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Title: An Examination of the Insights and Support of Self-Advocacy by Academic Advisors when Working with Students with Disabilities in Higher Education.
Creator: Farran, Jennifer, King, Kathy (Kathleen), Cox, Thomas, Marshall, Nancy, Hopp, Carolyn, Preston, Michael, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Self-advocacy for students with disabilities was noted throughout the literature as a necessary element for student success (Brinckerhoff, 1996; Daly-Cano, Vaccaro, (&) Newman, 2015; Gould, 1986; Williams (&) Shoultz, 1982). The literature also found that self-advocacy was particular crucial as students entered higher education (English, 1997; Stodden, Conway, and Chang, 2003; Vaccaro, Daly-Cano (&) Newman, 2015). In regard to student persistence, academic advising was the most cited student...
Show moreSelf-advocacy for students with disabilities was noted throughout the literature as a necessary element for student success (Brinckerhoff, 1996; Daly-Cano, Vaccaro, (&) Newman, 2015; Gould, 1986; Williams (&) Shoultz, 1982). The literature also found that self-advocacy was particular crucial as students entered higher education (English, 1997; Stodden, Conway, and Chang, 2003; Vaccaro, Daly-Cano (&) Newman, 2015). In regard to student persistence, academic advising was the most cited student service (Hossler (&) Bean, 1990). Academic advisors assist students through their academic journeys and are tasked with assisting students to navigate college life (Kuh, 2008). However, there was a lack of research regarding the relationship between advisors, students with disabilities, and self-advocacy. Therefore, this research study was conducted to explore the insights and support of self-advocacy among academic advisors when working with students with disabilities. A qualitative phenomenological research design was used to explore these experiences.From the data analysis, seven themes emerged after the interviews and a focus group, which represented the needs of academic advisors for their specific roles and interactions. The themes were lack of knowledge, accommodations, transition, academics, fear of being labeled, relationships and interactions, and self-awareness. The information gathered through this study may lead to professional development programs to improve relationships between academic advisors and students with disabilities and to prepare students with disabilities to become strong self-advocates.
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Date Issued: 2018
Identifier: CFE0007329, ucf:52139
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007329

Title: A Comparison of Student Achievement in Florida Charter Schools with Not-For-Profit and For-Profit Management Models.
Creator: Kaprow, Maurice, Johnson, Jerry, Baldwin, Lee, Murray, Kenneth, McGee, Janet, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: In this study, the researcher compared student achievement in Florida charter schools by investigating differences in those managed by for profit and not-for-profit entities in all 530 charter schools that reported results on the 2016 Florida Standards Assessments in Grades 4, 8, and 10 in English Language Arts (ELA) and mathematics. Using a two-way analysis of covariance, this investigation found statistically significant achievement differences only in 10th-grade ELA when using poverty as a...
Show moreIn this study, the researcher compared student achievement in Florida charter schools by investigating differences in those managed by for profit and not-for-profit entities in all 530 charter schools that reported results on the 2016 Florida Standards Assessments in Grades 4, 8, and 10 in English Language Arts (ELA) and mathematics. Using a two-way analysis of covariance, this investigation found statistically significant achievement differences only in 10th-grade ELA when using poverty as a moderator variable and eighth-grade mathematics using both school cohort size and poverty as moderator variables. Also, the covariates of percentage of minority students, percentage of disabled students, and percentage of English language learners accounted for some of the variance in achievement results. These findings are similar to the extant literature where prior similar studies found mixed results between traditional public schools and charter schools and between not-for-profit and for-profit charter schools. Questions are raised by this research regarding the public funding of for-profit or proprietary charter schools if they do not routinely achieve superior results to traditional public schools. Implications for future research both building on this study and investigating other aspects of charter school performance include conducting similar studies on a recurring basis to better evaluate charter school performance, closer study on the role the covariates (minority status, disability status, and English language learner status) has on charter school student achievement, and a comparison of Florida's charter schools with Florida's traditional public schools.
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Date Issued: 2018
Identifier: CFE0007027, ucf:52032
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007027

Title: Student Conduct Administrators' Perceptions of Effective Sanctions That Reduce Recidivism of Alcohol Violations Among College Students.
Creator: Fils-Aime, Andel, Cintron Delgado, Rosa, Owens, J. Thomas, Butler, S. Kent, Malaret, Stacey, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Recent researchers have found that when alcohol use and/or abuse is a factor in an undergraduate students' college experience, there is a substantial increase in dependence, decreased academic productivity, an increase in safety and security issues, an increase in suicide ideation and attempts, unprotected sexual encounters, and physical assaults that result in injuries (Amaro et al., 2010). One of the most effective ways that institutions in higher education can combat alcohol-related issues...
Show moreRecent researchers have found that when alcohol use and/or abuse is a factor in an undergraduate students' college experience, there is a substantial increase in dependence, decreased academic productivity, an increase in safety and security issues, an increase in suicide ideation and attempts, unprotected sexual encounters, and physical assaults that result in injuries (Amaro et al., 2010). One of the most effective ways that institutions in higher education can combat alcohol-related issues on their campuses is for the institutional leaders to play a role in addressing this issue (Busteed, 2008). In many institutions of higher education, student conduct administrators have been designated as those institutional leaders with the responsibility of addressing alcohol policy violations and establishing a reasonable balance between disciplinary and educational sanctions issued to students (Waryold (&) Lancaster, 2013). The primary purpose of this research study was to evaluate student conduct administrators' perceptions of the relationship between recidivism and sanctions for alcohol violations at their colleges and universities. More specifically, this study explored the relationship of sanctions that students must complete after having been found responsible for violating the university's alcohol policy.
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Date Issued: 2017
Identifier: CFE0007282, ucf:52170
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007282

Title: International Saudi Female Students' Experiences of Acculturation During Their Study at an American Public University in The South (APUS).
Creator: Alzahrani, Hnan, Cintron Delgado, Rosa, Mendez, Jesse, Owens, J. Thomas, Preston, Michael, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: According to my literature review and my reflection of its meaning, few studies have been conducted that explore the adjustment and acculturation experiences of female international students in US colleges and universities specifically on Saudi female students. Therefore, this study explored the academic and socio-cultural experiences of Saudi female students before and after arriving in the US. Furthermore, this study identified the sources of acculturative stress and Saudi female students'...
Show moreAccording to my literature review and my reflection of its meaning, few studies have been conducted that explore the adjustment and acculturation experiences of female international students in US colleges and universities specifically on Saudi female students. Therefore, this study explored the academic and socio-cultural experiences of Saudi female students before and after arriving in the US. Furthermore, this study identified the sources of acculturative stress and Saudi female students' successful strategies for coping with these stressors. Eight Saudi female students participated in one-on-one semi-structured interviews and Moustakas' (1994) transcendental phenomenology was utilized in analyzing students' voices. During the data analysis process, there were five themes that emerged from the data, including sociocultural expectations and issues, motivation for studying abroad, challenges, coping strategies, and adaptation. The results of this study provided recommendations for American and Saudi higher education administrators and faculty concerning how to help Saudi female students adjust to American culture and campus life and provide appropriate academic environments for this growing population.
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Date Issued: 2018
Identifier: CFE0007149, ucf:52329
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007149

Title: Protective Behavioral Strategies and Alcohol-Related Sex Among College Students.
Creator: Peterson, Roselyn, Dvorak, Robert, Newins, Amie, Dunn, Michael, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Adverse sexual outcomes (e.g., sexual regret, sexual risk, and sexual assault) are a common experience among college students. In particular, regretted sex is reported by a third of college students and may result in psychological harm. Previous literature has found that alcohol is involved in approximately one third of regretted sex experienced by college students. A gap exists in the literature identifying who is more susceptible to experiencing a regretted sexual experience. Previous...
Show moreAdverse sexual outcomes (e.g., sexual regret, sexual risk, and sexual assault) are a common experience among college students. In particular, regretted sex is reported by a third of college students and may result in psychological harm. Previous literature has found that alcohol is involved in approximately one third of regretted sex experienced by college students. A gap exists in the literature identifying who is more susceptible to experiencing a regretted sexual experience. Previous research has shown that students who implement protective behavioral strategies (PBS) while drinking are able to reduce alcohol-related negative consequences, including regretted sexual experiences. Three sub-types of PBS exist: Stopping/Limiting Drinking (SLD), Manner of Drinking (MD), and Serious Harm Reduction (SHR). The current study examines associations between regretted sexual experiences, alcohol use, and PBS. Participants were a sample of college students (n = 349) who completed a series of online surveys that assessed drinking habits, alcohol-related negative consequences (e.g., regretted sex), and PBS use. A multi-group path analysis (grouped by gender) found that alcohol use was positively associated with regretted sexual experiences. One of the three PBS sub-types, MD, was negatively associated with regretted sexual experiences. This association was mediated by alcohol use. A different PBS subtype, SHR, yielded a direct negative relationship with regretted sexual experiences for women, but not for men. Lastly, the interaction of SHR and alcohol use was significantly associated with regretted sexual experiences and varied by biological sex. Among women, low SHR potentiated the positive association between alcohol and regretted sex; in contrast, high SHR attenuated this association. In order to inform future interventions and subsequently decrease the number of alcohol-related negative consequences, further examination of differences in relationships between PBS subtypes, alcohol use, and regretted sex for men and women is warranted.
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Date Issued: 2019
Identifier: CFE0007706, ucf:52448
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007706

Title: Neither Teacher nor Scholar: Identity and Agency in a Graduate Teacher's Life.
Creator: Pierson, Caitlin, Wheeler, Stephanie, Edwards, Dustin, Scott, Blake, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This thesis examines how graduate student teachers (GTA's) employ agency in order to establish and perform professional identities. Understanding agency as interactional, performative, and acting in a way (")unintended by power(") (Butler, 1997, p. 15), this thesis examines the spatial practices and performances of a graduate student teacher through a mixed methods approach combining video recordings with autoethnography.This project begins by using Lefebvre's (1991) social imaginary to...
Show moreThis thesis examines how graduate student teachers (GTA's) employ agency in order to establish and perform professional identities. Understanding agency as interactional, performative, and acting in a way (")unintended by power(") (Butler, 1997, p. 15), this thesis examines the spatial practices and performances of a graduate student teacher through a mixed methods approach combining video recordings with autoethnography.This project begins by using Lefebvre's (1991) social imaginary to examine the potent arguments being made to and about GTA's from their shared office, using visual rhetorical analysis to examine how this space communicates ideas of identity and place that work at rhetorical purposes counter to the performances GTA's are employing within that space. Exploring how GTA's respond to the social imaginary within space, this thesis conducts an analysis of the tactics employed, using De Certeau (1984) as a framework. Graduate student teachers use spatial practices and performances to make do with the space and the power allotted to them; however, they employ key tactics such as altering body position and vocal tone to turn interactions with students and with each other into dynamic moments for the production of agency.Finally, this thesis argues that, while GTA's use tactics and spatial practices to negotiate the performances and spaces allotted to them, their agency is temporal and limited. Departmental investment in relationships with GTA and integrating them further into the life of the department through apprenticeship can bolster the tenuous agency of the GTA.
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Date Issued: 2018
Identifier: CFE0007235, ucf:52232
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007235

Title: The unheard voices of nontraditional students in Higher Education: Learning to become a student.
Creator: Julio Maturana, Marcelo, Cintron Delgado, Rosa, Boote, David, Owens, J. Thomas, Guzman-Valenzuela, Carolina, Rivera, Fernando, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This study explores the lived experiences of older students who work and have family responsibilities while attending an undergraduate program full-time. Research indicates that this segment of the student population is the only one that is growing today and is projected to grow in the future; this also is the largest the group of students thatdoes not finish their studies in spite of the many services aimed at supporting students' academic success.This study critically investigated the...
Show moreThis study explores the lived experiences of older students who work and have family responsibilities while attending an undergraduate program full-time. Research indicates that this segment of the student population is the only one that is growing today and is projected to grow in the future; this also is the largest the group of students thatdoes not finish their studies in spite of the many services aimed at supporting students' academic success.This study critically investigated the category of the nontraditional student and reviewed the literature about students' college experiences, including the limitations of its theoretical assumptions to describe and explain the nature of the college journey of olderstudents with substantive life experiences. From the notion that learning is lifelong and holistic (Jarvis, 2006), this study combined a student-centered approach with a hermeneutic phenomenological methodology to respond to the following research questions: What is the lifeworld of undergraduate nontraditional students with significantlife experience as they encounter college life? What resources sustain the college experience of undergraduate nontraditional students of and allow navigating the space of college life? What are the changes undergraduate nontraditional students live, the meaning they construct while encountering, and navigating college life?Themes that resulted from the analysis included the participants' experiences as essentially different from that of traditional students. These nontraditional college students bring skills and knowledge that they deploy on behalf of their specific academic goals. The pace of their lives is fundamentally different from the traditional universitystudent's sense of time; they are self-sufficient, making decisions and navigate obstacles.Their new identity as students is re-negotiated with the identities they live outside of campus and they establish ad hoc relationships with members of the universitycommunity.
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Date Issued: 2018
Identifier: CFE0007201, ucf:52255
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007201

Title: Hurricane Maria: A Qualitative Study of Recently Displaced Students to the State of Florida.
Creator: Cabrera, Esmeralda, Rivera, Fernando, Donley, Amy, Hinojosa, Melanie, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Over the past ten years Puerto Rico has been experiencing a severe economic crisis that was worsened when Hurricane Maria made landfall on September 20, 2017. Maria hit Puerto Rico as a category 4 storm, devastating the whole island and its 3.4 millionresidents. Many students were left with minimal educational choices after Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico. Research on Latino/a students shows that they are met with unique experiences and challenges as they pursue higher education. The current...
Show moreOver the past ten years Puerto Rico has been experiencing a severe economic crisis that was worsened when Hurricane Maria made landfall on September 20, 2017. Maria hit Puerto Rico as a category 4 storm, devastating the whole island and its 3.4 millionresidents. Many students were left with minimal educational choices after Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico. Research on Latino/a students shows that they are met with unique experiences and challenges as they pursue higher education. The current study uses qualitative data to investigate what are the unique challenges and needs of displaced students from Puerto Rico? and what role does social capital play in confronting and navigating the challenges and needs associated with their transition to a new institutional setting? This study proposes to research the issues that many displaced Puerto Rican college student's face and add to the growing body of knowledge. It is important to understand how these recently displaced students will be affected by leaving behind, economic capital and cultural capital that they had built up in their communities on the island. Participation in the study included 9 participants from a large southeastern university that provided in-state tuition to displaced students for semi-structured qualitative interviews. Results revealed that family support was the main source of support for many of the students. Mentorship support was key in their educational success because the more support and encouragement from faculty led to a better transition. Support from peers was positively associated with a better transition and feeling of acceptance. Higher campus resources were positively associated with a better transition.
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Date Issued: 2019
Identifier: CFE0007606, ucf:52526
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007606

Title: EXAMINING THE HYPOCRISY PARADIGM AS AN INTERVENTION FOR MODIFYING HIGH-RISK ALCOHOL USE BEHAVIORS AMONG COLLEGE STUDENTS.
Creator: Hammons, Mary, Negy, Charles, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this study was to examine the hypocrisy paradigm as an experimental alcohol intervention to determine if participants who complete the hypocrisy paradigm will experience a significant reduction in the number of negative consequences associated with their alcohol use, quantity and frequency of alcohol use, and average and peak eBAC compared to college students in the control condition. Participants were 53 college students randomly assigned to an experimental hypocrisy paradigm...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to examine the hypocrisy paradigm as an experimental alcohol intervention to determine if participants who complete the hypocrisy paradigm will experience a significant reduction in the number of negative consequences associated with their alcohol use, quantity and frequency of alcohol use, and average and peak eBAC compared to college students in the control condition. Participants were 53 college students randomly assigned to an experimental hypocrisy paradigm intervention or a control condition. Contrary to prediction, the hypocrisy paradigm was not found to be significantly different than the control condition. Exploratory analyses examining within-group differences were conducted. All outcome measures decreased from pre-intervention to follow-up within the hypocrisy paradigm condition. Future directions and implications are discussed.
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Date Issued: 2010
Identifier: CFE0003237, ucf:48524
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003237

Title: EFFECTS OF DISCUSSION AND WRITING ON STUDENT UNDERSTANDING OF MATHEMATICS CONCEPTS.
Creator: Roicki, Joseph, Ortiz, Enrique, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: For this action research project, I wanted to examine my practice of teaching mathematics. Specifically, I encouraged students to improve their communication skills during my math class through daily discussion and writing tasks. After establishing a class set of sociomathematical norms, the students solved problems provided by the Every Day Counts: Calendar Math program and used verbal and written formats to describe their problem solving methods and reasons. My study showed the effects of...
Show moreFor this action research project, I wanted to examine my practice of teaching mathematics. Specifically, I encouraged students to improve their communication skills during my math class through daily discussion and writing tasks. After establishing a class set of sociomathematical norms, the students solved problems provided by the Every Day Counts: Calendar Math program and used verbal and written formats to describe their problem solving methods and reasons. My study showed the effects of using discussion and writing to help students develop their conceptual understanding of mathematical ideas. Focus was placed on the quality of daily discussions and written tasks both at the beginning of the study and continually as the study progressed. Through daily discussions, monthly written assessments, and student interviews, the study helped to determine the importance of developing students' mathematical communication skills and building conceptual understanding of mathematical ideas.
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Date Issued: 2008
Identifier: CFE0002026, ucf:47627
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002026

Title: SEXUALLY-RELATED INTERNET ACTIVITIES: CROSS-NATIONAL COMPARISON BETWEEN UNITED STATES AND PERUVIAN YOUNG ADULTS.
Creator: Velezmoro, Rodrigo, Negy, Charles, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The current generation of college students commonly use the Internet for sexual purposes (Boies, 2002; Boies, Cooper, & Osborne, 2004), including finding sexual partners, searching for sex-related information, and viewing sexually explicit materials (SEM) (Boies, 2002). Yet, some authors have suggested that the use of the Internet for sexual purposes might lead to psychological problems (Cooper et al., 2001). However, it is unclear if the problems that are commonly reported (i.e., Internet...
Show moreThe current generation of college students commonly use the Internet for sexual purposes (Boies, 2002; Boies, Cooper, & Osborne, 2004), including finding sexual partners, searching for sex-related information, and viewing sexually explicit materials (SEM) (Boies, 2002). Yet, some authors have suggested that the use of the Internet for sexual purposes might lead to psychological problems (Cooper et al., 2001). However, it is unclear if the problems that are commonly reported (i.e., Internet dependency, isolation, and psychological distress) are caused by using the Internet for sexual purposes. Hence, it is important to examine how college students use the Internet for sexual purposes cross-culturally to determine how common the practice is, how it relates to maladjustment, and to examine if any culture variables are associated with use. Undergraduate students (n = 320) from a public university in the United States and Peruvian undergraduate students (n = 135) from a public university in Lima, Peru filled out questionnaires addressing their online sexual activities, psychological adjustment, and family communication. Peruvian young adults used the Internet significantly more than U.S. young adults to view SEM, find sexual partners, and search for sex-related information. Men, regardless of nationality, used the Internet to view SEM significantly more than women. Peruvian women used the Internet significantly more to view SEM and find sexual partners than U.S. women. Social support, religiosity, and erotophilia were found to moderate the relations between nationality and OSA. Further, for Peruvians and U.S. young adults, using the Internet for OSA was associated with mild distress, but no serious psychological maladjustment. Implications for college students are discussed.
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Date Issued: 2010
Identifier: CFE0003156, ucf:48591
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003156

Title: A STUDY OF STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT IN FLORIDA HIGH SCHOOLS RECEIVING DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SMALLER LEARNING COMMUNITY GRANTS: 2006-2009.
Creator: Armbruster, Michael, Taylor, Rosemarye, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The focus of this research was to analyze the impact of the United States Department of EducationÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â‚ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â's Smaller Learning Communities (SLC) Grant Program on student achievement in 17 schools in the state of Florida that were issued three-year grants during the school years 2006-2009 as compared to 17 similar schools in the state of Florida that did not receive grant funding. Base-line data for...
Show moreThe focus of this research was to analyze the impact of the United States Department of EducationÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â‚ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â's Smaller Learning Communities (SLC) Grant Program on student achievement in 17 schools in the state of Florida that were issued three-year grants during the school years 2006-2009 as compared to 17 similar schools in the state of Florida that did not receive grant funding. Base-line data for each of the 34 schools consisted of student performance in 2006, one year prior to SLC schools receiving the grant. Student achievement data from the base-line through the three-year grant period for the 17 grant recipients were compared with that of 17 similar Florida schools that were not grant recipients in 2006. Student data were collected from the Florida Department of Education. The data subjected to analyses were comprised of student achievement on the ninth and tenth grade Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) in the areas of reading and mathematics, the graduation rate, and the dropout rate. The data showed an overall improvement in the SLC schoolsÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â‚ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â' student achievement based on the six areas analyzed. The data collected were then compared to the 17 similar schools to identify any significant differences in the achievement gains in those schools. Although both the SLC schools and the control schools showed overall improvement, no statistically significant relationship was discovered in the achievement of students in SLC schools versus students in similar schools that did not receive the grant dollars during the defined time periods. The overall trend for all 34 schools was similar improvement in student achievement.
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Date Issued: 2010
Identifier: CFE0003465, ucf:48936
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003465

Title: Elementary Reading Coaches in Florida: A Study of their Background, Experiences, Coaching Activities, Time, and Other Factors Related to Reading Achievement.
Creator: Zugelder, Gina, Wegmann, Susan, Taylor, Rosemarye, Roberts, Sherron, Clements, Taylar, Puig, Enrique, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The focus of this research was to investigate and clarify the daily work lives of elementary reading coaches in central Florida by studying their background, academic and professional experiences. The beliefs and perceptions of the reading coaches on factors that influence reading achievement were examined. The responses from 96 participating elementary reading coaches were used to investigate (a) the relationship between demographic information, professional experiences, and academic...
Show moreThe focus of this research was to investigate and clarify the daily work lives of elementary reading coaches in central Florida by studying their background, academic and professional experiences. The beliefs and perceptions of the reading coaches on factors that influence reading achievement were examined. The responses from 96 participating elementary reading coaches were used to investigate (a) the relationship between demographic information, professional experiences, and academic background of the reading coach, (b) the percentage of time reading coaches engaged in specific coaching activities, and (c) the linkage between coaching activities and change in the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test developmental scale scores. Data from a web-based survey and personal interviews were used to collect pertinent data to understand the daily work lives of the elementary reading coaches and bring awareness to perceptions, successes and hindrances to the role and the impact on reading achievement. Descriptive statistics were used to present demographic, professional and academic information about the reading coaches. Multiple regression analyses were performed using time allocated to coaching activities and the change in reading achievement to determine existing relationships. Developmental scale score change was examined from the baseline year to the third year. Qualitative analyses were used to determine reading coach themes from the survey responses. Participant profiles, calling on the tenets of case study methodology, were developed based on the triangulated data. Narrative descriptions of coaching data for the participant profiles were organized by years of teaching experience of the reading coach. The results of the study indicated that reading coaches perceived coach-teacher collaboration to be the most influential activity affecting reading achievement. This perception was not congruent with finding of time spent and change on reading achievement. Recommendations were presented including a formalized understanding of the daily work lives of reading coaches by school districts, administrators and the reading coaches themselves.
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Date Issued: 2012
Identifier: CFE0004286, ucf:49530
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004286

Title: Mathematic Strategies for Teaching Problem Solving: The Influence of Teaching Mathematical Problem Solving Strategies on Students' Attitudes in Middle School.
Creator: Klingler, Kelly, Ortiz, Enrique, Gresham, Regina, Andreasen, Janet, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this action research study was to observe the influence of teaching mathematical problem solving strategies on students' attitudes in middle school. The goal was to teach five problem solving strategies: Drawing Pictures, Making a Chart or Table, Looking for a Pattern, Working Backwards, and Guess and Check, and have students reflect upon the process. I believed that my students would use these problem solving strategies as supportive tools for solving mathematical word...
Show moreThe purpose of this action research study was to observe the influence of teaching mathematical problem solving strategies on students' attitudes in middle school. The goal was to teach five problem solving strategies: Drawing Pictures, Making a Chart or Table, Looking for a Pattern, Working Backwards, and Guess and Check, and have students reflect upon the process. I believed that my students would use these problem solving strategies as supportive tools for solving mathematical word problems. A relationship from the Mathematics Attitudes survey scores on students' attitudes towards problem solving in mathematics was found. Students took the Mathematics Attitudes survey before and after the study was conducted. In-class observations of the students applying problem solving strategies and students' response journals were made. Students had small group interviews after the research study was conducted. Therefore, I concluded that with the relationship between the Mathematics Attitudes survey scores and journal responses that teaching the problem solving strategies to middle school students was an influential tool for improving students' mathematics attitude.
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Date Issued: 2012
Identifier: CFE0004309, ucf:49490
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004309

Title: Stereotypes, Perceptions of Similarity, and Cultural Identity: Factors That May Influence the Academic Achievement of Immigrant Students.
Creator: Fagan, Tamara, Szente, Judit, Eriksson, Gillian, Englehart, Deirdre, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: For decades, the United States has been known as the nation of immigrants due to the increasing number of immigrant students in the public school system. Although the population of immigrant students steadily increases annually, American society still pressures immigrants into acculturation to fulfill the United States ideals of academic achievement despite the United States claim of multiculturalism (Malcolm (&) Lowery, 2011). This research focuses on 1st- and 2nd generation immigrant...
Show moreFor decades, the United States has been known as the nation of immigrants due to the increasing number of immigrant students in the public school system. Although the population of immigrant students steadily increases annually, American society still pressures immigrants into acculturation to fulfill the United States ideals of academic achievement despite the United States claim of multiculturalism (Malcolm (&) Lowery, 2011). This research focuses on 1st- and 2nd generation immigrant students' strife of acceptance in U.S. culture, while sill preserving their own native culture, and the influence it has on academic achievement.The researcher interviewed eight (8) adult participants who are either 1st- or 2nd generation immigrant college students. This qualitative case study research aims to determine if forced acculturation or assimilation using stereotypes and perceptions of similarity effects how immigrant students develop their cultural identity, and the influence it has on academic achievement. Four major themes emerged from the participants' responses: parental approval, peer pressure, environmental influence, and feelings about their ethnic group. Basic findings supported that immigrant students' cultural identity is threatened by stereotypes and perceptions of similarity.
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Date Issued: 2013
Identifier: CFE0004996, ucf:49554
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004996

Title: An Examination of the Impact of Student Characteristics and Teacher Experience and Preparation Program Attended on Student Achievement in a Small School District.
Creator: Oneal, Michael, Hines, Rebecca, Hahs-Vaughn, Debbie, Cross, Lee, Reyes-Macpherson, Maria, Hahs-Vaughn, Debbie, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Demonstrating a direct link between teacher education programs and student growth is, to say the least, complex. Yet, using value-added systems as a means of holding teacher preparation programs accountable for the effectiveness of their graduates is a growing trend. However, few quantitative studies linking TPPs with the effectiveness of their graduates exist. The availability of student test scores linked to specific teachers in administrative databases makes it possible to use value-added...
Show moreDemonstrating a direct link between teacher education programs and student growth is, to say the least, complex. Yet, using value-added systems as a means of holding teacher preparation programs accountable for the effectiveness of their graduates is a growing trend. However, few quantitative studies linking TPPs with the effectiveness of their graduates exist. The availability of student test scores linked to specific teachers in administrative databases makes it possible to use value-added modeling to obtain estimates of teacher effects. Only recently have researchers tapped into this expanding volume of data in an attempt to examine Teacher Preparation Programs as variables of student achievement. This study uses methodologies developed in the early stages of the Value-Added Teacher Preparation Program Assessment Model developed in Louisiana in 2006 as a guide. Using the HLM 7.0 software package, a statistical model was developed to determine if it were feasible to conduct an analysis using data from a single small school district and whether the results of such an analysis showed an impact of student characteristics and teacher experience and preparation program on student outcomes in mathematics.
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Date Issued: 2013
Identifier: CFE0004904, ucf:49678
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004904

Title: INCREASING SELF REPORTED ARGUMENTATIVENESS IN COLLEGE LEVEL PUBLIC SPEAKING STUDENTS.
Creator: Long, Kim, Miller, Ann, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: ABSTRACT Argumentativeness, or the predisposition ÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â‚ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â"to advocate positions on controversial issues and to attack verbally the positions which other people take on these issuesÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â‚ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â" (Infante & Rancer, 1982, p.72), has been associated with a number of positive outcomes. Research among student...
Show moreABSTRACT Argumentativeness, or the predisposition ÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â‚ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â"to advocate positions on controversial issues and to attack verbally the positions which other people take on these issuesÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â‚ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â" (Infante & Rancer, 1982, p.72), has been associated with a number of positive outcomes. Research among student populations indicates that compared to people who are low in argumentativeness, people high in argumentativeness display higher ability to learn, higher self esteem, greater ability to creatively manage conflict, and higher ability to see both sides of a situation (Barden & Petty, 2008; McPherson Frantz & Seburn, 2003; Rancer, Whitecap, Kosberg, & Avtgis, 1997). Promoting argumentativeness among college students should prepare students to effectively handle conflict and enhance their overall communicative competence, thus setting students up for increased success in life (Rancer et al., 1997). Although much research exists on increasing argumentativeness, none could be found that specifically looked at content in the college level public speaking course in relation to increasing argumentativeness. Specifically, this researcher sought to determine whether instruction in Elaboration Likelihood Model as part of the persuasion unit in a college public speaking course increases student argumentativeness more than instruction in ToulminÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â‚ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â's model of reasoning/argument. Students in seven public speaking courses at a large Southeastern college were asked to complete the Argumentativeness Survey by Infante and Rancer (1982) after receiving instruction in either Elaboration Likelihood Model of Persuasion or ToulminÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â‚ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â's model iii of reasoning/argument. Overall results did not indicate any difference between scores for students that received instruction in the two different content areas.
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Date Issued: 2010
Identifier: CFE0003407, ucf:48423
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003407

Title: THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE STERLING QUALITY FRAMEWORK AND STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT IN ONE FLORIDA SCHOOL DISTRICT.
Creator: Short, James, Taylor, Rosemarye, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The focus of this research was to determine the relationship, if any, between student achievement and the implementation of the Sterling Quality Management System in a southwest Florida school district. A quantitative analysis focused on three sources of data. Two surveys provided by the Florida Sterling Council were used to collect data from school based personnel and student achievement gain scores obtained from the Florida DOE School Accountability Report 2005-2009. In this study, little...
Show moreThe focus of this research was to determine the relationship, if any, between student achievement and the implementation of the Sterling Quality Management System in a southwest Florida school district. A quantitative analysis focused on three sources of data. Two surveys provided by the Florida Sterling Council were used to collect data from school based personnel and student achievement gain scores obtained from the Florida DOE School Accountability Report 2005-2009. In this study, little positive correlation was found between perceived implementation of Sterling practices and student achievement gains. Of a possible score of 5, the total mean implementation score across all groups was found to be 4.14. This meant that the perceived level of Sterling implementation among respondents overall was very high. No significant correlation was found between the total average Sterling implementation mean score and student achievement gains (school points) made between 2005 and 2009. Overall, very few correlations were found to be statistically significant. This suggested the lack of a linear relationship between Sterling implementation and student achievement gains in the schools in the study Following are recommendations for future research. 1. This study could be repeated using a population of multiple school districts in Florida or in different states. 2. This study could be repeated using different measures of student achievement, such as end of course exam results, SAT or ACT scores, or achievement in Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate programs in high schools. 3. This study could be repeated with a population of administrators that includes all school principals and assistant principals. 4. This study could be repeated in a school district that has achieved the Sterling Quality award. 5. This study could be repeated to determine a relationship between Sterling Quality and other school effectiveness measures, such as parent involvement, community support, and teacher retention. 6. Determine the relationship if any that the implementation of Sterling Quality practices at the district level has on student achievement.
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Date Issued: 2010
Identifier: CFE0003441, ucf:48416
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003441

Title: SOCIAL NORMS AND COLLEGE DATING VIOLENCE AMONG GAY BISEXUAL TRANSGENDER AND QUEER (GBTQ) STUDENTS.
Creator: Rivera, LaShawn, Jasinski, Jana, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: There is minimal research on Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (GBTQ) dating violence on college campuses. This qualitative study was facilitated using focus groups that included students that identified as being GBTQ at the University of Central Florida (UCF). The focus group questions were open ended in a discussion format. Participants were recruited from student organizations like the Gay Lesbian Bisexual Student Union (GLBSU) and Knight Allies on campus. There were a total...
Show moreThere is minimal research on Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (GBTQ) dating violence on college campuses. This qualitative study was facilitated using focus groups that included students that identified as being GBTQ at the University of Central Florida (UCF). The focus group questions were open ended in a discussion format. Participants were recruited from student organizations like the Gay Lesbian Bisexual Student Union (GLBSU) and Knight Allies on campus. There were a total of 10 students that participated in 2 different focus group sessions. Student's attitudes, thoughts and opinions about dating violence on college campuses in GBTQ relationships were collected. Additionally, participants provided their own definitions of the term dating violence. The students were most comfortable discussing dating violence among heterosexual couples, but did provide their thoughts about this issue in the GBTQ community. The results show that students had differing ideas on what constitutes a dating relationship, and behaviors that are positive and acceptable in GBTQ relationships, but are not considered socially acceptable. One example of this was public displays of affection. In addition, students identified negative behaviors in violent relationships that seem to follow some of the common themes that were found in the current literature. Participants were not aware of current efforts at UCF to address college campus dating violence from a prevention standpoint, but were familiar with intervention services offered on campus. They provided ideas on social messages that would be effective on campus to raise awareness about dating violence in the GBTQ community.
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Date Issued: 2009
Identifier: CFE0002937, ucf:47974
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002937

Title: ASSESSING THE PSYCHOMETRIC PROPERTIES OF THE COUNSELING COMPETENCIES SCALE: A MEASURE OF COUNSELING SKILLS, DISPOSITIONS, AND BEHAVIORS.
Creator: Swank , Jacqueline, Lambie, Glenn, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Ethical and competent professional counselors are needed to provide quality counseling services to the public. Counselor educators and supervisors have the responsibility of training competent counselors. Furthermore, counselors and counselors-in-training have the responsibility of continually assessing their own development and implementing measures to increase their competency. Assessment instruments have sought to measure counseling competencies through evaluating counseling skills....
Show moreEthical and competent professional counselors are needed to provide quality counseling services to the public. Counselor educators and supervisors have the responsibility of training competent counselors. Furthermore, counselors and counselors-in-training have the responsibility of continually assessing their own development and implementing measures to increase their competency. Assessment instruments have sought to measure counseling competencies through evaluating counseling skills. However, a paucity of research exists that examines counseling competencies in a comprehensive manner using a psychometrically sound approach. Therefore, a need exists for a psychometrically sound assessment instrument that measures the construct of counseling competencies in a holistic manner. Thus, the purpose of this study was to assess the psychometric properties of the Counseling Competencies Scale (CCS; UCF Counselor Education Faculty, 2009), an instrument designed to measure counseling competencies, within the areas of counseling skills, professional dispositions, and professional behaviors. The sample included 81 counseling practicum students and 21 counseling practicum supervisors from two graduate counselor education programs at public institutions accredited by the Council for Accreditation for Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) within the United States (one program in the southeast and another in the northwest). The practicum supervisors evaluated the counseling competencies of the counseling practicum students per the CCS at the semester midpoint and conclusion. Additionally, the counseling practicum students evaluated their own counseling competencies per the CCS at the semester midpoint and conclusion. Furthermore, the counseling practicum students and supervisors both completed a demographic questionnaire developed by the researcher. The data analysis procedures employed to test the research hypotheses were: (a) factor analysis, (b) Pearson product-moment correlation (two-tailed), and (c) Cronbach's alpha. The exploratory factor analyses yielded five midterm CCS factors (Factor 1: Assessment and Application, Factor 2: Professional Behaviors and Dispositions, Factor 3: Beginning Counseling Skills, Factor 4: Advanced Counseling Skills, Factor 5: Directive Counseling Skills) and four final CCS factors (Factor 1: Professional Dispositions and Behaviors, Factor 2: Counseling Skills, Factor 3: Assessment and Application, Factor 4: Growth). Additionally, the CCS exhibited strong internal consistency reliability for both the individual factors and the overall models. The interrater reliability among raters yielded a low correlation (Skills [r = .436], Dispositions [r = .515], Behaviors [r = .467], and Total [r = .570]). Furthermore, an assessment of criterion-related validity yielded a high correlation (r = .407) between the final total score on the CCS and the students' final grade in the counseling practicum course. The results of the statistical analyses support the development of the CCS, a promising assessment instrument for evaluating counseling competencies within counselors-in-training. Through the further development of the CCS, counselor educators and supervisors will have a sound method for assessing their students' levels of counseling competencies and learning outcomes. Additionally, the CCS may support counselor educators and supervisions in their ethical and legal responsibilities as teachers, evaluators, and gatekeepers for the counseling profession. Furthermore, the CCS offers counselors-in-training a tool to assist them in understanding and developing their level of comprehensive counseling competencies.
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Date Issued: 2010
Identifier: CFE0003028, ucf:48342
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003028

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