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Title: PLAYING WITH FIRE: AN ETHNOGRAPHIC LOOK AT HOW POLYAMORY FUNCTIONS IN THE CENTRAL FLORIDA BURNER COMMUNITY.
Creator: Mikesell, Maleia, Reyes-Foster, Beatriz, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This thesis asks the question as to whether polyamory functions as a community glue or solvent for the Central Florida Burner Community. It explores the definition of polyamory and how it relates to the Burner counter-culture. This thesis explores what polyamory's effects are on the individual and community levels for those who participate in it. The findings concluded that overall the participants reported a perceived positive impact on both the individual level and on community cohesion in...
Show moreThis thesis asks the question as to whether polyamory functions as a community glue or solvent for the Central Florida Burner Community. It explores the definition of polyamory and how it relates to the Burner counter-culture. This thesis explores what polyamory's effects are on the individual and community levels for those who participate in it. The findings concluded that overall the participants reported a perceived positive impact on both the individual level and on community cohesion in this case. The participants also revealed that the environment Burning Man provides is generally open and welcoming of polyamory.
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Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFH0004852, ucf:45459
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004852

Title: Cross-Sector And Inter-Organizational Collaborative Capacity In Community Disaster Resilience And Sustainability: Evidence From Central Florida Counties.
Creator: Demiroz, Fatih, Kapucu, Naim, Hawkins, Christopher, Knox, Claire, Wan, Thomas, Rivera, Fernando, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This study examines the relationships between interorganizational network development and sustainability, organizational capacity for emergency management, technology utilization, and community disaster resiliency. It is proposed that cross sector and interorganizational collaboration (i.e., network development and sustainability), information communication technology (ICT) utilization, and organizational capacity have a positive impact on disaster resiliency. Disaster resiliency is measured...
Show moreThis study examines the relationships between interorganizational network development and sustainability, organizational capacity for emergency management, technology utilization, and community disaster resiliency. It is proposed that cross sector and interorganizational collaboration (i.e., network development and sustainability), information communication technology (ICT) utilization, and organizational capacity have a positive impact on disaster resiliency. Disaster resiliency is measured with a three dimensional metric which includes effectiveness of disaster response, effectiveness of disaster recovery, and adaptive capacities.A questionnaire was sent to organizations that are part of the emergency management system in 11 counties in Central Florida. These organizations were identified by each county's comprehensive emergency management plans. County emergency managers served as the liaison people to reach organizations. They distributed the questionnaire and sent reminders to participants. The study aimed to reach an entire population of 855 emergency management affiliated organizations. The survey had a 25.28% response rate. Structural equation modeling was used to determine the impact of interorganizational network development, interorganizational network sustainability, information communication technology utilization, and organizational capacity on community disaster resiliency. The results of the study show that one third of the total variation in disaster resiliency was explained with the exogenous variables in the structural equation model (R2=.31). There was no statistically significant relationship between network development and disaster resiliency. Also, a correlation was hypothesized between organizational capacity and ICT utilization, according to the study findings no correlation was found between these two variables. Network development, organizational capacity, and ICT utilization were found to be positively associated with disaster resiliency. Among all the variables, organizational capacity had the highest impact on disaster resiliency (?=.36). ICT utilization and network development had almost equal regression weights (?=.25, ?=.26 respectively). A correlation was also found between network development and ICT utilization with ?=.23.The results suggest that organizations that are part of emergency management systems in Central Florida counties could enhance disaster resiliency of their communities by focusing on interorganizational and cross-sector network development, information communication technology utilization, and organizational capacity. Managerial craft has a critical role in developing relationship as most of the interorganizational ties are established with informal connections and mutual trust. Building relationship, installing technological systems, and carrying out joint trainings often exceeds financial capacities of organizations. Enabling more funding for these initiatives is another key point to which policy makers may pay attention.
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Date Issued: 2012
Identifier: CFE0004505, ucf:49286
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0004505

Title: THE EMERGENCE OF CENTRAL FLORIDA'S PUERTO RICAN COMMUNITY.
Creator: Melendez, Cynthia, Martinez-Fernandez, Luis, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: As with many cities in Florida, Orlando is becoming a melting pot of various ethnic groups. In particular, the Hispanic population in Orlando and throughout Central Florida is steadily increasing in numbers and influence. Groups such as Cubans, Puerto Ricans, Mexicans, and Colombians are enriching the area with their culture, language, and diversity. Puerto Ricans, the largest of the Hispanic groups in Central Florida, are also emerging as the dominant group in the region as evidenced by...
Show moreAs with many cities in Florida, Orlando is becoming a melting pot of various ethnic groups. In particular, the Hispanic population in Orlando and throughout Central Florida is steadily increasing in numbers and influence. Groups such as Cubans, Puerto Ricans, Mexicans, and Colombians are enriching the area with their culture, language, and diversity. Puerto Ricans, the largest of the Hispanic groups in Central Florida, are also emerging as the dominant group in the region as evidenced by their common language, historical and cultural heritage, shared common interests, and in some cases, residence within clear geographical areas. Between 1980 and 1990, Central Florida witnessed its largest influx of Puerto Ricans. In 1980, Orange County had a little over 6,660 Puerto Rican residents, Seminole County had over 2,000 and Osceola County had a mere 417. These numbers rose steadily, and by 2003, the Puerto Rican population in Florida numbered 571,000, ranking second behind New York, and followed only by New Jersey. Central Florida has seen the biggest jump in these numbers and now has more than 250,000 Hispanics of Puerto Rican origin making them the largest single group of Hispanics in the region. They now represent 49 percent of all Hispanics living in Central Florida. My thesis examines the development of the Puerto Rican community in Central Florida, its impact, and its contributions by utilizing such sources as newspaper articles from local papers including Spanish-language papers, interviews with Hispanic community leaders, statistical data, and secondary literature on the overall Puerto Rican migration to the United States and their experiences once here. To fully understand why the Puerto Rican community is developing in the Orlando area, I first place the analysis within the larger scope of immigration history. In this section, I examine some of the debates and patterns in overall immigration to the United States by various groups. Next, I provide a brief introduction to the history of the Puerto Rican people and the reasons for their migration to the United States and how this migration fits into the patterns examined in the first section. Furthermore, this introduction leads to an examination of other cities with large Puerto Rican communities and a comparison between the development of Puerto Rican communities in these cities and Central Florida. Finally, I explore the origin of the majority of Puerto Rican's moving to Central Florida, to discover if they are coming from the U.S. cities that originally saw a huge influx of Puerto Rican immigration (such as New York) or if the population is arriving directly from Puerto Rico. This determination sheds light on why the Puerto Rican population is choosing Central Florida as a place for settlement. I analyze my findings by examining factors such as better employment opportunities, better educational opportunities, and an overall improvement in quality of life, which are drawing Puerto Ricans to this area, when compared to these factors or conditions in Puerto Rico or other cities in Florida. In addition, I seek to determine if there are specific problems occurring in Puerto Rican cities that are compelling native-born Puerto Ricans to leave. I also examine the ways that the growing presence of Puerto Ricans has changed Central Florida economically, socially, and politically. I also discuss the effectiveness of Puerto Rican organizations that have arisen to serve the needs of this population and I seek to gain some indication of the long term implications for the region as a whole, especially in terms of their voting trends. Culminating this section is a description of the unique cultural contributions that the Puerto Rican community is bringing to the area. My thesis proves that Puerto Ricans are finding the Central Florida area is offering them many of the opportunities that cities such as New York City provided them long ago. In addition, it offers the added appeal of a better quality of life than can be found in Puerto Rico or in other American cities, such as New York City. Among the important factors here are affordable housing, good employment opportunities, and more adequate schools.
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Date Issued: 2007
Identifier: CFE0001633, ucf:47166
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001633

Title: A QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS OF PERSPECTIVES: EDUCATIONAL IMPLICATIONS IN THE SPANISH BILINGUAL PROGRAMS IN PRIMARY EDUCATION IN THE CENTRAL FLORIDA REGION.
Creator: Araldi, Caitlin, Garcia, Martha, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The proposed goal of this research was to take the data gathered and implement it in analyzing the potential reformation of programs in need of evaluation, assessing the potential benefits of further development in the field of bilingual education in the United States as a nation. Using data collected in the Central Florida region as a microcosmic example of how existing programs function in the modern elementary educational system, the purpose of this study was to demonstrate through the...
Show moreThe proposed goal of this research was to take the data gathered and implement it in analyzing the potential reformation of programs in need of evaluation, assessing the potential benefits of further development in the field of bilingual education in the United States as a nation. Using data collected in the Central Florida region as a microcosmic example of how existing programs function in the modern elementary educational system, the purpose of this study was to demonstrate through the conduction of interviews with local teachers and currently available research that a more suitable standard for bilingual education is both necessary and valuable for our school systems and for the future of our students as productive and capable adults. As a survey of the current state of bilingual education in Central Florida elementary schools, this research sought to establish a clearer panoramic view of the ways in which our system is perceived as observed directly through those participating and facilitating it firsthand in local classrooms. Classroom observations and data gathered from educational professionals within the participating elementary school system, inclusive solely of those implementing a bilingual program as a method of assimilation for a high population of Spanish-speaking students transitioning to a targeted language of English, were the primary basis of this research, supplemented by existing psychological and educational research in the field of language acquisition and development in young children. Results have suggested that current methods of bilingual instruction are based upon the integrated standards of three existing models: transitional bilingual education, immersion, and English as a Second Language. The three appeared to be functioning in such a way that does not fully allow for a wide range of learning needs to be met, and that furthermore does not fully support a directed initiative toward a future in consistently dynamic and progressive research in the bilingual field, such that a standardized system flexible enough to encourage the needs of a diverse population might be realized. With further standardization and research, bilingual education might itself become a standard of American education for all students, native and non-native.
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Date Issued: 2011
Identifier: CFH0004112, ucf:44891
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004112

Title: THE PREVALENCE OF BULLYING IN CENTRAL FLORIDA MIDDLE SCHOOLS AS PERCEIVED BY STUDENTS.
Creator: Norris, Marty, Hahs-Vaughn, Debbie, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This study was developed to produce data about the prevalence of bullying in Central Florida middle schools. The research was intended to contribute to the existing body of knowledge on bullying and victimization. The focus for this study was provided through research questions: (a) to determine if there is a mean difference in perceived victimization among Central Florida middle school students based on grade level, gender, and ethnicity; (b) to determine if there is a mean difference in...
Show moreThis study was developed to produce data about the prevalence of bullying in Central Florida middle schools. The research was intended to contribute to the existing body of knowledge on bullying and victimization. The focus for this study was provided through research questions: (a) to determine if there is a mean difference in perceived victimization among Central Florida middle school students based on grade level, gender, and ethnicity; (b) to determine if there is a mean difference in perceived bullying among Central Florida middle school students based on grade level, gender, and ethnicity; (c) to determine what support do students perceive Central Florida middle school staff provide to students who are bullied;(d) to determine what school locations, if any, do Central Florida middle school students perceive to be the most prevalent for bullying activities; (e) to determine if there is a relationship between skipping school and perceived victimization among middle school students in Central Florida; (f) to determine what is the average number of school days skipped by middle school students in Central Florida due to perceived victimization; (g) to determine if there is a relationship between feeling safe at school and perceived victimization among middle school students in Central Florida; (h) to determine if there is a relationship between student perceptions of whether teasing and bullying harms their grades and perceived victimization for middle school students in Central Florida; and (i) to determine if there is a relationship between students showing interest in their school work and perceived victimization by Central Florida middle school students. The population of this study was comprised of students in grades 6-8 in three Central Florida school districts during the 2007 – 2008 school years. Data were generated from the 13 schools located in Brevard, Osceola and Volusia counties using a self-reporting survey. Based on the research findings, it was determined that bullying is prevalent in Central Florida schools, with 21% (n = 133) of the students perceiving themselves as a victim of teasing and bullying. Students who perceive themselves as a bully was 5% (n = 30). Minority students perceived themselves as victims the most. Minority students in the sixth grade and non-minority students in the seventh grade, regardless of gender, perceived themselves as victims the most. Students in the sixth grade, regardless of race and gender, perceived themselves as bullies more than students in other grade levels. Students, who perceived themselves as victims, feel it is because they had good grades and show interest in their school work. Perceived victims of teasing and bullying also have poorer grades. Most students, who are victims of bullying, do feel somewhat safe at school and feel what the school is doing about the teasing and bullying problems was sufficient. When asked about attendance, a majority of students reported they have not skipped any days of school as a result of being teased or bullied. Students also identified all campus locations as areas where teasing and bullying takes place, with the gym having the most occurrence
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Date Issued: 2008
Identifier: CFE0002215, ucf:47897
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0002215

Title: Can I Get an Amen? Central Florida Black Pastors' Perceptions of the Impact of the Black Church in the Black Community.
Creator: Williamson, Jeffrey, Gay, David, Carter, Shannon, Corzine, Harold, Matejowsky, Ty, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This study uses phenomenological methods to answer the research question, (")what do black pastors perceive as the role of the church in the black community?(") I asked 20 Central Florida black pastors 17 questions, most of them open-ended, to determine their perceptions of the current black church. First, these pastors are dismayed at the condition and the position of the current black church. They view the history the black church as strong and stalwart, and the Civil Rights Movement as an...
Show moreThis study uses phenomenological methods to answer the research question, (")what do black pastors perceive as the role of the church in the black community?(") I asked 20 Central Florida black pastors 17 questions, most of them open-ended, to determine their perceptions of the current black church. First, these pastors are dismayed at the condition and the position of the current black church. They view the history the black church as strong and stalwart, and the Civil Rights Movement as an example of what the institution is capable of doing and being. Second, they perceive the primary roadblock of the black church to be leadership. They do not see current pastors as having neither the vision nor the desire to make the church the instrument of social justice and change that it once was. They see current pastors trying to make a name for themselves instead of impacting the communities they serve. They also see member apathy as another issue that hinders the impact of the black church. They argue that many black people have climbed the social ladder and no longer desire to reach back and help other blacks in the community that they have exited. This study provides important insight into the current state and the perception of the direction of the black church from the vantage point of these men and women who lead black churches in Central Florida.
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Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFE0006017, ucf:51011
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006017

Title: Master plan: new state university in East Central Florida.
Creator: Rogers, James Gamble, Murphy, Robert M., Kelley, Forrest M., Jr., Associated University Architects, University of Central Florida, Lovelock and Fritz, Lemon and Megginson, Owles...
Show moreRogers, James Gamble, Murphy, Robert M., Kelley, Forrest M., Jr., Associated University Architects, University of Central Florida, Lovelock and Fritz, Lemon and Megginson, Owles and Heasley, PALMM (Project)
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Abstract / Description: The preliminary master plan for what would become the University of Central Florida. It consists of drawings and overlays for building placement, pedestrian and vehicle traffic, and the locations of the various colleges.
Date Issued: 1965
Identifier: AAB9115QF00008/02/200511/14/200611510BfamIa D0QF, FIPS12095, FHP C UCF 2005-08-03, FCLA url 20060223xOCLC, 75964057, CF00001714, 2583919, ucf:19450
Format: E-book
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/tc/fhp/CF00001714.jpg

Title: LAND USE EFFECTS ON LAKE WATER QUALITY IN CENTRAL FLORIDA.
Creator: Seiler, Jonathan, Weishampel, John F., University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: ABSTRACT Land use affects the water quality of lakes. Different land use types yield different effects due to varying amounts and constituents of runoff. In this study, the effects of surrounding land use on the water quality of 50 lakes in Seminole County, Florida was assessed. Using GIS, I placed buffers of 100 and 500 m around each lake. The percentages of land use type were calculated within these buffers for 1990 and 1995. An ordination of lakes was done using Canonical Correspondence...
Show moreABSTRACT Land use affects the water quality of lakes. Different land use types yield different effects due to varying amounts and constituents of runoff. In this study, the effects of surrounding land use on the water quality of 50 lakes in Seminole County, Florida was assessed. Using GIS, I placed buffers of 100 and 500 m around each lake. The percentages of land use type were calculated within these buffers for 1990 and 1995. An ordination of lakes was done using Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) to determine if the surrounding land use patterns were adequate to describe the trophic status of the lakes. Correlations between land use and water quality were found to be significant for the 1990 100 and 500 m buffers. Inter-set correlations showed that among land use types: residential, urban, agriculture, hardwoods, and wetlands were the most influential in determining water quality in that they had the most positive or negative correlation with the WA scores depending on the year and buffer zone. Excessively drained and very poorly drained soils were the most influential of the soil types. A Discriminant Function Analysis (DFA) was also performed to determine which land use and soil variables were effective in discriminating between oligotrophic, mesotrophic, and eutrophic lakes. Wetlands and very poorly drained soil were the most effective in discriminating between the groups of lakes. A multiple regression analysis was performed that determined correlations for 1990 and change in land use 100 m buffers contributed to our understanding of the relationship between land use and water quality. Effects of land use on water quality need to be considered when attempting to restore a lake or subjecting it to future land development.
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Date Issued: 2004
Identifier: CFE0000138, ucf:46174
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0000138

Title: Site Specific Sinkhole risk assessment in Central Florida using Cone Penetration Testing.
Creator: Shamet, Ryan, Nam, Boo Hyun, Chopra, Manoj, Wang, Dingbao, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: As Florida's population is expanding and greater fluctuations in groundwater levels are being recorded, Central Florida has been experiencing a higher frequency of sinkhole occurrences than ever before in recorded history. Sinkholes in Central Florida are formed by a combination of bedrock weathering and overburden soil erosion due to the groundwater recharge and are a part of Florida's past and future geology. The initial stage of a sinkhole is referred to as soil raveling and is the most...
Show moreAs Florida's population is expanding and greater fluctuations in groundwater levels are being recorded, Central Florida has been experiencing a higher frequency of sinkhole occurrences than ever before in recorded history. Sinkholes in Central Florida are formed by a combination of bedrock weathering and overburden soil erosion due to the groundwater recharge and are a part of Florida's past and future geology. The initial stage of a sinkhole is referred to as soil raveling and is the most effective time to perform soil improvement measures, such as grouting, to mitigate further expansion of a subterranean void. Subsurface exploration tests, commonly implemented by geotechnical engineers for site characterization, have been shown to detect these sinkhole anomalies even when no signs of subsidence are evident on the ground surface. Secondary geophysical testing has also been proven to detect sinkhole raveling anomalies, but at the expense of additional time and money added to the specific project. In this study, current practices in detecting premature sinkholes were expanded upon with a primary focus on Cone Penetrometer testing data (CPT). Cone Penetrometer tests provide valuable high-resolution quantitative information regarding the discrete strength characteristics of relatively loose sandy and clayey subsoil. CPTs are also much quicker and cleaner to perform when compared to other subsurface testing procedures (e.g. Standard penetration tests). Therefore, CPTs were chosen for this study to understand how they can be implemented to assess risk of future sinkhole collapse, or other karst construction concerns, in Central Florida specific soils. By implementing the findings presented in this report, Geotechnical engineers and contractors in central Florida will be able to practically evaluate the size and severity of potential forming sinkhole without the use of additional subsurface geophysical testing. The results of this study hope to eliminate extraneous testing costs, as well as maximize the efficiency of estimating mitigation products and procedures required all while still ensuring a safe design in Central Florida's highly karst areas.
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Date Issued: 2017
Identifier: CFE0006657, ucf:51246
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0006657

Title: STUDENT PERCEPTION OF BARRIERS TO STUDY ABROAD.
Creator: Walker, Jessica, Valdez, Carlos, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Studying abroad during the collegiate experience is an idea sought by the many high school seniors and college freshmen alike. The social, intellectual, and cultural benefits received from participating makes it a seemingly easy decision. Yet, lack of action plagues the nation as there exists a miniscule number of students who follow through with their desire to study abroad. Prior research exemplifies that students rely on the perceptions of their peers and family when approaching an...
Show moreStudying abroad during the collegiate experience is an idea sought by the many high school seniors and college freshmen alike. The social, intellectual, and cultural benefits received from participating makes it a seemingly easy decision. Yet, lack of action plagues the nation as there exists a miniscule number of students who follow through with their desire to study abroad. Prior research exemplifies that students rely on the perceptions of their peers and family when approaching an unfamiliar subject. These perceptions result in concocted barriers that dissuade the student from participating in study abroad before they seek concrete information. There are a limited number of studies completed at universities to identify these specific barriers. Thus, this research examines the student population at the University of Central Florida, the perceived barriers they possess concerning study abroad, and their sources of these perceptions. This is a qualitative and quantitative study that investigates the effects of perceived cost and graduation delay on the willingness of a student to study abroad. The unexpected ramifications of the marketing mix, utilized by the department of Study Abroad, will shed light upon the steps necessary to revise their position in order to transform student intent into action.
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Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFH0004876, ucf:45418
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004876

Title: MAKING THE DECISION: FACTORS THAT AFFECT THE INFORMATION AVAILABLE TO PARENTS WITH YOUNG CHILDREN ABOUT CHARTER SCHOOLS IN CENTRAL FLORIDA.
Creator: Himschoot, Brian, Murray, Thomas, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: In the opening decades of the 21st Century, a movement towards parental choice in public schools has taken flight. One of the choices becoming more readily available to parents of young children is charter schools. Charter schools are expanding across the United States and Central Florida is representative of this growth. Parents are faced with more choices as they make decisions on their children's educational future than ever before making the availability of quality, accurate information...
Show moreIn the opening decades of the 21st Century, a movement towards parental choice in public schools has taken flight. One of the choices becoming more readily available to parents of young children is charter schools. Charter schools are expanding across the United States and Central Florida is representative of this growth. Parents are faced with more choices as they make decisions on their children's educational future than ever before making the availability of quality, accurate information about local schools paramount. While scholarly work on charter schools, the effects of media coverage on public opinion, and how parents make choices for their children exists, in many cases the research offers inconclusive results and rarely was there an attempt to connect all three. This paper, written from a parent's perspective, analyzes research, newspaper articles, interviews, and surveys of Central Florida's media outlets, public school representatives, and parents of young children to determine the types of information on charter schools available to parents of young children in Central Florida. The purpose of this thesis will be to investigate the information available to parents when considering a charter school for their young children by comparing the stated opinions of the local media, district school boards, and the charters themselves. It also identifies who is responsible for disseminating this information, and how the parents choose to gather and use this information.
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Date Issued: 2013
Identifier: CFH0004466, ucf:45105
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004466

Title: Groundwater modeling for assessing the impacts of natural hazards in east-central Florida.
Creator: Xiao, Han, Wang, Dingbao, Nam, Boo Hyun, Medeiros, Stephen, Mayo, Talea, Hall, Carlton, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: In coastal east-central Florida (ECF) , the low-lying coastal alluvial plains and barrier islands have a high risk of being inundated by seawater due to climate change effects such as sea-level rise, changing rainfall patterns, and intensified storm surge from hurricanes., This will produce saltwater intrusion into the coastal aquifer from infiltration of overtopping saltwater. In the inland ECF region, sinkhole occurrence is recognized as the primary geologic hazard causing massive financial...
Show moreIn coastal east-central Florida (ECF) , the low-lying coastal alluvial plains and barrier islands have a high risk of being inundated by seawater due to climate change effects such as sea-level rise, changing rainfall patterns, and intensified storm surge from hurricanes., This will produce saltwater intrusion into the coastal aquifer from infiltration of overtopping saltwater. In the inland ECF region, sinkhole occurrence is recognized as the primary geologic hazard causing massive financial losses to society in the past several decades. The objectives of this dissertation are to: (1) evaluate the impacts of sea-level rise and intensified storm surge on the extent of saltwater intrusion into the coastal ECF region; (2) assess the risk level of sinkhole occurrence in the inland ECF region. In this dissertation, numerical modeling methods are used to achieve these objectives. Several three-dimensional groundwater flow and salinity transport models, focused on the coastal ECF region, are developed and calibrated to simulate impacts of sea-level rise and storm surge based on various sea-level rise scenarios. A storm surge model is developed to quantify the future extent of saltwater intrusion. Several three-dimensional groundwater flow models, focused on the inland ECF region, are developed and calibrated to simulate the spatial variation of groundwater recharge rate for analyzing the risk level of sinkhole occurrence in the geotypical central Florida karst terrains. Results indicate that sea-level rise and storm surge play a dominant role in causing saltwater intrusion, and the risk of sinkhole occurrence increases linearly with an increase in recharge rate while the timing of sinkhole occurrence is highly related to the temporal variation of the difference of groundwater level between confined and unconfined aquifers. The outcome will contribute to ongoing research focused on forecasting the impacts of climate change on the risk level of natural hazards in ECF region.
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Date Issued: 2017
Identifier: CFE0007298, ucf:52160
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007298

Title: Making Our Voices Heard: Power and Citizenship in Central Florida's Black Communities.
Creator: McPherson, Gramond, Cassanello, Robert, Lester, Connie, Walker, Ezekiel, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This thesis examines the impacts of government policies on community mobilization in Orlando's Parramore neighborhood and the all-black town of Eatonville in Central Florida. The scope of this thesis covers the history of both communities from their formation in the 1880s to the end of the twentieth century. This research reveals the relationships between the predominantly black residents of Parramore and Eatonville and the largely white government officials over the development and...
Show moreThis thesis examines the impacts of government policies on community mobilization in Orlando's Parramore neighborhood and the all-black town of Eatonville in Central Florida. The scope of this thesis covers the history of both communities from their formation in the 1880s to the end of the twentieth century. This research reveals the relationships between the predominantly black residents of Parramore and Eatonville and the largely white government officials over the development and maintenance of each community. By understanding the social creation of both communities during the era of Jim Crow, this thesis reveals the differing levels of power each community possessed that would impact their ability to turn their defined black spaces into black places. Moving forward, each community had to adjust to the impacts of integration that weakened the communal bonds that helped the community endure Jim Crow. However, in detailing the rise of citizen activism in the post-World War II period, the theory of infrastructural citizenship shapes this thesis in revealing how black residents in Parramore and Eatonville exercised their rights as citizens in making their voices heard surrounding various infrastructural changes. While their efforts did not always achieve their ultimate goals, it forced decision makers to anticipate and accommodate the opinions of the residents impacted by these decisions. This thesis uses historical analysis to place Parramore and Eatonville within the broader social, political, and economic contexts of events occurring in Florida, the American South and the country at large.
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Date Issued: 2019
Identifier: CFE0007685, ucf:52494
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0007685

Title: IS "GOOD" GOOD ENOUGH? A SMALL AREA VARIATION ANALYSIS OF DISPARITY IN EXPRESSED RATES OF ACCESS TO AND SATISFACTION WITH CHILD AND ADOLESCENT HEALTHCARE SERVICES IN EAST CENTRAL FLORIDA.
Creator: Schaefer, Jay, Holmes, Stephen T., University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: The purpose of this dissertation research was to explore indications of disparities within the east Central Florida child and adolescent healthcare services market. Structured as a follow-up study to work completed in 2005 under the direction of the Health Council of East Central Florida assessing parental perceptions of community child and adolescent healthcare services, this research extended that evaluation by aggregating participant responses at the county and small area zip code group...
Show moreThe purpose of this dissertation research was to explore indications of disparities within the east Central Florida child and adolescent healthcare services market. Structured as a follow-up study to work completed in 2005 under the direction of the Health Council of East Central Florida assessing parental perceptions of community child and adolescent healthcare services, this research extended that evaluation by aggregating participant responses at the county and small area zip code group levels, contextually testing the uniformity of responses in understanding parent perceptions of access to, and satisfaction with, community healthcare service offerings available for children and adolescents. Under a variety of methodologies significance in the responses concerning access to healthcare services were demonstrated between the counties studied. Statistical modeling, however, could not demonstrate the core demographic differences among these data. Data representing perceptions of satisfaction with the services received by children and adolescents were demonstrated at the small area zip code group level within Orange county. Primary effect assessment of the demographic variables representing these respondents yielded findings generally consistent with theoretical expectations of disparity but, notably, the correlation effects between a number of key independent variables demonstrated a mediation of the primary effects on overall perception of satisfaction. Specifically, it was demonstrated that the interaction of white race with possession of private healthcare insurance, and the interaction of greater levels of educational attainment with black race, caused a proportional reduction in the predicted satisfaction score of these survey respondent cohorts. Further research specific to these phenomenon encompassing a clearer understanding of the type of care received and the individual's specific experiences with their healthcare providers was recommended, with ensuing research to better identify commonalities of interactions with specific area providers, local restrictions imposed by area insurance carriers, influences caused by language and/or cultural barriers, and the like as drivers in understanding the individual dynamics of satisfaction.
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Date Issued: 2010
Identifier: CFE0003505, ucf:48977
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003505

Title: THE IMPACT OF TEACHER INCENTIVE PAY PROGRAMSON THE LEARNING GAINS OF LOW-PERFORMING MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS.
Creator: Miller, Donna, Lue Stewart, Martha, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: President Barack Obama committed hundreds of millions of dollars to the Teacher Incentive Fund (TIF), yet a few fundamental questions remain unansweredÃ‚Â--was the federal program effective? Did student test scores improve? Since the late 19th century, teachers have been paid for their classroom services regardless of how wellÃ‚Â--or poorlyÃ‚Â--their students performed. Nearly a century later, advocates of education reform continue to...
Show morePresident Barack Obama committed hundreds of millions of dollars to the Teacher Incentive Fund (TIF), yet a few fundamental questions remain unansweredÃ‚Â--was the federal program effective? Did student test scores improve? Since the late 19th century, teachers have been paid for their classroom services regardless of how wellÃ‚Â--or poorlyÃ‚Â--their students performed. Nearly a century later, advocates of education reform continue to champion teacher compensation policies that link salary to student achievement. Researchers have identified two motivation theories that must be present in order to have a successful incentive pay program: goal theory and expectancy theory. The presence or absence of these theories, have produced mixed results at both the federal and state levels. Although the Florida Department of Education crafted its own statewide incentive pay plan, three public school districts have received multimillion dollar awards via competitive TIF grants. The purpose of this dissertation was to determine if any differences in learning gains existed between the 2008 and 2009 Florida Comprehensive Assessment TestÃ‚Â® (FCATÃ‚Â®) Math scores among the students of math teachers at one urban Central Florida Title I middle school who participated in TIF when compared to the students of math teachers who did not participate in TIF. The dissertation also analyzed FCATÃ‚Â® Math scores from 2005 through 2009 in one Central Florida school district to determine if any trends existed among the Title I middle schools participating in TIF; if any trends existed among the Title I middle schools that did not participate in TIF; and if any trends existed between the two groups when compared to each other. The literature review and results of this study found that learning gains existed among students whose teachers participated in TIF. In fact, at one urban Central Florida middle school, students of math teachers who did not participate in TIF also demonstrated learning gains. In addition, seven of the ten Title I middle schools from the same Central Florida district had increased FCATÃ‚Â® Math scores with the implementation of the TIF grant along with the three Title I middle school that were not eligible to participate. This research suggested that the teacher incentive program implemented in a Central Florida district had a positive impact on learning gains of low-performing students. The results of the independent-samples tests revealed that there was no statistical difference in the math scores based on participation in TIF. Students of the math teachers who participated in TIF demonstrated at least one yearÃ‚Â's academic growth. Likewise, the findings were similar for students of teachers who opted not to participate as learning gains increased in this group as well. As a result of these findings, recommendations for further study include end-of-the-year interviews with TIF-eligible teachers whose students had learning gains, but chose not to participate. Suggestions for additional research include surveying teachers whose students had higher scores in the absence of an incentive program, analyzing the test scores of other subject areas, and researching other school districts in Florida that were awarded the TIF grant.
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Date Issued: 2010
Identifier: CFE0003146, ucf:48632
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003146

Title: GROWING LOCAL: ANTHROPOLOGICAL REFLECTIONS ON CURRENT CHALLENGES FACING CENTRAL FLORIDA ORGANIC FARMERS.
Creator: Swedlow, Cheney, Matejowsky, Ty, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This thesis considers Central FloridaÃ‚Â's emerging local food movement from an anthropological perspective. Area farmers and organizations spearheading this movement and the benefits of purchasing and consuming locally grown food are ethnographically explored. Interviews with natural and organic farmers highlight the challenges affected farmers face in creating a sustainable local food movement in the greater Orlando region. Their motivations for farming organically and...
Show moreThis thesis considers Central FloridaÃ‚Â's emerging local food movement from an anthropological perspective. Area farmers and organizations spearheading this movement and the benefits of purchasing and consuming locally grown food are ethnographically explored. Interviews with natural and organic farmers highlight the challenges affected farmers face in creating a sustainable local food movement in the greater Orlando region. Their motivations for farming organically and the counter-hegemonic tendencies inherent in this mode of cultivating are critically analyzed. Taken as a whole, this work addresses the limitations and opportunities afforded to farmers amid the popularity of local food consumption as a social movement. The farmers interviewed for this project are new to producing food for local consumption. They all share an interest in promoting financial and environmental sustainability for small farms. Key challenges they face include those grounded in access to arable land and agricultural policies that disproportionately favor large-scale producers. This research has significant implications for both those organizations and individuals building sustainable local food movements and those in local, state, and national government developing agricultural policy.
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Date Issued: 2010
Identifier: CFE0003110, ucf:48640
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0003110

Title: Wise the Wizard: A Feature Documentary about the Late Harry Wise of Sanford, Florida.
Creator: Blakelock, Daisy, Mills, Lisa, Jones, Robert, Danker, Elizabeth, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Wise the Wizard is a feature-length documentary by Daisy Sara Blakelock, made as part of the requirements for earning a Master of Fine Arts in Entrepreneurial Digital Cinema from the University of Central Florida. The film focuses on the late Harry Wise, a magician from Sanford, Florida, as remembered by the people who knew him best. Interview subjects include the following: author and TV Producer Charlie Carlson, who wrote a biography about Harry Wise entitled A Wizard's Tux and Tales ...
Show moreWise the Wizard is a feature-length documentary by Daisy Sara Blakelock, made as part of the requirements for earning a Master of Fine Arts in Entrepreneurial Digital Cinema from the University of Central Florida. The film focuses on the late Harry Wise, a magician from Sanford, Florida, as remembered by the people who knew him best. Interview subjects include the following: author and TV Producer Charlie Carlson, who wrote a biography about Harry Wise entitled A Wizard's Tux and Tales (Luthers Press, New Smyrna Beach: 2004); Brendan and Anna McWilliams, who accompanied Harry on countless adventures throughout Sanford and the surrounding areas; Art Litka, who dedicated a portion of his Halloween Village to Harry Wise; filmmaker and magician Gary Lester, who studied magic under Harry Wise and acquired and restored many of Harry's former props; and Lynn Ashe, Harry Wise's best friend.
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Date Issued: 2015
Identifier: CFE0005925, ucf:50839
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005925

Title: The Development of a Reentry Program for Women in Engineering at the University of Central Florida.
Creator: Morse, Lucy C., Whitehouse, Gary E., Engineering
Abstract / Description: University of Central Florida College of Engineering Thesis; In order to familiarize local women with advanced degree possibilities in engineering and with expanding loal industry, as well as increasing the graduate enrollment in the College of Engineering, the Univeristy of Central Florida has developed a Reentry Program for Women in the Industrial Engineering Department. Master of Science degrees are offered to the women with four options: Operations Research, Computer Systems, Engineering...
Show moreUniversity of Central Florida College of Engineering Thesis; In order to familiarize local women with advanced degree possibilities in engineering and with expanding loal industry, as well as increasing the graduate enrollment in the College of Engineering, the Univeristy of Central Florida has developed a Reentry Program for Women in the Industrial Engineering Department. Master of Science degrees are offered to the women with four options: Operations Research, Computer Systems, Engineering Administration, and Engineering Systems Analysis. The program is designed for women who received a bachelor's degree at least two years ago in mathematics, engineering, physics, or another hard science. Seed money for the program was obtained as a mini-grant from the Women's Reentry Consortium. The major component of the program is a mathematics review course which offers an intensive review of college math through differential equations. An Industrial Advisory Board is an integral part of the program and is giving support for potential employment of women during their schooling and afterwards, as well as making sure the women are going in directions consistent with the needs of industry. A special orientatioin, available tutoring, and a Professional Development Day are some of the features incorporated in this program. After the math review course, the women are mainstreamed into the standard graduate program with continued support.
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Date Issued: 1982
Identifier: CFR0008130, ucf:52970
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFR0008130

Title: THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN EFFECTIVE RECRUITMENT STRATEGY FOR HISPANIC MALES AND FEMALES IN THE CENTRAL FLORIDA REGION.
Creator: Zeballos, Barbara, Rockmore, Benjamin, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: This study examines the similarities and differences between males and females from the Hispanic and Non-Hispanic White population in the Central Florida labor force regarding recruitment strategies and techniques of the Baby Boomers, Generation X and the Millennial population. The purpose of this study is to identify those Human Resources recruitment practices that are most effective in retaining: (1) males and females from the Hispanic population, and (2) whether or not theses recruitment...
Show moreThis study examines the similarities and differences between males and females from the Hispanic and Non-Hispanic White population in the Central Florida labor force regarding recruitment strategies and techniques of the Baby Boomers, Generation X and the Millennial population. The purpose of this study is to identify those Human Resources recruitment practices that are most effective in retaining: (1) males and females from the Hispanic population, and (2) whether or not theses recruitment tactics affect the generation groups differently. The proposed issues will be assessed by collecting information from organizations, current employees, and job applicants. This study will use three research methods in addressing the stated purpose and objectives: literature review, focus groups, and questionnaire surveys. The literature review will explore present recruitment techniques, social and cultural similarities and differences between Hispanics and Non-Hispanic White, and generational differences. The main goal of the focus groups is to identify relevant recruitment issues as stated by Central Florida organizations, current employees, and job applicants. From the literature review and results of the focus groups two surveys will be develop to determine: (1) present recruitment practices used by Central Florida organizations; and (2) preferred recruitment practices among Hispanics and Non-Hispanic Whites. The results of this study will identify whether certain recruitment practices perceived as being most appealing and desirable vary among Hispanics and Non-Hispanic Whites. Based on the findings, the study will provide recommendations for designing effective recruitment strategies for Hispanic and Non-Hispanic White males and females while accounting for possible generational differences.
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Date Issued: 2011
Identifier: CFH0004061, ucf:44789
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFH0004061

Title: BLACK CATS, BERLIN, BROADWAY AND BEYOND: THE GENRE OF CABARET.
Creator: Tedrick, Deborah, Wuehrmann, Nicholas, University of Central Florida
Abstract / Description: Music and Theatre have always captivated me. As a child, my parents would take me to live performances and cinematic shows and I would sit rapt, watching the theatrical events and emotional moments unfold before my eyes. Movie musicals and live shows that combined music and theatre were my favorite, especially theatrical banter and improvisation or sketch comedy. Some of my favorite youthful memories were my annual family summer trips to Las Vegas to visit my grandparents for six weeks. As a...
Show moreMusic and Theatre have always captivated me. As a child, my parents would take me to live performances and cinematic shows and I would sit rapt, watching the theatrical events and emotional moments unfold before my eyes. Movie musicals and live shows that combined music and theatre were my favorite, especially theatrical banter and improvisation or sketch comedy. Some of my favorite youthful memories were my annual family summer trips to Las Vegas to visit my grandparents for six weeks. As a youngster, I got to experience the "old school" Las Vegas, replete with extravaganza, spectacle, cabaret, circus, lounge and nightclub acts, stand-up comedy, intimate revues, and all things marketed under the guise of entertainment, art, or both. Those summers, while not overtly planned as academic or educational in nature, proved, in retrospect, to be the training ground for what was to become my passion: the art of the cabaret genre. As a person who has always loved theatrical diversity, I am drawn to cabaret as an art form. Anything that fuses other forms interests me, and cabaret amalgamates many of the artistic forms I have grown to love. I come from a unique background of classical, jazz, musical theatre and pop styles, and have studied these styles in both the piano and vocal arena. The cabaret genre allows me to realize fully the stylistic variety of performance techniques with which I excel. My mother is a classical singer and my father a jazz pianist; during my youth they would perform at the piano, "meeting in the middle" so to speak in the world of Musical Theatre, through the fusion of cabaret, classical, jazz, and pop. Growing up hearing a song like "Summertime," from Gershwin's Porgy and Bess, equally artistically rendered as both a classical aria and a jazz tune in my home was rich fodder for the vital informal education I received by being the offspring of musicians. It is due to this musical legacy that was passed on to me through my parents that I learned to explore the myriad of possibilities one can achieve through artistic musical and theatrical interpretation. Beyond the freedom of stylistic variety, cabaret performance also allows conventions such as direct interaction in the form of the proverbial "lowered fourth wall," allowing me to use my improvisational acting and interactive skill set as well as my musical skills. Cabaret is generally more intimate and personal in nature and I enjoy the camaraderie cabaret affords. Cabaret is interactive and intellectual and I am drawn to those aspects; I like the fusion of interactive banter and intellectual artistry. Also appealing to me is the "insider" sense cabaret not only allows but also encourages. Recalling my youthful memories of the Vegas shows in which the performer spoke directly to audience members, I remember the sense of belonging I felt at the recognition of some of the inside jokes. I knew I wanted to be involved with any aspect of music and theatre that would allow me the freedom to go with the moment, to reach people differently on any given day, to change with the times, and adapt to my audience and to the shifting world around me. I knew I had found a home in this intimate, insular, interactive, and intellectual art form known as cabaret. For these reasons and more I have chosen the genre of cabaret to be my intended thesis research project. I will produce, direct, and perform in a cabaret show, which will be the thesis performance. For the performance aspect of my thesis, in collaboration with my thesis partner, Josephine Leffner, I will perform a one-act chronological, historical, and stylistically varied cabaret show. The show will include material garnered from historical research of the cabaret genre, specifically settling on some of the famous women, songs, stories, lives, and important contributions. The cabaret will cover information, music, and spoken-word art from cabaret's inception in the Paris Montmartre district in 1881 to its height in Germany during the Weimar Republic. The show will culminate with cabaret's insurgence into American culture up to and including the state of American cabaret today. While my performance will focus mainly on American cabaret, a portion of the show will explore cabaret's European roots. Creating and performing this show will educate me further on the genre itself, as well as expand my performing skills through the varied styles in which I will perform within the realm of a single evening's entertainment. Creating and performing the show will also challenge me as a producer, director, promotional and administrative coordinator, music director, arranger, vocal director, collaborator, vocalist, pianist, actor, and writer. The show is intended as a kind of "Cabaret 101," in that the intended audience is treated to a night of variety entertainment with some historical background on the genre of cabaret. The audience is not expected to have any prior academic or experiential knowledge of cabaret in order to understand or enjoy the show. The cabaret intellectual will also be able to enjoy the show, as the songs, poems, skits, and sketches are intended to amuse and delight both the novice and the experienced cabaretist. For the research and analysis portion of my thesis monograph document I will provide information on cabaret's roots in France and Germany, as well as include informative research on American cabaret, its history and its current trends. I will have several chapters dedicated to the historical research and to other items such as the formatted libretto, documentation of a performance report from my thesis committee head, and a list of references used throughout the research and libretto chapters. I will include a structural and role analysis of the show itself and my contributions to it as outlined by the parameters of my graduate studies program. Several chapters of appendices will be included as information pertinent to the show such as costume, props, lighting lists as well as band and technical needs for the show itself. An introduction and conclusion will be created to bookend my document solidly and reveal myself as a person as well as a performer. This section will include reflective information on my intentions, triumphs, and tribulations, and will be codified through the opening and concluding perspectives. Through the process of writing the thesis monograph document I will create a public and personal record of the process, research, performance challenges, and decisions made throughout this journey. This document will be used as historical help to me should I need to refer to my thesis for later personal or professional use. The document will also be on record for the UCF theatre department, as I apply not only my performance training (as exhibited through the show itself) but also the research and critical thinking skills required of a masters degree candidate at a conservatory training program such as this one. Beyond its use for myself or for the department, I write this monograph document for others whose love and interest in studying the genre of cabaret match my own.
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Date Issued: 2006
Identifier: CFE0001421, ucf:47043
Format: Document (PDF)
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0001421

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