570
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002076

Title: RESILIENCY IN ADOLESCENT COLLEGE STUDENTS.
Creator: Ahern, Nancy, Byers, Jacqueline, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The construct of resilience has gained considerable attention over the last four decades since researchers observed that children and youth could cope and adapt in spite of adversity. Resilience involves a dynamic process involving an interaction between both risk and protective processes, internal and external to the individual, that can modify the effects of an adverse life event. Adolescence is considered to be a period of vulnerability for most individuals as they often partake in high...
Show moreThe construct of resilience has gained considerable attention over the last four decades since researchers observed that children and youth could cope and adapt in spite of adversity. Resilience involves a dynamic process involving an interaction between both risk and protective processes, internal and external to the individual, that can modify the effects of an adverse life event. Adolescence is considered to be a period of vulnerability for most individuals as they often partake in high risk behaviors. Further, those individuals who are in their early college years are faced with the developmental challenges of this life phase which can be complicated by a variety of stresses. Investigating resilience in college students is of great importance as these adolescents may incur additional stress as they make the transition to adulthood. Empirical evidence indicates that resilience is dynamic, developmental in nature, and interactive with one's environment. A variety of variables have been studied to clarify the concept of resilience in adolescents, yet there continues to be inconsistent findings. Although there is an abundance of literature regarding adolescent resilience, little is known about this process in the healthy well-adjusted adolescent college student. Additionally there are inconsistencies in reported findings about whether resilience is a healthy state. There is also evidence in the literature that contradictions exist regarding the effect of social support on this process. After review of the psychometric properties of existing instruments, the Resilience Scale was determined to have the best reliability and validity use for the study of resilience in the adolescent population. An exploratory model testing design was used to explore the relationships among a set of variables, including personal characteristics, levels of stress, high risk behaviors, and levels of resilience in adolescents ages 18 to 20 years. Institutional Review Board approval was obtained prior to data collection. The study participants attended a community college and met the sample selection criteria. A convenience sampling plan was used. Recruitment of participants followed the college protocol for contacting professors teaching general education classes during the planned data collection time. The study measures included a demographic questionnaire, two perceived stress visual analog scales, the Health Behaviors Questionnaire, and the Resilience Scale. Descriptive statistics were computed for all variables for the total sample (n=166) and recoding performed as needed by the instruments. Model testing was performed using correlations, hierarchical multiple regression, and path analysis to identify the strongest predictive variables. The strongest predictive model was personal characteristics and Health Behaviors Questionnaire Emotional Risk to the visual analog scale Stress in General (R2 = .519, F = 3.13, p = .000). This model was used for path analysis and the significant variables were ethnicity (standardized beta coefficients of .165, p = .036) and Health Behaviors Questionnaire Emotional Risk (standardized beta coefficients of .567, p = .000). These findings are important for health care providers to use as a basis for driving interventions to optimize resilience and reduce stress in adolescents. Further research should focus on ways to enhance coping and adaptation in an effort to reduce emotional risks which potentially increase stress in similar populations. Research regarding resilience and stress can further be expanded to the study of additional populations at risk, including adults and others such as nursing students, war veterans, and disaster victims.
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Date Issued: 2007
Identifier: CFE0001627, ucf:47177
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001627

Title: UGH...STATISTICS! COLLEGE STUDENTS' ATTITUDES AND PERCEPTIONS TOWARD STATISTICS.
Creator: Doyle, Drew A, Brophy-Ellison, James, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Statistics is a course that is required for a majority of undergraduate college students in a wide variety of majors. It is not just required for Statistics or Mathematics majors, but also for those undergraduate college students majoring in Biology, Engineering, Sociology, and countless other majors. It can often be seen as a daunting course, especially for those who feel that mathematics is not their strongest subject. Students begin to dislike the course before even starting and this can...
Show moreStatistics is a course that is required for a majority of undergraduate college students in a wide variety of majors. It is not just required for Statistics or Mathematics majors, but also for those undergraduate college students majoring in Biology, Engineering, Sociology, and countless other majors. It can often be seen as a daunting course, especially for those who feel that mathematics is not their strongest subject. Students begin to dislike the course before even starting and this can carry on throughout the entirety of the course. This thesis will focus primarily on students' perceptions and attitudes toward their statistics courses rather than their performance. Many courses are taught a specific way that is conducive to all learning styles, which may lead to the students not enjoying or understanding their statistics course. The students' learning style may also be correlated to their attitude and perception of statistics. The goal of this thesis is to better understand the college students in order to adapt the current methods so that student can enjoy the course, appreciate the knowledge they learn and its impact on their future career paths.
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Date Issued: 2017
Identifier: CFH2000165, ucf:45988
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000165

Title: THE EFFECTS OF A PROJECT-BASED MATHEMATICS CURRICULUM ON MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS' INTENDED CAREER PATHS RELATED TO SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING AND MATHEMATICS.
Creator: Clanton, Barbara, Dixon, Juli, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This study is an examination of whether a project-based mathematics curriculum would influence students' intended career paths related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) endeavors; perceived usefulness of mathematics; and perceived competence in doing mathematics. A review of the literature revealed that there are many shortages of professionals in STEM fields. United States women and men are not pursuing STEM endeavors in great numbers and the U.S. relies heavily on...
Show moreThis study is an examination of whether a project-based mathematics curriculum would influence students' intended career paths related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) endeavors; perceived usefulness of mathematics; and perceived competence in doing mathematics. A review of the literature revealed that there are many shortages of professionals in STEM fields. United States women and men are not pursuing STEM endeavors in great numbers and the U.S. relies heavily on international students to fill this gap. The literature revealed that the girls who do not pursue STEM endeavors in great numbers do not perceive mathematics as a useful endeavor and do not think they are competent in doing mathematics. Boys who do not pursue STEM endeavors in great numbers also do not perceive mathematics as a useful endeavor. The study involved 7th and 8th grade school students enrolled in algebra classes in a private college-preparatory school. The students in the experimental group participated in a problem-based curriculum that integrated lecture-based methods with four major projects designed to have students apply mathematics out of the context through hands-on real-life problems. This particular quasi-experimental design was a nonequivalent pre-test/post-test control group design. Statistical analyses were done using a general linear model repeated measures. The results of the statistical analyses indicated that the students in the project-based group showed a statistically significant positive change in their perceived usefulness of mathematics when compared to the control group. A t-test revealed no statistically significant differences in academic achievement. Qualitative data analysis uncovered three emergent themes. Students indicated that they saw the usefulness of mathematics more clearly; students' independence from the teacher while doing the projects was unsettling; and students enjoyed the change of pace in class. The results of the study indicated that a project-based mathematics curriculum can help students see the usefulness of mathematics and can help students enjoy the pursuit of mathematics by this particular change of routine.
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Date Issued: 2005
Identifier: CFE0000907, ucf:46765
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000907

Title: PERCEIVED STRESS, COPING, AND ADEQUACY OF SOCIAL SUPPORT: IMPLICATIONS FOR SUBJECTIVE WELL-BEING IN COLLEGE STUDENTS.
Creator: Asberg, Kia, Bowers, Clint, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Stress is a widespread concept commonly associated with psychological and medical problems that may impair an individual's functioning and incur costs on society. Alarming rates of depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and other stress-related problems have been found among college students. This study (N = 241)argues that reducing emotional and financial stress-related costs may be possible through increasing public and professional awareness of moderating variables, such as social support...
Show moreStress is a widespread concept commonly associated with psychological and medical problems that may impair an individual's functioning and incur costs on society. Alarming rates of depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and other stress-related problems have been found among college students. This study (N = 241)argues that reducing emotional and financial stress-related costs may be possible through increasing public and professional awareness of moderating variables, such as social support and coping resources. Results indicated that stress, inadequate social support, and escape-avoidance coping were related to higher levels of depression and lower life satisfaction in both males and females. Social support functioned as a moderator of stress in determining negative outcomes, primarily during high stress. Specifically, the interaction between stress and social support predicted depression in the combined sample, anxiety in males, and life satisfaction in females. In addition, the present study highlights the importance of accounting for gender in research concerning stress, social support, coping, and psychological adjustment. Finally, limitations and suggestions for future research will be discussed.
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Date Issued: 2005
Identifier: CFE0000882, ucf:46634
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000882

Title: EVALUATING PROTECTIVE BEHAVIOR STRATEGY INTENTIONS USING THE THEORY OF PLANNED BEHAVIOR.
Creator: Sanchez, Dakota, Dvorak, Robert D., University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: OBJECTIVE: Amongst college students there exists a concerning trend towards problem drinking owed to the cultures on campus that support problem drinking habits. Several interventions are currently used to encourage students to drink wisely with the goal of decreasing this problem drinking and the consequences of these behaviors. The current study analyzes the intention to use Protective Behavior Strategies through the model suggested in the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). METHOD: College...
Show moreOBJECTIVE: Amongst college students there exists a concerning trend towards problem drinking owed to the cultures on campus that support problem drinking habits. Several interventions are currently used to encourage students to drink wisely with the goal of decreasing this problem drinking and the consequences of these behaviors. The current study analyzes the intention to use Protective Behavior Strategies through the model suggested in the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). METHOD: College student participants (N = 171) completed a web-based survey examining alcohol-related behaviors, intentions, and perceptions at the time of the survey and over the next four weeks. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: At step 1, PBS intentions was regressed onto age and gender. This accounted for a small amount of variance in intentions. Next, the TPB predictors were added to the model which resulted in a significant improvement in the overall model fit. In the final model, perceived control over PBS use and peer PBS use norms were significant positive predictors of PBS use intentions. Attitudes toward PBS did not predict PBS use intentions.
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Date Issued: 2019
Identifier: CFH2000542, ucf:45640
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000542

Title: THE STUDENT DEBT CRISIS AND POLITICAL POLARIZATION IN THE MILLENNIAL GENERATION.
Creator: Wallace, Dylan, Kinsey, Barbara, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: According to the Pew Research Center, the modern wave of political polarization began in 1994, and is the strongest today than it has ever been during the 23-year period. (2007) Polarization in the US party system is evidenced by several factors including: growing consistent partisan views, partisan antipathy, ideological bubbles, growing difference in preferences, a shrinking political center, and the lack of political compromise. (Pew Research Center 2014) The question I attempt to answer...
Show moreAccording to the Pew Research Center, the modern wave of political polarization began in 1994, and is the strongest today than it has ever been during the 23-year period. (2007) Polarization in the US party system is evidenced by several factors including: growing consistent partisan views, partisan antipathy, ideological bubbles, growing difference in preferences, a shrinking political center, and the lack of political compromise. (Pew Research Center 2014) The question I attempt to answer in this thesis is on the factors associated with political polarization within the millennial generation. One of the most pressing issues to this generation is what is known as the Student Loan Crisis, which is the $1.45 Trillion dollars Americans owe to private and federal lenders to attend college. (StudentLoanHero.com). In this thesis, I argue that economic inequality, via the student loan crisis, contributes to political polarization within the millennial generation. My analysis takes place at the level of the individual. I conduct a statistical analysis using the 2016 American National Election Survey Dataset, to test whether political polarization, operationalized as ideological and partisan polarization, is associated with polarization on economic issues that I link to wealth inequality in the millennial generation, controlling for polarization on social issues, interest in politics, and income. The main finding is that party/ideological polarization is positive and significantly related to polarization on economic issues in the millennial generation; whether or not the Student Loan Crisis underlies this link requires further study.
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Date Issued: 2018
Identifier: CFH2000381, ucf:45773
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000381

Title: PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS AND SUBSTANCE USE AMONG COLLEGE STUDENTS.
Creator: Messer, Katelynn, Ford, Jason, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Research indicates that young adults have relatively high rates of psychological distress and substance use. Research also suggests that psychological distress and substance use are correlated as individuals may turn to substance use as a coping mechanism for psychological distress. The goal of the current research is to examine the relationship between psychological distress and substance use among college students. A secondary question is to determine if the relationship between...
Show moreResearch indicates that young adults have relatively high rates of psychological distress and substance use. Research also suggests that psychological distress and substance use are correlated as individuals may turn to substance use as a coping mechanism for psychological distress. The goal of the current research is to examine the relationship between psychological distress and substance use among college students. A secondary question is to determine if the relationship between psychological distress and substance use is different for men and women. College students are a good sample for this research question for a number of reasons. First, more young adults are enrolled in college today than ever, with about 70% of high school graduates in 2011 enrolling in college the following fall. Second, research indicates that the prevalence of substance use is relatively high among college students and that young adults enrolled in college are at increased risk for certain types of substance use compared to their same age peers who do not attend college. Third, research indicates that college students are at greater risk for psychological distress compared to their same age peers who do not attend college. This may be due to the fact that college students are exposed to unique stressors that are likely to increase risk for psychological distress. The current research uses data from a sample of college students to examine the relationship between psychological distress and substance use. Several forms of substance use are included for the dependent variable. First, a measure of binge drinking is used based on the Harvard School of Public Health College Alcohol Study to measure binge drinking. Second, a measure of marijuana use is included. Third, a measure of prescription drug misuse is included based on the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. All substance use measures are coded 0 = No and 1 = Yes. The independent variable of interest is psychological distress, measured with Kessler's Psychological Distress Scale (K10). We also measure respondent's sociodemographic characteristics (e.g., age, gender, race/ethnicity) and correlates of substance use (e.g., Greek affiliation, peer substance use, and grades) to include as controls in our analysis. A positive correlation is expected between psychological distress and substance use, as respondents with higher levels of psychological distress will be more likely to report binge drinking, marijuana use, and prescription drug misuse. In addition, it is expected that the relationship between psychological distress and all forms of substance use is moderated by gender. The relationship between psychological distress and substance use is expected to be stronger for females. To test research hypotheses several logistic regression models are estimated.
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Date Issued: 2013
Identifier: CFH0004446, ucf:45083
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004446

Title: Academic Advisors' Attitudes Toward Students Experiencing Mental Health Issues.
Creator: Aming, Danielle, Cintron Delgado, Rosa, Malaret, Stacey, Owens, J. Thomas, Hagedorn, W. Bryce, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: As students continue to pursue higher education, the potential for them to experience mental health issues will exist (National Alliance on Mental Illness, 2011; Center for Collegiate Mental Health, 2012; Gruttadaro (&) Crudo, 2012; Salzer, 2012; Center for Collegiate Mental Health, 2013). When entering a new environment, students will look to make connections with the institution; one of these connections can be with an academic advisor (Harper (&) Peterson, 2005; Harper (&) Wilson, 2010;...
Show moreAs students continue to pursue higher education, the potential for them to experience mental health issues will exist (National Alliance on Mental Illness, 2011; Center for Collegiate Mental Health, 2012; Gruttadaro (&) Crudo, 2012; Salzer, 2012; Center for Collegiate Mental Health, 2013). When entering a new environment, students will look to make connections with the institution; one of these connections can be with an academic advisor (Harper (&) Peterson, 2005; Harper (&) Wilson, 2010; Kuh, 2011; Pearson, 2012). It is important for individuals experiencing mental health issues to make connections to the institution so that they are more likely to remain and feel a sense of connection (Kadison (&) DiGeronimo, 2004).This dissertation outlines a quantitative study to examine the attitudes of academic advisors towards mental health. Using the Relational-Cultural Theory (Miller 1986; Jordan, 2000) as a framework, this study sought to determine attitudes of academic advisors and how this may affect their relationship with students.Results from 133 participants revealed that attitudes toward mental health issues do not impact the building of a mutual relationship between student and academic advisors from the academic advisors' perspective. However, characteristics such as age and personal experience with mental health issues impacted this type of relationship between the academic advisor and student.
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Date Issued: 2018
Identifier: CFE0007306, ucf:52161
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007306

Title: Multiple-Case Study and Exploratory Analysis of the Implementation of Value-Added Teacher Performance Assessment on Eighth Grade Student Achievement in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee.
Creator: Carter, James, Taylor, Rosemarye, Doherty, Walter, Hahs-Vaughn, Debbie, Gordon, William, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The goal of this research was to analyze the academic impact of the implementation of the Value Added Assessment Model. The researcher analyzed the Value Added Assessment Models in the three Value Added Assessment Model states that had implemented the Value Added Assessment Model for more than five years. Additionally, the research was done by analyzing the academic impact as measured by the eighth grade reading NAEP and the eighth grade mathematics NAEP. The researcher paired the three...
Show moreThe goal of this research was to analyze the academic impact of the implementation of the Value Added Assessment Model. The researcher analyzed the Value Added Assessment Models in the three Value Added Assessment Model states that had implemented the Value Added Assessment Model for more than five years. Additionally, the research was done by analyzing the academic impact as measured by the eighth grade reading NAEP and the eighth grade mathematics NAEP. The researcher paired the three states that had implemented Value Added Assessment Model for more than five years, with three demographically matched states that had not implemented Value Added Assessment Model. The states were matched as follows: Ohio (Value Added Assessment Model implementing state) with Michigan (non Value Added Assessment Model state), Pennsylvania (Value Added Assessment Model implementing state) with Virginia (non Value Added Assessment Model state) and Tennessee (Value Added Assessment Model implementing state) with Georgia (non Value Added Assessment Model state). The mean composite scale score in NAEP from the following categories of students were compared and analyzed: 1) All students 2) White students 3) Black students 4) National School Lunch Program Eligible Students 5) National School Lunch Program Ineligible Students 6) Exceptional Education students. The results of the study indicated that the impact of Value Added Assessment Model on academic impact as measured by the eighth grade reading NAEP and the eighth grade mathematics NAEP was negligible.
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Date Issued: 2014
Identifier: CFE0005468, ucf:52862
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005468

Title: My Plate, Your Food: Foodways of International Students in US(&)#191; Colleges and Universities.
Creator: Noyongoyo, Boniface, Mustaine, Elizabeth, Hinojosa, Melanie, Rivera, Fernando, Corra, Mamadi, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Research shows that the world is now more globalized than ever. In the education sector, students' movements have increased from the global South to the North as they look for a better tomorrow. Hence, international students in the US are from almost all countries around the world. The current study examines the changes in the foodways of international students since their arrival in the US The analysis is based on more than 260 surveys and 17 interviews of international students enrolled in...
Show moreResearch shows that the world is now more globalized than ever. In the education sector, students' movements have increased from the global South to the North as they look for a better tomorrow. Hence, international students in the US are from almost all countries around the world. The current study examines the changes in the foodways of international students since their arrival in the US The analysis is based on more than 260 surveys and 17 interviews of international students enrolled in US colleges and universities. The results from online self-administered surveys showed that international students' eating habit changes are mostly related to their continent of origin, gender, religious affiliation, and religious preference. Interviews conducted with students from different countries confirmed that the aforementioned characteristics are important in explaining these changes in eating habits.
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Date Issued: 2018
Identifier: CFE0007231, ucf:52225
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007231

Title: An Analysis of the Legal Issues of School Voucher Programs for Students with Disabilities and Its Impact on the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Creator: Fontan, Patricia, Murray, Kenneth, Murray, Barbara, Doherty, Walter, Hopp, Carolyn, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This study examined the current case law on school voucher programs for students with disabilities and legal protections under IDEA. The idea of school vouchers can be traced back to the 1950s but have taken a new form in the past 13 years. There have been several court challenges to the constitutionality of school voucher programs with mixed results which will lead to court challenges in the future on a state by state basis based on the state's constitution. School vouchers have been...
Show moreThis study examined the current case law on school voucher programs for students with disabilities and legal protections under IDEA. The idea of school vouchers can be traced back to the 1950s but have taken a new form in the past 13 years. There have been several court challenges to the constitutionality of school voucher programs with mixed results which will lead to court challenges in the future on a state by state basis based on the state's constitution. School vouchers have been developed to target specific populations of students including students with disabilities. But with very little accountability for the private schools accepting the school vouchers, parents are left to make choices about their child's education with the limited information provided to them. Parents of student with disabilities who participate in school voucher programs in order to attend a private school may lose many protections under IDEA, if not all of them. The focus of the study was on the five states with school voucher programs for students with disabilities: Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Ohio and Utah. The review of case law in regards to school voucher programs for students with disabilities demonstrated difference and similarities depending on the state's constitution. This will lead to future case law for school voucher programs for disabilities to be determined on a case by case basis. The legislators developing new school voucher programs for student with disabilities will need to analyze the state's constitution in order to determine if any legal challenges would occur. Federal legislators need to revisit the protections under IDEA for parentally placed private school students with the mindset that more and more school voucher programs for students with disabilities will be developed in years to come. In the reauthorization of IDEA, federal legislators need to determine if more protections need to be provided to parentally placed private school students attending a private school on a school voucher program. Without more protections for students with disabilities, parents may have limited options when participating in a school voucher program and the students may not receive the appropriate special education and related services.
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Date Issued: 2012
Identifier: CFE0004537, ucf:49229
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004537

Title: ELEMENTARY TEACHERSÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â‚ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â' PERCEIVED MATHEMATICS ANXIETY AND TEACHING EFFICACY IN RELATIONSHIP TO STUDENTSÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â‚ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â' MATHEMATICS ACHIEVEMENT.
Creator: Sasser, Jennifer, Taylor, Rosemarye, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The focus of this research was to determine to what extent, if any, there were relationships among elementary teacher anxiety about learning mathematics, their anxiety about the mathematics they teach, their mathematics teaching efficacy beliefs, and their studentsÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â‚ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â' mathematics achievement. The researcher also investigated potential intervening variables such as gender, grade level taught...
Show moreThe focus of this research was to determine to what extent, if any, there were relationships among elementary teacher anxiety about learning mathematics, their anxiety about the mathematics they teach, their mathematics teaching efficacy beliefs, and their studentsÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â‚ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â' mathematics achievement. The researcher also investigated potential intervening variables such as gender, grade level taught, level of college degree, and years of teaching experience, that may influence these relationships. Teachers (N = 119) from 11 elementary schools in a west central Florida school district participated in this study and completed the Mathematics Anxiety and Teaching Efficacy Survey. Survey data on mathematics anxiety and teaching efficacy were analyzed and correlated with mathematics achievement data, as measured by the 2009 Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) mathematics subtest. Through a review of the research results and related literature, the researcher concluded that there was not a statistically significant relationship between teachersÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â‚ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â' perceived mathematics anxiety, anxiety about teaching mathematics, and student achievement. However, mathematics teaching efficacy was significantly correlated in a positive direction with student achievement. Review of the data also revealed that there was a statistically significant positive correlation between teachersÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â‚ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â' perceived mathematics anxiety and anxiety about teaching mathematics. Additionally, there was a significant negative correlation between anxiety about teaching mathematics and mathematics teaching efficacy.
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Date Issued: 2010
Identifier: CFE0003274, ucf:48521
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003274

Title: DO IMMIGRANT STUDENTS CONSUME LESS ENERGY THAN NATIVE-BORN AMERICAN STUDENTS?.
Creator: Lei, Lei, Pals, Heili, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This paper uses a sociological model to compare the residential energy consumption between immigrant students and native-born American students and to explain the difference by demographic characteristics, values, and specific attitudes. Further, it tries to explore whether the relationship between immigration status and residential energy consumption is mediated by value orientation towards frugality and specific attitudes towards energy conservation. The data of an online survey among...
Show moreThis paper uses a sociological model to compare the residential energy consumption between immigrant students and native-born American students and to explain the difference by demographic characteristics, values, and specific attitudes. Further, it tries to explore whether the relationship between immigration status and residential energy consumption is mediated by value orientation towards frugality and specific attitudes towards energy conservation. The data of an online survey among native-born and foreign-born students at the University of Central Florida are used. The results suggest that immigrants consume less energy at home than native-born Americans, but the time stayed in the US doesn't have an impact on the energy consumption of immigrants. In addition, the results do not show evidence that value orientation towards frugality and specific attitudes toward energy conservation mediate the relationship between immigration status and energy consumption at home.
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Date Issued: 2011
Identifier: CFE0003629, ucf:48855
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003629

Title: Aliterate College Students: A Neglect of Reading or a New Type of Literacy?.
Creator: Wells, Crystal, Marinara, Martha, Bowdon, Melody, Young, Beth, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This study examines the literacy practices of college students in order to determine whether their reading habits are likely to detract from their future professions. Based on reports that many college students and individuals in general do not read regularly, this study examines numerous studies that focus on the reading habits of students and their attitudes toward reading. Findings show that a considerable number of students do not practice what many educators consider to be (")good(")...
Show moreThis study examines the literacy practices of college students in order to determine whether their reading habits are likely to detract from their future professions. Based on reports that many college students and individuals in general do not read regularly, this study examines numerous studies that focus on the reading habits of students and their attitudes toward reading. Findings show that a considerable number of students do not practice what many educators consider to be (")good(") reading habits; that is, they do not read approved print literature and texts regularly. This study also introduces the idea that perhaps students are supplementing traditional reading with engagement in new types of literacy, including digital literacy, which might still yield positive benefits that are commonly associated with reading in its traditional sense. Educators are called to adopt an expanded notion of literacy that would recognize the validity of new literacies in the lives of students. Viewing literacy in this way would promote literacy amongst students, providing them with valuable tools for their futures. Moreover, adopting an expanded definition of literacy would alter how aliteracy reports such as the ones discussed in this study would be assessed.
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Date Issued: 2012
Identifier: CFE0004310, ucf:49485
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004310

Title: UNIVERSITY LEADERSHIP IN SUSTAINABILITY AND CAMPUS-BASED ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIVISM.
Creator: Roosth, Joshua, Lynxwiler, John, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This thesis examines the development of environmental sustainability on 194 of the wealthiest colleges and universities in the United States and Canada. Campus-based environmental organization membership data, organizational profiles, participant observation, and sustainability grades (from the Sustainable Endowment Institutes College Sustainability Report Cards 2009) are used to examine the relationship between campus-based environmental organizations and sustainability of higher educational...
Show moreThis thesis examines the development of environmental sustainability on 194 of the wealthiest colleges and universities in the United States and Canada. Campus-based environmental organization membership data, organizational profiles, participant observation, and sustainability grades (from the Sustainable Endowment Institutes College Sustainability Report Cards 2009) are used to examine the relationship between campus-based environmental organizations and sustainability of higher educational institutions. Linear regression is used to analyze the overall university sustainability grades as an outcome variable. Overall university sustainability grades are impacted by campus-based environmental activism social movement organizations, high endowment per student, the age of the university, and the presence of state renewable portfolio standards. My findings suggest that the Sustainable Endowment InstituteÃ‚Â's College Sustainability Report Card might be improved by including indicators of greenhouse gas reports and interdisciplinary courses on sustainability.
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Date Issued: 2010
Identifier: CFE0002977, ucf:47986
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002977

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Student Achievement (14)	+ -
mathematics (10)	+ -

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special education (9)	+ -
student (9)	+ -
alcohol (8)	+ -
international students (8)	+ -
student engagement (8)	+ -
inclusion (7)	+ -
students (7)	+ -
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Students (6)	+ -
professional development (6)	+ -
Education (5)	+ -
Higher Education (5)	+ -
Mathematics (5)	+ -
academic achievement (5)	+ -
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education (5)	+ -
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graduate students (5)	+ -
intervention (5)	+ -
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University of Central Florida (344)	+ -
Taylor, Rosemarye (35)	+ -
Cintron Delgado, Rosa (31)	+ -
Murray, Barbara (27)	+ -
Doherty, Walter (26)	+ -

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