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Title: MILLENNIAL ALUMNI GIVING: MOTIVATIONS FOR DONATING TO THEIR ALMA MATER.
Creator: Albritton, Mary E., Bogotch, Ira, Floyd, Deborah L., Florida Atlantic University, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology, College of Education
Abstract/Description: Helping through acts of philanthropy is a cultural norm in the United States. People of all generations give to a variety of causes, including their alma maters. Research shows that millennials had positive experiences at their institutions and want to stay engaged. However, they are more likely to donate to their favorite cause than their alma mater. This study investigates what motivates the millennial generation to give to their undergraduate alma mater. Building on existing work targeted...
Show moreHelping through acts of philanthropy is a cultural norm in the United States. People of all generations give to a variety of causes, including their alma maters. Research shows that millennials had positive experiences at their institutions and want to stay engaged. However, they are more likely to donate to their favorite cause than their alma mater. This study investigates what motivates the millennial generation to give to their undergraduate alma mater. Building on existing work targeted at giving, it asks: To what extent does personal experience affect millennials giving to their alma mater before graduation, during the process of graduation, and after graduation? Based on the review of literature on generational giving, and the theory of planned behavior, a survey was distributed targeting millennials who met the following two criteria: 1) born between 1980–2000, and 2) graduated with an undergraduate degree between 2005 and 2015. A secondary analysis of data was employed to correlate the findings from the close-ended survey and examine the giving trends among millennials and how those trends vary among the other three giving generations: mature/silents, baby boomers, and Generation X.
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013444
Subject Headings: Millennials (Generation Y), Generation Y, Alumni and alumnae, Philanthropy and education
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: SUSTAINABILITY PERFORMANCE IN AMERICAN HIGHER EDUCATION: A MULTIPLE CASE STUDY OF FOUR EXEMPLARY INSTITUTIONS THAT PARTICIPATED IN THE SUSTAINABILITY TRACKING, ASSESSMENT & RATING SYSTEM.
Creator: Chui, Qingqing, Floyd, Deborah, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology, College of Education
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to describe the campus sustainability performance at four exemplary higher education institutions, i.e., Doctoral, Master’s, Baccalaureate, and Associate’s, as measured by the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS). The case-by-case analysis and the cross-case analysis demonstrated the similarities and differences that emerged across the four cases in the area of the institutional dynamics, sustainability performance, the journey of campus...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to describe the campus sustainability performance at four exemplary higher education institutions, i.e., Doctoral, Master’s, Baccalaureate, and Associate’s, as measured by the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS). The case-by-case analysis and the cross-case analysis demonstrated the similarities and differences that emerged across the four cases in the area of the institutional dynamics, sustainability performance, the journey of campus sustainability, and challenges, as well as drivers. In addition, the research aims to provide some implication to other institutions that intend to advance sustainability on their campuses. A multi-site case study was used to investigate the sustainability performance of four exemplary institutions that participated in the STARS program. Two forms of data collection techniques used for this research study were document analysis and in-depth interviews. Nurturing the student, serving the community, taking social responsibility, and making changes was the internal motivations which drove the four institutions to what they have achieved today. They shared the same purpose of helping students become more aware and informed on how they could apply sustainability into their work, business, and many other places to make the change.
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013441
Subject Headings: Education, Higher, Sustainability, Education, Higher--Case studies
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: FACTORS PREDICTING THE ESTIMATED SUCCESS OF CULTURALLY DIVERSE STUDENTS IN ONLINE COURSES IN POST-SECONDARY EDUCATION.
Creator: Dunn, Shernette D., Bryan, Valerie C., Florida Atlantic University, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology, College of Education
Abstract/Description: This mixed methods study sought to uncover the needs of culturally diverse students in the online learning environment. Several of the unexplored factors that may contribute to high attrition rate among online undergraduate students, were also analyzed. The study examined how the variables of prior educational experience, age, gender, ethnicity, country of birth, and first or native language spoken contributed to success in online classes. The research also explored how institutional support...
Show moreThis mixed methods study sought to uncover the needs of culturally diverse students in the online learning environment. Several of the unexplored factors that may contribute to high attrition rate among online undergraduate students, were also analyzed. The study examined how the variables of prior educational experience, age, gender, ethnicity, country of birth, and first or native language spoken contributed to success in online classes. The research also explored how institutional support contributed to the success of online learners. Through the use of survey data collection and interviews, the results of this study indicated that culturally diverse learners reported three skills that are essential to their success in online learning environments: time management, self-directedness, and computer or technical skills. Students also indicated that institutional and instructor support are vital to their success in online classes. Although all variables examined were not significant predictors to the success of online learners, the results of this study provide insight into the needs of culturally diverse learners. These findings may be helpful to educators and policymakers when planning for or designing online courses for culturally diverse learners. These findings may also aid in reducing the high attrition rate of culturally diverse learners in online environments by encouraging more readiness assessments for students enrolling in online courses to determine their level of readiness for online learning.
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013520
Subject Headings: Students, Online learning and distance education, Culturally relevant pedagogy, Postsecondary education
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: RESETTING THE COURSE FOR PROBATIONARY STUDENTS: A CASE STUDY OF THE ACCESS PROGRAM AT FLORIDA ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY.
Creator: Coisson, Jennifer M., Bloom, Jennifer, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology, College of Education
Abstract/Description: Institutions of higher education have increased their efforts to improve retention and graduation rates by developing support services and programs targeted at specific student populations. The purpose of this descriptive case study was to describe and further understand the perspectives of students and academic coaches/administrators associated with the Academic Coaching and Career Enhancement for Student Success (ACCESS) Program at Florida Atlantic University (FAU) in Boca Raton, Florida....
Show moreInstitutions of higher education have increased their efforts to improve retention and graduation rates by developing support services and programs targeted at specific student populations. The purpose of this descriptive case study was to describe and further understand the perspectives of students and academic coaches/administrators associated with the Academic Coaching and Career Enhancement for Student Success (ACCESS) Program at Florida Atlantic University (FAU) in Boca Raton, Florida. The program targets students who earned below a 2.0 grade point average (GPA) and were placed on academic probation. Data was collected through one-on-one interviews with previous ACCESS Program students and current ACCESS academic coaches/administrators. A document analysis was also conducted. The guiding research question for this study was: How useful, if at all, did participating students perceive the interventions of the ACCESS Program (e.g., meetings with an academic coach, tutoring, life skills workshops, meeting with a career advisor) in improving their academic performance (e.g., GPA) and why? The study also compared the perceptions of students to those of the ACCESS academic coaches/administrators about the interventions of the program and their usefulness. This study found that students and ACCESS academic coaches/administrators were most likely to find the academic coaching sessions to be the most useful intervention in helping students improve their academic performance and the academic workshops were found to be the least useful. Additionally, while there are elements of the program that can be improved, findings also suggest that those who had a positive overall experience in the program were more likely to perceive the program as useful because of the partnerships formed with their assigned academic coach/administrator/tutor/career counselor; the self-management skills they developed, such as accountability; and the academic and non-academic skills developed, such as improved writing and time management skills.
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013521
Subject Headings: Academic probation, College attendance, Academic advising, College student development programs, Florida Atlantic University
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: BREAKING THE MOLD: IMPLEMENTING RADICAL INNOVATION AT THE DISTRICT AND SCHOOL LEVELS.
Creator: Holcombe, Joseph, Shockley, Robert, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology, College of Education
Abstract/Description: Very little research exists around the implementation of innovative practices in traditional public schools. However, research indicates that innovation and creation of an organizational culture and climate that fosters innovation are both practices associated with improvement in overall organizational performance. This study aims to examine leadership practices, both at the school and district levels, which support the implementation of a radical innovation in traditional public schools....
Show moreVery little research exists around the implementation of innovative practices in traditional public schools. However, research indicates that innovation and creation of an organizational culture and climate that fosters innovation are both practices associated with improvement in overall organizational performance. This study aims to examine leadership practices, both at the school and district levels, which support the implementation of a radical innovation in traditional public schools. Specifically, this study asks three key questions: How did the plan to implement personalized learning develop, how did district and school leaders gain acceptance for the implementation, and how did Very little research exists around the implementation of innovative practices in traditional public schools. However, research indicates that innovation and creation of an organizational culture and climate that fosters innovation are both practices associated with improvement in overall organizational performance. This study aims to examine leadership practices, both at the school and district levels, which support the implementation of a radical innovation in traditional public schools. Specifically, this study asks three key questions: How did the plan to implement personalized learning develop, how did district and school leaders gain acceptance for the implementation, and how did school leaders manage school climate change during the implementation? In this context, radical innovation is defined as an innovation that significantly changes the ways in which the school organization operates and delivers education to students (Zaltman, Duncan, & Holbek, 1973).
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013537
Subject Headings: Public schools, Innovation, School leadership
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: HOW DOES ATTENDING THE APPRECIATIVE ADVISING INSTITUTE INFLUENCE ACADEMIC ADVISOR WELLBEING?.
Creator: Kaplan, Roy, Bloom, Jennifer, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology, College of Education
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to analyze the influence of attending the 2018 Appreciative Advising Institute (AAI) on the overall and workplace wellbeing levels of attendees. The 2018 AAI was held July 29 to August 1, 2018 in Boca Raton, Florida at Florida Atlantic University. Seligman’s (2011) PERMA model of wellbeing was used as the theoretical framework for this study and Butler and Kern’s (2013) PERMA Profiler and Kern’s (2014) Workplace PERMA Profiler were the instruments used to study...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to analyze the influence of attending the 2018 Appreciative Advising Institute (AAI) on the overall and workplace wellbeing levels of attendees. The 2018 AAI was held July 29 to August 1, 2018 in Boca Raton, Florida at Florida Atlantic University. Seligman’s (2011) PERMA model of wellbeing was used as the theoretical framework for this study and Butler and Kern’s (2013) PERMA Profiler and Kern’s (2014) Workplace PERMA Profiler were the instruments used to study the influence of attending AAI on advisor wellbeing. Three research questions provided the basis of the study. A repeated measure analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to explore the influence of attending the Appreciative Advising Institute on wellbeing. Major findings in the study suggests overall PERMA scores were significantly influenced immediately post AAI, F(1,60) = 4.67, p = .04, ηp = 0.07, with measures of positive emotion (P), t(60) = -2.65, p = .01, and accomplishment (A) t(60) = -3.45, p = .001 being significantly improved. Workplace PERMA cores demonstrated short-term improvements as well. Specifically, measures of meaning (M) were significantly higher following the AAI t(60) = -2.17, p = .03 . In terms of long-term impact for overall PERMA, measures of positive emotion (P) remained significantly higher one month following the AAI t(46) = -2.14, p = .04. Workplace PERMA scores were significantly higher one-month post AAI, F(1,45) = 8.11, p = .01, ηp = 0.15. (Mean difference = 0.40, SE = 0.14, p = .007). Specifically, measures of positive emotion (P), t(45) = -2.53, p = .015, engagement (E) t(45) = -2.55, p = .014, relationship (R), t(45) = -2.10, p = .041, and meaning (M), t(45) = -2.17, p = .036, all were significantly higher one-month post intervention. Results suggests that attending the 2018 AAI positively influences academic overall and workplace wellbeing. Overall results suggest that attending AAI may provide a potential professional development platform for academic advising offices looking to address overall and workplace wellbeing in their advisors. Going forward, findings suggest the AAI may be a potential valuable option for higher education institutions seeking to increase the overall and workplace wellbeing levels of their academic advisors.
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013527
Subject Headings: Academic advisors, Wellbeing, Appreciative inquiry
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: LEADERSHIP CHARACTERISTICS OF GUATEMALAN PUBLIC PRE-PRIMARY SCHOOL LEADERS: A CASE STUDY IN AN AREA NORTH OF GUATEMALA CITY.
Creator: Bartram, Lydia, Mountford, Meredith, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology, College of Education
Abstract/Description: Despite many decades of simultaneous research on early childhood development and leadership, numerous gaps remain in the current literature regarding the characteristics of school leaders of early childhood programs in low and middle income (LAMI) countries. Past studies of school leaders in LAMI countries have only focused on primary and secondary education. A multitude of factors impact public pre-primary education in LAMI countries, such as Guatemala, which make the study of school...
Show moreDespite many decades of simultaneous research on early childhood development and leadership, numerous gaps remain in the current literature regarding the characteristics of school leaders of early childhood programs in low and middle income (LAMI) countries. Past studies of school leaders in LAMI countries have only focused on primary and secondary education. A multitude of factors impact public pre-primary education in LAMI countries, such as Guatemala, which make the study of school leadership in pre-primary education critical for understanding what is needed to provide high-quality learning environments. The identification of leadership characteristics helps to inform the field of early childhood education and establish critical directions for school leadership practice. The purpose of this study was to identify the characteristics of successful school leaders of public, pre-primary programs in an area north of Guatemala City, Guatemala. The characteristics were defined as those leadership behaviors and factors that contribute to the success of leaders of public, pre-primary schools in Guatemala. Leadership behaviors were defined as those actions a leader exhibits that support the operation of a public, pre-primary school. Leadership factors were defined as the influences that support or hinder the ability of a leader to achieve and maintain the operation of a public, preprimary school. Developmental factors were defined as environmental influences that impacted on their decision to become a leader of a public, pre-primary school.
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013608
Subject Headings: Educational leadership, Early childhood education, Guatemala (Guatemala), Educational leadership--Case studies
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: WHAT’S SCHOOL GOT TO DO WITH IT?PERCEPTIONS OF THE EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCES OF YOUTH WHO HAVE EXPERIENCED INTERRUPTIONS TO THEIR PUBLIC SCHOOL EDUCATION.
Creator: Judd, Leslie, Mountford, Meredith, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology, College of Education
Abstract/Description: In today’s educational climate highly focused on accountability, often measured through high stakes testing and graduation rates, it is critical that school leaders return to a focus on the initial aim of public education and ensure all students are afforded a quality education until graduation. Unfortunately, over 25,000 school-aged children in Florida are arrested for a felony offense annually, which is just one of many paths leading to an interruption in their learning and often entrance...
Show moreIn today’s educational climate highly focused on accountability, often measured through high stakes testing and graduation rates, it is critical that school leaders return to a focus on the initial aim of public education and ensure all students are afforded a quality education until graduation. Unfortunately, over 25,000 school-aged children in Florida are arrested for a felony offense annually, which is just one of many paths leading to an interruption in their learning and often entrance to the school-to-prison pipeline. Additionally, these students are often not allowed to return or have their return to traditional school settings postponed by being placed at alternative school settings. The purpose of this qualitative phenomenology study was to describe the K-12 educational experience as perceived by males ages 15-21 who had an interruption in their education while attending a public school in Florida. The perceptions of the K-12 educational experiences were generally defined as what each participant reported as his personal experience while attending a K-12 public educational setting.
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013611
Subject Headings: Educational administration, Educational leadership, Educational policy
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: THE INTERSECTION OF QUEERLY LEADING: LIVED EXPERIENCES OF K-12 QUEER SCHOOL LEADERS.
Creator: Evans, Corinth M., Mountford, Meredith, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology, College of Education
Abstract/Description: This phenomenological research study examined the perceived experiences of K-12 queer school leaders in school workplaces. This study discussed events, state laws, workplace polices, and related repeated studies that demonstrate that K-12 queer school leaders experience challenges in school spaces because of their sexual and/or gender identities. The sample population for this study consisted of 10 participants. The data collection consisted of a recruitment survey, individual interviews, and...
Show moreThis phenomenological research study examined the perceived experiences of K-12 queer school leaders in school workplaces. This study discussed events, state laws, workplace polices, and related repeated studies that demonstrate that K-12 queer school leaders experience challenges in school spaces because of their sexual and/or gender identities. The sample population for this study consisted of 10 participants. The data collection consisted of a recruitment survey, individual interviews, and document review of state laws and policies. The analysis of data included survey data, transcribed interviews, and document reviews. The data were coded and triangulated for reliability and the analysis was guided by queer theory, script theory, and Foucault’s work on perspectives on power-knowledge. There were three key findings that emerged: queer school leaders’ suitability, queer negotiations in school spaces, and institutionalized homophobia and gender-based prejudices in the school spaces. The results contemporaneously indicate that policy, procedures, practices, and hegemonic power constitute the producers and pushers of an institutionalize cis/hetero-patriarchy narrative.
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013587
Subject Headings: Phenomenology--Research, Educational leadership, Queer theory
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: IDENTIFYING STRATEGIES FOR PREPARING AND SUPPORTING FLORIDA COLLEGE STUDENTS IN ELEARNING: CASE STUDY OF A FLORIDA PUBLIC STATE COLLEGE’S STUDENT SUCCESS IN ELEARNING.
Creator: Edris, David D., Bryan, Valerie, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology, College of Education
Abstract/Description: eLearning continues to be the fasted growing segment of higher education. With this growth, challenges for higher education institutions have arisen. One of these difficulties is preparing students for learning online. A qualitative case study examined what strategies and processes contributed to student success in eLearning at a Florida public college based on the views of eLearning educators, faculty teaching online courses and the students who have taken online courses. The aspects...
Show moreeLearning continues to be the fasted growing segment of higher education. With this growth, challenges for higher education institutions have arisen. One of these difficulties is preparing students for learning online. A qualitative case study examined what strategies and processes contributed to student success in eLearning at a Florida public college based on the views of eLearning educators, faculty teaching online courses and the students who have taken online courses. The aspects reviewed were: 1. what contributed to student success, 2. what hindered student success, 3. what prepared students for learning online, and 4. what assistance was available for students that face challenges with online courses. The interviews and questionnaire were examined and compared from the perspectives of educators (eLearning staff and faculty teaching online courses), and students taking the courses, and documents reviewed from the site chosen, to show what are the most significant contributors and hindrances to eLearning success for participants at a Florida public state college. The findings of this study show what helped student success, what hindered student success, what prepared students for eLearning, and what support was available to students while taking an eLearning course from the data collected through the student questionnaire, faculty and staff interviews, and document review. The data supports the finding that student motivation, student time management skills, eLearning course design, and the responsiveness and supportiveness of faculty contribute to the success of the student in eLearning courses. The data supports the finding that what hinders student success is when the student is overwhelmed, distracted, or lacks motivation or time management skills. Additionally, the design of the eLearning course can hinder the student and if there is a lack of faculty communication. The data supports the finding that what prepared students for eLearning was the College’s free eLearning orientation course that explains how to use the Learning Management System and the best practices of learning online. The data supports the finding that the support available to assist students that are enrolled in eLearning is College “Support”, Tutoring (both online and on campus), and their course professor.
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013607
Subject Headings: College students--Florida, Online learning and distance education, Student success
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: West Indian Immigrant Women: The Higher Education Lived Experiences of Undergraduate and Graduate Students at Florida Atlantic University.
Creator: Lalla, Shireen, Floyd, Deborah L., Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: This phenomenological study explored the perceptions and lived experiences of female West Indian immigrant students as they academically and socially acculturated while attending Florida Atlantic University (FAU). Snowball techniques were employed to select 11 female immigrant West Indian undergraduate and graduate students living in southeastern Florida and attending FAU. Data were gathered from two in-depth one-on one interviews with each participant. Stories emerged that highlight the...
Show moreThis phenomenological study explored the perceptions and lived experiences of female West Indian immigrant students as they academically and socially acculturated while attending Florida Atlantic University (FAU). Snowball techniques were employed to select 11 female immigrant West Indian undergraduate and graduate students living in southeastern Florida and attending FAU. Data were gathered from two in-depth one-on one interviews with each participant. Stories emerged that highlight the immigrant experiences of these female West Indian students. Such narratives have been lacking in the higher education literature about how this population of women persists in colleges and universities in the United States (U.S.). Six findings emerged that constituted the acculturation and adjustment experiences of these women: 1) family influence, 2) financial difficulties, 3) emotional and physical challenges, 4) institutional support, 5) women’s empowerment, and 6) host society adaptation. In conclusion, female West Indian immigrant students are a valuable asset and provide a tremendous benefit to higher education institutions in the U.S. in terms of cultural and academic contributions that they offer. More attention needs to be paid towards better preparing university staff, administrators, and faculty. This can lead to increased retention and graduation rates. The study gives voice to these women whose lived experiences in higher education have been so seldom addressed. Analysis of their experiences suggests a plan of action that includes: family engagement programming, on-campus financial support, student health services outreach, healthier dining options, mentorship programs, immigrant student support services department, online community support, faculty, cultural awareness, and immigrant student programming. Recommendations for future research are also discussed.
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Date Issued: 2019
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013227
Subject Headings: Women--West Indies, Immigrant students, Acculturation, Phenomenology--Research
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Why Parents Choose Non-Denominational Private Schools for Their Children: Preferences In International Settings.
Creator: Segovia Bonet, Jorge, Reyes-Guerra, Daniel, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: This study offers a better understanding of the reasons why parents from six different countries across the Western hemisphere chose private, non-denominational schools for their children’s education. The findings deepen the knowledge in what is currently an underdeveloped field of research in education. The overarching research question was: What are the primary reasons why parents chose a private nondenominational school in Mexico, Spain, Costa Rica, United States, United Kingdom, and South...
Show moreThis study offers a better understanding of the reasons why parents from six different countries across the Western hemisphere chose private, non-denominational schools for their children’s education. The findings deepen the knowledge in what is currently an underdeveloped field of research in education. The overarching research question was: What are the primary reasons why parents chose a private nondenominational school in Mexico, Spain, Costa Rica, United States, United Kingdom, and South Africa for their children’s education? To explore this question in depth, the researcher considered five sub-questions and employed a grounded theory qualitative research design. Data were collected twofold through focus groups and individual interviews and analyzed iteratively to develop a fresh theoretical perspective on the topic of parent school choice. Extant literature explains that the most frequent reasons to choose a private school include quality of education, location, participation of parents and being able to be heard, financial resources, and parents’ prior educational experiences. Contributing to the literature, this study revealed four major reasons for private school selection: consideration of private education as an investment for the future, smaller class size, the opportunity for students and their families to establish social contacts, and the academic quality of the school. In addition, three reasons specific to certain countries were identified: importance of learning the English language, quality of the facilities, and extended school day. Finally, eight additional secondary reasons were found including: international character of the school, happiness of the students in the school, distance from parents’ home, quality of the environment, prestige or tradition of the school, private management and organization, values and ethos of the school, and the non-denominational nature of the school. These findings can help private—and public—school administrators make better decisions to improve the quality of their educational offerings in knowing what parents most value. Parents may also find value in understanding the factors for consideration when evaluating public versus private school options. Finally, recommendations for practice and research for the field of education are offered.
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Date Issued: 2019
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013260
Subject Headings: Private schools, Parents, School choice, International
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: TRANSITIONAL TURBULENCE: THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE, POWER, AND AN INCOMING PRINCIPAL.
Creator: Varo-Haub, Amy L., Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology, College of Education
Abstract/Description: This qualitative case study explored the changing relationships and cultural evolution that occurred over the course of the initial year of a principal transition within a private upper school. Collected data included interviews, observations, and documents. All data were reviewed and analyzed in order to understand the experience that the transitioning principal, administrators, faculty, college counselors, and staff encountered during the course of the transition. The conceptual framework...
Show moreThis qualitative case study explored the changing relationships and cultural evolution that occurred over the course of the initial year of a principal transition within a private upper school. Collected data included interviews, observations, and documents. All data were reviewed and analyzed in order to understand the experience that the transitioning principal, administrators, faculty, college counselors, and staff encountered during the course of the transition. The conceptual framework of this study was based on a social constructivist mindset and was ethnographic in nature: the researcher understood and defined the culture and transition experience through data synthesis, revealing varied interpretations of the culture and transition on the place and self.
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Date Issued: 2019
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013424
Subject Headings: Corporate culture, School principals, Educational leadership
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: THE ENGAGEMENT PRACTICES OF TEACHERS IN A SELECT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL OF PALM BEACH COUNTY: QUALITATIVE STUDY.
Creator: Hirmina, Amgad, Bryan, Valerie C., Florida Atlantic University, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology, College of Education
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this qualitative case study was to describe the interactive teaching methods of full-time elementary school teachers who worked in a highly ranked public elementary school located in Palm Beach County in South Florida, United States (the School District of Palm Beach County, 2019). The dissertation identified methods used by these teachers to enhance interaction between themselves and students in their classes. Objectives of the study were to explore: (1) the verbal and non...
Show moreThe purpose of this qualitative case study was to describe the interactive teaching methods of full-time elementary school teachers who worked in a highly ranked public elementary school located in Palm Beach County in South Florida, United States (the School District of Palm Beach County, 2019). The dissertation identified methods used by these teachers to enhance interaction between themselves and students in their classes. Objectives of the study were to explore: (1) the verbal and non-verbal activities used by the teachers to engage their students in the learning process in their classes; (2) the creative thinking process of the teachers; (3) the classroom settings that enhanced the interaction between teachers and students; (4) the transdisciplinary skills of the teachers; and (5) the relation between transformational leadership criteria of teachers and their effective engagement with students in classrooms.
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Date Issued: 2019
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013380
Subject Headings: Elementary school teaching, Elementary school teachers, Palm Beach County (Fla), Engagement, Qualitative research, Interaction analysis in education
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: A MINDFULNESS MEDITATION INTERVENTION TO DECREASE STRESS, ANXIETY, AND DEPRESSION AMONG MEDICAL AND PREMEDICAL STUDENTS.
Creator: Smith, Bridget Statler, Bloom, Jennifer, DeDonno, Michael, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology, College of Education
Abstract/Description: The challenges inherent in pursuing a medical education can leave many students at risk of experiencing stress and burnout. Premedical and medical students have been found to experience high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression (Fang et al., 2010; Niemi & Vainiomaki, 2006; Vitaliano, Russo, Carr, & Heerwagen, 1984). The sources of stress for premedical and medical students include academic obligations, the financial burden of paying for medical school, and family relationships. If...
Show moreThe challenges inherent in pursuing a medical education can leave many students at risk of experiencing stress and burnout. Premedical and medical students have been found to experience high levels of stress, anxiety, and depression (Fang et al., 2010; Niemi & Vainiomaki, 2006; Vitaliano, Russo, Carr, & Heerwagen, 1984). The sources of stress for premedical and medical students include academic obligations, the financial burden of paying for medical school, and family relationships. If excessive stress is left untreated it can result in negative health risks such as depression, anxiety, suicide ideation, and other physiological distress disorders. There are proven ways to reduce the stress levels of students, including eating well, exercise, and peer support. Mindfulness meditation is also known to be a useful method for lowering perceived stress and improve academic performance. This study investigated how participation in a 7-week mindfulness meditation intervention impacts the perceived stress, depression, and anxiety levels of premedical and medical students. Self-regulation theory (Fiske & Taylor, 1991; McClelland et al., 2018) was used as the theoretical framework for this study to indirectly discover if mindfulness meditation is a practice that can improve students’ ability to calm themselves when facing high stress situations and to focus their thoughts on a goal.
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Date Issued: 2019
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013415
Subject Headings: Medical students, Stress & Anxiety, Depression, Mindfulness--methods, Meditation
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: HOW FULL-TIME WORKING PROFESSIONALS NAVIGATE AND COMPLETE A DOCTORAL PROGRAM IN A TIMELY MANNER.
Creator: Roy, Kelly Marie, Bloom, Jennifer L., Florida Atlantic University, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology, College of Education
Abstract/Description: Doctoral study is demanding, time consuming, and can be emotionally exhausting. In fact, 50% of doctoral students never complete the degree (Bowen & Rudenstine, 1992; Council of Graduate Schools, 2008). In addition to the array of challenges that doctoral students face in completing the degree, there are increasingly more working professionals pursuing the degree, who are also balancing the demands of their employment and personal lives. Thus, the purpose of this qualitative study was to...
Show moreDoctoral study is demanding, time consuming, and can be emotionally exhausting. In fact, 50% of doctoral students never complete the degree (Bowen & Rudenstine, 1992; Council of Graduate Schools, 2008). In addition to the array of challenges that doctoral students face in completing the degree, there are increasingly more working professionals pursuing the degree, who are also balancing the demands of their employment and personal lives. Thus, the purpose of this qualitative study was to describe the lived experiences of full-time working professionals who have recently completed a doctoral degree in Education in a timely manner. The central research question was: How do full-time working professionals navigate and complete a doctoral program in a timely manner while managing the competing demands of their work and personal responsibilities? This study included 17 participants who met the following criteria: completed a traditional Ph.D. program in Educational Leadership at a public research institution along the Eastern Seaboard of the U.S.; maintained full-time professional employment while completing the degree; completed the degree within six consecutive years; and graduated with the degree within the last five years. Data was collected through a background information survey and in-depth, semi-structured interviews, which lasted approximately 60 minutes each. Additionally, four interview participants also participated in a 60- minute focus group. Data were analyzed and coded in three rounds. These codes were developed into themes and presented through five categories: situation, challenges, self, support, and strategies. Situation includes themes related to life roles, responsibilities, and characteristics. Challenges includes themes related to time management, degree requirements, unexpected obstacles, and working with faculty. Self includes themes of motivation, grit, organization skills, and self-directedness. Support includes themes related to peers, work supervisors and colleagues, faculty, significant others, and family and friends. Lastly, strategies include themes of prioritization, working with others, preparation, planning, technology, and self-care.
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Date Issued: 2019
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013409
Subject Headings: Doctoral students, Work-life balance
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: COMMUNITY COLLEGES’ TRANSITION TO OFFERING BACCALAUREATE DEGREES: A CASE STUDY OF THE IMPACT ON HUMAN RESOURCES.
Creator: Tomanio, David George, Floyd, Deborah L., Salinas Jr., Cristobal, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology, College of Education
Abstract/Description: The purpose of the multi-site case study was to gain an understanding of the impact on human resources that public community colleges in the State of Florida experience when the institutions expanded their degree offerings to include Community College Baccalaureate degrees. The researcher was able to identify that there were changes in human resources in the areas of compensation plans, job descriptions, and credentialing of faculty members. The researcher determined the other impacts on...
Show moreThe purpose of the multi-site case study was to gain an understanding of the impact on human resources that public community colleges in the State of Florida experience when the institutions expanded their degree offerings to include Community College Baccalaureate degrees. The researcher was able to identify that there were changes in human resources in the areas of compensation plans, job descriptions, and credentialing of faculty members. The researcher determined the other impacts on human resources, such as changes to the organizational structure, and to the culture of the organization, in a positive way. Qualitative research methods were used that included personal, one on one interviews, observations, and review of documents. The sample for the study consisted of 2 of the 27 community colleges in the State of Florida that have offered baccalaureate degrees at their institutions. The conclusion of this study resulted in additional literature being available for community colleges, policy makers, and other decision makers interested in understanding the challenges faced by community colleges seeking to be successful in offering baccalaureate degrees at their institutions.
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Date Issued: 2019
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013423
Subject Headings: Community colleges, Community colleges--Florida, Baccalaureate degree, Human resources
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: UP, DOWN, AND ALL-AROUND: THE SWIRLING-TRANSFER STUDENT ATHLETE EXPERIENCE AT ATHLETIC STATE UNIVERSITY.
Creator: Swingle, Ethan C., Salinas Jr., Cristobal, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology, College of Education
Abstract/Description: Intercollegiate athletics have become an integral part of campus life (Shulman & Bowen, 2001), and have grown exponentially in the resources universities put forth to participate in this extracurricular activity (Clotfelter, 2011). One of the biggest evolutions of intercollegiate athletics has been student athlete transfer (Cooper & Hawkins, 2014); however, little research has been conducted on the transfer student athlete, or the transfer student athlete experience (Cooper & Hawkins, 2014)....
Show moreIntercollegiate athletics have become an integral part of campus life (Shulman & Bowen, 2001), and have grown exponentially in the resources universities put forth to participate in this extracurricular activity (Clotfelter, 2011). One of the biggest evolutions of intercollegiate athletics has been student athlete transfer (Cooper & Hawkins, 2014); however, little research has been conducted on the transfer student athlete, or the transfer student athlete experience (Cooper & Hawkins, 2014). As such, the purpose of this instrumental case study (Stake, 1995) was to discover and describe the experiences and perceptions of swirling-transfer student athletes at Athletic State University. A purposive sample included nine student athletes, four coaches, and six athletic department staff interviewed and observed to gain a holistic experience of the swirling-transfer phenomenon, with multiple supporting documents also collected and analyzed.
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Date Issued: 2019
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013418
Subject Headings: Student-athletes, Intercollegiate athletics, College athletes, Students, Transfer of
Format: Document (PDF)

Current FAU Student Theses and Dissertations 2007 to date (197)	+ -
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Educational leadership (41)	+ -
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Psychological aspects (7)	+ -
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Universities and colleges (6)	+ -
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