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Title: A comparison of practices for teaching math word problems in Turkey and the United States.
Creator: Erkan, Betul, Zainuddin, Hanizah, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: This multiple case study investigated pedagogical differences and similarities among practices used to teach word problems in private schools of Turkey and the United States, the factors impacting teachers’ instructional decisions, and their approaches to teaching word problems as well as the role of culture in teaching and learning word problems. Quantitative survey data were collected from 28 Turkish and 27 U.S. high school mathematics teachers from private or independent schools. The...
Show moreThis multiple case study investigated pedagogical differences and similarities among practices used to teach word problems in private schools of Turkey and the United States, the factors impacting teachers’ instructional decisions, and their approaches to teaching word problems as well as the role of culture in teaching and learning word problems. Quantitative survey data were collected from 28 Turkish and 27 U.S. high school mathematics teachers from private or independent schools. The survey investigated teachers’ background information, resources used, and their use of teaching practices (teacher-centered, student-centered, concrete-visualizing, analytical) and types of word problems (true or practice-oriented) as well as their thoughts about the structure of word problems. Qualitative data were collected through classroom observations, videotaping, and focus-group interviews from four ninth grade algebra teachers in Turkey and the United States. Qualitative data helped the researcher expand upon the quantitative findings and examine how word problems actually were being taught in the classroom, the factors impacting teachers’ instruction and approaches to teaching word problems, and participants’ reflections on their own practices as well as on their international partners’ word problems instruction. The findings indicated no significant difference for most survey items, but descriptive statistical analysis revealed that Turkish survey participants incorporated teacher-centered, concrete-visualizing practices, and practice-oriented word problems more often in their instruction, while U.S. survey participants frequently used student centered, concrete-visualizing practices, and true problems. Qualitative findings pointed out what specific teaching practices were evident in the classrooms observed and videotaped in Turkey and the United States. While Turkish teachers thought the university entrance examination and national curriculum had the biggest impact on their teaching, U.S. teachers found school environment (traditional versus progressive) and student perception of word problems as influential on their instruction. The role of culture on teaching and learning word problems was observed in regard to teacher centered versus student-centered instruction, teacher versus student role, and student engagement. Study findings also indicated that cross-examination of teaching promotes teachers’ reflection on their own practices and, thus, should be encouraged and promoted across STEM disciplines and throughout a teaching career. Implications and recommendations for future research, curriculum developers, and mathematics teachers are discussed.
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Date Issued: 2014
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004193, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004193
Subject Headings: Educational tests and measurements, Mathematics -- Study and teaching -- Cross cultural studies, Word problems (Mathematics) -- Study and teaching -- Turkey, Word problems (Mathematics) -- Study and teaching -- United States
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: An Evaluation of English Placement Instruments for First Term Freshmen At Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
Creator: Cunningham, James Michael, Dziuban, Charles D., Cook, Joseph B., Florida Atlantic University
Abstract/Description: The purposes of this study were the assessment of written language skills of Embry-Riddle freshmen, the development of appropriate English placement criteria and the evaluation of the existing remedial English course. Data for the statistical analyses were collected during the 1982 calendar year and describe the test scores and course performances of 418 freshman students. T~irteen variables, two nominal,_ seven predictor and four criterion, were intercorreiated using frequency distributions,...
Show moreThe purposes of this study were the assessment of written language skills of Embry-Riddle freshmen, the development of appropriate English placement criteria and the evaluation of the existing remedial English course. Data for the statistical analyses were collected during the 1982 calendar year and describe the test scores and course performances of 418 freshman students. T~irteen variables, two nominal,_ seven predictor and four criterion, were intercorreiated using frequency distributions, Pearson product moment correlations, stepwise multiple regression analyses and analysis of variance calculations. Final grades in regular and remedial English along with end-of-course essay and objective test scores were interrelated with high school grade point averages (HS GPA), Scholastic Aptitude TestVerbal (SAT-V) scores, Test of Standard Written English (TSWE) scores, S~bry-Riddle English placement .exam (EPE) essay and objective scores, and precourse · essay and objective test (Pretest-E, Pretest-G) scores. Statistically significant correlations were obtained between 86% of the paired variables; higher coefficients appeared between tests of the same genre (essay or objective) than between tests of different genres. Regression analysis results indicate that writing samples predict essay exam scores best, but that standardized tests and high school averages predict final grades in freshman English better than University prepared measures of writing skills. Final grades in first term English appear to be less dependent upon demonstrated writing proficiency than had been initially hypothesized. Student gains in end-of-course test scores over precourse levels were significantly greater among students taking remedial English than among students in regular English .. Inconsistencies among instructors in the assignment af course graaes proved to be significant, especia!Jy between faculty of different academic ranks; this common reliability limitation in the grading of individual - students by individual instructors was taken into account in the interpretation of results. Recognizing that English placement errors inhibit both individual student progress and the overall educational process, it is recommended that Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University adopt an optimally weighted combination of writing skills measures, consistent with the findings of this research, to replace its current placement model.
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Date Issued: 1983
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00000659
Subject Headings: Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University--Freshmen, Educational tests and measurements, English language--Ability testing
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: An Investigation of Foundational Instructional Principles in International Mathematics Classrooms: An lSD Analysis of TJMSS Video Data.
Creator: Rodney, Desmond W., Kumar, David D., Florida Atlantic University
Abstract/Description: The central purpose of this study is to investigate whether cross national classroom video recordings reflect foundational principles of instruction as identified by lSD theorists. Principles of instruction remain true regardless of program or context when implemented by appropriate instructional systems design procedures. These theoretical elements however, require deeper empirical investigation in authentic classroom settings. This study posits that foundational principles are observable in...
Show moreThe central purpose of this study is to investigate whether cross national classroom video recordings reflect foundational principles of instruction as identified by lSD theorists. Principles of instruction remain true regardless of program or context when implemented by appropriate instructional systems design procedures. These theoretical elements however, require deeper empirical investigation in authentic classroom settings. This study posits that foundational principles are observable in non lSD systematized settings. Further it suggests that they are represented differently in classroom video recordings across countries, based on their performance level on a standardized assessment. The study shows inter alia that, (1) Instructional principles as conceptualized by lSD theorists are observable from non-ISD systematized settings. (2) The language and knowledge of ISD can be fused with curriculum studies to create sharper lens for investigating classroom phenomena. Foundational principles provide an important point of departure for this shared language. (3) Iterative video analysis is effectively combined with video observation protocols to study instructional contexts. (4) The occurrence of demonstration and real world integration stand out as more significant in higher performing countries than in lower performing countries. (5) This study adds support to earlier investigations which suggest that there are global patterns of teaching. (6) TIMSS performance tier does not correlate with a greater occurrence of foundational principles of instruction.
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Date Issued: 2006
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00000690
Subject Headings: Mathematics--Study and teaching--Cross-cultural studies, Educational tests and measurements, Teacher effectiveness--Cross-cultural studies, Instructional systems--Design--Cross-cultural studies
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Beyond fidelity: relating educational practices and their determinants to student learning gains.
Creator: Urdegar, Steven M., Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: This study explored how contextual factors influenced the effect of educational practices on student reading achievement and describes an alternative means of assessing educational programs under conditions of multiple-treatment interference and innovation diffusion. Over 1,500 reading teachers at 69 elementary schools within a large diverse district completed surveys regarding multiple aspects of the reading program, actions of their reading leaders, and instructional program coherence at...
Show moreThis study explored how contextual factors influenced the effect of educational practices on student reading achievement and describes an alternative means of assessing educational programs under conditions of multiple-treatment interference and innovation diffusion. Over 1,500 reading teachers at 69 elementary schools within a large diverse district completed surveys regarding multiple aspects of the reading program, actions of their reading leaders, and instructional program coherence at their schools. Nearly 13,000 students in grades 2 through 5 were assigned to those teachers. Factor analyses were used to separately identify patterns within survey items that measured educational practices, leadership actions, and instructional program coherence. Then, the students' achievement gains were adjusted for the effects of fixed demographic and organizational variables through hierarchical linear modeling. Finally, classroom level relationships between the adjusted achievement gains, and subscales computed from the factors that were identified, were examined through a path analysis. Educational practices were found to align to six factors labeled Technology, Training Utility, Advanced Skills, Basic Skills, Grouping, and Assessment. Leadership actions were found to align to two factors labeled Relationship and Task. Fixed effects at the student, classroom, and school levels were found to have an impact on both the initial status and growth components of student achievement. In the path model, Task was found to have a significant direct effect on Advanced Skills, while the effect of Relationship on educational practices was partially mediated by Instructional Program Coherence. Both Advanced and Basic skills were found to have positive effects on Adjusted Gain when taught at the appropriate level, and negative effects, when taught at the inappropriate level., Technology was found to facilitate Basic Skills instruction overall, with greater benefits seen at the upper grades. It was concluded the rates of use seen for Advanced and Basic skills instruction were similar at the three types of schools examined because of poor differentiation due to innovation diffusion. Teachers who perceived their leaders as supportive, tended to rate their schools as more coherent and training requirements as more appropriate, and used technology and assessment more often, leading to gains in student achievement.
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Date Issued: 2008
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/77653
Subject Headings: School management and organization, Decision making, Education, Evaluation, Educational tests and measurements, School improvement programs, Evaluation
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Children's adaptave strategies in a tool use task.
Creator: Weinstein, Allison., Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Psychology
Abstract/Description: Problem solving and strategy adaptation was assessed in 47 children ranging from 36 to 67 months. This was evaluated through problem sets in which participants were given tools that failed to reach given goal states, and then instructed to select appropriate tools in order to reach desired results. Analyses revealed that when participants were given a choice of tools to solve a given problem, they were more likely to select a correct tool when options were similar in function and appearance....
Show moreProblem solving and strategy adaptation was assessed in 47 children ranging from 36 to 67 months. This was evaluated through problem sets in which participants were given tools that failed to reach given goal states, and then instructed to select appropriate tools in order to reach desired results. Analyses revealed that when participants were given a choice of tools to solve a given problem, they were more likely to select a correct tool when options were similar in function and appearance. Additionally, participants were more likely to verbalize the need for a new tool when there was a lack of novel tool choices. However, the presence of a novel tool choice was linked to longer problem solving time. Findings are congruent with literature that suggests children possess the ability to select tools based on functional, not superficial, qualities, and can be easily distracted by the presence of novel stimuli.
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Date Issued: 2012
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3356896
Subject Headings: Learning, Psychology of, Educational tests and measurements, Cognition in children, Cognitive styles in children, Human information processing in children, Individual differences in children
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Choosing and using tools: type of prior experience and task difficulty influence preschoolers' choices and actions.
Creator: Gardiner, Amy K., Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Psychology
Abstract/Description: Two and 3 year-old children's understanding of tool affordances was investigated by measuring their tool choice decisions and tool use behaviors. Children attempted six toy retrieval tasks of three different levels of structural complexity. Children were assigned to one of four conditions in which exposure to task materials varied according to the way in which the information was presented: no experience / no observation, experience only, observation only, and experience and observation....
Show moreTwo and 3 year-old children's understanding of tool affordances was investigated by measuring their tool choice decisions and tool use behaviors. Children attempted six toy retrieval tasks of three different levels of structural complexity. Children were assigned to one of four conditions in which exposure to task materials varied according to the way in which the information was presented: no experience / no observation, experience only, observation only, and experience and observation. Three year- olds consistently made more correct choices and used more working tools successfully than 2-year-olds. Tool choice was affected primarily by task difficulty and age. Tool use was influenced by task difficulty, order of task difficulty, age, and condition. The observation condition was most beneficial to children, while experience was least helpful, particularly for tasks at the hard level of difficulty.
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Date Issued: 2008
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/165940
Subject Headings: Learning, Psychology of, Developmental psychology, Educational tests and measurements, Constructivism (Education)
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: A comparison of the Boston Naming Test and Miami Naming Test in an Afro-Caribbean population over the age of 55.
Creator: Keane, Florence., Florida Atlantic University, Tappen, Ruth M.
Abstract/Description: The Boston Naming Test (60 items) and the newly developed Miami Naming Test (76 items) are designed to assess naming deficits and word-retrieval capacities. These two tests were compared in a sample of 106 Afro-Caribbean elders. Analysis included inter-rater, test-retest reliability and internal consistency using Cronbach's alpha. The correlation between the scores of both raters on the Boston Naming Test was r=.9974 and r=.9984 on the Miami Naming Test. The test-retest reliability scores...
Show moreThe Boston Naming Test (60 items) and the newly developed Miami Naming Test (76 items) are designed to assess naming deficits and word-retrieval capacities. These two tests were compared in a sample of 106 Afro-Caribbean elders. Analysis included inter-rater, test-retest reliability and internal consistency using Cronbach's alpha. The correlation between the scores of both raters on the Boston Naming Test was r=.9974 and r=.9984 on the Miami Naming Test. The test-retest reliability scores were r=.936 for the Boston Naming Test and r=.931 for the Miami Naming Test. The alpha level for the Miami Naming Test was .95 and the Boston Naming Test was .94. The individual items for both tests were evaluated for their level of difficulty and the scores on the Miami Naming Test were compared to the Boston Naming Test and the Mini Mental State Exam results. Results indicated acceptable levels of reliability for both the Boston Naming Test and the Miami Naming Test. This study shed light on which items should be replaced or deleted and future directions for research on assessment of dementia on older adults of Afro-Caribbean background. This study was supported by Minority Supplement grant #NR07744-01 and was guided by design of the parent grant Culture Bias in Expressive Ability in Dementia funded by the National Institute of Nursing research.
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Date Issued: 2005
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12178
Subject Headings: Language and languages--Examinations--Research, Aging--Psychological aspects, Medical care--Needs assessment, Dementia--Research--Cross-cultural studies, Educational tests and measurements
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: A CONCURRENT VALIDATION OF THE INSTRUCTIONAL STYLES INVENTORY USING COMMUNITY COLLEGE MATH AND SOCIAL SCIENCE TEACHERS.
Creator: LOPEZ, RICHARD., Florida Atlantic University
Abstract/Description: The purposes of this study were: (1) to gather reliability data on the Instructional Styles Inventory; (2) to gather concurrent validity data on the inventory and (3) to determine if either an individual's graduate preparation or his academic discipline, or both, influence his instructional style. Test/retest reliability coefficients for the Instructional Styles Inventory were obtained on a sample of 50 Florida International University faculty. Approximately a ten week interval elapsed...
Show moreThe purposes of this study were: (1) to gather reliability data on the Instructional Styles Inventory; (2) to gather concurrent validity data on the inventory and (3) to determine if either an individual's graduate preparation or his academic discipline, or both, influence his instructional style. Test/retest reliability coefficients for the Instructional Styles Inventory were obtained on a sample of 50 Florida International University faculty. Approximately a ten week interval elapsed between administrations. Relatively low reliability coefficients were obtained, ranging from .172 to .767, with only three elements (Independence, Numeric and Influence) significant at the .05 level. The analysis of the interaction effect revealed a non-significant F ratio indicating that graduate preparation and academic discipline did not interact to influence the scores for the elements assessed in the inventory. The analysis of the main effect of graduate degree also produced a non-significant F ratio. This indicated that there were no significant differences between community college teachers with education degrees and those with non-education degrees across the elements assessed in the inventory.
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Date Issued: 1977
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/11684
Subject Headings: College teaching, Educational tests and measurements
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: A correlation of standardized benchmark testing and teacher-assigned grades in 10th-grade English courses.
Creator: Beaulieu, Christopher A., College of Education, Department of Teaching and Learning
Abstract/Description: The accountability measures implemented by the states as a result of federal government mandates required by the No Child Left Behind Act (2001 [NCLB]) have created the need for states to develop standardized benchmark assessments as part of the compliance requirements set by the federally mandated act. State and local standardized tests have become an everyday part of public school life. A quantitative study was conducted to assess the correlation of students' scores on the reading portion...
Show moreThe accountability measures implemented by the states as a result of federal government mandates required by the No Child Left Behind Act (2001 [NCLB]) have created the need for states to develop standardized benchmark assessments as part of the compliance requirements set by the federally mandated act. State and local standardized tests have become an everyday part of public school life. A quantitative study was conducted to assess the correlation of students' scores on the reading portion of the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) and students' reading percent scale-scores on one Florida county's benchmark reading assessment (CBAT) with students' teacher-assigned grades (TAG) for 10th-grade, English Language Arts courses. The study also assessed the predictive values of the 3 criterion variables and the moderating effects of 6 categorical variables: Race (White, Black, and Hispanic), Socioeconomic status (SES), English Language Learner status (ELL), and Students with Disabilities status (SWD), which contribute to Florida's Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) ranking of school grading policy. The study found that there was a moderate and positive correlation among the 3 criterion variables and that the combination of students' scores on the reading portions of both the CBAT and the FCAT showed a significant predictive value in predicting students' TAG. The study showed an even higher predictive value of the combination of students' scores on the CBAT and students' TAG in predicting students' scores on the FCAT. The study showed there was a moderating effect of the categorical variable Race on the correlation between students' CBAT reading scores and students' TAG; however, Race did not moderate the correlation between students' scores on FCAT and students' TAG., The study found a moderating effect of the categorical variable SES on the correlation between students' scores on CBAT and students' scores on FCAT and students' TAG. The study showed a moderating effect of the categorical variable ELL between students' scores on FCAT and students' TAG and between students' scores on CBAT and students' TAG. The categorical variable SWD did not show any moderating effect between students' scores on CBAT and students' TAG, or between students' scores on FCAT and students' TAG.
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Date Issued: 2009
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/192981
Subject Headings: Educational tests and measurements, Education, Secondary, Study and teaching, English language, Rhetoric, Ability testing, Grading and marking (Students)
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The effect of audiocassette presentation on the performance of students with and without learning disabilities on a group standardized math test.
Creator: Schnirman, Rebecca K., Florida Atlantic University, Taylor, Ronald L.
Abstract/Description: Many students with specific learning disabilities (LD) exhibit reading difficulties that interfere with their performance on "high-stakes" standardized tests with math word problems. Therefore, it is important to identify accommodations that will lead to valid test scores. Audio presentation for math word problems is intended to remove the effects of a disability in reading. One purpose of the study was to conduct an empirical investigation of the effects of audiocassette presentation by...
Show moreMany students with specific learning disabilities (LD) exhibit reading difficulties that interfere with their performance on "high-stakes" standardized tests with math word problems. Therefore, it is important to identify accommodations that will lead to valid test scores. Audio presentation for math word problems is intended to remove the effects of a disability in reading. One purpose of the study was to conduct an empirical investigation of the effects of audiocassette presentation by comparing the performance of students with LD and students from general education (GE). Another was to investigate the relationship, if any, between the level of knowledge of mathematics vocabulary and the benefit of audiocassette presentation for the students with LD. Finally, the study sought to extend the current research base to students in middle school. Twenty-four students with LD and 24 from GE were tested with parallel forms of the Math section of the Iowa Test of Basic Skills. Half of each group tested with form K under standard administration and received audiocassette presentation for form L. The other half of each group was tested with form L under standard administration and audiocassette presentation for form K. Finally, the Vocabulary subtest from the Test of Mathematical Abilities, 2nd edition (TOMA-2) was administered. Separate paired t tests were performed for the GE group and for the group with LD. The performance of the two groups was then compared with repeated measures analyses. No statistically significant differences were found, which was attributed, in part, to small sample size. Minimal change in the mean performance of either group occurred after audiocassette presentation for Math Concepts. The group mean for LD on Problem Solving improved slightly with the accommodation. Repeated measures analyses showed no significant difference in performance between students with "high" vs. "low" levels of math vocabulary. A floor effect, along with the students' level of academic language proficiency, may have affected the results. Some students improved their scores with audio presentation, but others scored lower. This reinforces the need to base the use of any test accommodation on individual need, not disability label or other factors.
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Date Issued: 2005
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12166
Subject Headings: Educational tests and measurements, Learning disabled children--Ability testing, Academic achievement--Testing--Validity--United States, Children with disabilities--Education--Ability testing, Academic achievement
Format: Document (PDF)

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

Title: The effects of disability labels on special education and general education teachers' referrals for gifted programs.
Creator: Bianco-Cornish, Margarita, Florida Atlantic University, Smiley, Lydia R.
Abstract/Description: This study investigated the effect of the disability labels learning disabilities (LD) and emotional handicaps (EH) on general education and special education teachers' willingness to refer students to gifted programs. Referral differences between general education and special education teachers were also examined. Two hundred forty-seven teachers (195 general education teachers and 52 special education teachers) from one south Florida school district participated in this study. Participants...
Show moreThis study investigated the effect of the disability labels learning disabilities (LD) and emotional handicaps (EH) on general education and special education teachers' willingness to refer students to gifted programs. Referral differences between general education and special education teachers were also examined. Two hundred forty-seven teachers (195 general education teachers and 52 special education teachers) from one south Florida school district participated in this study. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three conditions (no label, LD, EH) and asked to read a vignette describing a gifted student. All vignettes were identical except for one statement added to the LD or EH group stating the student had a disability. After reading the vignette, teachers completed a survey instrument with six questions regarding possible referral options. One of the six questions asked if they would refer the student to their school's gifted program. Teachers indicated their responses by circling one of four choices: strongly agree, agree, disagree or strongly disagree. Responses to the gifted referral question on the survey instrument served as the dependent variable. A 2 x 3 factorial analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to evaluate the main effects of labeled conditions (three levels), teacher certification type (two levels), and the interaction between labeled condition and teacher type. Results indicated that teachers were significantly influenced by the LD and EH label when making referrals to gifted programs. Both special education and general education teachers were much less willing to refer students with disability labels to gifted programs than identically described students with no disability label. Additionally, when compared to general education teachers, special education teachers were less likely to refer a gifted student, with or without disabilities, to a gifted program. Implications were discussed and recommendations for future research were made.
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Date Issued: 2003
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12076
Subject Headings: Special education, Children with disabilities--Education, Educational tests and measurements, Students with disabilities--Rating of
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: Ethnicity, Education, and Linguistic Effects on Verbal Fluency Tasks in American Elders.
Creator: Zoller, Yaron Joseph, Rosselli, Monica, Florida Atlantic University
Abstract/Description: Educational level affects various neuropsychological measures including performance on verbal fluency tasks. It is still unclear how this effect may differ across the different types of fluency tasks (i.e. animals,fruits, vegetables and clothing) and across American ethnic groups (Hispanics, Europeans, Africans, and African Carib beans) using different languages (English and Spanish). Using a sample of 140 normal elder Americans (ages 57 to 88; 38M/ 102F) divided into two education groups (7...
Show moreEducational level affects various neuropsychological measures including performance on verbal fluency tasks. It is still unclear how this effect may differ across the different types of fluency tasks (i.e. animals,fruits, vegetables and clothing) and across American ethnic groups (Hispanics, Europeans, Africans, and African Carib beans) using different languages (English and Spanish). Using a sample of 140 normal elder Americans (ages 57 to 88; 38M/ 102F) divided into two education groups (7-11 and> 12 years of education), results showed strong association with performance for education on the categories fruits and clothing and for ethnicity on the total items generated and number of switches for vegetables. Differences between Spanish and English speakers were found for the fruits category. Results suggest that the animal category is the best one to be used to reduce potential effects of education in individuals with more than 7 years of education.
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Date Issued: 2008
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00000857
Subject Headings: Educational tests and measurements, Cognition--Social aspects, Cognition--Age factors, Neuropsychology--Cross-cultural studies, Ethnopsychology--Cross-cultural studies
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Florida middle grades pupil progression policies: their effects on middle school student achievement and retention rates.
Creator: Murray, Mary A., College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: Florida H.B. 7087 (2006a), otherwise known as A++legislation, was created and adopted as a means to increase the rigor and relevance of a public school education, specifically at the middle school and high school levels. The anticipated result of the implementation of this bill was to better prepare middle school students for high school and thereby increase high school student performance and decrease the dropout rate. However, in increasing the promotion standards for middle grade students,...
Show moreFlorida H.B. 7087 (2006a), otherwise known as A++legislation, was created and adopted as a means to increase the rigor and relevance of a public school education, specifically at the middle school and high school levels. The anticipated result of the implementation of this bill was to better prepare middle school students for high school and thereby increase high school student performance and decrease the dropout rate. However, in increasing the promotion standards for middle grade students, interpretation and implementation have created additional barriers to grade level advancement. As a result, the possibility now exists for more students and especially those already at-risk of failure will be subject to higher retention rates. This may place them further at-risk of poor academic performance and of potentially dropping out of school, an opposite effect of the intent of the bill. This study was designed to evaluate the impact of the revised policies on middle school students.
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Date Issued: 2010
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/2683536
Subject Headings: Education and state, Educational tests and measurements, Educational accountability, Achievement in education
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Gender and socioeconomic status as predictors of reading gain scores on the Stanford Achievement Test for fifth grade students who participated in computer-assisted instruction.
Creator: Rose, Garie H., Florida Atlantic University, Jurenas, Albert C.
Abstract/Description: This study investigated Stanford Achievement Test (Eighth Edition) reading scores in vocabulary, comprehension, and total reading achievement. Scores were obtained from gender and socioeconomic levels (SES) of regular education fifth grade students following the use of computer assisted instruction (CAI) using Jostens Learning Corporation software. Factorial analyses of variance were performed to test the interaction between high and low socioeconomic levels (SES) of regular education...
Show moreThis study investigated Stanford Achievement Test (Eighth Edition) reading scores in vocabulary, comprehension, and total reading achievement. Scores were obtained from gender and socioeconomic levels (SES) of regular education fifth grade students following the use of computer assisted instruction (CAI) using Jostens Learning Corporation software. Factorial analyses of variance were performed to test the interaction between high and low socioeconomic levels (SES) of regular education students, and gender on the Stanford Achievement Scores (Eighth Edition) in the areas of vocabulary, comprehension, and total reading achievement. All participants used computer assisted instruction for three years as a supplement to basal reading instruction. The sample consisted of 590 elementary students (312 females and 278 males) in grade 5. Socioeconomic levels were determined by whether or not the students received free or reduced price lunch (139 low SES students and 451 high SES students). All participants attended the same school for three years and had three consecutive years of scores in vocabulary, comprehension, and total reading achievement on the SAT. Gain scores were obtained by subtracting the 1994 scores from the 1996 scores in vocabulary, comprehension, and total reading achievement. Mean gain scores were compared between groups using factorial analysis of variance, with SES and gender as the factors. Analyses revealed that there was not a significant (p < .05) difference between high and low SES students in comprehension or total reading achievement. There was a significant $(p < .05)$ difference between high and low SES students in vocabulary gain scores, but the difference was too small to be of practical significance. Analyses revealed that there was not a significant (p < .05) difference between males and females and scores in vocabulary, comprehension, or total reading achievement. There was a significant interaction (p < .05) between gender and SES in vocabulary, comprehension, and total reading achievement scores. Results of this study clearly indicated that there were more gains for certain groups of students. Recommendations suggest that future research includes close examination of low SES male students and their unique learning styles. Characteristics, their interactions with the computer and software design should also be studied.
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Date Issued: 1997
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12542
Subject Headings: Educational tests and measurements, Educational tests and measurements--Sex differences, Educational tests and measurements--Social aspects, Reading readiness--Testing
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Impact of Collaborative Work Analysis Professional Development in Teacher Practice and Student Writing.
Creator: Shealy, Kristin L., Burnaford, Gail, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: This qualitative research study explored the influence of collaborative analysis of student work (CASW) as professional development on teacher practice, specifically during lessons and on written teacher feedback on student work. Additionally, teachers' perceptions about the influence of CASW sessions and three 2-week instructional cycles on student writing, including the professional development sessions, lessons, and teacher written feedback, were investigated. Qualitative data were...
Show moreThis qualitative research study explored the influence of collaborative analysis of student work (CASW) as professional development on teacher practice, specifically during lessons and on written teacher feedback on student work. Additionally, teachers' perceptions about the influence of CASW sessions and three 2-week instructional cycles on student writing, including the professional development sessions, lessons, and teacher written feedback, were investigated. Qualitative data were collected including teacher interviews, CASW observations, classroom observations, and document analysis. Findings indicated that teachers felt that CASW influenced their increased awareness of teaching and student learning, and implications for future teaching for the whole group as well as ideas for next steps for individual students emerged. Teachers supported CASW being job-embedded and practical to daily work; they voiced concerns over the time and scheduling facilitating the professional development required. Teachers responded that they felt that CASW helped them question their assessment of student writing, consistency within and across grade levels and subjects, and the appropriate level of difficulty of their curriculum. Teachers expressed their desire to be able to meet with students more regularly to go over their teacher written feedback and felt that CASW may possibly influence student work over time. Two teachers felt that the CASW professional development could have influenced their written feedback; four teachers felt that it did not. Implications for professional development, public policy, and further research are given.
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Date Issued: 2015
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004547, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004547
Subject Headings: Academic achievement -- Evaluation, Action research in education, Educational tests and measurements, Effective teaching, Teachers, Training of -- Evaluation
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: OPTIMAL FREQUENCY OF TESTING AS A FUNCTION OF ABILITY LEVEL AND REINFORCEMENT HISTORY.
Creator: RIEVMAN, STEVEN PAUL, Florida Atlantic University
Abstract/Description: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the variable effects of different testing frequencies upon the achievement of college students of three levels of ability. Frequency of testing was selected for research because of the role it serves in the behavioral system of instruction initiated by Fred Keller. Past research on the effect of increase in test frequency has produced ambivalent results, in part because of repeated methodological errors, in part because the individual...
Show moreThe purpose of the present study was to investigate the variable effects of different testing frequencies upon the achievement of college students of three levels of ability. Frequency of testing was selected for research because of the role it serves in the behavioral system of instruction initiated by Fred Keller. Past research on the effect of increase in test frequency has produced ambivalent results, in part because of repeated methodological errors, in part because the individual learning level of each S has not been a primary concern in the design of these studies. The basic hypothesis of this experiment was that the effects of increased quiz occurrence depend on previous academic history. Results were discussed in relation to the practice of infrequent testing. Such procedures most handicap those with poor backgrounds. Those institutions serving this type of student should re-evaluate their examination methods and consider the use of frequent quizzes. Further suggestions were made to extend the investigation of the functional relationship between instructional techniques and individual histories.
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Date Issued: 1973
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/11629
Subject Headings: Educational tests and measurements
Format: Document (PDF)

Academic achievement (7)	+ -
Learning, Psychology of (5)	+ -
Achievement in education (4)	+ -
School improvement programs (4)	+ -
Evaluation (3)	+ -

Study and teaching (3)	+ -
Constructivism (Education) (2)	+ -
Decision making (2)	+ -
Developmental psychology (2)	+ -
Educational accountability (2)	+ -
Effective teaching (2)	+ -
Ability testing (1)	+ -
Academic achievement -- Evaluation (1)	+ -
Academic achievement--Testing--Validity--United States (1)	+ -
Action research in education (1)	+ -
Affective education (1)	+ -
Aging--Psychological aspects (1)	+ -
Book clubs (Discussion groups) (1)	+ -
Children with disabilities--Education (1)	+ -
Children with disabilities--Education--Ability testing (1)	+ -
Cognition in children (1)	+ -
Cognition--Age factors (1)	+ -
Cognition--Social aspects (1)	+ -
Cognitive psychology (1)	+ -
Cognitive styles in children (1)	+ -
College teachers, Part-time (1)	+ -
College teaching (1)	+ -
Communication in mathematics (1)	+ -
Community college teachers (1)	+ -

Florida (4)	+ -
United States (4)	+ -
Palm Beach County (1)	+ -

Florida Atlantic University (18)	+ -
College of Education (14)	+ -
Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry (5)	+ -
Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology (5)	+ -
Charles E. Schmidt College of Science (4)	+ -

Department of Psychology (3)	+ -
Department of Counselor Education (2)	+ -
Department of Teaching and Learning (2)	+ -
Gardiner, Amy K. (2)	+ -
Acker-Hocevar, Michele A. (1)	+ -
Beaulieu, Christopher A. (1)	+ -
Bianco-Cornish, Margarita (1)	+ -
Brigman, Greg (1)	+ -
Brown, Sherron N. (1)	+ -
Burnaford, Gail (1)	+ -
Cook, Joseph B. (1)	+ -
Cunningham, James Michael (1)	+ -
Daskagianni, Evangelie. (1)	+ -
Department of Physics (1)	+ -
Doyal, Thomas Stacy. (1)	+ -
Dziuban, Charles D. (1)	+ -
Erkan, Betul (1)	+ -
Findley, Brian W. (1)	+ -
Forman, Joseph Martin. (1)	+ -
Glick-Cuenot, Sheri L. (1)	+ -
Goldberg, Michelle L. (1)	+ -
Hecht, Steven A. (1)	+ -
Hotiu, Angelica (1)	+ -
Jordan, Robin G. (1)	+ -
Jurenas, Albert C. (1)	+ -

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