Current Search: theory (x)
Pages
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Title
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A COMPARISON OF STIMULI PRESENTATION IN ADVANCED THEORY OF MIND TASKS FOR ADOLESCENTS WITH ASPERGER'S SYNDROME (AS).
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Creator
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Leon, Juliet, Schwartz, Jamie, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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Individuals diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome (AS) have marked impairments in social interaction, including difficulty expressing and perceiving thoughts, emotions, and intentions. This deficit may be due in part to a delayed or underdeveloped Theory of Mind (ToM). The previous research investigating ToM in individuals with AS has been inconclusive. The purpose of this study was to compare three Theory of Mind (ToM) tasks, presented via three different modalities, to evaluate the recognition...
Show moreIndividuals diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome (AS) have marked impairments in social interaction, including difficulty expressing and perceiving thoughts, emotions, and intentions. This deficit may be due in part to a delayed or underdeveloped Theory of Mind (ToM). The previous research investigating ToM in individuals with AS has been inconclusive. The purpose of this study was to compare three Theory of Mind (ToM) tasks, presented via three different modalities, to evaluate the recognition of complex emotions and mental states in adolescents with AS compared to typically developing adolescents. Participants in this study included twenty adolescents: 10 adolescents with AS and 10 typically developing adolescents matched by age and gender. Participants were administered three ToM tasks differing in mode of stimuli presentation: a visual mentalizing (VM) task; an auditory mentalizing (AM) task; and, a visual+auditory mentalizing (VAM) task. . Results were analyzed utilizing a factorial analysis of variance (ANOVA). No significant difference was found between the groups overall, or between the groups by task. A pairwise analysis of the data revealed non-significant differences between visual only (VM) compared to auditory only (AM) presentation of stimuli; however significant differences were found between visual only (VM) stimuli compared to the combination of visual + auditory (VAM) stimuli, and between auditory only (AM) stimuli compared to the combination of visual + auditory (VAM) stimuli. These results indicated that the recognition of complex emotions and mental states increased when the stimuli were presented through the combined visual and auditory channels. Clinical implications of these findings were discussed. Recommendations were made for future research investigating ToM in individuals with AS.
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Date Issued
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2011
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Identifier
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CFE0003714, ucf:48800
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003714
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Title
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Density-Functional Theory+Dynamical Mean-Field Theory Study of the Magnetic Properties of Transition-Metal Nanostructures.
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Creator
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Kabir, Alamgir, Rahman, Talat, Kara, Abdelkader, Del Barco, Enrique, Kik, Pieter, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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In this thesis, Density Functional Theory (DFT) and Dynamical Mean-Field Theory (DMFT) approaches are applied to study the magnetic properties of transition metal nanosystems of different sizes and compositions. In particular, in order to take into account dynamical electron correlation effects (time-resolved local charge interactions), we have adopted the DFT+DMFT formalism and made it suitable for application to nanostructures. Preliminary application of this DFT+DMFT approach, using...
Show moreIn this thesis, Density Functional Theory (DFT) and Dynamical Mean-Field Theory (DMFT) approaches are applied to study the magnetic properties of transition metal nanosystems of different sizes and compositions. In particular, in order to take into account dynamical electron correlation effects (time-resolved local charge interactions), we have adopted the DFT+DMFT formalism and made it suitable for application to nanostructures. Preliminary application of this DFT+DMFT approach, using available codes, to study the magnetic properties of small (2 to 5-atom) Fe and FePt clusters provide meaningful results: dynamical effects lead to a reduction of the cluster magnetic moment as compared to that obtained from DFT or DFT+U (U being the Coulomb repulsion parameter). We have subsequently developed our own nanoDFT+DMFT code and applied it to examine the magnetization of iron particles containing10-147 atoms. Our results for the cluster magnetic moments are in a good agreement with experimental data. In particular, we are able to reproduce the oscillations in magnetic moment with size as observed in the experiments. Also, DFT+DMFT does not lead to an overestimation of magnetization for the clusters in the size range of 10-27 atoms found with DFT and DFT+U. On application of the nanoDFT+DMFT approach to systems with mixed geometry (-) Fe2O3 film, which are periodic (infinitely extended), in two directions, and finite in the third. Similar to DFT+U, we find that the surface atom magnetic moments are smaller compared to the bulk. However, the absolute values of the surface atoms magnetic moments are smaller in DFT+DMFT. In parallel, we have carried out a systematic study of magnetic anisotropy in bimetallic L10 FePt nanoparticles (20-484 atoms) by using two DFT-based approaches: direct and the torque method. We find that the magnetocrystalline anisotropy (MCA) of FePt clusters is larger than that of the pure Fe and Pt ones. We explain this effect by a large hybridization of 3d Fe- and 5d Pt-atom orbitals, which lead to enhancement of the magnetic moment of the Pt atom, and hence to a larger magnetic anisotropy because of large spin-orbit coupling of Pt atoms. In addition, we find that particles whose (large) central layer consists of Pt atoms, rather than Fe, have larger MCA due to stronger hybridization effects. Such 'protected' MCA, which does not require protective cladding, can be used in modern magnetic technologies.
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Date Issued
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2015
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Identifier
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CFE0006038, ucf:50971
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006038
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Title
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Extracurricular Activities and Substance Use Among Adolescents: A Test of Social Control and Social Learning Theory.
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Creator
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Coto, Lynnette, Ford, Jason, Corzine, Harold, Reckdenwald, Amy, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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The current research examines correlates of adolescent substance use with a focus on extracurricular activities. Given that marijuana is the most widely used illicit drug, and binge drinking can have an early onset the examinations of these two substances were important. Many studies have researched the correlation between substance use and sports, but have not included other extracurricular activities such as academic and fine art clubs. The current research fills this gap in the literature...
Show moreThe current research examines correlates of adolescent substance use with a focus on extracurricular activities. Given that marijuana is the most widely used illicit drug, and binge drinking can have an early onset the examinations of these two substances were important. Many studies have researched the correlation between substance use and sports, but have not included other extracurricular activities such as academic and fine art clubs. The current research fills this gap in the literature by using the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health) and by testing Hirschi's (1969) Social Control Theory and Aker's (1985) Social Learning Theory. The current research identified fine art and academic clubs as protective factors for adolescent substance use. There is limited research on the link between adolescent substance use and extracurricular activities and based on my findings that academic and fine arts clubs can decrease the likelihood of substance use, continued research is needed to better identify users, causes for risk and preventative factors, short and long term ramifications, and the theoretical correlations of use.
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Date Issued
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2016
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Identifier
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CFE0006287, ucf:51607
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006287
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Title
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Understanding the beliefs and attitudes of mid-career secondary school teachers toward teacher evaluation and its effect on their professional practice: A mixed method phenomenological study.
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Creator
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Booth, William, Gill, Michele, Taylor, Rosemarye, Hutchinson, Cynthia, Mullins, Mark, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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The purpose of this mixed-method phenomenological study is to understand the beliefs and attitudes that mid-career secondary school teachers have regarding the teacher evaluation process and its effect on their professional practice. Mid-career secondary school teachers (defined as having between 14-21 years of classroom experience) from Bayview Public Schools were selected to participate. A total of 152 mid-career secondary school teachers completed an electronic survey. Additionally, a...
Show moreThe purpose of this mixed-method phenomenological study is to understand the beliefs and attitudes that mid-career secondary school teachers have regarding the teacher evaluation process and its effect on their professional practice. Mid-career secondary school teachers (defined as having between 14-21 years of classroom experience) from Bayview Public Schools were selected to participate. A total of 152 mid-career secondary school teachers completed an electronic survey. Additionally, a total of 9 participants took part in one-on-one semi-structured interviews. The theoretical framework used to guide the study was the theory of planned behavior (TPB) (Ajzen, 1988; 1991) and Bandura's theory of self-efficacy (1977). The quantitative results from the electronic survey were used to augment qualitative data collected from interviews with willing participants.The interviews with study participants were analyzed for emerging themes. In all, a total of nine emerging themes came to light through the analysis of interview data. The data revealed areas of concern regarding the current method of evaluating teachers in Bayview Public Schools. A presentation of the findings with regard to the theoretical framework, literature, and practice were presented. Furthermore, a list of recommendations was provided addressing the specific concerns of participating teachers. In conclusion, recommendations were also made concerning future research that might continue to add to the body of knowledge concerning teacher evaluation.
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Date Issued
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2015
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Identifier
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CFE0005765, ucf:50077
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005765
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Title
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(&)nbsp;Bridging the Gap between ESOL and Native English Speakers in a Digital Collaborative Classroom.
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Creator
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Samuels, Shalander, Hopp, Carolyn, Pratt Marrett, Caroline, Nutta, Joyce, Kaplan, Jeffrey, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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The purpose of this dissertation in practice was to explore how to bridge the gap between ESOL students and native English speaking students in a collaborative learning environment in a middle school in Tangerine Florida. The gap in performance was highlighted because ESOL students failed to meet the same levels of academic achievement (based on the Florida Standard Assessment Test) as their native English-speaking counter parts. The intent of the dissertation was to design a framework that...
Show moreThe purpose of this dissertation in practice was to explore how to bridge the gap between ESOL students and native English speaking students in a collaborative learning environment in a middle school in Tangerine Florida. The gap in performance was highlighted because ESOL students failed to meet the same levels of academic achievement (based on the Florida Standard Assessment Test) as their native English-speaking counter parts. The intent of the dissertation was to design a framework that would meet the pedagogical needs of ESOL students and teachers who teach them. A pilot study was completed that included teachers both ESOL-endorsed and those who were not to determine their needs in terms of professional development that would lead to increased achievement among ESOL students. The study focused on digital schools within one school district. A qualitative research approach was used because it was found to be rigorous, reliable and valid (Morse, Barrett, Mayan, Olson (&) Spiers (2002). Results of the pilot study were intended to inform teachers and school administrators about how to ultimately improve ESOL student performance. The data used in the pilot study were drawn from focus groups as well as information retrieved from reflective teacher and student tools. The conceptual framework that focused the pilot study included socio-cultural theory (Vygotsky, 1986; Mercer, 2007), self-efficacy theory (Bandura, 1997a; Pajares, 1997) culturally responsive teaching theory (Ladson-Billings, 2006; Freire 2000), situated learning theory (Davin (&) Heineke, 2016) and second language acquisition theories (Chomsky, 1965; Ellis, 1997).The findings from the teacher focus groups suggested ways to bridge the gap between the ESOL students and native English speakers. A proposed framework to counter the problem and bridge the gap was designed as a pedagogical intervention (professional development) that would provide the information teachers lack about how to teach ESOL students effectively. The framework also served as a platform to connect and collaborate with other ESOL instructors as a resource and support throughout the school year. Additionally, a teacher-proposed idea was a middle school technology transition (MST2) beginner course for students entering a digital school to give them practice and build their self-efficacy on how to use the necessary applications for each core (FSA tested) class. The results also support the idea that concurrent ongoing professional development and a student introductory technology course throughout the school year could produce more favorable achievement scores of ESOL students, and reduce gaps between ESOL students and native English speaking students.
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Date Issued
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2017
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Identifier
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CFE0006789, ucf:51808
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006789
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Title
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OPEN WORLD TRANSLATION: LOCALIZING JAPANESE VIDEO GAMES FOR A GLOBALIZING WORLD.
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Creator
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Suvannasankha, Emily, Flammia, Madelyn, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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This paper investigates the most effective ways of handling cultural differences in the Japanese-to-English game localization process. The thesis advocates for applying the Skopos theory of translation to game localization; analyzes how topics such as social issues, humor, fan translation, transcreation, and censorship have been handled in the past; and explores how international players react to developers' localization choices. It also includes interviews with three Japanese-to-English...
Show moreThis paper investigates the most effective ways of handling cultural differences in the Japanese-to-English game localization process. The thesis advocates for applying the Skopos theory of translation to game localization; analyzes how topics such as social issues, humor, fan translation, transcreation, and censorship have been handled in the past; and explores how international players react to developers' localization choices. It also includes interviews with three Japanese-to-English translators who have worked with major Japanese game companies to gain insight into how the industry operates today. Through the deconstruction of different aspects of Japanese-to-English localization, this analysis aims to help the game industry better fine-tune Japanese media to Western audiences while still sharing valuable aspects of Japanese culture. The thesis concludes that if Japanese game companies work to improve the localization process by considering more diverse international perspectives, hiring native speakers as translators, and approaching the English script as a creative endeavor in itself, they will be able to both broaden the minds of their global audiences and more effectively capitalize on the worldwide fervor for Japanese video games.
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Date Issued
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2019
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Identifier
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CFH2000464, ucf:45828
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000464
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Title
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ON SATURATION NUMBERS OF RAMSEY-MINIMAL GRAPHS.
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Creator
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Davenport, Hunter M, Song, Zi-Xia, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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Dating back to the 1930's, Ramsey theory still intrigues many who study combinatorics. Roughly put, it makes the profound assertion that complete disorder is impossible. One view of this problem is in edge-colorings of complete graphs. For forbidden graphs H1,...,Hk and a graph G, we write G "arrows" (H1,...,Hk) if every k-edge-coloring of G contains a monochromatic copy of Hi in color i for some i=1,2,...,k. If c is a (red, blue)-edge-coloring of G, we say c is a bad coloring if G contains...
Show moreDating back to the 1930's, Ramsey theory still intrigues many who study combinatorics. Roughly put, it makes the profound assertion that complete disorder is impossible. One view of this problem is in edge-colorings of complete graphs. For forbidden graphs H1,...,Hk and a graph G, we write G "arrows" (H1,...,Hk) if every k-edge-coloring of G contains a monochromatic copy of Hi in color i for some i=1,2,...,k. If c is a (red, blue)-edge-coloring of G, we say c is a bad coloring if G contains no red K3or blue K1,t under c. A graph G is (H1,...,Hk)-Ramsey-minimal if G arrows (H1,...,Hk) but no proper subgraph of G has this property. Given a family F of graphs, we say that a graph G is F-saturated if no member of F is a subgraph of G, but for any edge xy not in E(G), G + xy contains a member of F as a subgraph. Letting Rmin(K3, K1,t) be the family of (K3,K1,t)-Ramsey minimal graphs, we study the saturation number, denoted sat(n,Rmin(K3,K1,t)), which is the minimum number of edges among all Rmin(K3,K1,t)-saturated graphs on n vertices. We believe the methods and constructions developed in this thesis will be useful in studying the saturation numbers of (K4,K1,t)-saturated graphs.
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Date Issued
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2018
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Identifier
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CFH2000291, ucf:45881
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000291
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Title
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A LITERATURE REVIEW: GAP THEORY, THE NURSE-PATIENT RELATIONSHIP, AND THE HOSPITALITY AMBASSADOR.
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Creator
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Tanner, Michelle, Iskat, Wilfried, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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Historically, hospital institutions came out of the Middle Ages. The unfortunates who found themselves in these places included the poor, pilgrims, travelers, old and the orphaned. Started by Christians to take care of their own monks, hospitals were the epitome of charity and hospitality to its consumers. The purpose of this paper is to use the Gap Theory to explore the nurse-patient relationship within a hospitality setting. This information will be used to clarify points within patients'...
Show moreHistorically, hospital institutions came out of the Middle Ages. The unfortunates who found themselves in these places included the poor, pilgrims, travelers, old and the orphaned. Started by Christians to take care of their own monks, hospitals were the epitome of charity and hospitality to its consumers. The purpose of this paper is to use the Gap Theory to explore the nurse-patient relationship within a hospitality setting. This information will be used to clarify points within patients' hospital stays that could have an effect on the patients' intent to return or recommend the institution. Four key attributes were discovered through the review of literature that can help nurses and patients enhance the therapeutic relationship. Trust, hospitableness, flexibility and activation are all attributes that must be present in this relationship for it to reach the full potential. Comprehensive trainings done often can help hospitals keep their nurses and other medical staff updated and educated on these attributes. Literature supports the possibility that hospitals would benefit from an added position: the Hospitality Ambassador. This person would be able to take on non-clinical roles to help relieve the burden of the nursing staff while providing the personalized service that patients have come to expect.
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Date Issued
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2011
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Identifier
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CFH0003795, ucf:44774
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0003795
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Title
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THE RHETORIC OF INMATES: IDENTIFICATION PROCESSES IN THE SAN QUENTIN NEWS.
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Creator
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Stepanov, Alexandra, Wheeler, Stephanie, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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The intent of this thesis is to create a new heuristic for processes of identification. Currently, Burke's identification theory only accounts for his definition of successful identification. This thesis explores how Burke's initial identification theory interacts with other theories that contribute to identity formation. Specifically, Fernheimer's identification half-steps, Reynold's ethos as location theory, and Kerschbaum's commodification of difference will be used to build on Burke's...
Show moreThe intent of this thesis is to create a new heuristic for processes of identification. Currently, Burke's identification theory only accounts for his definition of successful identification. This thesis explores how Burke's initial identification theory interacts with other theories that contribute to identity formation. Specifically, Fernheimer's identification half-steps, Reynold's ethos as location theory, and Kerschbaum's commodification of difference will be used to build on Burke's theory and develop a new heuristic. The new heuristic will be applied to the San Quentin State Prison's inmate-run newspaper, the San Quentin News, to explore how inmates are utilizing rhetorical identification strategies to change the dominant conversations surrounding their identity.
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Date Issued
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2017
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Identifier
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CFH2000220, ucf:46049
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH2000220
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Title
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THE ADJUDICATION OF PRESIDENTIAL POWER IN THE U.S. SUPREME COURT:A PREDICTIVE MODEL OF INDIVIDUAL JUSTICE VOTING.
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Creator
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Curry, Todd, Lanier, Drew, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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The interaction between the President and Congress is many times quite public and well documented (Cronin 1980; Covington et al. 1995; Fisher 1994; Schlesinger 2004). Similarly, relations between the Congress and the Supreme Court are well documented; Congress makes law and, if requested, the Court interprets it. The interaction between the president and the Court, however, is not nearly as well defined, and certainly not as public. Supreme Court cases involving the president directly are...
Show moreThe interaction between the President and Congress is many times quite public and well documented (Cronin 1980; Covington et al. 1995; Fisher 1994; Schlesinger 2004). Similarly, relations between the Congress and the Supreme Court are well documented; Congress makes law and, if requested, the Court interprets it. The interaction between the president and the Court, however, is not nearly as well defined, and certainly not as public. Supreme Court cases involving the president directly are fairly rare. King and Meernik (1995) identify 347 cases involving the foreign policy powers of the president, decided from 1790 to 1996, which is roughly 1.5 cases per calendar year. This study will examine the influence of attitudinal and extra-attitudinal factors on the individual level decision-making of the U.S. Supreme Court justices in cases involving presidential power. By using both attitudinal and extra-attitudinal factors, such as public opinion and armed conflict, this study will explore the limitations of a simple attitudinal model in complex and highly salient cases such as those that involve presidential power. The cases to be examined will be all presidential power cases decided from 1949 to 2005 (N = 38). The unit of analysis will, however, be the justice's individual-level vote (N = 337).
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Date Issued
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2006
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Identifier
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CFE0001202, ucf:46953
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001202
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Title
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THE RELATIONSHIP OF STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT TO PRINICPALS'SELF-REPORTED USE OF THE FOUR FRAME THEORY.
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Creator
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Poniatowski, Donna, Taylor, Rosemarye, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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This study was developed to provide information about the relationship of principals' use of Bolman and Deal's (1991) four frame model of leadership to student achievement. The collection and analysis of student Florida Comprehensive Assessment Testing (FCAT) data over a 2 year period served as a measure to indicate whether or not an increase in reading mean scale score occurred from 2004 to 2005. Comparative analysis of both sets of data using multiple regressions was used to...
Show moreThis study was developed to provide information about the relationship of principals' use of Bolman and Deal's (1991) four frame model of leadership to student achievement. The collection and analysis of student Florida Comprehensive Assessment Testing (FCAT) data over a 2 year period served as a measure to indicate whether or not an increase in reading mean scale score occurred from 2004 to 2005. Comparative analysis of both sets of data using multiple regressions was used to determine if there was a relationship between the self-reported leadership orientations of the principals and student achievement. In addition, the study was intended to contribute to the quantitative data produced concerning the use of the four frames, multi-framing and reframing by elementary and secondary leadership. Principals in this study were surveyed concerning their use of the structural, human resource, political and symbolic frames of leadership using the Leadership Orientations (Self) instrument constructed by Bolman and Deal (1990). The only restriction concerning usability of the returned survey was that the principal had to be at the same school during the 2004 and 2005 school years. Of the 52 surveys returned, 42 (73%) formed the population for this study. This study found that the human resource frame was used most often but that 59% of the elementary teachers and 93% of the secondary teachers multi-framed on a regular basis. The study also found that that the use of the political frame and symbolic frame has increased. The self-reported data indicated no difference in effectiveness as a leader or as a manager, unlike previous data which indicated that leaders and managers worked from different frames to effect organizational policies. The analysis of data also indicated that there was no difference in frame use between elementary and secondary principals. The data indicated no relationship between the principals' frame usage and student achievement as measured by increases in FCAT Reading mean scale scores for the years 2004 and 2005. The implications of this finding are that there are other variables than use of the four frame model that contribute to an increase in FCAT mean scale scores. These emergent factors within and without the organization that is the public school system transcend what the data show in this case. Based on the findings of this study and supported by the literature review, it appears that school organizations could benefit leadership practice and possibly student achievement by providing training in the political and symbolic frames. It might also be perceived from the data, which indicated no relationship between principals' frame usage and student achievement, that leadership might begin to foster awareness of how successful principals' identify emergent patterns in the system. This ability to guide the diverse and constantly changing educational landscape toward positive adjustments in the system may be best served by those who are most adept at multi-framing and reframing to ensure student achievement.
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Date Issued
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2006
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Identifier
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CFE0001246, ucf:46913
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001246
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Title
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INITIAL TESTING OF THE CONTINUOUS EMPLOYEE DEVELOPMENT MODEL: OUTCOME EXPECTATIONS AND WORK-RELATED IMPLICIT THEORY.
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Creator
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Garofano, Christina, Salas, Eduardo, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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Understanding and promoting lifelong learning in employees is important for employees' future marketability (Robinson & Rousseau, 1994) and for creating learning organizations (Senge, 1990). To further this understanding, components of a model of the motivation to engage in continuous employee development (Garofano & Salas, 2005) were tested. New scales were created for work-related implicit theory and outcome expectations and the validity of these scales and these variables in the model...
Show moreUnderstanding and promoting lifelong learning in employees is important for employees' future marketability (Robinson & Rousseau, 1994) and for creating learning organizations (Senge, 1990). To further this understanding, components of a model of the motivation to engage in continuous employee development (Garofano & Salas, 2005) were tested. New scales were created for work-related implicit theory and outcome expectations and the validity of these scales and these variables in the model were investigated. Alternate models were also contrasted with the Garofano and Salas model (2005). The study used self-report surveys administered to staff and faculty recruited from training classes in higher learning institutions in a three month longitudinal investigation. The results suggest that work-related implicit theory is a valid contributor in this model but that modifications to the model may be beneficial, including a more complex central motivational component. Implications of these results for organizational practice are discussed along with study limitations and future research implications
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Date Issued
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2006
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Identifier
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CFE0001224, ucf:46902
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001224
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Title
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THE UNITED NATIONS FUND FOR POPULATION ACTIVITIES: CHANGING THE DIRECTION OF THE TOTAL FERTILITY RATE IN DEVELOPING NATIONS.
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Creator
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Fazecas, Michaela, ME Jungblut, Bernadette, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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This thesis builds on previous United Nations' research investigating factors affecting the Total Fertility Rate (TFR) in six (6) states: Burkina Faso, Mexico, Morocco, Nepal, the Philippines, and Uganda. The present research, however, provides a broader assessment of the TFR and the potential causes of its decline by examining countries across nine (9) regions of the world sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, South Asia, East Asia, the Middle East and North Africa, the Caribbean, the...
Show moreThis thesis builds on previous United Nations' research investigating factors affecting the Total Fertility Rate (TFR) in six (6) states: Burkina Faso, Mexico, Morocco, Nepal, the Philippines, and Uganda. The present research, however, provides a broader assessment of the TFR and the potential causes of its decline by examining countries across nine (9) regions of the world sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, South Asia, East Asia, the Middle East and North Africa, the Caribbean, the Pacific Islands, Eastern and Southeastern Europe, and the former Soviet Socialist Republics of the Commonwealth of Independent States. The present analyses are also conducted over time, specifically from 1960 through 2002.Five (5) primary hypotheses regarding factors affecting the Total Fertility Rate are examined using feasible generalized least squares regression analysis. First, foreign debt is hypothesized to have a positive relationship to TFR. That is, holding all else constant, as foreign debt increases, TFR is expected to increase as well. Foreign debt is operationalized first, as total external debt; second, as long-term debt, and third, as total debt service as a percentage of exports of goods and services. Second, foreign aid, the level of socioeconomic development, and the extent of females' education are all hypothesized to have negative relationships to TFR. That is, all else constant, as foreign aid increases, TFR is expected to decrease. All else constant, as the level of socioeconomic development increases, TFR is also expected to decrease. All else constant, as the extent of females' education increases, TFR is also expected to decrease. Foreign aid is operationalized as first, International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) loans and International Development Agency (IDA) credits; and second, as official development assistance and official aid. The level of socioeconomic development is operationalized as the Gross National Income (GNI) per capita in terms of purchasing power parity. The extent of females' education is operationalized as first, the adult female literacy rate (ages 15 and above), and second, as the ratio of young literate females to males (ages 15 24). Finally, whereas previous scholars have hypothesized that industrialization reduces TFR (the Western European "demographic transition" hypothesis), the present research proposes that this relationship may not hold in developing countries. This possibility is investigated by analyzing the relationships between TFR and first, the value added of agriculture (as a percentage of GDP); second, the value added of industry (also as a percentage of GDP); third, the value added of manufacturing as a percentage of GDP; and fourth, the value added of services as a percentage of GDP. The findings presented here suggest first, that the foreign debt and foreign aid have differing effects on TFR in different regions of the world. Second, the effects of socioeconomic development and females' education are more consistent (than foreign debt and foreign aid) across the different regions but intriguing variations still exist. Finally, it appears that, with very few exceptions, the Western European-based demographic transition model does not hold for non-Western and developing areas. Therefore, new, region-specific models of TFR need to be developed and public policy needs to be based on these more accurate, more context-appropriate models.
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Date Issued
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2004
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Identifier
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CFE0000139, ucf:46169
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000139
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Title
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THE EFFECT OF COGNITIVE AGING ON MULTIMEDIA LEARNING.
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Creator
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DaCosta, Boaventura, Hirumi, Atsusi, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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If not designed in consideration to the workings of the human mind, multimedia learning environments can impose too high a demand on working memory. While such high cognitive load presents challenges for learners of all ages, older learners may be particularly affected as research on cognitive aging has shown the efficiency of working memory declines with age. Research has suggested that cognitive load theory (CLT) and the cognitive theory of multimedia learning (CTML) are likely to...
Show moreIf not designed in consideration to the workings of the human mind, multimedia learning environments can impose too high a demand on working memory. While such high cognitive load presents challenges for learners of all ages, older learners may be particularly affected as research on cognitive aging has shown the efficiency of working memory declines with age. Research has suggested that cognitive load theory (CLT) and the cognitive theory of multimedia learning (CTML) are likely to accommodate the cognitive needs of older learners; however, few of the principles emerging from these theories have been examined in the context of cognitive aging. The abundance of studies has focused on younger learners, prompting the need for further research of CLT and CTML principles with regard to age. This study contributes to the body of research on the cognitive aging principle by extending research on the modality effect with middle-aged learners. Ninety-two participants ranging in age from 30 to 59 were exposed to multimedia learning treatments presented as animation with concurrent narration and animation with concurrent text, followed by retention, concept, and transfer tests of multimedia learning. Demographic and descriptive statistics were performed along with a multivariate analysis of variance. The findings did not show a modality effect with middle-aged learners; however, results need to be interpreted with care as possible explanations may entail other causes for the lack of a modality effect other than age.
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Date Issued
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2008
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Identifier
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CFE0002033, ucf:47587
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002033
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Title
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COLLABORATIVE CONTEXT-BASED REASONING.
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Creator
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Barrett, Gilbert, Gonzalez, Avelino, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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This dissertation explores modeling collaborative behavior, based on Joint Intentions Theory (JIT), in Context-Based Reasoning (CxBR). Context-Based Reasoning is one of several contextual reasoning paradigms. And, Joint Intentions Theory is the definitive semantic framework for collaborative behaviors. In order to formalize collaborative behaviors in CxBR based on JIT, CxBR is first described in terms of the more popular Belief, Desire, and Intention (BDI) model. Once this description is...
Show moreThis dissertation explores modeling collaborative behavior, based on Joint Intentions Theory (JIT), in Context-Based Reasoning (CxBR). Context-Based Reasoning is one of several contextual reasoning paradigms. And, Joint Intentions Theory is the definitive semantic framework for collaborative behaviors. In order to formalize collaborative behaviors in CxBR based on JIT, CxBR is first described in terms of the more popular Belief, Desire, and Intention (BDI) model. Once this description is established JIT is used as a basis for the formalism for collaborative behavior in CxBR. The hypothesis of this dissertation is that this formalism allows for effective collaborative behaviors in CxBR. Additionally, it is also hypothesized that CxBR agents inferring intention from explicitly communicating Contexts allows for more efficient modeling of collaborative behaviors than inferring intention from situational awareness. Four prototypes are built and evaluated to test the hypothesis and the evaluations are favorable. Effective collaboration is demonstrated through cognitive task analysis and through metrics based on JIT definitions. Efficiency is shown through software metric evaluations for volume and complexity of code.
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Date Issued
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2007
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Identifier
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CFE0001667, ucf:47198
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001667
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Title
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UNDERPRIVILEGED BLACK AMERICANS: THE AFTERMATH OF KING COTTON.
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Creator
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Bryant, Patience, Santana, Maria Cristina, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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It has been criticized that the present economic state of Black Americans is a reflection of their history stemming from slavery. Diana Pearce's Feminization of Poverty Theory discusses the idea that the ever-rising number of underprivileged Black Americans is due to the fact that there exists a rise in female headed households. The researcher constructed and analyzed several concepts that fall under the Feminization of Poverty Theory: education, employment, family, and social class. For...
Show moreIt has been criticized that the present economic state of Black Americans is a reflection of their history stemming from slavery. Diana Pearce's Feminization of Poverty Theory discusses the idea that the ever-rising number of underprivileged Black Americans is due to the fact that there exists a rise in female headed households. The researcher constructed and analyzed several concepts that fall under the Feminization of Poverty Theory: education, employment, family, and social class. For the analysis the study used the documentary Lalee's Kin: The Legacy of Cotton. Results show that each of the categories are approximately equal in proportion under the Feminization of Poverty Theory and that they also affect the impact that capital, government programs, economy, and investments have on underprivileged Black Americans.
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Date Issued
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2007
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Identifier
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CFE0001604, ucf:47171
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001604
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Title
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RAPITALISM.
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Creator
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Smith, Martin, Lynxwiler, John, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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My paper questions the degree to which the hip hop subculture is oppositional to mainstream American society and its ideals. Toward that end, I examine the structure of the hip hop industry and its subculture. While the hip hop subculture in America consistently has projected images of rebellion and resistance to many of the mores, constraints and values of dominant society, the actual structure and organization of the hip hop subculture have mirrored, supported and promoted the values of the...
Show moreMy paper questions the degree to which the hip hop subculture is oppositional to mainstream American society and its ideals. Toward that end, I examine the structure of the hip hop industry and its subculture. While the hip hop subculture in America consistently has projected images of rebellion and resistance to many of the mores, constraints and values of dominant society, the actual structure and organization of the hip hop subculture have mirrored, supported and promoted the values of the dominant culture in the United States. I begin by examining the structure of the main elements of the hip hop subculture: deejaying, breakdancing, emceeing and graffiti art, and the practices within each to demonstrate that the hip hop subculture has a structure which supports capitalistic practices. The interactions between hip hop industry participants, their fans, and the marketplace are an embracing of the values of mainstream American society and capitalism. From its inception, the structure of the hip hop subculture and the actions of the artists within the structure essentially has made hip hop music capitalism set to a beat.
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Date Issued
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2006
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Identifier
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CFE0001360, ucf:47001
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001360
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Title
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THE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN LEADER BEHAVIOR, FOLLOWER MOTIVATION, AND PERFORMANCE.
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Creator
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Harrell, Melissa, Pritchard, Robert, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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The primary goal of this study was to examine ways in which leaders can influence followers' motivation. Motivation is a key construct in industrial and organizational psychology due to its impact on employee performance. Modern motivation theories adapt a more sophisticated view of motivation in terms of definition, relationships, and operationalization. In particular, one new theory of motivation is the Pritchard and Ashwood Theory (2008). This theory proposes that motivation is...
Show moreThe primary goal of this study was to examine ways in which leaders can influence followers' motivation. Motivation is a key construct in industrial and organizational psychology due to its impact on employee performance. Modern motivation theories adapt a more sophisticated view of motivation in terms of definition, relationships, and operationalization. In particular, one new theory of motivation is the Pritchard and Ashwood Theory (2008). This theory proposes that motivation is comprised of four perceived relationships that, in combination, reflect the extent to which employees believe that their actions on the job will lead to need satisfaction. These four relationships are called connections. The relationship between two leadership behaviors, initiating structure and consideration, and the Pritchard and Ashwood motivational connections was examined. It was hypothesized that the two leader behaviors would have differential relationships with the four motivational connections. These differential relationships should facilitate targeted behavioral feedback to leaders to improve each of the motivational connections. Additionally, motivation was hypothesized to mediate the relationship between the leader behaviors and employee outcomes. The Pritchard and Ashwood Theory is operationalized by the Motivation Assessment Questionnaire (MAQ) (Pritchard, 2006a). A secondary goal of this study was to contribute to the validity evidence of the MAQ. This recently developed questionnaire has shown good psychometric properties and initial validity evidence has demonstrated moderate relationships between the MAQ and job performance. However, this is the first study of the relationship between the MAQ and employee outcomes with a large sample of full-time working adults. Further, this study expanded potential MAQ outcomes beyond employee performance to include organizational citizenship behaviors and turnover intentions. A sample of 208 employees was recruited from two central Florida companies. These employees responded to the MAQ and other study measures via a secure, online survey. Participating employees provided contact information for their supervisors who were then invited to participate in the study by providing criteria ratings. A large number of the invited supervisors participated (n = 195). Results indicated robust support for one of the leadership behaviors: consideration. Consideration was related to performance and this relationship was partially mediated by motivation. On the other hand, initiating structure was not related to employee performance. Consideration and initiating structure were not differentially related as hypothesized to the four motivational connections. This was due in part to the strong correlation between the two leadership behaviors (r = .73). Results provided additional validation evidence for the MAQ. The overall effort scale was not related to performance as it had been in the two previous studies that used a student sample. However, the average of the motivation connections predicted performance. Additionally, the MAQ predicted both organizational citizenship behaviors and turnover intentions. As mentioned previously, the sample was drawn from two central Florida companies. Although many of the study hypotheses were supported for the overall sample, the observed relationships were very different for the two subsamples. Similarly, findings in this study differ from previous studies using the MAQ with working students. Potential reasons for these differences are discussed.
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Date Issued
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2008
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Identifier
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CFE0002469, ucf:47695
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002469
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Title
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THE EFFECTS OF DIFFERENTIAL ITEM FUNCTIONING ON PREDICTIVE BIAS.
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Creator
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Bryant, Damon, Stone-Romero, Eugene, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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The purpose of this research was to investigate the relation between measurement bias at the item level (differential item functioning, dif) and predictive bias at the test score level. Dif was defined as a difference in the probability of getting a test item correct for examinees with the same ability but from different subgroups. Predictive bias was defined as a difference in subgroup regression intercepts and/or slopes in predicting a criterion. Data were simulated by computer. Two...
Show moreThe purpose of this research was to investigate the relation between measurement bias at the item level (differential item functioning, dif) and predictive bias at the test score level. Dif was defined as a difference in the probability of getting a test item correct for examinees with the same ability but from different subgroups. Predictive bias was defined as a difference in subgroup regression intercepts and/or slopes in predicting a criterion. Data were simulated by computer. Two hypothetical subgroups (a reference group and a focal group) were used. The predictor was a composite score on a dimensionally complex test with 60 items. Sample size (35, 70, and 105 per group), validity coefficient (.3 or .5), and the mean difference on the predictor (0, .33, .66, and 1 standard deviation, sd) and the criterion (0 and .35 sd) were manipulated. The percentage of items showing dif (0%, 15%, and 30%) and the effect size of dif (small = .3, medium = .6, and large = .9) were also manipulated. Each of the 432 conditions in the 3 x 2 x 4 x 2 x 3 x 3 design was replicated 500 times. For each replication, a predictive bias analysis was conducted, and the detection of predictive bias against each subgroup was the dependent variable. The percentage of dif and the effect size of dif were hypothesized to influence the detection of predictive bias; hypotheses were also advanced about the influence of sample size and mean subgroup differences on the predictor and criterion. Results indicated that dif was not related to the probability of detecting predictive bias against any subgroup. Results were inconsistent with the notion that measurement bias and predictive bias are mutually supportive, i.e., the presence (or absence) of one type of bias is evidence in support of the presence (or absence) of the other type of bias. Sample size and mean differences on the predictor/criterion had direct and indirect effects on the probability of detecting predictive bias against both reference and focal groups. Implications for future research are discussed.
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Date Issued
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2004
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Identifier
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CFE0000157, ucf:46160
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000157
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Title
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"TRULY AN AWESOME SPECTACLE": GENDER PERFORMATIVITY AND THE ALIENATION EFFECT IN ANGELS IN AMERICA.
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Creator
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Gorney, Allen, Campbell, James, University of Central Florida
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Abstract / Description
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Tony Kushner's two-part play Angels in America uses stereotypical depictions of gay men to deconstruct traditional gender dichotomies. In this thesis, I argue that Kushner has created a continuum of gender performativity to deconstruct these traditional gender dichotomies, thereby empowering the effeminate and disempowering the masculine. I closely examine Kushner's use of Brechtian and Aristotelian tenets in the first Broadway production of the play to demonstrate that Kushner sought to...
Show moreTony Kushner's two-part play Angels in America uses stereotypical depictions of gay men to deconstruct traditional gender dichotomies. In this thesis, I argue that Kushner has created a continuum of gender performativity to deconstruct these traditional gender dichotomies, thereby empowering the effeminate and disempowering the masculine. I closely examine Kushner's use of Brechtian and Aristotelian tenets in the first Broadway production of the play to demonstrate that Kushner sought to induce social awareness of gay male oppression, contingent on the audience's perception of Kushner's deconstruction of the traditional gender dichotomy. I also scrutinize the role of the closet and its implications in the play, primarily analyzed with Eve Kosofsky Sedgwick's theoretical framework, suggesting Kushner's partiality to openly gay men who can actively participate in the cessation of gay male oppression.
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Date Issued
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2005
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Identifier
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CFE0000901, ucf:46731
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Format
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Document (PDF)
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PURL
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http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000901
Pages