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- Title
- A study of Black nursing faculty: Factors that influenced completion of graduate-level degrees.
- Creator
- Eastmond-Robinson, June Patricia., Florida Atlantic University, Jurenas, Albert C.
- Abstract/Description
-
Nursing education must attract qualified minorities to faculty positions in order to provide role models for students, to increase diversity, and to fulfill the need for new faculty. African-American faculties continue to be underrepresented in higher education and specifically in nursing education. The purpose of this study was to identify factors that influenced currently employed Black nursing faculty to persist in their education until completion of the Master of Science in Nursing degree...
Show moreNursing education must attract qualified minorities to faculty positions in order to provide role models for students, to increase diversity, and to fulfill the need for new faculty. African-American faculties continue to be underrepresented in higher education and specifically in nursing education. The purpose of this study was to identify factors that influenced currently employed Black nursing faculty to persist in their education until completion of the Master of Science in Nursing degree. Current trends in national demographics demonstrate an increasingly diverse population. likewise, a changing health care delivery system that has mandated decreased hospital length of stay requires nurses to advocate and educate the client in self-care in a shorter time frame. Lack of knowledge of cultural patterns in minority clients has been shown to contribute to problems of non-compliance with medically prescribed treatments (Pacquino, 1995). Whatever becomes of the evolving debate over insurance reimbursement, nursing care of clients will continue to be an important component. Sensitivity to culture and ethnic patterns is crucial in maintaining the client's health and independence. This research describes a sample of African-American nursing faculty whose names were systematically selected from The Directory of Black Nursing Faculty, (Tucker, 1991). A questionnaire was developed by the researcher that contains thirty Likert-style and open-ended questions. The instrument was grouped into 3 categories: demographics, educational influences, and psychosocial influences. One hundred thirty-nine questionnaires were mailed to the sample. After 2 mailings, the response rate was 56%. The findings revealed that program completion for this group was influenced by, (a) financial assistance. Over eighty percent reported this was essential, (b) a supportive school of nursing environment that accounted for the second highest degree of importance, (c) a diverse support system including student networking, faculty mentoring/advising, family, and friends, and (d) the imperative of high self-esteem needed to sustain the African-American student nurse in a perceived hostile educational environment.
Show less - Date Issued
- 1999
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12620
- Subject Headings
- Nursing schools--Faculty, African American nurses, Nursing--Study and teaching (Graduate)
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- The roles and responsibilities of the Associate in Science Degree department chair.
- Creator
- Bredemeyer, Nancy Rehak, Florida Atlantic University, Bryan, Valerie
- Abstract/Description
-
The changing roles and responsibilities of the Associate in Science Degree department chair (ASDDC), influencers of change, and need for training were examined at two Florida community colleges using a modified Delphi research methodology in three rounds. One hundred-twenty-three roles and responsibilities of the Associate in Science Degree department chair identified in Round One interviews of 20 Workforce Associate in Science Degree department chairs were utilized to construct a...
Show moreThe changing roles and responsibilities of the Associate in Science Degree department chair (ASDDC), influencers of change, and need for training were examined at two Florida community colleges using a modified Delphi research methodology in three rounds. One hundred-twenty-three roles and responsibilities of the Associate in Science Degree department chair identified in Round One interviews of 20 Workforce Associate in Science Degree department chairs were utilized to construct a questionnaire implemented in Round Two and Round Three of the Delphi study. The ASDDCs interviewed in Round One, serving as the expert panel in Two and Three, were asked, "How are the listed roles and responsibilities changing?" Sixty-seven, or 63.21 percent of the identified list of roles and responsibilities of the ASDDC reached consensus of change. Fifteen, or 14.50 percent of the roles and responsibilities were identified as "changing rapidly" or "change is tremendous." Nine categories of responsibilities emerged from the identified 123 roles and responsibilities of the ASDDC. Ranked highest to lowest in consensus of change were: Technology, programs, community college, students, professions, hiring/supervising, leadership, clerical and last, training. Statistical significance was found between the subgroups of "high tech" ASDDCs and "high touch" ASDDCs in three categories: program, community college, and hiring/supervising. Themes emerging from the study indicated the Associate in Science Degree department chairs are fulfilling Gmelch and Miskin's earlier identified department chair roles of manager, leader, and scholar with the faculty developer role just emerging; the future holds time-consuming clerical work; the chairs are proud of their technology and physical working space; community colleges are changing; Associate in Science Degree department chairs see themselves as leaders in their professions by teaching and developing curriculum, and ambiguity and lack of clarity exits in the roles and responsibilities of the Associate in Science Degree department chair which echoes Dymmel's earlier findings in North Carolina community colleges. Recommendations resulting from the study include: Restructuring the position of Associate in Science Degree department chair, examining the ambiguity of the position, and creating partnerships to provide training for the position.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2005
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12173
- Subject Headings
- Community colleges--Florida--Administration
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- A school, family, community partnership predictor model: Based on principals' communication and action strategies.
- Creator
- Bernstein, Susan Beth, Florida Atlantic University, Decker, Larry E.
- Abstract/Description
-
Family and community involvement literature reveals that principals play a key role in the success of family and community involvement initiatives. However, there is a paucity of information on specific strategies that principals use to increase involvement. This lack of information applies to schools in general and for schools with diverse populations with low socio-economic status. To help fill these gaps in information this researcher examines differences in communication and action...
Show moreFamily and community involvement literature reveals that principals play a key role in the success of family and community involvement initiatives. However, there is a paucity of information on specific strategies that principals use to increase involvement. This lack of information applies to schools in general and for schools with diverse populations with low socio-economic status. To help fill these gaps in information this researcher examines differences in communication and action strategies used by principals in, both Title I and non Title I schools, with exemplary family and community involvement programs (as evidenced by their school receiving the FL DOE Five Star School Award) compared to strategies used by principals whose schools did not receive such a distinction. Sixty-one potentially significant communication and action variables are extracted from the literature and grouped into three categories (one-way communication, two-way communication, and action-based communication strategies). Seven null hypotheses addressing the significance of these categories and the potential to develop a predictor model are tested using a specially designed Family and Community Involvement Principal Survey whose content, construct, and validity was subjected to the scrutiny of experts in the field and pilot tested for its reliability. Data was collected in January 2003 from a final sample of fifty-nine Palm Beach County. Florida elementary school principals (an 80% response rate). This data is subjected to a series of factorial Analysis of Variance and Discriminant Analysis, testing the null hypotheses at a .05 level of significance. The analyses identify statistically significant differences in action-based communication variables for Five Star, Title I, and an interaction among Five Star/Title I principals including: (a) planning teacher in-service on involvement, (b) funding involvement programs, (c) creating a Family Resource Center, and (d) encouraging family and community members to participate in shared decision-making. No significant differences were found in one-way or two-way communication variables for Five Star, Title I, or an interaction between Five Star/Title I. Further, the null hypothesis for a predictor model was rejected allowing for identification of key variables in a partnership classification model. Conclusions, recommendations, and implementations are discussed for further research and practical application.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2003
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FADT12033
- Subject Headings
- School principals
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- The speaker's influence on school legislation and finance in the Florida Legislature.
- Creator
- Turk, Robert Allan., Florida Atlantic University, MacKenzie, Donald G.
- Abstract/Description
-
This dissertation was designed to determine the source and legacy of power which makes the speaker of the House of Representatives a very powerful figure in the Florida Legislatures, as well as determine whether a significant relationship exists between the speaker's power and the amount of educational benefits and school funding received by his constituency. The Florida speaker possesses more power and influence over school legislation and finance than any other member of the House. His/her...
Show moreThis dissertation was designed to determine the source and legacy of power which makes the speaker of the House of Representatives a very powerful figure in the Florida Legislatures, as well as determine whether a significant relationship exists between the speaker's power and the amount of educational benefits and school funding received by his constituency. The Florida speaker possesses more power and influence over school legislation and finance than any other member of the House. His/her priorities have a significant effect on whether the school districts, community colleges, and state universities, receive adequate funding for quality education. The power of the Florida speaker comes from long historical development in England and America via the House rules and precedents established by previous speakers. Although limited by tradition to one term, the Florida speaker ranks among the most powerful speakers in the nation. This study concludes that the speaker of the Florida House has sufficient power to lead his party/faction in the House, guide the flow of legislation, and significantly influence funding for his home district.
Show less - Date Issued
- 1991
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12266
- Subject Headings
- Legislators--Florida, Education--Florida--Finance, Educational law and legislation--Florida
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- The self-examination: A learning methodology, reexamined.
- Creator
- Weiner, Jutta., Florida Atlantic University, Smiley, Lydia R., Courtney, David W.
- Abstract/Description
-
This study extends and partially replicates an investigation by David W. Courtney, titled The Self-Examination: A Learning Methodology, conducted in 1974 with two groups of students enrolled in an interdisciplinary art course. The original study was adapted to an art appreciation course. The purpose of this study was to reexamine the efficacy of the self-examination (SE) to promote creative thinking and aesthetic perception as well as a favorable student attitude toward the course. The study...
Show moreThis study extends and partially replicates an investigation by David W. Courtney, titled The Self-Examination: A Learning Methodology, conducted in 1974 with two groups of students enrolled in an interdisciplinary art course. The original study was adapted to an art appreciation course. The purpose of this study was to reexamine the efficacy of the self-examination (SE) to promote creative thinking and aesthetic perception as well as a favorable student attitude toward the course. The study was conducted with two groups of students enrolled in an art appreciation course at Palm Beach Community College North in the Fall semester of 1989. The experimental group wrote two SEs and the control group wrote one comparison paper and took a multiple-choice examination. Both groups also took multiple-choice quizzes and final examinations. Pretest-posttest analyses of the test for creativity and aesthetic perception, using t-tests, and of the course evaluation, using multivariate tests of significance, indicated no significant difference between the experimental and control groups.
Show less - Date Issued
- 1990
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12261
- Subject Headings
- Study skills, Self-culture, Creative thinking
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- The puzzle of transformation: Becoming a nurse practitioner.
- Creator
- Siccardi, Patricia Mahoney., Florida Atlantic University, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia
- Abstract/Description
-
The purpose of this study was to provide introductory knowledge about the value of narrative methods of teaching nurse practitioners and their transition to advanced practice. According to this study, becoming a nurse practitioner requires a paradigm shift. It demands that nurse practitioners remain grounded in nursing and yet, integrate enhanced critical thinking, diagnostic reasoning, and holistic humanistic caring. It was determined that the transition to the nurse practitioner role begins...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to provide introductory knowledge about the value of narrative methods of teaching nurse practitioners and their transition to advanced practice. According to this study, becoming a nurse practitioner requires a paradigm shift. It demands that nurse practitioners remain grounded in nursing and yet, integrate enhanced critical thinking, diagnostic reasoning, and holistic humanistic caring. It was determined that the transition to the nurse practitioner role begins during the formal learning program and continues for several years after graduation. There is a learning curve involved in the transformation. Creating a new identity occurred slowly and incrementally over time as a result of continuous learning. Students and graduates often felt frightened and alone in their new role. According to the findings of this study, becoming a nurse practitioner requires a transformation. The following four processes or meta-themes describe the transformation: (1) A learning process: Continuous learning; (2) A problem solving process: Putting the pieces together; (3) A challenging process: A time of transition; and (4) A socialization process: Expanding one's identity. Participants identified the metaphor of a puzzle to symbolize the transformation they experienced. The puzzle represents the challenge of putting together the pieces of learning and the change involved in the transformation from registered nurse to nurse practitioner. The conclusions suggest that learning the diagnostic reasoning skills required in primary care practice is enhanced by using narratives. The conclusions indicate that stories and case studies are useful methods for teaching the process of assessment, diagnosis, and treatment needed by nurse practitioners. Case studies improve critical thinking and problem solving skills. Stories help nurse practitioners remain grounded in humanistic nursing practice and focused on the therapeutic relationship. This study determined that the essential quality that makes both of these methods valuable for learning is the ability to encourage critical thinking through dialogue and discussion.
Show less - Date Issued
- 1999
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12598
- Subject Headings
- Nurse practitioners--Education, Problem-based learning, Critical thinking
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- A qualitative study of participants' role expectations on school advisory councils.
- Creator
- Huie, Kathleen K., Florida Atlantic University, Jurenas, Albert C.
- Abstract/Description
-
This qualitative study examined the role expectations of participants on School Advisory Councils (SACs). Selected teachers, principals, parents, and community members were interviewed, SAC meetings observed, and SAC documents analyzed in an investigation into the roles of the SAC and SACs' impact on school reform. Data was transcribed, coded, triangulated, and analyzed to understand the views of SAC members. The study resulted in nine major findings: (a) State and local policies are unclear...
Show moreThis qualitative study examined the role expectations of participants on School Advisory Councils (SACs). Selected teachers, principals, parents, and community members were interviewed, SAC meetings observed, and SAC documents analyzed in an investigation into the roles of the SAC and SACs' impact on school reform. Data was transcribed, coded, triangulated, and analyzed to understand the views of SAC members. The study resulted in nine major findings: (a) State and local policies are unclear about the actual role of SAC, (b) past histories and current contexts shaped participation in SAC, (c) involvement in SAC was a result of personal motivation, (d) availability of information was an important reason for participation in SAC, (e) SAC participation brought the opportunity to have a voice and vote, (f) reform of curriculum, instruction, and assessment was not addressed by SAC, (g) SAC serves mainly as support, (h) the accomplishments of SAC are elusive, and (i) principals and chairs of SAC have the clearest view of the role of the SAC. The study concludes that SAC makes no significant impact on school reform, that connections between SAC and school reform are difficult to identify and recommends further research, a lessening of emphasis on high-risk, state-mandated assessments; and a change in state law to clarify the role of SAC.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2000
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12631
- Subject Headings
- Citizens' advisory committees in education, Community and school, Educational change, School management and organization
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- A readability analysis of elementary-level science textbooks.
- Creator
- Trainer, Robyn, Florida Atlantic University, Kumar, David D.
- Abstract/Description
-
Given both the unprecedented attention to the importance of providing children with the best possible science textbooks and the overwhelming evidence that students in the United States are severely lacking the most basic science knowledge, the decline in the number of students pursuing science degrees is alarming. In spite of all the efforts being made, a disparity still exists between (1) the wealth of science information available, (2) the apparent ease of access to scientific information,...
Show moreGiven both the unprecedented attention to the importance of providing children with the best possible science textbooks and the overwhelming evidence that students in the United States are severely lacking the most basic science knowledge, the decline in the number of students pursuing science degrees is alarming. In spite of all the efforts being made, a disparity still exists between (1) the wealth of science information available, (2) the apparent ease of access to scientific information, and (3) the lack of scientific academic progress being made in classrooms across the United States. A literature review was conducted which included the areas of textbook analysis and textbook readability levels, the fields of textbook analysis and readability, and findings from recently published books about textbook readability. The majority of the literature reflected an urgent need for science textbooks to be revised. Based on the information gathered during the literature review, the study examined the readability levels of elementary level science textbooks that were published by six textbook publishers. Results from the study revealed that when used properly, readability formulas provide an objective look at textbooks. After applying these formulas to the selected elementary level science textbooks, it became clear that very few changes were implemented between the most recent previous editions and the current editions. The textbooks remain too difficult for the students using them. The findings from this study will help science textbook publishers and textbook writers see that some changes need to be made in the way their textbooks are written. In order to maintain a competitive edge in the global marketplace, more students need to pursue science. In order for more students to do that, they need to pursue science degrees, but in order for them to pursue science degrees, they need to have a certain degree of confidence and level of interest in the subject matter. For that to happen, science textbooks need to be more inviting, more user-friendly, and more interesting to the readers. This study concludes with recommendations for further research.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2006
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12227
- Subject Headings
- Science--Study and teaching (Elementary)--United States, Textbooks--United States--Readability, Education, Elementary--United States
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- The relationship between the perceived leadership styles of directors of associate degree radiography programs and faculty satisfaction, willingness to exert extra effort, perceived director effectiveness, and program outcomes.
- Creator
- Shaver, Gary Wayne., Florida Atlantic University, Acker-Hocevar, Michele A.
- Abstract/Description
-
The focus of this study was to examine the faculty-perceived leadership styles of directors of associate degree radiography programs and to determine if significant relationships existed between those styles and faculty perceptions of director effectiveness, faculties' satisfaction, and the faculties' willingness to exert extra effort. This study also examined the relationships between the directors' leadership styles and three radiography program outcomes: American Registry of Radiologic...
Show moreThe focus of this study was to examine the faculty-perceived leadership styles of directors of associate degree radiography programs and to determine if significant relationships existed between those styles and faculty perceptions of director effectiveness, faculties' satisfaction, and the faculties' willingness to exert extra effort. This study also examined the relationships between the directors' leadership styles and three radiography program outcomes: American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) exam pass rate, program completion rate, and job placement rate. Further, the relationship between the directors' leadership styles and demographic information was also examined. Directors' leadership styles were measured with the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ) (Form 5x-Short). Director, faculty, and program-specific demographic information was assessed with two researcher-designed questionnaires. Demographic questionnaires were mailed to all directors of Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) accredited associate degree radiography programs (n = 321) located in the United States and Puerto Rico. One hundred and fifty-one (47%) responses were received. Faculty (n = 352) were randomly selected from names submitted by their respective program director. Each was sent a demographic questionnaire and the MLQ (Form 5x-Short). One hundred and seventy-six (50%) responses were received. Hierarchical multiple regression procedures and Pearson correlations were used to analyze the data. The findings of this study indicated that the transformational, transactional, and laissez-faire factors are significant predictors of program director effectiveness, faculty satisfaction, and the faculties' willingness to exert extra effort and the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Exam pass rate. None of the leadership factors significantly predicted program completion rate, job placement rate, or the eight and five-year JRCERT accreditation awards. There was no significant correlation between directors' leadership styles and the demographic variables.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2003
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12048
- Subject Headings
- Radiography--Study and teaching (Higher), College teachers--Attitudes, Educational leadership
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- The relationship between school climate and school performance in Miami-Dade County's schools of choice.
- Creator
- McLean, Dyona V., Florida Atlantic University, Pisapia, John
- Abstract/Description
-
The purpose of the study was to determine whether a relationship exists between school climate and school performance in Miami Dade County's schools of choice. More specifically, the study sought to determine: (a) the climate in Miami Dade County's magnet programs/schools of choice; (b) whether high performing (A/B) magnet programs schools have a different climate than low performing (D/F) magnet programs/schools of choice; (c) if the relationship between school climate and school performance...
Show moreThe purpose of the study was to determine whether a relationship exists between school climate and school performance in Miami Dade County's schools of choice. More specifically, the study sought to determine: (a) the climate in Miami Dade County's magnet programs/schools of choice; (b) whether high performing (A/B) magnet programs schools have a different climate than low performing (D/F) magnet programs/schools of choice; (c) if the relationship between school climate and school performance is moderated by contextual factors; and (d) if a model can be developed to predict school performance using the variables in the study. Archival data was retrieved from the Florida Department of Education (FLDOE) website to determine school performance and from Miami Dade County Public Schools' (MDCPS') website, District Profiles and Statistical Abstracts from 1998-1999 to 2003-2004 to determine school climate. The MDCPS' data is based on survey responses from The School Climate Survey that is administered annually to 100 parents, staff and students in all 356 K-12 schools. Four questions guided the research and nine related hypotheses aligned to specific questions were analyzed and presented. The school was the unit of study. The results from School Climate Responses for 73 magnet programs/schools representing 12 percent of Miami Dade County Public Schools' 356 schools were analyzed. After determining a mean score for each selected item in the survey, the overall mean scores for each year was computed. The analysis employed a variety of procedures including Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), graphical analyses and Multiple Regression/Correlational Analyses. The study has implications for policy makers at the state and district level, principals, teachers and parents as they relate to reduction of school size and a trend towards schools-within-a school or theme schools. There are also issues that will inform future research and leadership development at the university level.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2006
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12210
- Subject Headings
- School management and organization--Florida--Miami-Dade County, School environment--Florida--Miami-Dade County, Education--Aims and objectives--Florida--Miami-Dade County, Educational leadership, School management and organization
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- The relationship between non-school factors and reading achievement among LEP and English-fluent students in the school district of Palm Beach County, Florida.
- Creator
- Pinkos, Margarita Perera-Zamora., Florida Atlantic University, Kerensky, Vasil M.
- Abstract/Description
-
The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between reading gains and the following demographic variables: economic status, ethnicity, and gender. The reading gains of limited English proficient (LEP) and English-fluent students in the school district of Palm Beach County, the fourth largest school district in Florida, were examined for two consecutive years. The researcher also sought to determine if LEP status affected the relationship between reading gains and the variables...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between reading gains and the following demographic variables: economic status, ethnicity, and gender. The reading gains of limited English proficient (LEP) and English-fluent students in the school district of Palm Beach County, the fourth largest school district in Florida, were examined for two consecutive years. The researcher also sought to determine if LEP status affected the relationship between reading gains and the variables identified. The sample included 51,590 English-fluent and 11,907 LEP students in the first year. In the second year of the study, the sample included 53,400 English-fluent and 12,830 LEP students. Multiple regression analysis was used to test the correlations and significance of the predictor variables for the subgroups, LEP and English-fluent students. Factorial analysis of variance was used to determine if there was an interaction between LEP status and the regression models for each of the predictor variables. The results indicated that yearly reading gains of English-fluent and Limited English Proficient students in Palm Beach County Schools could not be predicted from the predictor variables used during the years of the study. The results of multiple regressions revealed that a very small percentage of the criterion variable could be explained by the predictor variables (R 2 values ranged from .000 to .003). In the cases where the regression model was statistically significant, the results were not practically significant but the product of a trivial relationship between the variables, perhaps due to the size of the sample. After examining the interaction of LEP status with each of the predictor variables, it was concluded that the interaction between LEP status and each of the predictor variables did not increase significantly the predictive value of the models. No significant difference was found in the regression slopes between LEP and English-fluent students for any of the predictor variables.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2002
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FADT12019
- Subject Headings
- Limited English-proficient students, Minorities--Education, Academic achievement, Reading--Florida--Palm Beach County
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- The relationship between gender, laterality, brain dominance, and learning-disabled labeling of selected elementary school-aged students in Dade County, Florida.
- Creator
- Morrison, Lorena Ann Prosser., Florida Atlantic University, Pyle, Wilma J.
- Abstract/Description
-
Problem. The major purpose of this research was to identify right-hemispheric elementary-aged male students who are being labeled as learning disabled. Secondly, to find learning and teaching strategies that would assist these students in re-entering and progressing academically in the regular-self-contained elementary classroom. Subjects used. Subjects were from an LD gifted student population at Cutler Ridge Elementary School in Dade County, Florida. Twenty-one students were in the research...
Show moreProblem. The major purpose of this research was to identify right-hemispheric elementary-aged male students who are being labeled as learning disabled. Secondly, to find learning and teaching strategies that would assist these students in re-entering and progressing academically in the regular-self-contained elementary classroom. Subjects used. Subjects were from an LD gifted student population at Cutler Ridge Elementary School in Dade County, Florida. Twenty-one students were in the research study. An experimental and a control group were randomly assigned from this LD gifted group of students ranging from second to fifth graders. Findings and conclusions. There were two major questions to be answered in the study: (1) Is there any relationship between gender, laterality, brain dominance, and being placed in LD programs? (2) Is there a curriculum, a method or a strategy of teaching that will accommodate the right-brain student once he is identified? Assessment tools used to answer the first question or test the first hypothesis were a Teacher observation Checklist for Handedness, and the Style of Learning and Thinking (SOLAT) hemisphericity test for elementary-aged children by Paul Torrance and published by Scholastic Testing Services. Using a chi-square test of proportions, it was determined that there is a correlation between gender, laterality, brain dominance, and LD placement. In order to answer the second question regarding assisting these students (once they are identified) to re-enter and progress academically in the regular self-contained elementary classroom, a treatment of ten learning activities was developed and administered over a period of ten weeks for one hour per week. At the conclusion of the treatment, a post-test was administered by using the Matrix Analogies Test--Short Form by J. Naglieri and published by the Psychological Corporation. A differences between means of hypothesis tests was performed and the Z scores of the means of the percentile ranks, stanines, and age equivalents showed no significant difference in academic performance between the experimental and control group. Therefore, a treatment curriculum or strategy for teaching the right-brain male was not found or clearly defined. Recommendations. (1) Right-brain students should remain in regular classroom situations where they will have a support team to determine that they will be accommodated in the regular classroom. (2) Educational efforts and finances should be a concern and should support a holistic approach to teaching children in order to keep the curriculum from being unbalanced with a left-brain orientation. (3) Future teachers should be prepared with a knowledge base for teaching right-brain students. (4) Further efforts to discover curriculum strategies for teaching right-brain children are needed.
Show less - Date Issued
- 1989
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12240
- Subject Headings
- School children--Ability testing, Learning ability, Cerebral dominance, Laterality
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- The relationship between native language and performance on the General Education Development Test among first-time test takers in Dade County.
- Creator
- Walker, Lesonie May, Florida Atlantic University, MacKenzie, Donald G.
- Abstract/Description
-
This study was conducted among 406 first-time test takers who took the English version of the General Education Development (GED) Test in Dade County, Florida between June and December, 1993. Multiple regression and chi square analyses were used to determine the relationship between native language and performance on the General Education Development (GED) Test and the relationship between certain demographic characteristics and success in passing the GED. The findings of the study indicated,...
Show moreThis study was conducted among 406 first-time test takers who took the English version of the General Education Development (GED) Test in Dade County, Florida between June and December, 1993. Multiple regression and chi square analyses were used to determine the relationship between native language and performance on the General Education Development (GED) Test and the relationship between certain demographic characteristics and success in passing the GED. The findings of the study indicated, among other things, that (a) a higher percentage of native English speakers than non-native English speakers passed the GED Test, (b) non-native English speakers were outperformed by native English speakers on all the GED subtests except Mathematics, (c) native French speakers (mainly Haitians) were outperformed by the other non-native English speakers on all the subtests, (d) the mean scores of native French speakers were well below the mean scores required to pass the test, and (e) participants who took the GED preparation course were outperformed by those who did not take the GED preparation course. Native language was determined to be significantly related (p <.05) to performance on the GED. The model most helpful in predicting success on the GED comprised native language, number of years participants had learned to read, write, and speak English and had studied in an English speaking country. None of the individual variables showed a high correlation with performance on the GED Test, suggesting that other factors, not included in the data set, might have also contributed to performance on the test. The recommendations include: (a) pretesting examinees to determine their level of literacy in their native language as well as in English to establish the level of instruction necessary, (b) recruiting and training language minority teachers who are more familiar with the culture and educational systems of the countries in which Dade's rapidly increasing adult non-native English speaking groups were born, (c) strengthening the GED classes so that they can adequately remediate non-native English speakers who are in need of basic skills, and (d) conducting research to determine if certain items on the GED Test are biased against non-native English speakers. The findings in this study add to the growing body of research studies indicating that minorities, including linguistic minorities, do not perform well on standardized tests.
Show less - Date Issued
- 1995
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12403
- Subject Headings
- Minorities--Education--United States, Multicultural education--Florida--Miami-Dade County, GED tests, Academic achievement--Florida--Miami-Dade County
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- The relationship between mobility and academic performance among African-American fifth graders attending urban schools.
- Creator
- Mabin, Wesley Merle, Jr., Florida Atlantic University, Kerensky, Vasil M.
- Abstract/Description
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The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between mobility and academic performance among African-American fifth grade urban public school students. Blacks in South Florida are a diverse group. As of 1990 the U.S. Census Bureau identified 12 different ethnic groups that comprise the Black ethnic category in Broward County, Florida. The term African-American and the data used in this study reflect the ethnic diversity. This study examined Stanford Achievement Test scores in...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between mobility and academic performance among African-American fifth grade urban public school students. Blacks in South Florida are a diverse group. As of 1990 the U.S. Census Bureau identified 12 different ethnic groups that comprise the Black ethnic category in Broward County, Florida. The term African-American and the data used in this study reflect the ethnic diversity. This study examined Stanford Achievement Test scores in mathematics (SATM) and reading (SATR) over the years 1992, 1993 and 1994. The SATM (N = 2208) and SATR (N = 2178) scores over the three year period were the dependent variables in the study. Gender and mobility were the independent variables of the study. Mobility was divided into three categories of non-mobile, mobile and very mobile. Descriptive statistical procedures were applied to the data. The mean and standard deviations were established for the dependent variables for each year of the study. Analysis of variance was applied to the dependent and independent variables of the study over the three year period of 1992, 1993 and 1994. There were no statistically significant main effects or interactions (p >.05 for all effects). Consequently none of the null hypotheses were rejected. This study supports the conclusion that gender and mobility had no relationship with academic performance in urban African-American fifth grade public school students. Suggestions for further research include: (a) exploration of the linkage of gender and mobility with the variables of socioeconomic status, (b) family structure and character qualities in relationship to academic achievement in urban African-Americans, and (c) the replication of this study in a rural setting with students of a different race.
Show less - Date Issued
- 1997
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12504
- Subject Headings
- Academic achievement--Florida--Fort Lauderdale--Case studies, Student mobility--Florida--Fort Lauderdale--Case studies, Urban schools--Florida--Fort Lauderdale--Case studies, African American students--Florida--Fort Lauderdale--Case studies
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- A predictive model of student performance in Internet-based distance learning courses at the community college.
- Creator
- Coleman-Ferrell, Tunjarnika Lowell, Florida Atlantic University, Bryan, Valerie
- Abstract/Description
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The purpose of this research study was to develop a predictive model of student performance in Internet-based distance learning courses at the community college level. The predictor variables included socioeconomic status as it relates to age, gender, marital status, income, and race, as well as, level of education, computer proficiency, motivation, academic support, and grade received in the course. The survey used in this study was the Internet Based Distance Learning Courses Questionnaire ...
Show moreThe purpose of this research study was to develop a predictive model of student performance in Internet-based distance learning courses at the community college level. The predictor variables included socioeconomic status as it relates to age, gender, marital status, income, and race, as well as, level of education, computer proficiency, motivation, academic support, and grade received in the course. The survey used in this study was the Internet Based Distance Learning Courses Questionnaire (IBDLQ). The survey was administered to a sample of 291 completers of Internet-based distance learning courses at the end of the Summer 2000 and Fall 2000 school semesters at Palm Beach Community College. One hundred respondents returned completed surveys, indicating a return rate of 34%. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to test each hypothesis and to provide a model that was predictive of student performance. Nine null hypotheses were formed to determine if there were significant relationships between student performance and the aforementioned variables. The results of the tests of the nine null hypotheses showed that the hypotheses that involved student performance and marital status, age and motivation-self pace were rejected. In this study, the final model indicated that the predictor variables accounted for 14.2% of the variance in student performance. The correlation matrix showed that the older students in this population were less often currently married than were younger students and appeared only marginally less likely to be motivated by self-paced courses. The correlation between being motivated by self-paced courses and being married showed that married students were a little more likely to be motivated by self-paced courses. Analysis of responses to the open-ended question on course satisfaction revealed four main themes that influence student performance: academic support from the instructor, flexibility, socioeconomic status specific to family responsibilities that include marital status, whether or not the student has dependents, and age. Suggestions for future research included increasing sample size, adding variables such as frequency of student computer use, whether or not the respondent has dependents, and surveying the instructors of the courses for frequency of availability online, levels of expertise, and instructor perception of barriers.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2001
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/11949
- Subject Headings
- Community college students, Internet in higher education, Distance education
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- The perceptions of effectiveness of mentoring relationships in higher education.
- Creator
- Jadwick, Doreen K., Florida Atlantic University, Decker, Larry E.
- Abstract/Description
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The purpose of this study was to measure the perceptions of effectiveness between faculty mentors and proteges involved in formal mentoring relationships in higher education. The subjects were drawn from a non-probability sample of 35 faculty mentors and 53 proteges active in the 1995-96 Mentor Program sponsored by the Office of Minority Student Services at Florida Atlantic University (FAU). The responses from faculty mentors (n = 17) represented a 48.6% response rate. The responses from...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to measure the perceptions of effectiveness between faculty mentors and proteges involved in formal mentoring relationships in higher education. The subjects were drawn from a non-probability sample of 35 faculty mentors and 53 proteges active in the 1995-96 Mentor Program sponsored by the Office of Minority Student Services at Florida Atlantic University (FAU). The responses from faculty mentors (n = 17) represented a 48.6% response rate. The responses from proteges (n = 22) represented a 41.5% response rate. Four out of the seventeen faculty mentors who responded had more than one protege. The variable information was used only once for each faculty mentor, therefore, the analysis included 17 faculty mentors and 22 proteges. Subjects were administered the 55-item Principles of Adult Mentoring Scale (PAMS); an instrument based on adult development psychology theories and the transactional process of learning with six behavioral mentoring functions: Relationship Emphasis, Information Emphasis, Facilitative Focus, Confrontive Focus, Mentor Model, and Student Vision. Faculty mentors completed the PAMS and proteges completed the protege version of the PAMS. MANOVA and ANOVA indicated that the faculty mentors' and proteges' overall levels of perceptions of effectiveness were similar as were the levels of perceptions of effectiveness for the six behavioral mentoring functions. When compared to Cohen's mentor role competency scores for the PAMS, the behavioral mentoring functions revealed a variety of perceptions of effectiveness: Relationship Emphasis and Facilitative Focus for faculty mentors and proteges resulted in effective mean scores; Information Emphasis and Student Vision mean scores of faculty mentors resulted in less effective mean scores while Information Emphasis and Student Vision mean scores of proteges resulted in effective mean scores; faculty mentors' and proteges' mean scores for Confrontive Focus resulted in less effective scores while the Mentor Model mean scores of faculty mentors and proteges revealed very effective scores. The composite mean scores and mean scores for each of the six behavioral mentoring functions appear to validate Cohen's mentor role norm competency scores for the six behavioral mentoring functions developed for the purpose of using the PAMS. Confrontive Focus behavioral scores in this study were consistent with findings from F. C. Stoner's January, 1996 study that revealed less effective mean scores for adult educators from Continuing Education, Higher Education, and Business and Industry (Stoner, 1996). This is an initial study. The approach used here can be used by others in higher education. The research provides adult educators with data and reproducible techniques with which to assess, evaluate, and improve the interpersonal competencies of adult learners and mentors.
Show less - Date Issued
- 1997
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12494
- Subject Headings
- College teachers--In-service training, Mentoring in education
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- A preliminary investigation of a computer-assisted training program for direct service providers working with individuals with mental retardation.
- Creator
- Provost, Mary C., Florida Atlantic University, Taylor, Ronald L.
- Abstract/Description
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This preliminary investigation involved the development of a training program leading to graduated levels of certification and eventual licensure for direct service providers working in the State of Florida. Presently, certification and/or licensure are not offered to direct service providers by residential programs serving individuals with mental retardation in Florida. Current research in the field of mental retardation and developmental disabilities supports the development and...
Show moreThis preliminary investigation involved the development of a training program leading to graduated levels of certification and eventual licensure for direct service providers working in the State of Florida. Presently, certification and/or licensure are not offered to direct service providers by residential programs serving individuals with mental retardation in Florida. Current research in the field of mental retardation and developmental disabilities supports the development and implementation of standardized training as well as credentialing for direct service providers. The research described in this study compared two models of training for direct service providers, traditional-training and traditional-training paired with computer-assisted instruction. Twenty participants were recruited from two privately funded agencies providing residential services to individuals with mental retardation and developmental disabilities in South Florida. Incentives for participation were provided to participants by their sending agencies. The training content for both groups included characteristics of individuals with mental retardation; identification of antecedents, behaviors and consequences; identification of relevant and irrelevant information; and, identification of methods for obtaining more information for problem solving purposes. Participant knowledge of this content was measured through pre- and posttesting. The mean gain scores of the participants in the experimental and traditional training scores were compared using a t -test for change to determine statistical significance for each section of the measurement tool. The p values were .990, .941, and .558 for each respective section of the measurement tool, thereby supporting each null hypothesis tested. Finally, implications, limitations, and suggestions for future research were offered.
Show less - Date Issued
- 2003
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12062
- Subject Headings
- Mental retardation facilities, People with mental disabilities--Services for, Mental retardation facilities--Employees--Training of, Employees--Computer-assisted instruction
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- A replication in a small private college of a study to predict freshman persistence and voluntary dropout decisions.
- Creator
- Brandt, Patricia A., Florida Atlantic University, Harmes, Harold M.
- Abstract/Description
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Shrinking enrollments have affected many small private and public colleges, causing administrators of these institutions to acknowledge the necessity of retaining enrolled students until graduation. Research reported in the literature supports the value of early identification of potential dropouts for designing and implementing effective intervention strategies. Although the majority of retention studies have been based on student demographic characteristics, Tinto (1975) developed an...
Show moreShrinking enrollments have affected many small private and public colleges, causing administrators of these institutions to acknowledge the necessity of retaining enrolled students until graduation. Research reported in the literature supports the value of early identification of potential dropouts for designing and implementing effective intervention strategies. Although the majority of retention studies have been based on student demographic characteristics, Tinto (1975) developed an explanatory predictive model that considers persistence and dropout behaviors as consequences of the quality of a student's interaction with the academic and social systems of an institution. Pascarella and Terenzini (1980), two retention researchers, designed a questionnaire based on the theoretical constructs of Tinto's model of attrition. This questionnaire was administered to freshman students at both a large, public institution and a large, private university with results that generally supported the construct and predictive validities of Tinto's model of college student attrition. The purpose of the current study is to test the predictive reliability and validity of the questionnaire developed by Pascarella and Terenzini (1980) in a third setting: this time at Palm Beach Atlantic College, a small, private college with religious affiliations in West Palm Beach, Florida.
Show less - Date Issued
- 1991
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12269
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- The relationships among nursing program attributes, nurse faculties' personal attributes and preferences for learner-centered instruction.
- Creator
- Papes, Kathleen A., Florida Atlantic University, Guglielmino, Lucy M.
- Abstract/Description
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The changing health care environment and student population are challenging faculty to create a learning environment supportive of adult students. This study explored relationships among nursing program attributes, nurse faculties' personal attributes and preferences for learner-centered instruction, measured by the Principles of Adult Learning Scale (PALS). Predictor variables included 19 personal and 16 program attributes. Thirty BSN/MSN programs and 30 ADN programs with a minimum...
Show moreThe changing health care environment and student population are challenging faculty to create a learning environment supportive of adult students. This study explored relationships among nursing program attributes, nurse faculties' personal attributes and preferences for learner-centered instruction, measured by the Principles of Adult Learning Scale (PALS). Predictor variables included 19 personal and 16 program attributes. Thirty BSN/MSN programs and 30 ADN programs with a minimum enrollment of 150 students were randomly selected. A faculty member in each school completed a program data sheet and distributed 10 faculty questionnaires. The sample included 298 faculty (50%). Descriptive statistics were reported by attributes and program, and tested for statistical significance. Six multiple regression analyses were completed. Overall, faculty were teacher-centered. Associate degree faculty were more teacher-centered than baccalaureate and higher degree faculty who, in turn, split between teacher-centered and learner-centered instruction. Teaching, research, professional service, community service, and clinical practice were rated as to their importance to faculty and perceived importance to faculties' institutions. Teaching was the most important role to faculty and believed to be the most important role to their institutions. Notably, there was incongruence among other faculty ratings. Three null hypotheses were rejected at the .05 alpha criterion. Of three models using the total sample, the personal and program attributes model accounted for 30% of variance in overall mean PALS scores, with significant contributions from self-study of adult learning principles, type of student taught, and rank. Dividing the total sample by program, the BSN/MSN personal and program attributes model accounted for 30% of variance in overall mean PALS scores. Recommendations include self-administration of PALS and analysis of responses for staff development programs; use of the model as part of program evaluation; and development of mission effectiveness programs to examine congruence of personal and organizational philosophies. Suggestions for further research include testing of the PALS' factors, population invariance, and subscale reliability; development of an associate degree program model; study of classroom and clinical dimensions of teaching style; and study of the effectiveness of adaptation strategies to learner-centered instruction.
Show less - Date Issued
- 1998
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12585
- Subject Headings
- Nursing--Study and teaching
- Format
- Document (PDF)
- Title
- The relationship of grade-level, socioeconomic status and gender to selected student variables.
- Creator
- Miller, Judith Christy., Florida Atlantic University, Weppner, Daniel B.
- Abstract/Description
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Students from Indian River Academy and Palm Vista Christian Schools were compared to determine what relationships and interactions existed among attitudes, values, personality traits, critical thinking skills, interests, and demographic characteristics such as grade level, socioeconomic status, and gender. Results of Study of Values, Junior/Senior High School Personality Questionnaire, Kuder General Interest Survey-E, Survey of Study Habits and Attitudes, and the Critical Thinking Appraisal...
Show moreStudents from Indian River Academy and Palm Vista Christian Schools were compared to determine what relationships and interactions existed among attitudes, values, personality traits, critical thinking skills, interests, and demographic characteristics such as grade level, socioeconomic status, and gender. Results of Study of Values, Junior/Senior High School Personality Questionnaire, Kuder General Interest Survey-E, Survey of Study Habits and Attitudes, and the Critical Thinking Appraisal were utilized to assess a sample of two hundred fourteen (214) pupils attending seventh through twelfth grades at Indian River Academy along with a sample of the one hundred twenty-five (125) students enrolled in seventh through twelfth grades at Palm Vista Christian School. A 2 x 2 x 2 ANOVA was employed to examine the differences between groups by age, socioeconomic status, and gender on attitudes, values, personality traits, interests, and critical thinking skills. No significant interaction occurred among socioeconomic status, grade level, and gender in values, attitudes, personality traits, interests, or critical thinking skills. None of the dependent variables proved to be significant when socioeconomic status was considered to be the main effect. Only the Critical Thinking Appraisal and selected subtests from the Survey of Study Habits and Attitudes revealed scores that were significantly different based upon grade level. Differences in study skills and attitudes were clearly evident between middle school and senior high school students with female middle school students dramatically outscoring the male middle school students and middle school students, in general scoring significantly higher than senior high students. Differences in critical thinking skills were also evident between middle school and senior high school students with senior high males and females outscoring those students in middle school classes. Univariate F tests indicated a highly significant difference exists between male and female responses with respect to affective characteristics. Further research should be performed to assess behavioral character and other affective characteristics to identify instructional implications of learner differences.
Show less - Date Issued
- 1990
- PURL
- http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12265
- Subject Headings
- Academic achievement, Prediction of scholastic success, Students--Rating of, Youth--United States--Social conditions
- Format
- Document (PDF)
