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Title: Exploring the impact of electronic textbook tools on student achievement in world history.
Creator: Bonner, Cathy E., College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: This mixed-methodology study examined the effect of using Electronic textbook highlight and animation tools on the knowledge and comprehension achieved by10th grade students. Eighty-two students enrolled in a regular World History course were purposefully selected and assigned to 1 of 4 groups: (a) Highlight, (b) Animation, (c) Highlight-and-Animation, or (d) Comparison. A One-Way ANCOVA with a Bonferroni Adjusted Alpha was used in analyzing the results of the knowledge and comprehension...
Show moreThis mixed-methodology study examined the effect of using Electronic textbook highlight and animation tools on the knowledge and comprehension achieved by10th grade students. Eighty-two students enrolled in a regular World History course were purposefully selected and assigned to 1 of 4 groups: (a) Highlight, (b) Animation, (c) Highlight-and-Animation, or (d) Comparison. A One-Way ANCOVA with a Bonferroni Adjusted Alpha was used in analyzing the results of the knowledge and comprehension World History pretest and posttest that were administered. A Factorial ANCOVA with a Bonferroni Adjusted Alpha was used in analyzing the influence of the Scholastic Reading Inventory (SRI) moderator. Using the eEdition World History textbook tools of highlight and animation did not significantly impact the World History knowledge and comprehension scores achieved by participants and the participant's SRI level did not significantly moderate the relative effectiveness of the conditions. Interview data from 3 Student Focus groups and 1 Teacher Focus group were analyzed with an open exploratory coding strategy. The resulting classification code of "ease of use" was characterized by: (a) time required to learn to use the tools, and (b) time to complete the tasks. A second code, "choice" was characterized by: (a) choice of instruction tools, and (b) choice in monitoring and assessing student activity. The focus groups indicated that they would use the tools in the future due to benefits such as the ability to modify the information to match their learning and instructional preferences. They also stressed that more instruction on the use of eEdition tools was needed.
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Date Issued: 2011
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3329829
Subject Headings: Achievement in education, History, Study and teaching (Secondary), Curriculum planning, Internet in education, Effective teaching, Educational technology
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Comparing levels of school performance to science teachers' reports on knowledge/skills, instructional use and student use of computers.
Creator: Kerr, Rebecca., College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this descriptive quantitative and basic qualitative study was to examine fifth and eighth grade science teachers' responses, perceptions of the role of technology in the classroom, and how they felt that computer applications, tools, and the Internet influence student understanding. The purposeful sample included survey and interview responses from fifth grade and eighth grade general and physical science teachers. Even though they may not be generalizable to other teachers or...
Show moreThe purpose of this descriptive quantitative and basic qualitative study was to examine fifth and eighth grade science teachers' responses, perceptions of the role of technology in the classroom, and how they felt that computer applications, tools, and the Internet influence student understanding. The purposeful sample included survey and interview responses from fifth grade and eighth grade general and physical science teachers. Even though they may not be generalizable to other teachers or classrooms due to a low response rate, findings from this study indicated teachers with fewer years of teaching science had a higher level of computer use but less computer access, especially for students, in the classroom. Furthermore, teachers' choice of professional development moderated the relationship between the level of school performance and teachers' knowledge/skills, with the most positive relationship being with workshops that occurred outside of the school. Eighteen interviews revealed that teachers perceived the role of technology in classroom instruction mainly as teacher-centered and supplemental, rather than student-centered activities.
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Date Issued: 2013
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/3360802
Subject Headings: Science, Study and teaching (Middle school), School management and organization, Computer-assisted instruction, Academic achievement, Evaluation, High technology and education
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Fifth-grade teachers' social studies knowledge and beliefs and their relationship to classroom practices.
Creator: Harcarik, Michele., College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: This mixed methods study investigates the relationship between fifth-grade teachers' social studies knowledge and beliefs and their relationship to classroom practices. Quantitative data were collected through a beliefs and classroom practices survey and 60-item knowledge test covering the areas of American History, America and the World, Political Philosophy and American Government, and The Market Economy, in order to provide a comprehensive picture of fifth-grade teachers' knowledge,...
Show moreThis mixed methods study investigates the relationship between fifth-grade teachers' social studies knowledge and beliefs and their relationship to classroom practices. Quantitative data were collected through a beliefs and classroom practices survey and 60-item knowledge test covering the areas of American History, America and the World, Political Philosophy and American Government, and The Market Economy, in order to provide a comprehensive picture of fifth-grade teachers' knowledge, beliefs, and self-reported classroom practices relating to social studies. Additionally, qualitative data were collected through individual and focus group interviews. These data were used to provide an in-depth look that expanded on fifth-grade teachers' knowledge, beliefs, and self-reported classroom practices relating to social studies. The findings of this study indicate that there is a relationship between teachers' beliefs and their self-reported classroom practices in the areas of resources, best practice, time, the Sunshine State Standards, and personal interest. While there were no significant relationships between teachers' knowledge of social studies as a whole and their self-reported classroom practices, there were several significant correlations found in the areas of American History and Political Philosophy and American Government. Further findings indicate that teaching experience and demographic variables, such as age, gender, and education level moderate some of these relationships. Implications and suggestions for further research are offered for elementary education, teacher education, and the field of social studies.
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Date Issued: 2009
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/369195
Subject Headings: Classroom management, Social sciences, Study and teaching (Elementary), Effective teaching, Educational accountability, Teacher effectiveness
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Effects of problem-based learning with web-anchored instruction in nanotechnology on the science conceptual understanding, the attitude towards science, and the perception of science in society of elementary students.
Creator: Yurick, Karla Anne., College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: This study explored the effects of Problem-Based Leaning (PBL) with webanchored instruction in nanotechnology on the science conceptual understanding, the attitude towards science, and the perception of science in society of elementary students. A mixed-methods approach was used. Subjects (N=46) participated in the study for approximately two and a half weeks. A pretest was administered for science conceptual understanding and for attitude towards science. An intervention, web-based...
Show moreThis study explored the effects of Problem-Based Leaning (PBL) with webanchored instruction in nanotechnology on the science conceptual understanding, the attitude towards science, and the perception of science in society of elementary students. A mixed-methods approach was used. Subjects (N=46) participated in the study for approximately two and a half weeks. A pretest was administered for science conceptual understanding and for attitude towards science. An intervention, web-based nanotechnology anchor, Catching the Rays, followed. Catching the Rays navigated subjects through a nano quest on sunscreen. After the intervention, a posttest was administered for each science conceptual understanding and attitude towards science. Following, a purposeful selection of interviewees (N=6) participated in a Nano Post- Interview. Pretest/posttest data were analyzed using a paired t test. Results of the paired t test for science conceptual understanding (post- being larger than pre-, p <. 01) and attitude towards science (post- being larger than pre-, p < .01) were significant at the p < .05 alpha level. Nano Post-Interview data were coded and analyzed independently by two raters for emerging themes. Two themes of "Risks and Benefits" and "Solves Problems" emerged from subjects' (N=6) responses to perception of science in society questions. The theme of "Risks and Benefits" strongly suggests that subjects have a positive perception that nanotechnology comes with risks and benefits to society. The theme of "Solves Problems" strongly suggests subjects have a positive perception that nanotechnology is governed by society's needs and is used to help solve society's problems. Findings from this study suggest that PBL with web-anchored instruction in nanotechnology had a positive effect on subjects' science conceptual understanding, attitude towards science, and perception of science in society.
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Date Issued: 2011
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3322517
Subject Headings: Science, Study and teaching (Elementary), Computer-assisted instruction, Educational technology, Achievement in education, Cognition in children, Knowledge, Theory of
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Advanced Placement (AP) social studies teachers' use of academic course blogs as a supplemental resource for student learning.
Creator: Alper, Seth., College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: This mixed-methods study investigated the relationship between Advanced Placement (AP) social studies teachers' utilization of academic course blogs and student achievement. Simultaneously, the study examined the participating teachers' perceptions on the use of course blogs and other social media as supplemental learning resources. The study further explored a possible moderating effect of the social studies subject on student achievement and a possible moderating effect of students'...
Show moreThis mixed-methods study investigated the relationship between Advanced Placement (AP) social studies teachers' utilization of academic course blogs and student achievement. Simultaneously, the study examined the participating teachers' perceptions on the use of course blogs and other social media as supplemental learning resources. The study further explored a possible moderating effect of the social studies subject on student achievement and a possible moderating effect of students' previous academic blog usage on student achievement within the study. Quantitative data were collected from students' pre-tests and unit tests scores and analyzed for statistical significance. Qualitative data were collected through teacher-generated notes during the blogs, individual interviews, and a follow-up focus group interview. The results of this study indicated that there was no overall significant difference in student achievement between the blogging and non-blogging groups. On the contrary , a significant interaction between the social studies subject area and the use of academic course blogs was found when examining student achievement. However, this practical interaction was revealed to be a weak one. Further findings indicated that there was no significant interaction between students' previous blog usage and academic achievement during the study. From the qualitative data, participating teachers perceived the course blogs to be potentially advantageous for students and themselves, yet expressed frustration when implementing the course blogs with their students. Instead, they endorsed the academic use of Facebook, a resource that some students from two participating courses separately utilized instead of (or in addition to) the course blogs during the study. Teachers further expressed concern about relinquishing their subject knowledge and AP expertise to readily available course content on the Internet. Implications and suggestions for future f or AP social studi, teachers' promising use of Facebook and for researchers investigating the use of socail media at the high school level.
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Date Issued: 2013
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3360744
Subject Headings: Social sciences, Study and teaching (Secondary), Methodology, Information resources, Evaluation, Internet in education, Social aspects, Constructivism (Education)
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Influence of a professional development module focused on the research-based evidence of the culture and gender bias found in Disney animated fairy tales on preprimary early childhood teachers.
Creator: Doran, Ruth A., College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: Disney commands a strong market presence worldwide in print and multimedia products used for early childhood entertainment. Yet, the gender and cultural bias found in Disney animated fairy tale media has been well documented. Although preprimary early childhood teachers are urged to maintain a multicultural environment that is free of bias and stereotypes, very little training or support is presented to guide preprimary early childhood teachers in the selection of materials for use in their...
Show moreDisney commands a strong market presence worldwide in print and multimedia products used for early childhood entertainment. Yet, the gender and cultural bias found in Disney animated fairy tale media has been well documented. Although preprimary early childhood teachers are urged to maintain a multicultural environment that is free of bias and stereotypes, very little training or support is presented to guide preprimary early childhood teachers in the selection of materials for use in their preprimary early childhood classrooms. The study sought to investigate the influence of a professional development module focused on the gender and cultural bias found in Disney animated fairy tale media on preprimary early childhood teachers. How would they respond to this professional development module? Would it change their intentions to use Disney animated fairy tale media with preprimary early childhood children? Would the participation in this preprimary early childhood professional development module actually change their practice? Using both quantitative and qualitative inquiries, participating preprimary early education teachers reported mixed findings. While some preprimary early childhood teachers were clearly influenced by their discovery of the existence of bias in this media, others revealed a cognitive dissonance from a strong personal and emotional attachment to Disney animated fairy tale media products juxtaposed against the evidence of cultural and gender bias found in the media. Implications and suggestions for future research included the expansion of professional development modules and higher education/teacher education to include the study and consideration of the content of children's media., Policymakers and advocates need to address concerns of bias found in children's media with respect to gender and cultural bias development during the preoperative developmental stage of preprimary children. Further, interdisciplinary discussion needs to the concern of the influence of media on the holistic development of young children.
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Date Issued: 2009
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/186328
Subject Headings: Teachers, In-service training, Social aspects, Education, Preschool, School improvement programs, Curriculum planning, Multicultural education
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Preservice teachers' developing beliefs about diversity as revealed through reflection and discourse.
Creator: Schaub, Cynthia R., College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to analyze the development of preservice teachers' beliefs in regard to diversity concepts and issues. The current study finds a positive development in preservice teacher candidates' professional beliefs about diversity as shown through observations, interviews, and document analysis at the beginning and end of upper division coursework in an elementary education degree program that infuses diversity throughout the program. Reflection is at the core of the goals...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to analyze the development of preservice teachers' beliefs in regard to diversity concepts and issues. The current study finds a positive development in preservice teacher candidates' professional beliefs about diversity as shown through observations, interviews, and document analysis at the beginning and end of upper division coursework in an elementary education degree program that infuses diversity throughout the program. Reflection is at the core of the goals of the college of education in which this program resides. Findings from this study revealed that through reflection and discourse, a majority of the senior students did show development in their professional beliefs about diversity concepts and issues. These findings may add to literature on program evaluation in the study of diversity concepts and infusion throughout upper division coursework. This study was limited due to an extremely low response rate and other spurious factors.
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Date Issued: 2013
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/3362566
Subject Headings: Teachers, Training of, Teachers, Attitudes, Teaching, Sociological aspects, Teacher-student relationships, Multicultural education
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: A study of seventh grade geometry posttest scores after using the GeoLeg manipulative tool.
Creator: Pacilli, Phyllis., College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this research was to identify if 1) there is a difference in student achievement between students who use the GeoLeg manipulative tool and students who use a traditional compass, protractor, and ruler on the same geometry unit; 2) there is a difference in student achievement between the genders between those who use the GeoLeg manipulative tool and those students who do not; and 3) there is a relationship between identified learning styles and student achievement on a geometry...
Show moreThe purpose of this research was to identify if 1) there is a difference in student achievement between students who use the GeoLeg manipulative tool and students who use a traditional compass, protractor, and ruler on the same geometry unit; 2) there is a difference in student achievement between the genders between those who use the GeoLeg manipulative tool and those students who do not; and 3) there is a relationship between identified learning styles and student achievement on a geometry unit posttest after using the GeoLeg manipulative tool. There were 317 students in the study. The research found that students using the GeoLeg manipulative tool produced significantly better student performance on a posttest in this particular school setting. Although these results cannot be generalized to other school sites, it is plausible that these results could generalize to school sites whose demographics are similar. The research findings revealed that there was no statistically significant difference between male and female students within the treatment group. The significant finding is that the GeoLeg manipulative tool appears to work equally well with both genders. None of the learning styles, as identified by the Honey and Mumford Learning Styles Questionnaire, were correlated with student posttest score achievement on the tested geometry unit. In addition, there was no evidence to suggest that a student's learning style moderates the effectiveness of the use of the GeoLeg manipulative tool. There is no evidence to suggest that the effectiveness of the GeoLeg manipulative tool is any different depending upon the student's gender or learning style. The results of this research provide strong support for the use of the GeoLeg manipulative tool for improving student performance. Further research is needed to confirm these results in similar and different populations.
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Date Issued: 2010
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/1927614
Subject Headings: Geometry, Study and teaching, Aids and devices, Mathematics, Study and teaching (Secondary), Teaching, Aids and devices, Achievement in education, Educational technology
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The self-reported use of metacognitive reading strategies of community college students.
Creator: Munro, Sophia., College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: College requires students to read strategically in order to be academically successful (Caverly, Nicholson, & Radcliffe, 2004). Strategic readers utilize a variety of strategies, including metacognitive reading strategies (Mokhtari & Reichard, 2002; Pressley & Afflerbach, 1995). However, not all students use the same strategies when reading academic text. The purpose of this study was to explore whether students enrolled in a developmental reading course report using different metacognitive...
Show moreCollege requires students to read strategically in order to be academically successful (Caverly, Nicholson, & Radcliffe, 2004). Strategic readers utilize a variety of strategies, including metacognitive reading strategies (Mokhtari & Reichard, 2002; Pressley & Afflerbach, 1995). However, not all students use the same strategies when reading academic text. The purpose of this study was to explore whether students enrolled in a developmental reading course report using different metacognitive reading strategies than students who are enrolled in a college-level English course. The Metacognitive Awareness of Reading Strategies Inventory (Mokhatari & Reichard, 2002) was administered to 423 students at a community college in the southeastern United States. The results of the Tests of Between-Subjects Effects indicated that the main effect for group membership was not significant. The results of the Tests of Within-Subjects Effects indicated that problem solving was reportedly used relatively equally by the two groups, but global and support reading strategies were used less by the English group,with the interaction effect even stronger for support strategies. The implications of this study on teaching and further research were also explored.
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Date Issued: 2011
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3333057
Subject Headings: Reading, Psychology of, Cognitive learning, Inquiry-based learning
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The relationship between professional development and the changing reading practices of teachers in low-performing elementary schools.
Creator: Vaughan, Michelle., College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this multi-case study was to identify the influence of professional development experiences on the changing reading practices of third-grade teachers in low-performing schools. Schools were chosen to participate based upon a steady increase in reading achievement scores despite failing to meet Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) and being placed within the Corrective Action Phase of No Child Left Behind. Six teachers from 4 schools were chosen as participants based on the changing...
Show moreThe purpose of this multi-case study was to identify the influence of professional development experiences on the changing reading practices of third-grade teachers in low-performing schools. Schools were chosen to participate based upon a steady increase in reading achievement scores despite failing to meet Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) and being placed within the Corrective Action Phase of No Child Left Behind. Six teachers from 4 schools were chosen as participants based on the changing reading practices they reported on an initial survey of 13 teachers. Interviews, observations, focus groups, and collection of archival data was completed over the course of 5 months in order to determine the influence of professional development on their reading practices. It was determined that teacher change following professional development is heavily influenced by the domain of power the directive or development is coming from. A continuum was developed to illustrate the relationship between these varying domains of power and their influence on changes made within reading practice. The changes were categorized as tending toward self-propelled or compelled changes. Teachers within this study reported higher levels of change when they were personally vested in professional development experiences and when those experiences met the immediate needs of their own personal growth or the growth of the students in their classroom.
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Date Issued: 2009
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/227978
Subject Headings: Teachers, Training of, Educational change, Language arts (Elementary), Reading, Study and teaching (Elementary)
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The self-regulation of a child with cochlear implants within a school environment.
Creator: Patton, Kristin L., College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this qualitative research, which utilized a narrative design strategy, was to describe the process of self-regulation of a child who has bilateral cochlear implants within the social environment of school. The study investigated the use of self-regulatory strategies by the cochlear implant recipient. It also examined how the child made modifications and monitored learning during activities within the classroom as related to Vygotsky's activity theory and John Dewey's theory of...
Show moreThe purpose of this qualitative research, which utilized a narrative design strategy, was to describe the process of self-regulation of a child who has bilateral cochlear implants within the social environment of school. The study investigated the use of self-regulatory strategies by the cochlear implant recipient. It also examined how the child made modifications and monitored learning during activities within the classroom as related to Vygotsky's activity theory and John Dewey's theory of social control. Through data collection of documents, observations, interviews, and researcher field notes, it was found that the child demonstrated several self-regulatory strategies.
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Date Issued: 2013
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/3362576
Subject Headings: Self-culture, Children with disabilities, Education, Hearing impaired children, Education, Cochlear implants, Social aspects
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Using concept maps to explore preservice teachers' perceptions of science content knowledge, teaching practices, and reflective processes.
Creator: Somers, Judy L., College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: This qualitative study examined seven preservice teachers' perceptions of their science content knowledge, teaching practices, and reflective processes through the use of the metacognitive strategy of concept maps. Included in the paper is a review of literature in the areas of preservice teachers' perceptions of teaching, concept development, concept mapping, science content understanding, and reflective process as a part of metacognition. The key questions addressed include the use of...
Show moreThis qualitative study examined seven preservice teachers' perceptions of their science content knowledge, teaching practices, and reflective processes through the use of the metacognitive strategy of concept maps. Included in the paper is a review of literature in the areas of preservice teachers' perceptions of teaching, concept development, concept mapping, science content understanding, and reflective process as a part of metacognition. The key questions addressed include the use of concept maps to indicate organization and understanding of science content, mapping strategies to indicate perceptions of teaching practices, and the influence of concept maps on reflective process. There is also a comparison of preservice teachers' perceptions of concept map usage with the purposes and practices of maps as described by experienced teachers. Data were collected primarily through interviews, observations, a pre- and post-concept mapping activity, and an analysis of those concept maps using a rubric developed for this study. Findings showed that concept map usage clarified students' understanding of the organization and relationships within content area and that the process of creating the concept maps increased participants' understanding of the selected content., The participants felt that the visual element of concept mapping was an important factor in improving content understanding. These participants saw benefit in using concept maps as planning tools and as instructional tools. They did not recognize the use of concept maps as assessment tools. When the participants were able to find personal relevance in and through their concept maps they were better able to be reflective about the process. The experienced teachers discussed student understanding and skill development as the primary purpose of concept map usage, while they were able to use concept maps to accomplish multiple purposes in practice.
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Date Issued: 2009
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/221953
Subject Headings: Science, Study and teaching, Methodology, Concept learning, Metacognition in children, Education, Effect of technological innovations on
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Understanding teacher leadership and professional learning in a secondary mathematics department.
Creator: Higgins, Christine., College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: This ethnographic study investigated teacher leadership and professional learning in a secondary mathematics department. Qualitative data were collected through in-depth face-to-face interviews, observations, and document analysis. It is the social aspect of the school environment and specifically, the subject department, which presents an opportunity for teachers to learn and share their expertise with one another in an informal setting and for teacher leaders to emerge using their expertise...
Show moreThis ethnographic study investigated teacher leadership and professional learning in a secondary mathematics department. Qualitative data were collected through in-depth face-to-face interviews, observations, and document analysis. It is the social aspect of the school environment and specifically, the subject department, which presents an opportunity for teachers to learn and share their expertise with one another in an informal setting and for teacher leaders to emerge using their expertise and close proximity to affect the learning of colleagues. Teachers were asked to share their thoughts on leadership and learning within their department. A narrative was written to give the reader a better understanding of the day-to-day practices, behaviors, and habits of the teachers in the department, creating a holistic picture of the culture studied. ... teacher leadership is experienced informally through teachers sharing and talking about their practice. Teacher leadership is also experienced outside the department when teachers have opportunities to lead school professional development seminars and to practice leadership through role modeling. Professional learning is experienced one-on-one, as well as formally and informally through colleagues and organized workshops. Implications for administrators, department and team leaders, and policy implementation are discussed. This study may contribute to the development of teacher leadership and professional learning, which ultimately may lead to improving student achievement.
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Date Issued: 2013
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/3362376
Subject Headings: Educational leadership, School management and organization, Mathematics, Study and teaching (Secondary), Teacher effectiveness, School improvement programs
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: An examination of the implementation of the Intel Essentials project-based learning model on middle and secondary reading and language arts FCAT student achievement and engagement.
Creator: Wright, Jeremy R., College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to identify (1) the effectiveness of the Intel Essentials model of project-based learning based on student Florida Comprehensive Assessment test (FCAT) reading scores; (2) the differences in student engagement between students in classes with teachers trained in the Intel Essentials model of project-based learning and teachers not trained in the model as measured by the Beliefs about Classroom Structures Survey; (3) the level of implementation (high, average, or...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to identify (1) the effectiveness of the Intel Essentials model of project-based learning based on student Florida Comprehensive Assessment test (FCAT) reading scores; (2) the differences in student engagement between students in classes with teachers trained in the Intel Essentials model of project-based learning and teachers not trained in the model as measured by the Beliefs about Classroom Structures Survey; (3) the level of implementation (high, average, or low) of teachers trained in the Intel Essentials model of project-based learning; and (4) any correlation between the level of implementation and the level of student engagement. A total of 32 teachers participated in the study. The teachers were split into 2 groups: the experimental group (N = 16) that participated in the Intel Essentials Training, and the control group (N = 16) that did not participate in the training. The results for this study were mixed. The students of the experimental group teachers (N = 780) had significantly higher (p < .05) FCAT scores than that of the control group students (N = 643). The control group with the exception of Motivating Tasks subscale had significantly higher levels of engagement. The correlation between level of implementation and student engagement produced a moderate negative correlation, meaning that the Intel trained teachers with the highest levels of implementation had the lowest levels of engagement.
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Date Issued: 2009
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/369395
Subject Headings: School improvement programs, Project method in teaching, Mobile communication systems in education, Academic achievement, Methodology, Education, Secondary, Computer-assisted instruction, Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test, Education, Effect of technological innovations on
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The contributions of a Holocaust and human rights education program to teacher learning.
Creator: Shah, Rachayita, College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: Drawing on the principles of critical multicultural education and teacher learning, this mixed methods study examined the contributions of a professional development program (the Holocaust and Human Rights Education Program - HEP) to teacher's knowledge, attitudes, and practices, and the role of contextual factors such as school support, HEP support, years of teaching experience, and grade levels in mediating teachers' practices concerning Holocaust and human rights education...The findings...
Show moreDrawing on the principles of critical multicultural education and teacher learning, this mixed methods study examined the contributions of a professional development program (the Holocaust and Human Rights Education Program - HEP) to teacher's knowledge, attitudes, and practices, and the role of contextual factors such as school support, HEP support, years of teaching experience, and grade levels in mediating teachers' practices concerning Holocaust and human rights education...The findings revealed that from the participants' perspectives, the HEP contributed to their content knowledge, pedagogical knowledge, attitudes, and classroom practices. ... Participants also reported learning about age appropriate curriculum resources and about useful pedagogical approaches such as personalization, discussions, and analysis. The participants reported developing a sense of efficacy and positive attitudes towards Holocaust and human rights education, and also designing curriculum with integration of diverse perspectives and various instructional strategies. Regression analysis did not reveal any significant variance in teachers' practices based on the above mentioned contextual factors ; however, the interview data revealed the HEP's collaboration after professional development, school and community support, and teachers' own dispositions toward Holocaust and human rights education as additional contextual factors that influences teachers' practices.
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Date Issued: 2012
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3356014
Subject Headings: Holocaust, Jewish (1939-1945), Study and teaching, Curriculum planning, Multicultural education, Teachers, Training of
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The effect of skill-focused minilessons on students' independent use of reading skills during literature circles.
Creator: Kennedy, Gail., College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: Increased accountability in contemporary public elementary schools requires that teachers provide evidence they are using research-based strategies that reinforce skills assessed on standardized tests. There is a need to provide empirical evidence that literature circles can reinforce skills assessed on these tests. A literature circle is a research-based strategy that is common in language arts classrooms. This study investigates the connection between these skills and student discussion...
Show moreIncreased accountability in contemporary public elementary schools requires that teachers provide evidence they are using research-based strategies that reinforce skills assessed on standardized tests. There is a need to provide empirical evidence that literature circles can reinforce skills assessed on these tests. A literature circle is a research-based strategy that is common in language arts classrooms. This study investigates the connection between these skills and student discussion that takes place during literature circles. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of skill-focused minilessons on students' independent use of reading skills. The study investigated whether application of skill-focused minilessons prior to literature circles would have an effect on students' independent use of reading skills within student discussions during literature circles. Sixteen students participated in the study. The study also investigated the impact that minilessons prior to literature circles had on students' scores on the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) in reading. Students were randomly assigned to the researcher's fifth grade class in the 2008/2009 school year. All students read the same material and received the same treatment. During the course of the study, students first took the FCAT diagnostic in reading and then engaged in five literature circle meetings, each preceded by a minilesson. Students then engaged in five literature circles with a different book and without skill-focused minilessons, followed by the administration of the reading FCAT. The data, which included content analyses of transcriptions of students' discussion and the collection of FCAT scores, yielded several findings., The two skills most commonly used by students in independent literature circles were analyzing character and discussing plot. The two least commonly used skills were describing conflict and using context clues. Each skill within student discussion.The way in which students transferred the use of these skills to literature circles not preceded by skill focused minilessons varied. Multiple modes of transfer were identified for each skill. A dependent t-test for the FCAT scores did not indicate a statistically significant increase in the use of the five skills identified for this study when minilessons preceded literature circles.
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Date Issued: 2010
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/2705076
Subject Headings: Group reading, Book clubs (Discussion groups), Reading (Primary), Guided reading, Educational tests and measurements, Florida Comprehensive Assessment Tests, Achievement in education
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Reading strategies in secondary social studies: teacher reported practice and professional development.
Creator: Newstreet, Carmen L., College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: This quantitative study investigated the relationship between high school social studies teachers' reading professional development through Project CRISS: Creating Independence through Student-Owned Strategies (CRISS) and the implementation of active reading strategies in the classroom. Quantitative data were collected through an online survey in order to provide a comprehensive picture of high school social studies teachers' self-reported classroom practices relating to the use of active...
Show moreThis quantitative study investigated the relationship between high school social studies teachers' reading professional development through Project CRISS: Creating Independence through Student-Owned Strategies (CRISS) and the implementation of active reading strategies in the classroom. Quantitative data were collected through an online survey in order to provide a comprehensive picture of high school social studies teachers' self-reported classroom practices relating to the use of active prereading, during-reading, and postreading strategies. Additionally, the survey asked teachers to self-report their observations of student independent implementation of the same active reading strategies. These data were used to provide an in-depth look that expanded on high school social studies teachers' self-reported classroom practices relating to reading. The results of this study indicated that there was no significant relationship between teachers' reading professional development through CRISS and their self-reported classroom practices in the implementation of active pre-, during, and postreading strategies. Further findings indicated no significant relationship between teachers' reading professional development through CRISS and their self-reported observations of student independent implementation of the same active reading strategies. Lastly, there were no correlations that indicated that years teaching in the classroom moderated these relationships. Implications and suggestions for future research were offered for future reading professional development for secondary teachers and educational researchers who intend to utilize survey instruments.
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Date Issued: 2011
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3333061
Subject Headings: Social studies, Study and teaching (Secondary), Reading, Psychology of, Teacher effectiveness, Achievement in education, Content area reading, Reading comprehension, Reading (Secondary)
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Leading the way: the relationships between effective teachers' interactions with their students and their students' interactions with each other in two multi-grade parochial classrooms.
Creator: Stephens, Eudora A., College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: The qualitative research study examined the teacher-student and student-student interactions that took place in two elementary parochial classrooms staffed by teachers nominated as effective by their supervisors. The study also examined relationships, similarities and differences between the teacher-student and student-student interactions. Qualitative data were collected including classroom observations, interviews with teachers, and focus group interviews with students. Results indicated...
Show moreThe qualitative research study examined the teacher-student and student-student interactions that took place in two elementary parochial classrooms staffed by teachers nominated as effective by their supervisors. The study also examined relationships, similarities and differences between the teacher-student and student-student interactions. Qualitative data were collected including classroom observations, interviews with teachers, and focus group interviews with students. Results indicated that effective teachers supported their students organizationally through well-organized learning environments ; instructionally by using a variety of instructional scaffolds, strategies and materials while holding students accountable for their learning ; and emotionally by meeting students' needs for belonging and safety. Student-student instructinal and emotional supports reflected most of the elements of teacher-student organizational, instructional and emotional supports but also included some negative interactions not present in teacher-student interactions. Implications for classroom practice, public policy and further research in classroom interactions are given.
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Date Issued: 2012
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3359155
Subject Headings: Classroom environment, Effective teaching, Communication in education, Teacher-student relationships, Interaction analysis in education, Social interaction in children
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Middle school teachers' usage of dynamic mathematics learning environments as cognitive instructional tools.
Creator: Escuder, Ana, College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: This study described, analyzed, and compared the internal and external factors that prevented or fostered the implementation of a cognitive tool, GeoGebra, in the mathematics practices of 12 middle school teachers who had completed a master's degree program in mathematics successfully. Through the application of a case study approach as a systematic method for the analysis of qualitative data, and under a social constructivist framework, the study examined different factors such as concerns...
Show moreThis study described, analyzed, and compared the internal and external factors that prevented or fostered the implementation of a cognitive tool, GeoGebra, in the mathematics practices of 12 middle school teachers who had completed a master's degree program in mathematics successfully. Through the application of a case study approach as a systematic method for the analysis of qualitative data, and under a social constructivist framework, the study examined different factors such as concerns of teachers; their beliefs about technology, mathematics as a subject, math teaching, and learning; external factors such as resources and school support; their TPACK development; and their instrumental orchestration approach through classroom observations. Among the major findings, the study revealed that the personal concerns of the teacher users of GeoGebra included the desire to continue learning the new features of the software, as well as the desire to connect themselves with others in common endeavors for the benefit of other teachers and, ultimately, the students... There was a consensus among the teacher users that they had to strike a balance between their professional goals and the available resources.
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Date Issued: 2013
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/3362325
Subject Headings: Mathematics, Study and teaching (Middle school), Mathematics, Study and teaching, Computer-assisted instruction, Educational technology, Educational innovations, Educational change
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Technology and fifth grade teaching: a study of teacher reported classroom practice, professional development, access, and support.
Creator: Beaudry, Debbie., College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: This mixed methods study investigated 5th-grade teachers' reported use of computer technology and variables that have been identified by researchers as affecting teachers' use of technology, including professional development activities, physical access to computer technology, and technical and instructional support provided for teachers. Quantitative data were collected from 80 5th-grade teachers from a Florida public school district through an online survey in which teachers reported how...
Show moreThis mixed methods study investigated 5th-grade teachers' reported use of computer technology and variables that have been identified by researchers as affecting teachers' use of technology, including professional development activities, physical access to computer technology, and technical and instructional support provided for teachers. Quantitative data were collected from 80 5th-grade teachers from a Florida public school district through an online survey in which teachers reported how frequently they used and had their students use computer technology for 27 different purposes. The teachers also reported the amount of emphasis those 27 different topics received during their technology-related professional development experiences, the number of hours they participated in technology-related professional development, the number of months they participating in a technology coaching/mentoring program, the access their students had to computers in the classroom and in a one-to-one co mputing environment, and the frequency that they received technical and instructional support. Information from the school district's technology plan provided a context for the study. Qualitative data were collected through interviews with seven of the survey participants. The findings indicated that for 18 different purposes of technology, there was a significant correlation between how frequently teachers used and had their students use technology and the teacher-reported emphasis those topics received during technology related professional development. Self-reported frequency of support, student-to-computer ratio in the classroom, hours of professional development, and months of mentoring did not moderate the relationship between frequency of technology use and the content of professional development., The relationship between having students use technology to work cooperatively or collaboratively and the reported emphasis that topic received in professional development strengthened if teachers reported that their students had access to a one-to-one computing environment. An additional finding was that the teachers' reported frequency of use of technology and reported emphasis of content of technology-related professional development leaned toward direct instruction and test preparation and leaned less toward innovative uses of technology. Implications and suggestions for future research are offered for technology integration and professional development for teachers at the elementary school level.
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Date Issued: 2011
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3329831
Subject Headings: Classroom management, Internet in education, Education, Elementary, Computer-assisted instruction, Curriculum planning, Teachers, Training of, Evaluation, Active learning, Evaluation
Format: Document (PDF)

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