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Title: A new look at distributive leadership in title I and non-title I schools: does distributive leadership impact student achievement and school culture?.
Creator: Givens, Keietta Latraill, Mountford, Meredith L., College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this quantitative study was to determine if there is a difference in how leadership is distributed in Title I and Non-Title I schools and to examine the relationship between distributive leadership and student achievement in Title I and Non- Title I schools. Additionally, the study investigated the relationship between distributive leadership and school culture in Title I and Non-Title I schools. Finally, this study determined if the relationship between distributed leadership,...
Show moreThe purpose of this quantitative study was to determine if there is a difference in how leadership is distributed in Title I and Non-Title I schools and to examine the relationship between distributive leadership and student achievement in Title I and Non- Title I schools. Additionally, the study investigated the relationship between distributive leadership and school culture in Title I and Non-Title I schools. Finally, this study determined if the relationship between distributed leadership, school culture, and student achievement is moderated by Title I status. This study was significant in the realm of education as it explored distributive leadership, its working definition, and possible relationship to increased student achievement and positive school culture. A quantitative method, including three statistical analyses, was implemented to answer each of the five proposed research questions and five corresponding null hypotheses. A bivariate correlation analysis revealed there was not a relationship between distributive leadership and school culture; distributive leadership and student achievement in a middle school setting. Further, a moderation analysis determined that distributive leadership and school culture, distributive leadership and student achievement were not moderated by Title I status. Additionally, a t-test showed there was not a difference in how leadership was distributed within Title I and Non-Title I schools. A discussion of the findings, conclusions, and recommendations for K-12 were explained in detail, followed by suggestions for future research.
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Date Issued: 2013
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA0004022
Subject Headings: Academic achievement, Distributive leadership, Educational accountability, Educational leadership, School management and organization
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: A PRINCIPAL’S PERSPECTIVE: INSTRUCTIONAL LEADERSHIP IN THE 21ST CENTURY.
Creator: Tracy, Maria Calzadilla, Shockley, Robert, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology, College of Education
Abstract/Description: Ever since No Child Left Behind in 2001 to the present, school accountability reform initiatives have concentrated on raising achievement. Critical to figuring out the relationship between instructional practice and student achievement is forming an awareness of the relationship from the perspective of school leaders—both principals and teachers—charged with improving student achievement. The study, a quantitative quasiexperimental design using the School Survey of Practices Associated with...
Show moreEver since No Child Left Behind in 2001 to the present, school accountability reform initiatives have concentrated on raising achievement. Critical to figuring out the relationship between instructional practice and student achievement is forming an awareness of the relationship from the perspective of school leaders—both principals and teachers—charged with improving student achievement. The study, a quantitative quasiexperimental design using the School Survey of Practices Associated with High Performance, representing instructional practices associated with improving student performance, collected survey data via social media from teachers, principals and other school leaders in Florida public schools. The SSPAHP grouped instructional practices into five domains: effective leadership, curriculum, professional development, school culture, and ongoing use of data for school improvement, which served as the predictor variables. Achievement data from the Florida Standards Assessment for the schools mentioned by participants in the survey functioned as the criterion variable. While 130 surveys were collected, only 84 of the responses reflected schools that took part in the FSA and met the criteria for data analysis.
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013532
Subject Headings: Student achievement, Academic achievement, Instruction, Principals and teachers, Educational leadership
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: African American and Hispanic male perceptions of effective and ineffective retention strategies, and the implications for undergraduate persistence in a for-profit commuter university.
Creator: Comarcho, Carole., College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to examine the expectations of African American and Hispanic males in a for-profit university (TTU). This study specifically explored student perception of the retention efforts of faculty, staff, policies, procedures and services within the institutional environment. It further examined how these experiences promoted or impeded the African American or Hispanic male's persistence to graduation. The higher education institution is identified as TTU throughout this...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to examine the expectations of African American and Hispanic males in a for-profit university (TTU). This study specifically explored student perception of the retention efforts of faculty, staff, policies, procedures and services within the institutional environment. It further examined how these experiences promoted or impeded the African American or Hispanic male's persistence to graduation. The higher education institution is identified as TTU throughout this study. It is a commuter university established in the early 1900s. A qualitative case study approach was used and two campus sites were selected. Data collection included interviews of 19 students, along with 2 faculty (identified by students), as well as document analysis, and various on site observations at each campus. The data were then transcribed, coded, and analyzed to ascertain the overall views and perceptions of the participants.
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Date Issued: 2009
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/329844
Subject Headings: African Americans, Education (Higher), Hispanic Americans, Education (Higher), Academic achievement, College attendance
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: AN EXAMINATION OF SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING READINESS AND ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT AMONG COMMUNITY COLLEGE STUDENTS ENROLLED IN STUDENT SUCCESS COURSES.
Creator: Downes, Kim-Le Thuy, Bryan, Valerie C., Florida Atlantic University, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology, College of Education
Abstract/Description: The objective of this correlation study was to describe the association between the self-directed learning readiness (SDLR) and academic achievement among community college students enrolled in student success courses. Data were collected from a convenience sample of 35 community college students enrolled in student success seminar courses in central New Jersey. Total scores obtained from the administration of the Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale (SDLRS) were used to measure...
Show moreThe objective of this correlation study was to describe the association between the self-directed learning readiness (SDLR) and academic achievement among community college students enrolled in student success courses. Data were collected from a convenience sample of 35 community college students enrolled in student success seminar courses in central New Jersey. Total scores obtained from the administration of the Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale (SDLRS) were used to measure participants’ degree of SDLR. Participants’ GPA and final student success course grade was used as metrics of academic achievement. Additional analyses were conducted to determine if participants’ age and gender changed the association between SDLRS score and academic achievement.
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013592
Subject Headings: Student success, Community college students, Academic achievement, Self-directed learning, Student success programs
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: A comparative analysis of the success of students placed in the lowest level of remedial coursework taken through CAI versus a traditional remedial education mode of instruction: implications for success, retention and costs.
Creator: Vassiliou, John., College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to examine the Computer-Assisted Instructional (CAI) method as an alternative to the Traditional method of instruction for the lowest level of remediation in the content areas of mathematics, reading, and sentence skills, and to specifically determine the comparative effectiveness of these two delivery modes in terms of student success, retention, and costs. The researcher aimed to (a) determine the extent to which ACCUPLACERª mean scores for CAI participants...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to examine the Computer-Assisted Instructional (CAI) method as an alternative to the Traditional method of instruction for the lowest level of remediation in the content areas of mathematics, reading, and sentence skills, and to specifically determine the comparative effectiveness of these two delivery modes in terms of student success, retention, and costs. The researcher aimed to (a) determine the extent to which ACCUPLACERª mean scores for CAI participants increase based on pre and post measures, (b) investigate the pros and cons fiscally of each method of delivery (CAI vs. Traditional), respectively, (c) examine whether CAI participants are more likely to enroll during the immediately following semester compared to students enrolled in a Traditional course, and (d) investigate the extent to which CAI participants are equally or more likely to complete successfully the course taken during the immediately following semester compared to students enroll ed in a Traditional course. The study consisted of a two-group design (CAI and Traditional), and four dependent variables. All CAI participants (N = 129) were self-selected to participate in the study. A dependent t-test found that CAI participants increased their ACCUPLACER mean scores significantly over time by 22.74 points or 72.6%. A frequency count found that retention rates were slightly higher for the Traditional group (82.3%) in comparison to the CAI group (76.6%), however, chi-square tests did not reveal a statistical significance. Chi-squares found significant increase in success rates for the CAI group as 86% passed their initial course, in comparison to 59.8% of students taught in the Traditional format. CAI participants were found to have greater success (74.1%) in subsequent classes than students taught via the Traditional instructional method (51.9%)., In addition, a straightforward comparison of expense totals between the two groups was conducted to estimate the differences in cost between the groups. The Cost-Effectiveness Analysis (CEA) model used, indicated that CAI is less expensive and more effective than Traditional instruction. The cost per credit analysis projected 54.6% savings if CAI is used as the alternative instructional modality.
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Date Issued: 2011
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3322520
Subject Headings: Computer-assisted instruction, Evaluation, Academic achievement, Educational tests and measurements, School improvement programs, Student assistance programs, Educational accountability
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: The effect of student participation in student success skills on pro-social and bullying behavior.
Creator: Mariani, Melissa A., College of Education, Department of Counselor Education
Abstract/Description: The purpose of the current study was to examine differences in pro-social behaviors, bullying behaviors, engagement in school success skills, and perceptions of classroom climate between grade 5 students in the treatment group who received the Student Success Skills (SSS) classroom guidance program (Brigman & Webb, 2010) and grade 5 students in the comparison group who did not receive the intervention. School counselors in the treatment schools implemented SSS with students in grade 5 after...
Show moreThe purpose of the current study was to examine differences in pro-social behaviors, bullying behaviors, engagement in school success skills, and perceptions of classroom climate between grade 5 students in the treatment group who received the Student Success Skills (SSS) classroom guidance program (Brigman & Webb, 2010) and grade 5 students in the comparison group who did not receive the intervention. School counselors in the treatment schools implemented SSS with students in grade 5 after being trained in the manualized use of the program and other study-related procedures. The study followed a pre-post quasi-experimental design employing various self-report measures of behavior (PRQ, SE-SSS, MCI-SFR, and TMCI-SF). A series of ANOVA and ANCOVA analyses were then conducted to determine if there were statistically significant differences between the groups. Effect size estimates were also calculated for each measure. The data supported the SSS classroom guidance program as a viable intervention for positively affecting student behavior. Significant differences were noted between the treatment and comparison schools in the following areas: (a) increased pro-social behaviors, (b) decreased bullying behaviors, (c) increased engagement in school success skills, and (d) student perceptions of improved classroom climate. This study provides empirical support showing that students who are taught skills in key areas evidence benefits across several outcomes. The study also indicates that aggressive behaviors, like bullying, can be influenced by programs that do not specifically target those behaviors. Furthermore, it supports the positive impact school counselors can have on student success by implementing an evidence-based program.
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Date Issued: 2011
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3318678
Subject Headings: Academic achievement, Bullying in schools, Psychological aspects, Educational counseling, Social skills in children, Self-management (Psychology) for children
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The effects of a culturally translated school counselor-led intervention on Hispanic students' academic achievement.
Creator: Leon, Ana Maria., College of Education, Department of Counselor Education
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of implementing a school counselor-led intervention, a culturally translated version of the Student Success Skills (SSS) program, on student academic achievement in Hispanic students. The research question investigated in this study was: Does Hispanic student participation in the culturally translated Student Success Skills classroom guidance program increase academic achievement as measured by state mandated standardized reading and math...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of implementing a school counselor-led intervention, a culturally translated version of the Student Success Skills (SSS) program, on student academic achievement in Hispanic students. The research question investigated in this study was: Does Hispanic student participation in the culturally translated Student Success Skills classroom guidance program increase academic achievement as measured by state mandated standardized reading and math tests? Based on the fact that Hispanic students are at a very high risk of academic failure, there is an urgent need to address the lack of academic success. The cultural translation of the Student Success Skills (SSS) program focuses on student outcomes and helps to provide a link between school counselors and improved outcomes for Hispanic students.The sample for this study included 103 treatment and 98 comparison fourth and fifth grade students from three schools in South Florida. Participating students were selected from all Hispanic students at four schools in South Florida, by selecting the students who spoke mainly Spanish at home and came from Hispanic backgrounds. Academic achievement was measured using a standardized, objective, state-wide assessment instrument, the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT). The procedure used to analyze the results for this study was a Multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA). The statistical analysis showed that the treatment group scored significantly higher than the comparison group in reading. There was not a significant difference in math for the treatment group. When fidelity of treatment was investigated a post hoc analysis found that groups with full implementation of the program scored significantly higher in math and in reading than the comparison group., The results of this study show that a cultural translation of the Student Success Skills program is helpful for the fourth and fifth grade Hispanic students improving achievement in reading.
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Date Issued: 2009
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/187214
Subject Headings: Educational leadership, Acculturation, Minorities, Education (Elementary), Hispanic American children, Education, Academic achievement, Educational equalization
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The effects of reciprocal teaching on the science literacy of intermediate elementary students in inclusive science classes.
Creator: DiLorenzo, Kim E., College of Education, Department of Exceptional Student Education
Abstract/Description: Intermediate elementary students (grades 4 and 5) frequently struggle to become scientifically literate in their general education classrooms. Scientific literacy includes knowing how to access and use information found in science texts. Unfortunately, many students struggle to read and understand science texts (Michalsky, Mevarech, & Haibi, 2009, p. 363). Fortunately, elementary students have shown improvement in reading comprehension when explicitly instructed in cognitive and metacognitive...
Show moreIntermediate elementary students (grades 4 and 5) frequently struggle to become scientifically literate in their general education classrooms. Scientific literacy includes knowing how to access and use information found in science texts. Unfortunately, many students struggle to read and understand science texts (Michalsky, Mevarech, & Haibi, 2009, p. 363). Fortunately, elementary students have shown improvement in reading comprehension when explicitly instructed in cognitive and metacognitive strategies to comprehend expository text in settings that support collaboration and flexible application of comprehension strategies, and have meaningful opportunities for reading and writing (Mastropieri & Scruggs, 2004; Palincsar & Klenk, 1992). A method that includes these components is reciprocal teaching (RT; National Reading Panel, 2000). RT has been used during content area instruction to increase reading comprehension skills of intermediate elementary students without disabilities in general education classrooms (King & Johnson, 1999; Lederer, 2000; Lubliner, 2004). These reading comprehension gains have been maintained by students on follow-up tests after the RT intervention has been withdrawn (Palincsar & Brown, 1984; Westera & Moore, 1995). This study examined the effects of RT on the science literacy of intermediate elementary students (grades 4-5) participating in inclusive science classes. Students with learning disabilities (SWLD), students at-risk (AR), and students in general education (GE) participated in this study. General education teachers used RT with science texts to improve science literacy. Pre/post science quizzes were used to assess the effects of the RT intervention, and post/follow-up tests assessed potential maintenance of the RT. s, Analyses of the data showed that the RT intervention resulted in improved science comprehension overall, and for each student group. In addition, the results showed that the gains were maintained for the individual student grouping after the RT intervention was removed, although these gains were not found overall.The study demonstrated that the use of RT during science instruction in inclusive, intermediate elementary classes assisted students who are AR, SWLD, and students in GE to attain science knowledge using standard science texts and materials. These results extend the experimental literature on science literacy and reciprocal teaching, particularly among intermediate elementary students.
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Date Issued: 2010
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/2975244
Subject Headings: Science, Study and teaching (Elementary), Thought and thinking, Study and teaching (Elementary), Language arts (Elementary), Correlation with content subjects, Inquiry-based learning, Cognitive learning, Academic achievement, Interdisciplinary approach in education
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The effects of the Ready for Success program in the reading achievement of second- and third-grade students.
Creator: Goldberg, Michelle L., College of Education, Department of Counselor Education
Abstract/Description: The focus of this study is on evaluating the impact of a school counselor-led program, Ready for Success (RFS) on the academic achievement of second- and third grade students. The research question investigated in this study was: How do students in grades 2 and 3 who receive the RFS classroom intervention perform on the Scholastic Reading Inventory (SRI) when compared to students in grades 2 and 3 who do not receive the RFS classroom intervention. This study is significant because it...
Show moreThe focus of this study is on evaluating the impact of a school counselor-led program, Ready for Success (RFS) on the academic achievement of second- and third grade students. The research question investigated in this study was: How do students in grades 2 and 3 who receive the RFS classroom intervention perform on the Scholastic Reading Inventory (SRI) when compared to students in grades 2 and 3 who do not receive the RFS classroom intervention. This study is significant because it addresses the need for more outcome research tying school counselor led interventions to student achievement. Research based interventions for school counselors that improve academic achievement directly address the current focus on student achievement outcomes as well as the need for accountability of school counselors. The sample for this study included 240 participants, 107 in the treatment group and 133 in the comparison group. Students were selected from all second- and third-grade classes at four schools in South Florida. There were 66 participants in the second grade; 37 were male and 29 were female. There were 174 participants in the third grade; 92 were male and 82 were female. Academic achievement was measured using a standardized, objective, state-wide assessment instrument, the Scholastic Reading Inventory (SRI). The analysis used for this study was an analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). Pretest scores on the SRI were used in the study as covariates on the dependent variable to account for group differences at pretest. The statistical analysis shows that there was no significant difference between the comparison and treatment group reading achievement levels on the SRI. Upon further review of the research a significant, confounding variable was discovered. High concentration of non-ESOL students were in the comparison group as compared to the treatment group., Further data exploration led to a discovery of variance in the fidelity of treatment, which may have also accounted for the given results. The lack of a significant finding may suggest the need for elements of the program to be adjusted particularly when considering that the two programs upon which RFS was based have been consistently shown to be effective.
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Date Issued: 2009
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/359924
Subject Headings: School improvement programs, Academic achievement, Educational tests and measurements, Reading (Elementary), Study and teaching
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: An exploration of factors affecting the academic success of students in a college quantitative business course.
Creator: Davis, Mary M., College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: The American Association of Colleges and Universities reports that over 50% of the students entering colleges and universities are academically under prepared; that is, according to Miller and Murray (2005), students "lack basic skills in at least one of the three fundamental areas of reading, writing, and mathematics". Furthermore, approximately 30% of the students in a state university undergraduate quantitative business course fail or withdraw from the course. The purpose of this study was...
Show moreThe American Association of Colleges and Universities reports that over 50% of the students entering colleges and universities are academically under prepared; that is, according to Miller and Murray (2005), students "lack basic skills in at least one of the three fundamental areas of reading, writing, and mathematics". Furthermore, approximately 30% of the students in a state university undergraduate quantitative business course fail or withdraw from the course. The purpose of this study was to explore non-cognitive and cognitive factors that may be related to the academic success of those students enrolled in the course. To this end, a survey was conducted, collecting the perceptions and opinions of 301 undergraduate college of business students with regard to relevant constructs such as cognitive load, mathematics and general self-efficacy, math anxiety, and motivation. Additional data were collected from the students' transcripts. Findings revealed that the significant cognitive factors contributing to the academic success were the overall GPA of the students as well as the average of their grades in the two prerequisite courses. The statistically significant non-cognitive factors related to the final exam score were the students' perceived levels of cognitive load and mathematics self-efficacy. A moderating effect of mathematics self-efficacy was revealed between the final exam score and overall GPA; however, other selected potential moderators of the final exam score and cognitive load were not significant. Post-hoc analyses verified no significant difference in the final exam score for gender or race; however, a statistically significant difference was found on cognitive load for different instructors. The findings emphasized the importance of prior knowledge and instructional design as both are sensitive to cognitive load (Mayer & Moreno, 2003; Sweller, 1999)., The implications of the findings resulted in the recommendation that knowledge should be addressed through appropriate advising as well as pretests at the onset of the course. Finally, the course instructors should take into consideration various instructional design techniques to reduce cognitive load. Recommendations are made for future practice with a focus on inclusive pedagogical methodologies and further research directions with promising potential predictors.
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Date Issued: 2009
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/331845
Subject Headings: Academic achievement, Psychological aspects, Learning, Psychology of, Motivation in education, Achievement motivation in education, School improvement programs
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Factors affecting retention in a community college's welfare-to-work programs: a heuristic study of participants' perceptions.
Creator: Pino, Veronica Woodward., College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: This study examined the perceptions held by former and current welfare-to-work participants of factors that contributed to the retention, persistence, attrition and/or completion of welfare-to-work training programs at a community college. Using the lived experiences and voices of former or current welfare-to-work participants and a qualitative research design, the researcher examined the following research questions: (a) What factors during the training impacted the movement of participants...
Show moreThis study examined the perceptions held by former and current welfare-to-work participants of factors that contributed to the retention, persistence, attrition and/or completion of welfare-to-work training programs at a community college. Using the lived experiences and voices of former or current welfare-to-work participants and a qualitative research design, the researcher examined the following research questions: (a) What factors during the training impacted the movement of participants from welfare-to-work? (b) How did these factors enhance or serve as barriers to the movement of participants from welfare-to-work? This study was presented as a heuristic study of 12 former welfare participants who have transitioned or are currently transitioning from welfare to work. Using purposeful sampling, the researcher selected the participants for this study through self-identification or through nomination by program leaders and other program participants. Each of the 12 former welfare participants was interviewed about the situational, institutional, and dispositional aspects of their training. Demographic data were collected on each of the 12 participants for the purpose of a comparative analysis. Interviews of family members or friends of each of the participants validated the stories provided by the participant. Interviews with two administrators with direct responsibilities for some of the training programs for participants transitioning from welfare-to-work were also done to substantiate the stories of the participants. The findings of this study indicated three conclusions about the participants' perceptions of factors affecting their retention in welfare-to-work programs in a community college., First, the participants' desires to break the cycles of generational welfare were evident in every aspect of the training from having a better life for their children to dealing with the embarrassment of receiving government assistance.Second, welfare-to-work training experiences were influenced by institutional factors such as instructional and institutional support or lack of support for education and career development, including mentoring. Third, personal factors such as family motivation and role models, religion, drive and determination, and the desire to make a difference shaped the participants' career training experiences and contributed to persistence and completion.
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Date Issued: 2008
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/186300
Subject Headings: College dropouts, Prevention, Academic achievement, Welfare recipients, Education, Community colleges, Attitude (Psychology), Motivation in education
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: First year undergraduate students' perception of the effectiveness and transfer of multimedia training for a university course registration system.
Creator: Dee, Merideth I., College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the perceived effectiveness of a multimedia tutorial for first year undergraduate students (FTICs) using a university course registration system; to determine if a relationship existed between perceived effectiveness of the multimedia tutorial, gender, major, ICT usage, ICT education, ICT fluency, and ICT comfort; and to describe the transfer of learning, if any, that resulted from viewing the multimedia tutorial. The study was both quantitative and...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the perceived effectiveness of a multimedia tutorial for first year undergraduate students (FTICs) using a university course registration system; to determine if a relationship existed between perceived effectiveness of the multimedia tutorial, gender, major, ICT usage, ICT education, ICT fluency, and ICT comfort; and to describe the transfer of learning, if any, that resulted from viewing the multimedia tutorial. The study was both quantitative and qualitative in design addressing 10 research questions. The instruments used in this study consisted of the Registration Tutorial which included: (1) an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Fluency Questionnaire (Hilberg, 2007), (2) a multimedia tutorial designed by the researcher demonstrating the university course registration system, and (3) the Registration Video Questionnaire (RVQ) also designed by the researcher measuring perceived multimedia tutorial effectiveness. A Registration Video Tutorial Transfer of Learning Questionnaire (TLQ) was also developed by the research to measure perceived proficiency with the registration system three months after initially viewing the multimedia tutorial. The sample included 1,196 freshmen students from a large public university in the southeastern United States. Results of the study showed that students perceived the multimedia tutorial to be effective (M = 4.19, SD = .756) and seven themes emerged through qualitative analysis as to why the tutorial was or was not effective. Results also showed there was no relationship between multimedia tutorial effectiveness and gender, major, or ICT education., There were however significant weak relationships between multimedia tutorial effectiveness and ICT usage (r = .095), multimedia tutorial effectiveness and ICT fluency (r = .286), and multimedia tutorial effectiveness and ICT comfort (r = -.133). Furthermore, transfer of learning occurred for students (n = 66) who completed the TLQ (M = 4.01, SD =.777) and as suggested by qualitative analysis of student responses. Implications of this study suggested that providing first year undergraduate students with a web-based multimedia tutorial is just the beginning and the need may be to focus upon the development of these students as adult learners so they can feel successful in the early stages of their academic career, thus building the self-confidence they need to effectively navigate the university environment.
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Date Issued: 2011
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3170600
Subject Headings: Interactive multimedia, Academic achievement, Methodology, Computers and college students, Education, Highter, Effect of technological innovations on
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The Florida School Recognition Program: the relationship between participation in the program and adequate yearly progress under the No Child Left Behind Act.
Creator: Wanza, Valerie Smith., College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: This study was designed to determine the relationship between Florida School Recognition Program (FSRP) participation and adequate yearly progress (AYP) criteria met during school years 2004-2008. It also intended to discover whether schools' socioeconomic status, minority rates, and levels moderated this relationship as well as a difference in average AYP criteria met for schools that maintained FSRP participation and those that do not. The study further sought to determine whether these...
Show moreThis study was designed to determine the relationship between Florida School Recognition Program (FSRP) participation and adequate yearly progress (AYP) criteria met during school years 2004-2008. It also intended to discover whether schools' socioeconomic status, minority rates, and levels moderated this relationship as well as a difference in average AYP criteria met for schools that maintained FSRP participation and those that do not. The study further sought to determine whether these school characteristics and schools' grades predicted maintenance of participation in the FSRP. A quantitative method, including three statistical analyses, was employed to respond to 6 research questions and test 14 corresponding null hypotheses. Three thousand and seventy-seven schools were identified for data collection and analysis. Six independent variables were defined as school level, average socioeconomic status, average minority rate, average percentage of AYP criteria, aggregate number of years 100% of AYP criteria was met, and average school grade. One dependent variable was defined as aggregate years of FSRP participation. The study found that there was a relationship between participation in the FSRP and AYP criteria met, and school level, socioeconomic status, and minority rate moderated this relationship. While school level and minority rate moderated a difference in average percentage of AYP criteria met in schools that maintained participation in the program and those that did not, socioeconomic status did not. Moreover, all independent variables served as predictors for maintenance of participation in the FSRP. The study found that schools' demographic characteristics influence student achievement and participation in incentive pay programs., Six implications for future research were identified to further explore the FSRP and AYP relationship, the unintended consequences of the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act, the appropriateness of incentive pay education, the distribution of FSRP award dollars in schools, and student achievement by school level. Recommendations were to add an AYP criterion to the FSRP, assess the effectiveness of inducement policies in education, and add a provision for program evaluation to the FSRP statute.
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Date Issued: 2009
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/332912
Subject Headings: Academic achievement, Education and state, Educational equalization, Education, Aims and objectives
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The impact of teacher retention on student achievement in high school mathematics.
Creator: Rodriguez, Francisco J., College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between teacher retention and student achievement as measured by the Florida Comprehensive Achievement Test (FCAT) Math Developmental Scale Scores (DSS). This study examined the impact of teacher transience on high school student math scores over a three-year period and considered the effect of teacher years of experience in relation to transience and achievement. For the purposes of this study teachers were identified into the...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between teacher retention and student achievement as measured by the Florida Comprehensive Achievement Test (FCAT) Math Developmental Scale Scores (DSS). This study examined the impact of teacher transience on high school student math scores over a three-year period and considered the effect of teacher years of experience in relation to transience and achievement. For the purposes of this study teachers were identified into the following four classifications: Stayers, Within District Movers, Cross District Movers, or Beginning teachers. The findings indicated that students of beginning teachers scored significantly lower on the ninth grade math test than students of teachers in the other three classifications. At the 10th grade level there was no significant difference among the teacher transience groups. Based upon the findings, the following conclusion resulted from the study. Since an analysis of the data indicated that teacher retention is likely to improve ninth grade student score gains on the FCAT Math assessment, it is recommended that High School administrators carefully review the teaching assignments of ninth grade math teachers, especially in this era of high stakes testing and accountability.
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Date Issued: 2009
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/369393
Subject Headings: Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test, Academic achievement, Teacher turnover, Teacher effectiveness, Mathematics, Study and teaching (Secondary)
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Is there a relationship between academic achievement and school climate at the elementary, middle, or high school grade level?.
Creator: Doyal, Thomas Stacy., College of Education, Department of Teaching and Learning
Abstract/Description: Researchers have determined that many factors, including school climate, may be contributing to the lack of academic achievement of many of our students. In an effort to better understand this issue, this study tested for possible relationships between the school climate of multiple schools in Palm Beach County, Florida, and their students' academic achievement. Separate analyses were done at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. For the purpose of this study, academic achievement ...
Show moreResearchers have determined that many factors, including school climate, may be contributing to the lack of academic achievement of many of our students. In an effort to better understand this issue, this study tested for possible relationships between the school climate of multiple schools in Palm Beach County, Florida, and their students' academic achievement. Separate analyses were done at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. For the purpose of this study, academic achievement (criterion variable) was measure by the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test, Math and Reading sections. School climate (predictor variable) was measured by the school district's yearly climate survey. In order to test the study's hypotheses, a linear multiple regression model using SPSS software was run to measure for any relationship between the criterion and predictor variables at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. The relationships of individual predictors with the criterion were tested with correlations and the model including all seven predictors was tested with multiple regressions.
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Date Issued: 2009
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/221943
Subject Headings: School improvement programs, Academic achievement, Educational equalization, Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test, Educational tests and measurements
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Pedometers in the curriculum: an instrument to enhance student success through wellness education.
Creator: Allen, Henry J., College of Education, Department of Exercise Science and Health Promotion
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this investigation was to determine the effects of a pedometer-based intervention on physical activity and self-efficacy among community college students in wellness classes (N = 154). The intervention included a pretest/posttest physical activity questionnaire, pedometer use, weekly goal setting and self-report of step data via the web. The experimental group wore pedometers daily for ten weeks; the control group wore pedometers for one week at baseline and week ten. Average...
Show moreThe purpose of this investigation was to determine the effects of a pedometer-based intervention on physical activity and self-efficacy among community college students in wellness classes (N = 154). The intervention included a pretest/posttest physical activity questionnaire, pedometer use, weekly goal setting and self-report of step data via the web. The experimental group wore pedometers daily for ten weeks; the control group wore pedometers for one week at baseline and week ten. Average weekday physical activity increased 29% for the experimental group and decreased 16% for the control group. Data analysis demonstrated a statistically significant difference due to the treatment regarding step count, differences in mean scores for self-efficacy, and a main effect for treatment for BMI. These results support the effectiveness of pedometer use to increase physical activity and self-efficacy in conjunction with a community college health curriculum.
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Date Issued: 2009
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/215293
Subject Headings: Health promotion, Exercise measurement, Physical education and training, Academic achievement, Psychological aspects
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The relationship of self-directed learning readiness to knowledge-based and performance-based measures of success in third-year medical students.
Creator: Findley, Brian W., College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate the self-directed learning (SDL) readiness of third-year medical students in comparison to previously reported scores for the general population; the relationship between SDL readiness and knowledge-based and performance-based measures of success in a medical school using an integrated medical curriculum; and to determine if knowledge-based and performance-based measures of success are significant in predicting Self-Directed Learning Readiness...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to investigate the self-directed learning (SDL) readiness of third-year medical students in comparison to previously reported scores for the general population; the relationship between SDL readiness and knowledge-based and performance-based measures of success in a medical school using an integrated medical curriculum; and to determine if knowledge-based and performance-based measures of success are significant in predicting Self-Directed Learning Readiness Survey/Learner Preference Assessment (SDLRS/LPA) and National Board of Medical Examiners Family Medicine Shelf Examination (NBME-FM) scores. This study analyzed SDLRS/LPA scores, knowledge-based scores (NBME-FM), performance-based scores (Objective Structured Clinical Examination [OSCE] and preceptor rating), and a combination of knowledge-based and performance-based scores (final grade). Analyses of 873 students resulted in mean scores of 229.06 + 23.19 for the SDLRS/LPA. Correlations were significant (p < .05) for SDLRS/LPA scores to NBME-FM scores (r = .073, p < .05). OSCE scores (r = .133, p < .01), and final grade (r = .138, p < .01). Regression analysis revealed that the total model of NBME-FM, OSC AVG, and preceptor rating predicted 2.1% of the variation in SDLRS/LPA, which was significant (p < .01). Regression analysis revealed that SDLRS/LPA, OSC AVG and preceptor ratings predicted 9.7% of the variance in NBME-FM, which was significant (p < .001). The results support previous findings that medical students' levels of SDL readiness are higher than the general population mean of 214.0 + 23.49., While the SDLRS/LPA scores of medical students with knowledge-based and performance-based examinations were modest, they mirror the relationships that have appeared consistently across a number of studies and indicate a tendency for students with higher levels of SDL to perform better in medical preparation programs.The SDLRS/LPA adds an important dimension to the assessment of medical students, addressing the emphasis on ensuring that physician preparation programs produce practitioners who are likely to be continuing, lifelong learners. This investigation of SDL in medical education was unique in that it may be the first to look at the relationships of SDLRS/LPA scores with both knowledge-based and performance-based measures as well as with a combination of knowledge-based and performance-based measures.
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Date Issued: 2009
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/221949
Subject Headings: Learning, Psychology of, Experiential learning, Academic achievement, Psychological aspects, Self-culture, Evaluation, Educational tests and measurements
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: A study examining the impact of vocabulary instruction on the vocabulary growth and acquisition of adults enrolled in a community college developmental reading course.
Creator: Robson, Jodi McGeary., College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of four instructional methods - context clues, definition, elaboration technique, or word parts and word families- on the vocabulary growth and acquisition of adults enrolled in a community college developmental reading course. The study investigated whether performance in any or all of the four instructional methods was moderated by age or language. Seventy-three respondents participated in the study. Participants were enrolled in one of...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to examine the effects of four instructional methods - context clues, definition, elaboration technique, or word parts and word families- on the vocabulary growth and acquisition of adults enrolled in a community college developmental reading course. The study investigated whether performance in any or all of the four instructional methods was moderated by age or language. Seventy-three respondents participated in the study. Participants were enrolled in one of five sections of College Reading Preparatory II (REA0002) offered in the Spring of 2009 at Indian River State College in Fort Pierce, Florida. All five sections of REA0002 were taught by the same professor, a tenured faculty member, chair of the developmental reading department and Associate Professor of Developmental Reading at Indian River State College. The instruction and tests in all five sections of REA0002 were consistent with the research design which insured continuity and consistency in the use of the four instructional methods. All participants received the same treatment and quizzes. During the course of the study, participants first received a pretest, then the treatment or instruction, followed by an instructional quiz, and a delayed post-test was administered at the end of the study. An analysis of the data, which included the pretest, instructional quizzes with four quizzes independently and then combined for an aggregate score for an immediate post-test, and the delayed post-test, yielded mixed results. The four instructional quizzes independently showed definition instruction to have the highest positive impact on student learning. In a measure of gains from pretest to instructional quizzes immediately after treatment, significant improvement in student learning was found only with word parts instruction., In a measure of performance from pretest to immediate post-test (aggregate score of instructional quizzes) there was a significant gain in students' vocabulary competence, and from pretest to delayed post-test there was a significant decrement in students' vocabulary competence. Age and language moderated vocabulary competence. Further tests of equivalency were mixed and should be interpreted cautiously, as there were a very small number of students in the group of 25 years or older and non-native English speakers.
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Date Issued: 2009
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/369389
Subject Headings: Language and languages, Study and teaching, Academic achievement, Language experience approach in education, Educational tests and measurements, Vocabulary, Study and teaching
Format: Document (PDF)

Educational tests and measurements (6)	+ -
School improvement programs (6)	+ -
Education (4)	+ -
Motivation in education (4)	+ -
Psychological aspects (4)	+ -

Computer-assisted instruction (3)	+ -
Educational equalization (3)	+ -
Educational leadership (3)	+ -
Evaluation (3)	+ -
Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (3)	+ -
Affective education (2)	+ -
Educational accountability (2)	+ -
Educational counseling (2)	+ -
Effect of technological innovations on (2)	+ -
Learning, Psychology of (2)	+ -
Methodology (2)	+ -
School management and organization (2)	+ -
Science (2)	+ -
Study and teaching (2)	+ -
Acculturation (1)	+ -
Achievement in education (1)	+ -
Achievement motivation in education (1)	+ -
African Americans (1)	+ -
Aims and objectives (1)	+ -
Alternative education (1)	+ -
Attitude (Psychology) (1)	+ -
Bullying in schools (1)	+ -
Charter schools (1)	+ -
Cognitive learning (1)	+ -

United States (7)	+ -
Florida (5)	+ -
Palm Beach County (1)	+ -

Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology (13)	+ -
Florida Atlantic University (6)	+ -
Department of Counselor Education (5)	+ -
Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry (3)	+ -
Allen, Henry J. (1)	+ -

Brigman, Greg (1)	+ -
Brown, Sherron N. (1)	+ -
Bryan, Valerie (1)	+ -
Bryan, Valerie C. (1)	+ -
Cabrera, Einav (1)	+ -
Comarcho, Carole. (1)	+ -
Davis, Mary M. (1)	+ -
Dee, Merideth I. (1)	+ -
Department of Exceptional Student Education (1)	+ -
Department of Exercise Science and Health Promotion (1)	+ -
Department of Teaching and Learning (1)	+ -
DiLorenzo, Kim E. (1)	+ -
Downes, Kim-Le Thuy (1)	+ -
Doyal, Thomas Stacy. (1)	+ -
Fairclough, Sheresa L. T. (1)	+ -
Findley, Brian W. (1)	+ -
Givens, Keietta Latraill (1)	+ -
Goldberg, Michelle L. (1)	+ -
Kerr, Rebecca. (1)	+ -
Leon, Ana Maria. (1)	+ -
Mariani, Melissa A. (1)	+ -
Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia (1)	+ -
Miles, Jessica A. (1)	+ -
Mountford, Meredith L. (1)	+ -

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