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Title: A study of teacher response to a program of whole-school change.
Creator: Solomon, Gail Fern, Florida Atlantic University, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia
Abstract/Description: This single site qualitative case study of a large high school was conducted during the course of one school year. The study focused on how secondary level teachers of the four core content areas, language arts, science, social studies and mathematics, responded to a program of whole school change. In addition to teachers, the administration and support staff were interviewed. The primary sources of data were the results of one hour interviews, document analysis and researcher non-participant...
Show moreThis single site qualitative case study of a large high school was conducted during the course of one school year. The study focused on how secondary level teachers of the four core content areas, language arts, science, social studies and mathematics, responded to a program of whole school change. In addition to teachers, the administration and support staff were interviewed. The primary sources of data were the results of one hour interviews, document analysis and researcher non-participant observations. The purpose of this study was to identify and understand teachers' various responses to a program of whole school change. The major concepts underlying the study were the meaning of change, the need for schools to change, the change process, the role of people involved in the change process and the proliferation of various programs of whole school change. The research findings highlighted the importance of: recognizing only one whole school change initiative as the primary focus, being knowledgeable of the whole school change initiative, constantly working on personalizing the school's vision, facing external and internal change forces, handling challenges and dealing with the rate of change. The conclusions of the study are that from attempted implementation of multiple school change initiatives perhaps only one change initiative will rise to prominence, teacher involvement and buy-in are important components of successful whole school change, educators face both internal and external factors while implementing whole school change and the principal plays a crucial role in successful whole school change.
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Date Issued: 2004
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12084
Subject Headings: Educational change, Educational leadership, Teachers--Attitudes, School management and organization
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: A study of the relationship between teacher absenteeism, teacher attributes, school schedule and student achievement.
Creator: Bayard, Shirley R, Florida Atlantic University, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this non-experimental archival study was to determine if student mathematics in middle and high schools could be predicted by teacher absenteeism. Additional relationships, such as teacher absenteeism, selected attributes and student achievement; teacher absenteeism, school schedule and student achievement were investigated. This archival study was conducted in Broward County Public Schools, Florida, for the 2001--2002 school year and included 722 mathematics classes with their...
Show moreThe purpose of this non-experimental archival study was to determine if student mathematics in middle and high schools could be predicted by teacher absenteeism. Additional relationships, such as teacher absenteeism, selected attributes and student achievement; teacher absenteeism, school schedule and student achievement were investigated. This archival study was conducted in Broward County Public Schools, Florida, for the 2001--2002 school year and included 722 mathematics classes with their teachers in eighth and tenth grades. The study addressed 3 research questions. Multiple linear regression analyses were used to test each hypothesis. All statistical tests were performed at the .05 level of statistical significance. The following conclusions were reached regarding teacher absenteeism and student achievement: (1) Teacher absenteeism, beyond 2 days, has a small negative effect on achievement test scores, p = .007. (2) Mathematics background in elementary and middle school has a large positive effect on achievement test scores, p < .001. (3) Teacher attributes, except gender, are not linked to achievement test scores. The interaction between male teachers and teacher absenteeism has a small negative effect for more than 2 days absent, p = .02. (4) School schedule is not linked to achievement test scores. Further research is needed on the effect of absenteeism on student achievement, the effect of absenteeism on other student outcomes, and the effect of teacher gender on student achievement.
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Date Issued: 2003
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12078
Subject Headings: Absenteeism (Labor), Academic achievement, Schedules, School
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The relationship of full-time laptop computer access to student achievement and student attitudes in middle school.
Creator: Lewis, Sheila K., Florida Atlantic University, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this quasi-experimental longitudinal study was to investigate the relationship of full-time laptop computer access to student achievement and student attitudes in middle school from the academic years of 1998--1999 through 2000--2001. Two sets of variables were identified in the study. The independent variable was the instructional method having full-time access to laptops or not. The dependent variables were student achievement, and student attitudes. ANOVAs were employed to...
Show moreThe purpose of this quasi-experimental longitudinal study was to investigate the relationship of full-time laptop computer access to student achievement and student attitudes in middle school from the academic years of 1998--1999 through 2000--2001. Two sets of variables were identified in the study. The independent variable was the instructional method having full-time access to laptops or not. The dependent variables were student achievement, and student attitudes. ANOVAs were employed to test the difference between the experimental group and the comparison group. Measures of reading comprehension and math application were determined through scores on the Stanford Achievement Test (SAT) for sixth-grade students and the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) for eighth-grade students. A teacher-made pretest/posttest writing assessment score for sixth grade was assessed with the criteria determined in the Florida Writes Program rubric. In addition, students and parents in the experimental group at the end of sixth-grade responded to a survey. As a result of the analysis, the following major findings were identified: (1) Although students in the sixth-grade were provided with full-time laptop computer access during the school year, it did not create a significant impact on student achievement in subject areas of reading comprehension, math application, and writing. (2) Data from the survey suggested that students with full-time laptop computer access during the school year had several advantages regarding student attitudes, motivation, applications of technology for school work, and improved organizational skills. Two conclusions were revealed from this study. First, laptop access did not prove to be the better learning technique over not having laptop access in improving student achievement. There was no significant difference as explained in analysis which found the power was low. Second, the study concludes that laptop access may improve student attitudes. When surveying students regarding the use of laptops, overall, students indicated that when compared to not having laptop access they felt more successful in school, more motivated to learn, their organizational skills were better, and their perceptions toward their test scores had improved. The study recommended that future research be conducted to: (1) Examine principals' participation in professional development activities related to educational technology. (2) Provide teachers with instructional design, delivery, staff development, on-going technical support, and opportunities in the classroom to integrate technology resources daily into the curriculum. (3) Study the effect of instructional uses of laptops and student achievement.
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Date Issued: 2004
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FADT12091
Subject Headings: Educational technology--United States, Computer-assisted instruction, Middle school education--United States--Philosophy, Laptop computers--Public opinion, Computers and children, Education--Effect of technological innovations on--United States
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Jumping through hoops, walking on egg shells: The experiences of nursing students with disabilities.
Creator: Maheady, Donna Carol., Florida Atlantic University, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia, Winland-Brown, Jill
Abstract/Description: This study describes the experiences of nursing students with disabilities through interviews, observations, and document analysis. The sample included five current students and five graduate nurses with physical or auditory impairments and 61 nursing faculty members, staff members, patients, and fellow students. The Colaizzi (1978) method of data analysis was modified to include additional information from interviews, observations, and documents. The findings revealed important concerns...
Show moreThis study describes the experiences of nursing students with disabilities through interviews, observations, and document analysis. The sample included five current students and five graduate nurses with physical or auditory impairments and 61 nursing faculty members, staff members, patients, and fellow students. The Colaizzi (1978) method of data analysis was modified to include additional information from interviews, observations, and documents. The findings revealed important concerns related to potentially unsafe nursing practice. The findings should assist nursing faculty with admission and retention decisions and development of reasonable accommodations. Recommendations for nursing programs to develop enforceable guidelines for admission and state regulatory boards of nursing to consider licensure with practice limitations are included.
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Date Issued: 1996
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12489
Subject Headings: Nursing students, People with disabilities--Education (Higher), College students with disabilities
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Struggles from outside and within the bars of the juvenile justice system: Role conflict of health care delivery.
Creator: Kite, Gayle., Florida Atlantic University, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia
Abstract/Description: Currently, the nation is plagued with multiple social problems. Violence is the nation's top public health concern. President Clinton has attempted to address the nation's health care crisis without success. State nursing associations are concerned with unlicensed health care being rendered in the national system; this has caused divisions of the professions. All of these problems can be found in the setting of juvenile corrections. Inmates are the only group in this nation who have a...
Show moreCurrently, the nation is plagued with multiple social problems. Violence is the nation's top public health concern. President Clinton has attempted to address the nation's health care crisis without success. State nursing associations are concerned with unlicensed health care being rendered in the national system; this has caused divisions of the professions. All of these problems can be found in the setting of juvenile corrections. Inmates are the only group in this nation who have a constitutional right to healthcare. In Sunshine County (fictitious name), Florida, corrections staff, not licensed healthcare givers, are rendering most of the health care. This study describes the views and experiences of unlicensed corrections staff concerning their roles when rendering health care. Data sources included 43 unlicensed corrections workers from four juvenile corrections facilities, as well as the participation of five licensed professionals. Nine findings emerged: lethargy, caring, role stress and frustration, role conflict, multiple system failure, fear, communication, knowledge deficit and facility observations. About half the corrections staff approached their positions in a caring manner. Roles were filled with conflict and stress. Many of the corrections staff believed they were educationally unprepared for role fulfillment. Yet, corrections staff were lethargic in meeting educational deficits. The findings were examined with relation to role theory and Mead's theory of symbolic interactionism. Findings should be addressed through reevaluation of the utilization and requirements of professionally licensed staff. Corrections staff experienced multifaceted knowledge deficit. Adult education learning theory presents solutions to these deficits. The Mission Statement of the Department of Juvenile Justice needs to be clarified for the corrections staff. Many corrections staff assume the goals of juvenile corrections is simply incarceration, the same as those for adults. They do not realize that a large goal of juvenile corrections is rehabilitation. Professionally licensed staff should be meeting the needs of the incarcerated juveniles.
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Date Issued: 2000
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12624
Subject Headings: Prisoners--Health and hygiene, Prisoners--Medical care, Juvenile delinquents--Health and hygiene, Juvenile delinquents--Medical care, Correctional personnel--In-service training
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Sources of information and selected variables and their relationship to teachers' knowledge and attitudes regarding attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Creator: Blume-D'Ausilio, Carole, Florida Atlantic University, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to develop a predictive model for teacher knowledge about ADHD and teacher attitudes toward the disorder. The Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Knowledge Assessment (ADHDK.A), developed by the researcher, was used to determine the nature of the relationship between teacher knowledge and attitudes regarding ADHD and various sources from which teachers are most likely to obtain information. Four teacher characteristics (teaching position, experience teaching...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to develop a predictive model for teacher knowledge about ADHD and teacher attitudes toward the disorder. The Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Knowledge Assessment (ADHDK.A), developed by the researcher, was used to determine the nature of the relationship between teacher knowledge and attitudes regarding ADHD and various sources from which teachers are most likely to obtain information. Four teacher characteristics (teaching position, experience teaching children with ADHD, personal experience with ADHD, and confidence teaching children with ADHD) were also investigated for their predictive value. The sample was comprised of 225 classroom teachers of grades K to 5 from seven elementary schools in Broward County, Florida. Teachers completed the ADHDKA which consisted of multiple choice, true and false, and open-ended statements about ADHD. Three research questions were posed before data were collected. Multiple regressions were run to determine the degree of association between each of the criterion variables (knowledge and attitude), and the 12 predictor variables investigated in this study. The degree of correlation between teacher knowledge and teacher attitude was examined using a Pearson product moment correlation. Qualitative analysis was used to uncover emerging themes from teacher responses to the open-ended statements. Major findings in the study were as follows: (a) Primary (K- 2) teachers have a higher level of knowledge about ADHD than do intermediate (3-5) teachers (-.159, p < .05); (b) teachers who have personal experience with ADHD have a higher level of knowledge about ADHD than do teachers with no personal experience with ADHD (.147, p < .05); (c) teachers with a high level of confidence about teaching children with ADHD have a higher level of knowledge about ADHD than do teachers with a low level of confidence (.280,p < .01); and (d) a predictive model can be developed to determine teacher knowledge about ADHD (R^2 = .139). The R-square indicates that 13.9% of the variance in teacher knowledge can be accounted for by the variation of the combined predictor variables. Although statistically significant (F [12, 188] = 2.521,p = .004), the correlation is less than the predetermined critical effect size of 25% and may be of limited practical significance (.139 < .25). Conclusions based on the fmdings from the study were: (a) Teachers do not have adequate information regarding strategies to accommodate behavioral and academic challenges for the child with ADHD; (b) teachers lack confidence teaching children with ADHD; and (c) teachers do not receive adequate district-level, or school-based, administrative support (i.e., availability of appropriate ADHD in-service, assistance with parent support, classroom management issues). Noteworthy recommendations for those in positions of educational leadership included the following: (a) more extensive ADHD training for pre-service teachers than is presently required; (b) a comprehensive choice of ADHD workshops offered by school districts to administrators, teachers, paraprofessionals, cafeteria staff, custodians, bus drivers, and any other school personnel who may interact with children; and (c) a districtlevel expert on ADHD for the specific purpose of advising administrators, teachers, and parents about practical solutions to everyday ADHD-related issues. Recommendations for future research included the following: (a) Investigate why teachers with high levels of knowledge about ADHD have negative attitudes toward the disorder; (b) employ a mixed between - within design assessing teacher knowledge and attitude before and after attendance at an ADHD in-service; and (c) investigate the connection between teaching position and teacher knowledge about ADHD.
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Date Issued: 2005
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12179
Subject Headings: Teacher-student relationships, Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, Attention-deficit-disordered children--Education, Teachers--Training of, Classroom management
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: An examination of the southern association of colleges and schools commission on colleges’ quality enhancement plans at two institutions through the lens of quality improvement.
Creator: Rodriguez, Barbara June, Floyd, Deborah L., Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this case study was to explore the quality enhancement plan (QEP) process and its influence on student learning of critical thinking and the institutional environment from the perspective of key stakeholders at two community colleges accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (the Commission). Key stakeholders were defined as faculty, staff, and administrators who had direct and continuous involvement with the development and/or...
Show moreThe purpose of this case study was to explore the quality enhancement plan (QEP) process and its influence on student learning of critical thinking and the institutional environment from the perspective of key stakeholders at two community colleges accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (the Commission). Key stakeholders were defined as faculty, staff, and administrators who had direct and continuous involvement with the development and/or implementation of the QEP. This was accomplished through document reviews and analysis of interviews. The study was guided by intertwined quality assurance systems accountability, accreditation, and assessment, and six of Deming’s (1986) total quality management principles. These principles are: (1) customer, (2) training and development, (3) teamwork, (4) measurement, (5) improvement, and (6) leadership (Bosner, 1992; Deming, 1986; Marchese, 1991; Sallis, 2002).
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Date Issued: 2015
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004404, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004404
Subject Headings: Educational evaluation -- Case studies, Educational tests and measurements -- Case studies, School management and organization -- Quality control -- Case studies, Total quality management in education -- Case studies, Universities and colleges -- Accreditation -- Case studies
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: An Assessment of Leadership Practice in High Schools: Improving Graduation Rates.
Creator: Osorio, Maria Eugenia, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia, Bogotch, Ira, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: This research was based on a multi-case study design focused on the leadership practice of high school principals and assistant principals and their roles in improving graduation rates. The study sought to answer one overarching research questions: In schools that demonstrate an increase in graduation rates what leadership practices are evidenced in principals and assistant principals and teacher leaders. One sub-question addressed the tools and interventions that the leadership team...
Show moreThis research was based on a multi-case study design focused on the leadership practice of high school principals and assistant principals and their roles in improving graduation rates. The study sought to answer one overarching research questions: In schools that demonstrate an increase in graduation rates what leadership practices are evidenced in principals and assistant principals and teacher leaders. One sub-question addressed the tools and interventions that the leadership team practices in relation to improving graduation rates and the second sub-question addressed the accountability of changing standards with respect to graduation rates. A third sub-question sought to answer how interactions of principals and assistant principals relevant to improvement in student performance are interpreted by faculty and staff. The purposeful sample from each of the three high schools consisted of one principal, four assistant principals and one teacher leader. Data collection methods included interviews, observations and qualitative document review of high school graduation rates. The study reveals six major findings: (a) school leaders establish a clear vision, mission or goal to increase graduation rates, (b) identification, management and evaluation of academic enrichment programs are necessary interventions for student success, (c) school leaders build a culture of student learning and achievement through a system of processes, programs and support initiatives, (d) the leadership team is knowledgeable, strongly motivated and devoted to their role as leaders in serving all students, (e) school leaders use data as guiding variables in making decisions regarding at-risk student achievement and success, and (f) school leaders develop and foster positive relationships with students and teachers.
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Date Issued: 2016
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004618
Subject Headings: School improvement programs., Educational leadership., School management and organization., School principals--Professional relationships., Assistant school principals--Professional relationships., Organizational behavior.
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: An Examination of Academic Performance of Haitian- Creole- and Spanish-Speaking English Language Learners Based on the Number of Years in the ELL program.
Creator: Augustin, Ducarmel S., Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: The primary purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between Haitian-Creole and Spanish-speaking English Language Learners students’ number of years in the ELL program and their academic achievement as indicated by performance on the third-grade Florida Comprehensive Achievement Test Reading. This study also sought to determine if elementary school size (total student population), ELL student count (total number of ELL students in a school), school socioeconomic status (percentage...
Show moreThe primary purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between Haitian-Creole and Spanish-speaking English Language Learners students’ number of years in the ELL program and their academic achievement as indicated by performance on the third-grade Florida Comprehensive Achievement Test Reading. This study also sought to determine if elementary school size (total student population), ELL student count (total number of ELL students in a school), school socioeconomic status (percentage of free and reduced lunch), student gender, and student home language (Haitian-Creole and Spanish), individual SES, and individual Idea Proficiency Test moderate the relationship. The study included data analysis using quantitative methods for the 141 elementary schools in school district. A bivariate correlation of the Pearson Correlation value (r = -.021, p > .05) was used to test the relationship between the number of years in the ELL program and achievement results for third-grade student FCAT Reading proficiency and the moderator variables (elementary school size, ELL student count, school SES, student gender, student home language, individual SES, and IPT individual score). Later, a multiple regression was used to test the moderation hypotheses. The study found that the degree of relationship between the number of years students are in the ELL program and FCAT scores of Haitian-Creole- and Spanishspeaking English Language Learner students is higher as SES increases. As SES decreases, so does the relationship. Of the 1,204 records reviewed, 423 were classified as Haitian-Creole-speaking students versus 782 classified as Spanish-speaking students. Only 16% of the students scored a level 3-5 (passed as proficient) as opposed to 84% who scored a level 1-2 (non-proficient). The study reveals a need for further research to investigate the impact that ELLs’ SES as well as the school’s SES has on the school’s achievement.
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Date Issued: 2016
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004654, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004654
Subject Headings: English language -- Study and teaching -- Foreign speakers, School improvement programs -- Florida, Second language acquisition
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Closing the Loop: Student Leader Perceptions of Their Leadership Development at a State University.
Creator: Burke, Katie Gale, Floyd, Deborah L., Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: Collegiate leadership development opportunities that enhance student’s leadership skills are on the rise. This study sought to understand how students perceive their own leadership development prior to entering college and at an institution that has prioritized leadership development in recent years. Through this single-case study, 51 undergraduate student leaders completed a questionnaire that resulted in a descriptive student leader profile and open-ended responses. From those 51 students,...
Show moreCollegiate leadership development opportunities that enhance student’s leadership skills are on the rise. This study sought to understand how students perceive their own leadership development prior to entering college and at an institution that has prioritized leadership development in recent years. Through this single-case study, 51 undergraduate student leaders completed a questionnaire that resulted in a descriptive student leader profile and open-ended responses. From those 51 students, 14 were a part of focus groups. There were three focus groups in total with four, seven, and three participants respectively. From the 14 participants, five volunteered for individual interviews to identify their perceptions of their leadership development in their own words. The research questions for this study were: What are the inputs and environmental influences that shape college students’ leadership development output from the student perspective; and, how do college students describe and understand their leadership development? The descriptive profile and close-ended responses are reviewed in chapter four and report four major findings. The first finding was “Mom made me do it”: The Influence of Family and Experiences Precollege, and the second finding was The What and Who Behind These Students’ Leadership Development in College: Purposeful Experiences and People. The third finding was The Why Behind These College Students’ Engagement in Leadership Development, which encompassed four themes to describe the reasons these students’ are interested in leadership development: encouragement from others, aspirations, self-development, and motivation to support causes they have grown to want to serve and for which they want to develop. The fourth finding was Soft Skills - Not Clear in the Terminology of These Student Leaders, Clear in Their Behaviors and included ways of defining soft skills and the exemplification of student leaders’ soft skills. Conclusions and recommendations are offered in chapter six including the proposal of a new model, Closing the Loop in College, developed from the pattern of findings that emerged in this study inclusive of reflective meaning making in college as essential for these leaders’ development.
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Date Issued: 2017
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004997, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004987
Subject Headings: Dissertations, Academic -- Florida Atlantic University, State universities and colleges., Leadership., College students.
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Community College Baccalaureate Transitions in Florida: Student Affairs' Perspectives.
Creator: Antczak, Laura, Floyd, Deborah L., Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: Many changes are occurring in community colleges offering baccalaureate degrees across the nation, especially in the state of Florida where 24 of 28 colleges in the Florida College System are offering baccalaureate degrees. The impact of these institutions shifting their missions from associate to baccalaureate degree offerings is unknown on a key area of the college - Student Affairs. The purpose of this study was to describe and document the perceived changes in and lessons learned about...
Show moreMany changes are occurring in community colleges offering baccalaureate degrees across the nation, especially in the state of Florida where 24 of 28 colleges in the Florida College System are offering baccalaureate degrees. The impact of these institutions shifting their missions from associate to baccalaureate degree offerings is unknown on a key area of the college - Student Affairs. The purpose of this study was to describe and document the perceived changes in and lessons learned about Student Affairs programs at two large, multi-campus colleges in the Florida College System offering Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) and Bachelor of Science (BS) programs. The primary sources of data collected for this study were from 27 interviews with college administrators and staff and from 22 documents. District and campus-based administrators were selected based on their influence over, or knowledge of, Student Affairs programming at all degree levels and/or specifically at the baccalaureate degree level. Professional and support staff members were selected based on their direct involvement with the delivery or support of Student Affairs programs for baccalaureate students. The five major findings, based on a cross-case analysis, were (a) a focus on operations, (b) struggling with philosophical directions, (c) changes occurring in personnel and operational processes, (d) no change in several areas, and (e) lessons learned in cultural shift. This study concluded that the 2+2 admissions model is confusing to students, and it does not always allow for seamless financial aid coverage, which may be creating "leakages" in the community college baccalaureate (CCB) student success pipeline. Additional staff and resources are needed in the areas of admissions, recruitment, and advising. Several new and/or revised operational processes took place in the areas of admissions, recruitment, registration and records, and financial aid. Although student development theories still are seen as an important foundation of Student Affairs work, each college was struggling with their philosophical directions as a CCB institution. Finally, a majority of participants expressed a resistance to the change of becoming a CCB institution, not understanding if they still were a community college or if they were moving closer to becoming a 4-year university.
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Date Issued: 2015
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004476
Subject Headings: College personnell management, Community colleges -- Florida -- Administration, Community colleges -- Florida -- Administration, Degrees, Academic -- Florida, Education, Higher -- Aims and objectives, Student affairs services, Universities and colleges -- Florida -- Administration
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Does leadership matter?: the relationship of school leadership to a safe school climate,bullying, and fighting in middle school.
Creator: Leff, Jonathan M., Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this quantitative study was to determine if there is a relationship between transformational principal leadership style, a safe school climate, and school safety (specifically, the number of reported fights and reported bullying incidents) in Broward County, Florida’s middle schools. This study also investigated if a relationship exists between transformational leadership and a safe school climate, transformational leadership, and the number of bullying incidents and student...
Show moreThe purpose of this quantitative study was to determine if there is a relationship between transformational principal leadership style, a safe school climate, and school safety (specifically, the number of reported fights and reported bullying incidents) in Broward County, Florida’s middle schools. This study also investigated if a relationship exists between transformational leadership and a safe school climate, transformational leadership, and the number of bullying incidents and student fights, and a safe school climate and the number of bullying incidents and student fights. The study surveyed 12 middle schools located in a large, urban district in south Florida. Principal leadership style was determined from the MLQ-5X, school safety climate was determined from the school district’s Annual Customer Survey, and the reported number of fights and bullying incidents recorded in the school district’s Discipline Management System were collected via records request for each participating middle school and tallied. Pearson correlations were conducted to examine the bivariate association between the leadership dimensions, a safe school climate, and school violence. Separate multiple linear regression models were used to examine the following relationships: leadership style and the number of reported fights and reported bullying incidents; leadership style and a safe school climate; and a safe school climate and the number of reported fights and reported bullying incidents. The findings suggested that there were no statistically significant correlations between leadership style (transformational, transactional, and laissez-faire), and bullying or fighting, and no statistically significant correlation between principal leadership style and middle school climate. There was a statistically significant correlation found between school climate and the number of student fights. The significance of this finding is important because it illustrates the adverse impact fighting has on student safety, which, in turn, adversely affects the school climate. Therefore, it is up to the school leader to create a climate where everyone feels safe can focus on student achievement.
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Date Issued: 2014
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004133, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004133
Subject Headings: Bullying in schools -- Prevention, Education, Secondary -- Sociological aspects, Educational leadership, Educational leadership, Middle school students -- Attitudes, Middle school teachers -- Attitudes, School management and organization
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: District Leadership and Systemic Inclusion: A Case Study of One Inclusive, Effective School District.
Creator: Jekanowski, Elizabeth C., Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: Inclusion is a federal education policy in the United States that challenges educational leaders. Despite U.S. federal laws requiring an inclusive education for students with disabilities (SWD), educators continue to struggle to implement inclusion. Some scholars argue that leadership is the key to inclusion, with most studies focused on principal leadership. Successful inclusive districts are rare, as are studies of these districts. The purpose of this in-depth case study was to describe and...
Show moreInclusion is a federal education policy in the United States that challenges educational leaders. Despite U.S. federal laws requiring an inclusive education for students with disabilities (SWD), educators continue to struggle to implement inclusion. Some scholars argue that leadership is the key to inclusion, with most studies focused on principal leadership. Successful inclusive districts are rare, as are studies of these districts. The purpose of this in-depth case study was to describe and understand the leadership practices of SSSD (pseudonym), an inclusive (based on LRE ≥75% for three consecutive years) and effective district (based on district grades of As and Bs, state measures of student achievement) in Southeast Florida. Within SSSD, a purposeful sample of 31 participants was selected that included eight district leaders, three principals, 15 teachers, and five parents located at four sites and observed across three events over the span of one semester with multiple supporting documents analyzed. Four findings describing district leadership practices emerged from the data analysis; 1) a shared inclusive mission, 2) collaborative efforts, 3) formal and informal professional development (PD), and 4) acknowledging and addressing challenges. The practices of district leaders found in this study resonate with other findings in the literature and contribute two of the new findings in this study: 1) the superintendent’s attitudes, beliefs, and experiences as a special educator were described as key to her district’s inclusive focus and success and extends previous research connecting principal leadership to school site inclusion; and 2) informal versus formal PD was more beneficial to teachers in building collective capacity for inclusive service delivery—marking a new distinction within related PD literature. Recommendations to district leaders, policy makers, and scholars are included. The study concludes by encouraging educational leaders to cultivate a shared inclusive mission implemented through collaborative efforts. There is hope for inclusion, not only in theory, but in practice, mirroring the call of other district leadership studies of successful, systemic inclusion.
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Date Issued: 2017
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004815, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004815
Subject Headings: Educational leadership--Case studies., Inclusive education--Case studies., Children with disabilities--Education--United States--Case studies., School management and organization--Case studies., Action research in education--Case studies., Mainstreaming in education--Case studies.
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: A private school leadership perspective on highly qualified middle school science teachers.
Creator: Bogaski, Carolyn Siniscalchi, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to determine how Florida (FL) private, middle school (MS) leaders define highly qualified (HQ) MS science teachers, and how congruent their definitions are. The study also determines how congruent these leaders’ definitions are with FL, national, and National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) definitions. Lastly, the study determines the major challenges these private MS leaders have in hiring MS science teachers who meet the NSTA definition of HQ.
Date Issued: 2015
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004349, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004349
Subject Headings: Comparative education, Educational leadership, School management and organization, Science -- Study and teaching (Middle school)
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 Fork in the Road: Determining Factors for Diverse Students Choosing a Non-profit, Open-Access Institution Versus a For- Profit, Open-Access Institution.
Creator: Pacheco, Ruth E., Laanan, Frankie Santos, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: Community colleges and for-profit institutions are considered open-access institutions and serve a large proportion of the United States student population. Furthermore, research confirms that students who are minorities, disadvantaged, and nontraditional attend these institutions in greater numbers than highly selective institutions. However, little is known about how these students choose between these two types of open-access institutions. The purpose of this study was to acquire a deeper...
Show moreCommunity colleges and for-profit institutions are considered open-access institutions and serve a large proportion of the United States student population. Furthermore, research confirms that students who are minorities, disadvantaged, and nontraditional attend these institutions in greater numbers than highly selective institutions. However, little is known about how these students choose between these two types of open-access institutions. The purpose of this study was to acquire a deeper understanding of the discriminating factors that influence these pathways and determine a predictive model of choice that is generalizable to undergraduate students choosing to attend open-access institutions. The study used the undergraduate portion of the 2011- 2012 National Postsecondary Student Aid Study (NPSAS:12) as its data source. NPSAS:12 contains a sample of about 95,000 undergraduate and about 16,900 graduate students enrolled between July 1, 2011 and June 30, 2012 in approximately 1,690 Title IV-eligible institutions of higher education in the 50 states and the District of Columbia. The results of the study indicate that the odds are higher for students attending for-profit colleges and universities than public two-year colleges to: be female; have independent status (24 years of age or older); have dependents; be Black or African American, Hispanic or Latino, American Indian and Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian/other Pacific Islander; use higher amounts of financial aid; either not have a job or work fulltime; be less likely to attend college part-time; have higher college GPAs; and attend larger institutions. When restricting the sample for at-risk and non-traditional students, the odds for Hispanic and Latino and American Indian or Alaska Native students attending FPCUs increased, whereas the odds of Black or African American students attending FPCUs decreased. The results, implications for policy and practice, and recommendations for future research are discussed.
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Date Issued: 2017
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004811, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004811
Subject Headings: Multiculturalism--Education., Community college students., African American college students--United States., Hispanic American students--United States., Alaska Native college students--United States., Indian students--United States.
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: The Quest for Charter School Enrollment: Reported Innovations and Student Achievement.
Creator: Cabrera, Einav, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: Charter schools have often boasted about differentiating themselves in the educational marketplace. With today’s growing emphasis on student achievement, whether this differentiation has had a positive effect on student learning is still debatable. The purpose of this exploratory mixed-methods study was to establish if innovation is a reported practice in charter schools in Miami-Dade and Sarasota Counties in Florida and to determine if a relationship exists between innovation reporting and...
Show moreCharter schools have often boasted about differentiating themselves in the educational marketplace. With today’s growing emphasis on student achievement, whether this differentiation has had a positive effect on student learning is still debatable. The purpose of this exploratory mixed-methods study was to establish if innovation is a reported practice in charter schools in Miami-Dade and Sarasota Counties in Florida and to determine if a relationship exists between innovation reporting and student achievement as measured by Florida school grades. A qualitative analysis of School Improvement Plans and school websites for a 62 school sample was utilized. As well as a quantitative measure of the correlation between level of reported innovation in eight categories (organizational structure, ideology and culture, leadership models, professional development for teachers, curriculum, technology, parent involvement, and other) and student achievement, as measured by Florida’s school grade formula. The study found that charter schools in both counties reported innovation at high levels with only three schools reporting innovations in fewer than five categories of innovation. An examination of opposing forces of loose and rigid structure, autonomy and policy control, as well as creativity and standardization led to findings of less reported instances of innovation on average in schools with looser structure, autonomy, and creativity. Furthermore, Title I schools and high minority student population schools (≥50%) showed signs of innovation saturation, with no value added to student achievement (school grade averages) by reported innovation beyond a moderate level. Still, reported innovation level (overall categories of innovation) and student achievement (school grade averages) showed a negligible relationship (r = -.062). In conclusion, reported innovation existed in charter schools despite opposing forces, but was often similar across charter schools. In fact, past a moderate level of innovation, there was no value added to school grades for Title I and high minority charter schools. Yet, a weak, negative relationship existed between specific reported innovations in combination (professional development in pedagogy, tutoring programs, non-district behavior programs and incentive, and multiple levels) and student achievement (school grade averages) which can inform us on the nature of reporting.
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Date Issued: 2016
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004652, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004652
Subject Headings: Academic achievement, Alternative education, Charter schools, Educational change, Motivation in education, School choice
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The Relationship Between McGregor’s Leadership Theory and Happiness Among Higher Educational Leaders.
Creator: Sullivan, Jeannette S., Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this research was to determine if a relationship exists between McGregor’s Leadership Theory and subjective states of well-being among higher educational leaders in state and community colleges in Florida. The underlying supposition was that the preference for what Douglas McGregor called Theory X or Theory Y assumptions, indicate intrinsic assumptions about human nature and are linked to subjective happiness. Quantitative data were collected through electronic administration...
Show moreThe purpose of this research was to determine if a relationship exists between McGregor’s Leadership Theory and subjective states of well-being among higher educational leaders in state and community colleges in Florida. The underlying supposition was that the preference for what Douglas McGregor called Theory X or Theory Y assumptions, indicate intrinsic assumptions about human nature and are linked to subjective happiness. Quantitative data were collected through electronic administration of two surveys and demographic questions to higher educational leaders at 28 state and community colleges in the State of Florida. These instruments measured levels of well-being through the PERMA-Profiler instrument and preferences for Theory X or Theory Y using the Theory X and Theory Y Managerial Assumptions Inventory. Multiple correlation and regression analyses were used to address the research questions. This study detected no relationship between well-being and happiness in this sample.
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Date Issued: 2017
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004831, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004831
Subject Headings: Personnel management., Educational leadership., Quality of work life., Work--Psychological aspects., Happiness., Job satisfaction.
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The Impact of Voluntary Remediation on Gateway Course Success and Minority and Low-Income Students in Florida Colleges.
Creator: Pain, Karen D., Floyd, Deborah L., Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: The primary purpose of the study was to explore the potential impact of voluntary remediation on success in ENC1101 and MAT1033 (gateway courses) and on minority or low-income students in Florida. The study was prompted in 2013 when the Florida Senate exempted most students entering the Florida College System from placement testing or developmental education regardless of their skill level. A quantitative design compared the gateway course success of 10,703 exempt students in 2014 and 2015 to...
Show moreThe primary purpose of the study was to explore the potential impact of voluntary remediation on success in ENC1101 and MAT1033 (gateway courses) and on minority or low-income students in Florida. The study was prompted in 2013 when the Florida Senate exempted most students entering the Florida College System from placement testing or developmental education regardless of their skill level. A quantitative design compared the gateway course success of 10,703 exempt students in 2014 and 2015 to the success of 8,644 students who would have been exempt had the law been in effect when they completed their gateway courses in 2012 and 2013. Data were collected from three FCS institutions. Using Astin and Astin's 1992 Input-Environment-Outcome model (Astin & Astin, 1992), independent variables included demographics, such as race and Pell grant eligibility, and prior academic performance, as well as enrollment status and remedial course decisions and perf ormance. The study found the policy to have a statistically significant (α = .05) negative effect on student success in the gateway courses. The voluntary remediation policy that was in part enacted to improve college completion rates threatens to have the opposite effect. The results show that fewer proportions of students were successful (grade of C or higher) in both courses once remediation became voluntary (12.8% decrease for English; 19.3% decrease in math). The study revealed a need for further research to investigate the degree of this impact on minority and low-income students. The results also suggested a need for more research to learn which students are likely to benefit, or not, by taking a remedial course. Of the students in the study who voluntarily took a placement test and scored below credit level, 11.3% chose remediation before taking ENC1101 and 24.5% chose remediation before taking MAT1033. Of those students, most who earned an A or B in the remedial course were successful in the credit courses; most who did not earn at least a B in the remedial course were unsuccessful at the credit level. Results were significant (α = .05), and effect sizes were moderate (.344 for English; .430 for math).
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Date Issued: 2015
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004531, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004531
Subject Headings: Academic achievement -- United States -- Florida, Developmental studies programs -- United States -- Florida, Educational attainment -- United States -- Florida, Remedial teaching, School failure -- Prevention, Universities and colleges -- Florida -- Administration
Format: Document (PDF)

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