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Title: Doing No Harm: Perceptions of Peer Coach Training at a State College.
Creator: Sullivan, Jeannette S., Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia, Floyd, Deborah L., Graduate College
Abstract/Description: Drawing from the wildly successful use of the executive coaching model in the private sector, this session will describe how one public institution created their own coaching program, and equipped not faculty or administration, but rather students to coach each other. This study explored the motivation of the coaches to devote their time to this effort without financial reward or recognition. The presenter designed, proposed, promoted, and instituted s2s Coaching. The purpose of this case...
Show moreDrawing from the wildly successful use of the executive coaching model in the private sector, this session will describe how one public institution created their own coaching program, and equipped not faculty or administration, but rather students to coach each other. This study explored the motivation of the coaches to devote their time to this effort without financial reward or recognition. The presenter designed, proposed, promoted, and instituted s2s Coaching. The purpose of this case study was to explore the perspective of student coaches in the s2s Coaching program at Palm Beach State College following completion of training in the spring term of 2013. An additional research question was to assess the coaches’ perspective of the coach training and their motivation or interest in becoming a student coach. Lastly, the recommendations of the coaches for future coach training sessions are assessed. Coaches were interviewed and document review was included in the methodology. Among the findings that emerged was the discomfort that the coaches felt in maintaining a professional or institutional role while delving into potentially personal matters, which in their normal discourse would make them a friend. This fuzzy line between coach and friend engendered discussion and recommendations for future training and discussion of this topic with the other coaches. The findings are revealed by a discussion of these categories.
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Date Issued: 2014
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005854
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The puzzle of transformation: Becoming a nurse practitioner.
Creator: Siccardi, Patricia Mahoney., Florida Atlantic University, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to provide introductory knowledge about the value of narrative methods of teaching nurse practitioners and their transition to advanced practice. According to this study, becoming a nurse practitioner requires a paradigm shift. It demands that nurse practitioners remain grounded in nursing and yet, integrate enhanced critical thinking, diagnostic reasoning, and holistic humanistic caring. It was determined that the transition to the nurse practitioner role begins...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to provide introductory knowledge about the value of narrative methods of teaching nurse practitioners and their transition to advanced practice. According to this study, becoming a nurse practitioner requires a paradigm shift. It demands that nurse practitioners remain grounded in nursing and yet, integrate enhanced critical thinking, diagnostic reasoning, and holistic humanistic caring. It was determined that the transition to the nurse practitioner role begins during the formal learning program and continues for several years after graduation. There is a learning curve involved in the transformation. Creating a new identity occurred slowly and incrementally over time as a result of continuous learning. Students and graduates often felt frightened and alone in their new role. According to the findings of this study, becoming a nurse practitioner requires a transformation. The following four processes or meta-themes describe the transformation: (1) A learning process: Continuous learning; (2) A problem solving process: Putting the pieces together; (3) A challenging process: A time of transition; and (4) A socialization process: Expanding one's identity. Participants identified the metaphor of a puzzle to symbolize the transformation they experienced. The puzzle represents the challenge of putting together the pieces of learning and the change involved in the transformation from registered nurse to nurse practitioner. The conclusions suggest that learning the diagnostic reasoning skills required in primary care practice is enhanced by using narratives. The conclusions indicate that stories and case studies are useful methods for teaching the process of assessment, diagnosis, and treatment needed by nurse practitioners. Case studies improve critical thinking and problem solving skills. Stories help nurse practitioners remain grounded in humanistic nursing practice and focused on the therapeutic relationship. This study determined that the essential quality that makes both of these methods valuable for learning is the ability to encourage critical thinking through dialogue and discussion.
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Date Issued: 1999
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12598
Subject Headings: Nurse practitioners--Education, Problem-based learning, Critical thinking
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The adaptability of academic advising teams in higher education.
Creator: McFarland, Leigh A., Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia, Graduate College
Date Issued: 2011-04-08
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/3164628
Subject Headings: Faculty advisors, Education, Higher, Universities and colleges
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: A case study of planning and implementing whole-school reform at a middle school.
Creator: Abramowitz, Rochelle., Florida Atlantic University, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate the dilemmas of planning and implementing whole-school reform in a middle school from the perception of administrators, teachers and parents. A qualitative case study approach was used. Data collection included interviews, observations, and document analysis. Interviews with 28 participants were divided into three consecutive sessions conducted from the bottom up in terms of the hierarchy of power in the organization. Data were transcribed, coded,...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to investigate the dilemmas of planning and implementing whole-school reform in a middle school from the perception of administrators, teachers and parents. A qualitative case study approach was used. Data collection included interviews, observations, and document analysis. Interviews with 28 participants were divided into three consecutive sessions conducted from the bottom up in terms of the hierarchy of power in the organization. Data were transcribed, coded, triangulated, and analyzed to understand the views of participants. The study resulted in three major findings: (a) The principal enhanced the learning organization's capacity for whole-school reform by balancing tensions and conflicts; (b) Implementing a high-stakes testing regime and reform design simultaneously contributed to teacher overload, and reduced the capacity of teachers to implement whole-school reform; and, (c) Learning communities had a pivotal role in fostering collaboration for whole-school reform. The study concluded that: (a) Principal leadership is vital to successful whole-school reform implementation; (b) The crucial challenge of principals in whole-school reform is forging a network of strong relationships within and across staff work teams and the community through the development of learning communities and professional development; and, (c) Whole-school reform must be balanced with and adapted to accountability system if it is to have a chance of succeeding.
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Date Issued: 2004
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12080
Subject Headings: Middle school education, Educational change, Educational leadership, School management and organization
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Attitudes of urban high school mathematics teachers toward the mandate requiring algebra for high school graduation.
Creator: Gray, Noel Constantine., Florida Atlantic University, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to determine if urban high school mathematics teachers' attitudes toward the algebra mandate could be predicted by the variables: years of teaching mathematics, college major, highest college degree, gender, and ethnicity. Toward this end, the Attitude Toward the Algebra Mandate Survey (TATAMS) was administered to 98 high school mathematics teachers drawn from a total population of 493 who were employed by the School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida, during...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to determine if urban high school mathematics teachers' attitudes toward the algebra mandate could be predicted by the variables: years of teaching mathematics, college major, highest college degree, gender, and ethnicity. Toward this end, the Attitude Toward the Algebra Mandate Survey (TATAMS) was administered to 98 high school mathematics teachers drawn from a total population of 493 who were employed by the School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida, during the 1998--1999 School Year. The study was carried out in June 1999, roughly 20 months after the mandate became effect in Florida. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to test each hypothesis and to provide a model that was. predict of teacher attitudes. Five null hypotheses were formed to determine if there were significant relationships between teacher attitudes toward the algebra mandate and the aforementioned variables. The results of the tests of five null hypotheses showed that the hypotheses that involved years of teaching mathematics and ethnicity was rejected. These five predictor variables accounted for 27% of the variance in teacher attitudes. The inference drawn from the study was that the negative attitudes of veteran White teachers and the positive attitudes of Hispanic teachers toward the mandate appear to have their roots in political and social considerations. Black teachers, on the other hand, have never challenged for the power in the district and are moderate in their attitudes toward the mandate.
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Date Issued: 2000
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12623
Subject Headings: Mathematics teachers--Attitudes, High schools--Graduation requirements, Mathematics--Study and teaching, Algebra
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Cultural sensitivity of novice and experienced teachers of English to speakers of other languages.
Creator: Belli, Gregory Charles, Florida Atlantic University, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this survey study was to measure and compare the levels of cultural sensitivity of novice and experienced teachers of ESOL in the public schools of Palm Beach County, Florida, as measured by Margaret L. Ford's Teacher-Student Interaction Instrument (TSI). Correlational statistics (t-tests, ANOVA's, crosstabulations, c2 significance tests, and multiple regression analysis) were used to determine: (1) if novice and experienced ESOL teachers were distributed differently along...
Show moreThe purpose of this survey study was to measure and compare the levels of cultural sensitivity of novice and experienced teachers of ESOL in the public schools of Palm Beach County, Florida, as measured by Margaret L. Ford's Teacher-Student Interaction Instrument (TSI). Correlational statistics (t-tests, ANOVA's, crosstabulations, c2 significance tests, and multiple regression analysis) were used to determine: (1) if novice and experienced ESOL teachers were distributed differently along Banks' levels of ethnicity, as measured by the TSI, (2) whether four demographic variables (age, gender, regional tenure, and ethnic group identification) were significantly correlated to TSI scores, and (3) if the demographic variables and teacher experience were significantly correlated with TSI score in a predictor model. The responses of 126 elementary and secondary ESOL teachers who completed the 42 item Likert scale questionnaire and seven biodata items, were used to do the analyses. The predominant TSI scores of respondents were in the categories of Biethnicity and Multiethnicity, with only 8.7% in level three, Ethnic Identity Clarification; and no respondents were in the guardedly ethnocentric lower levels, Ethnic Psychological Captivity and Ethnic Encapsulation. No statistically significant correlations were obtained in the comparison of each variable with TSI score (level of ethnicity ) or combined in the multiple predictor model. The higher percentages and ranges of TSI scores than previously reported in the literature appear to confirm the efficacy of: (1) the inclusion of core courses in multicultural education in teacher preparation programs, (2) the continued requirement of 30 to 300 hours of multicultural education workshops for inservice teachers, and (3) the use of the TSI as a survey instrument, a screening tool to indicate levels of cultural sensitivity, or as an item bank for fruitful discussion among teachers on matters relating to cultural diversity. Research suggests that the variables examined in this study may be used more effectively as predictors of cultural sensitivity if an additional measure of previous multicultural experience is also obtained.
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Date Issued: 1999
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12589
Subject Headings: English teachers, Multicultural education, Teachers--Training of
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Factors That Influence African American Males to Become Public School Teachers.
Creator: Howard, Thomas E., Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia, Florida Atlantic University
Abstract/Description: This study was designed to investigate the career choice factors that influenced African American males to become public school teachers. The sample consisted of 122 African American male teachers and administrators who were employed in Florida's Public School System at the time of this study. This quantitative study utilized a computerized cross-sectional survey as the design. Twenty-one intrinsic and extrinsic career choice factors were examined using descriptive and inferential statistics,...
Show moreThis study was designed to investigate the career choice factors that influenced African American males to become public school teachers. The sample consisted of 122 African American male teachers and administrators who were employed in Florida's Public School System at the time of this study. This quantitative study utilized a computerized cross-sectional survey as the design. Twenty-one intrinsic and extrinsic career choice factors were examined using descriptive and inferential statistics, including independent sample t tests and ANOVA to determine the significance of their effects. Results of the study revealed that all twenty-one career choice factors influenced African American males in their decision to become public school teachers. However, the level of influence of intrinsic career choice factors (i.e., opportunity to work with children, importance of teaching and contribution to society) was significantly higher than the level of influence of extrinsic career choice factors (i.e., salary, advancement opportunities and fringe benefits) on the career choice decisions of African American male public school teachers. For educational and political leaders at the national, state and local levels, these findings may provide them with valuable information to consider as they develop recruitment strategies aimed at increasing the number of African American male public school teachers.
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Date Issued: 2007
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00000669
Subject Headings: African American educators--United States, Multicultural education--United States, Minority teachers--Recruiting, Teaching--Vocational guidance
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: How Community College Nursing Faculty View Service Learning Integration.
Creator: Norris, Shelby D., Guglielmino, Lucy M., Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia, Florida Atlantic University
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to explore the attitudes and experiences of community college nursing faculty related to the integration of service learning. An exploratory case study was conducted at three Florida community college nursing programs. The data were collected primarily through structured interviews with 14 community college nursing professors, three nursing administrators, and one service learning coordinator along with document analysis and site observation. The researcher posed...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to explore the attitudes and experiences of community college nursing faculty related to the integration of service learning. An exploratory case study was conducted at three Florida community college nursing programs. The data were collected primarily through structured interviews with 14 community college nursing professors, three nursing administrators, and one service learning coordinator along with document analysis and site observation. The researcher posed six research questions related to service learning integration. These six questions addressed: (a) the differentiation of service programs at the three sites, (b) the meaning of service learning, (c) faculty motivation to use service learning, (d) institutional supports needed by nursing faculty, (e) the obstacles that nursing faculty face, and (f) the strategies they use to overcome them. The major conclusions were that community college nursing faculty members are vital to the integration of service learning and need training in service learning procedures. Service learning has potential for further development in community college nursing programs and may lead to a perspective change in how nursing students view the social dynamics of nursing. Time and workload obstacles, along with confusion regarding service learning, clinicals and community service have contributed to the slow growth of SL in nursing programs. There is a need for new models to guide service learning integration in nursing education. Two models for integration of service learning into community college nursing are offered. Recommendations for practice, educational leadership and further research are presented.
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Date Issued: 2007
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00000684
Subject Headings: Nursing--Study and teaching, Nurses--In-service training--Evaluation, Mentoring in education, Community health nursing--Study and teaching
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: On-site technology coordinators and their impact on the achievement of technology standards in Broward County, Florida, public schools.
Creator: Montes, Steven J., Florida Atlantic University, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia, Morris, John D.
Abstract/Description: Studying the relationship between the achievement of technology standards and the availability of on-site support will help educational leaders prepare and modify individual and district-wide technology plans in the years ahead. There are many factors influencing success rates in attaining these standards, including the availability of hardware and software, the adequacy of the equipment, and the amount of training provided to teachers. The relationships between the predictor variable, on...
Show moreStudying the relationship between the achievement of technology standards and the availability of on-site support will help educational leaders prepare and modify individual and district-wide technology plans in the years ahead. There are many factors influencing success rates in attaining these standards, including the availability of hardware and software, the adequacy of the equipment, and the amount of training provided to teachers. The relationships between the predictor variable, on-site support and the dependent variables, hardware, software, training, integration, and networking were investigated using correlation analysis in the 190 public schools of Broward County, Florida. The relationships between the additional predictor variables of socioeconomic status and school level and the dependent variables were also examined. An alpha level of.01 was used for all statistical tests. Correlations were found to be significant (p<.01) between on-site support (N=190) and the dependent variables, hardware (r=.338), software (r=.563), training (r=.451), integration (r=.432), and networking (r=.315). Correlations between socioeconomic status (n=174) and school level (N=190) and the dependent variables were found not to be significant (p<.01). The study confirmed that increased levels of technological support helped public schools in Broward County realize greater success in achieving specific technology standards. Educational leaders should consider these findings significant when staffing schools and centers. Further, the socioeconomic status of a school did not influence the achievement of technology standards in the sample. This indicated that schools in this study had access to hardware, software, training, and other resources at a level equal to each other. Broward County policymakers seemed to have succeeded with their efforts to ensure that all schools had access to the funds and other resources needed to meet the locally established standards of technology.
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Date Issued: 1998
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12565
Subject Headings: Computer technical support, Educational technology, Public schools--Florida--Broward County
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Principals' perceptions of professional learning communities.
Creator: Ball, Louise A., Florida Atlantic University, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia
Abstract/Description: This multi-site case study focused on principals who participated in a unique professional development model: a learning community. The study was twofold. First, research was conducted in order to describe the experiences and perceptions of principals involved in a professional learning community and second, to understand how participation in a professional learning community influences principals' thinking and leadership practice. This inquiry was conducted in two districts located in the...
Show moreThis multi-site case study focused on principals who participated in a unique professional development model: a learning community. The study was twofold. First, research was conducted in order to describe the experiences and perceptions of principals involved in a professional learning community and second, to understand how participation in a professional learning community influences principals' thinking and leadership practice. This inquiry was conducted in two districts located in the northeast and southeast parts of the United States. The sample consisted of twenty-one participants: sixteen principals, four learning community coaches, and one administrative director. Data was collected from 21 interviews, 39 hours of observations, and 66 documents. The study revealed nine major findings. The research found that the learning community provided a new level of professional development for principals and eliminated isolation. It was found that the demands of the principal's position limit the depth of involvement. The role of the learning community coach is significant. It was also found that challenges exist in sustaining the learning community. Goals of the learning community emerged as the group developed and perceptions of principals' work varied. Further, membership in the learning community fostered the principal's role as lead staff developer. Finally, there was evidence that changed professional practice and thinking exists for principals who participated in the learning community. Recommendations for design, establishing a system of accountability, promoting district and state support, and future research are provided. The design of the learning community needs a clearer, more defined role of the principal. A system of accountability, including documentation and evidence of improved performance may assist by giving credibility to the model. Documentation and evidence may also enlist the support of the district and state, which is greatly needed for sustaining this model. Finally, further research is needed regarding professional development for principals, particularly learning communities.
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Date Issued: 2004
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12074
Subject Headings: Career development, Educational leadership, School principals
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Why they leave: A study of Jewish day school administrators who left Jewish education.
Creator: Raab, Yaron Roni, Florida Atlantic University, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to determine turnover trends of administrators in Florida's Jewish day schools, and to ascertain the reasons Jewish day school administrators leave the field despite the demand for professionals in that field. The study fills a gap in available data and research in this area, and helps shed light on a serious leadership crisis in Jewish education from the perspective of the administrators. A survey of documents and a series of interviews with school officials...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to determine turnover trends of administrators in Florida's Jewish day schools, and to ascertain the reasons Jewish day school administrators leave the field despite the demand for professionals in that field. The study fills a gap in available data and research in this area, and helps shed light on a serious leadership crisis in Jewish education from the perspective of the administrators. A survey of documents and a series of interviews with school officials revealed that 105 administrative positions turned over in Florida's 36 Jewish day schools during the 1994-2004 school years. A third of those who left their positions opted to leave the field of day school administration entirely. Utilizing qualitative methodology, the researcher interviewed 11 of the administrators who left. The study found that day school administrators who leave the field are motivated and growth-oriented individuals who do not actualize their personal challenges in the field. Day school administrators who leave are disillusioned by what they find in the day school system, from the way administrators are treated by the various constituents of the school to the values under which the day school system operates. The study also found that there are no clear predictors of which administrators will leave the field; however, circumstances that lead to departure are similar.
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Date Issued: 2006
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12199
Subject Headings: Jewish day schools--Florida--Administration, Jewish religious education--Administration, School management and organization, Burn out (Psychology)
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The application of Bowen Family Systems Theory to the high school principalship.
Creator: Gottlieb, David G., Florida Atlantic University, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this multi-ease qualitative study was to examine the application of Bowen Family Systems Theory to the high school principalship. More than eighty interviews were conducted of twenty-five participants from the Sun County School District (a pseudonym). The questions pursued related to how a working knowledge of Bowen Family Systems Theory (BFST) could help principals understand the following: their schools as a system, their leadership roles in their schools as a system, and how...
Show moreThe purpose of this multi-ease qualitative study was to examine the application of Bowen Family Systems Theory to the high school principalship. More than eighty interviews were conducted of twenty-five participants from the Sun County School District (a pseudonym). The questions pursued related to how a working knowledge of Bowen Family Systems Theory (BFST) could help principals understand the following: their schools as a system, their leadership roles in their schools as a system, and how to become more effective in their schools as a system. Beside a review of the problems affecting the principalship practice in this country, was an analysis of systems theories generally and BFST specifically. This study also included a review of leadership generally and educational leadership specifically. Six BFST elements were used as a coding platform to explicate more than twenty stories collected from the thick, rich data in this research. This study concludes that a working knowledge of BFST may help some principals in achieving more effective solutions in their practice. BFST offers the principal a theoretical platform from which to operate. Principals who have a working knowledge of BFST can understand the significance of their leadership roles not only in terms of their schools as systems, but also in terms of their schools as parts of a larger societal system and process. The recommendations from this study include the suggestion that BFST can help provide structure and strategies to help the principal navigate educational leadership challenges for greater success in the school system. Principal development through BFST could help school districts diminish and abate high levels of principal turnover and burnout. Local school districts in concert with local universities could include programs in BFST for educational leadership development for principals. While BFST may not be a silver bullet for the high school principalship practice, it could offer greater understanding in considering the educational leader as a helmsman of education. It could help foster and forge partnerships with other disciplines by inviting their leaders to be participants in the educational system called school---in which they are already stakeholders in the larger societal system and societal process. This is the prescience, promise, and potential of the applicability of BFST to the high school principalship.
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Date Issued: 2001
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/11943
Subject Headings: Bowen, Murray,--1913-1990, High school principals--United States--Case studies, High schools--United States--Administration--Case studies, Educational leadership--United States--Case studies
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The impact of block scheduling on academic achievement and the perceptions of teachers and administrators in selected South Florida high schools.
Creator: Cosimano, Michael, Florida Atlantic University, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia, Decker, Larry E.
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of scheduling alternatives on (a) student achievement, student behavior, and attendance rates and (b) teacher and administrator perceptions. Archival data for student achievement, behavior, and attendance were obtained from the Palm Beach County School District. Perceptions of teachers and administrators were obtained through data collected from questionnaires administered through participating schools in this study. The research took...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to determine the impact of scheduling alternatives on (a) student achievement, student behavior, and attendance rates and (b) teacher and administrator perceptions. Archival data for student achievement, behavior, and attendance were obtained from the Palm Beach County School District. Perceptions of teachers and administrators were obtained through data collected from questionnaires administered through participating schools in this study. The research took place at three high schools using either 4 x 4, A/B, or modified block schedules and two high schools using traditional schedules. The block-scheduled schools were used in a similar study in 1996 after 1 year of implementation. The current study investigated the impact of block scheduling for year 1 (1996) and year 6 (2001). Perceptions toward block scheduling were obtained from teachers and administrators working in the three block-scheduled schools. The findings in this study support prior research which found that block scheduling may enhance student achievement levels in reading, writing and mathematics. Based on the findings, it appears that the modified block schedule may be a better choice over the 4 x 4 and the A/B schedules in terms of increasing student achievement, decreasing student behavior problems, and increasing student attendance rates. Tentative findings on the perceptions of teachers and administrators appeared to indicate a preference toward remaining on the block schedule over the traditional schedule.
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Date Issued: 2004
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12090
Subject Headings: Academic achievement, School management and organization
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The effect of short term isokinetic training on limb velocity.
Creator: Brown, Lee Edward, Florida Atlantic University, Whitehurst, Michael, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia
Abstract/Description: Strength increases following short-term bouts of isokinetic training have been demonstrated in the past without regard to limb velocity adaptations. This has been attributed to increased neuromotoric efficiency, rather than peripheral muscular hypertrophy. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a short-term isokinetic training regimen on limb velocity. Sixty subjects volunteered to participate and were randomly assigned to one of three groups; control (10 males, 10 females)...
Show moreStrength increases following short-term bouts of isokinetic training have been demonstrated in the past without regard to limb velocity adaptations. This has been attributed to increased neuromotoric efficiency, rather than peripheral muscular hypertrophy. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a short-term isokinetic training regimen on limb velocity. Sixty subjects volunteered to participate and were randomly assigned to one of three groups; control (10 males, 10 females), slow (10 males, 10 females) and fast (10 males, 10 females). Each group was pre-tested by performing five repetitions of concentric/concentric knee extension/flexion movements at 60 and 240 d/s on a Kin-Com isokinetic dynamometer. The slow (60 d/s) and fast (240 d/s) groups then completed two days of training (separated by 48--72 hours) consisting of three sets of eight repetitions while the control group did not train. All groups were post-tested at 7--9 days after the pre-test. Data were collected from the middle three repetitions at 1000 Hz and separated into three velocity ROM phases of acceleration (ACCROM), load range (LR) and deceleration (DCCROM) along with peak force. Four univariate (ACCROM, LR, DCCROM & Force) four-way (2 velocities x 2 genders x 2 times x 3 groups) mixed factorial ANOVA's were performed to analyze the data. Results demonstrated significant decreases in ACCROM and increases in LR between pre and post-tests for the slow group at the slow velocity (ACCROM-1.25 +/- .04 deg vs 1.08 +/- .03 deg; LR-74.80 +/- .11 deg vs 75.35 +/- .09 deg) and for the fast group at the fast velocity (ACCROM-14.24 +/- .33 deg vs 13.59 +/- .29 deg; LR-39.73 +/- .32 deg vs 40.59 +/- .25 deg). Force and DCCROM exhibited no significant differences between testing days for any group. These results collectively point to short-term isokinetic training resulting in velocity specific increased limb velocity. These acute improvements may be explained as the result of neural adaptations, such as increased motor unit recruitment or firing rate, rather than hypertrophic responses due to the relatively short duration of the training stimulus. Furthermore, these accelerative increases produce a more rapid rate of force development which may be important in activities necessitating explosive movement, including sporting events requiring power.
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Date Issued: 2000
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12641
Subject Headings: Exercise--Physiological aspects, Isokinetic exercise
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The impact of reading instructional methodology on student achievement of Black males based on the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test.
Creator: Hicks, Deedara., Florida Atlantic University, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia
Abstract/Description: For the past 20 years the gap in reading achievement has widened between Black and White students across the United States. The No Child Left Behind Act and the Florida A+ Plan require that all students meet proficiency on state-mandated assessments. As individual schools struggle to meet these guidelines, no student can be left behind. The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of two different reading instructional methodologies on the 2004 fourth-grade FCAT norm-referenced test ...
Show moreFor the past 20 years the gap in reading achievement has widened between Black and White students across the United States. The No Child Left Behind Act and the Florida A+ Plan require that all students meet proficiency on state-mandated assessments. As individual schools struggle to meet these guidelines, no student can be left behind. The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of two different reading instructional methodologies on the 2004 fourth-grade FCAT norm-referenced test (NRT) for Black males. The reading instructional methodologies examined in this study, Harcourt Basal Series and SRA Direct Instruction Program, have been used in Broward County Schools for the past several years. After instruction with either program from Grades 2 through 4, the fourth-grade Black males were administered the FCAT NRT Reading Test during the Spring of 2004. ANOVA statistical analysis was utilized to determine if the program had any effect on the students' achievement in reading as measured by the FCAT. For Basal schools (92 students) and Direct Instruction schools (84 students) means were calculated on the overall scores and the four subtests of the FCAT Reading NRT: Initial Understanding, Interpretation, Critical Analysis, and Strategies. A two-way ANOVA was performed to test for moderation of language and/or birth origin and the FCAT Reading NRT. This study found that there was no statistical significance on FCAT total scores or Subtests---Initial Understanding, Interpretation, or Strategies---for Black males using the Basal or Direct Instruction program. However, student achievement increased on the Critical Analysis subtest of the FCAT NRT for Black males who received Basal Instruction. The study also found that students' primary language or birth origin did not moderate the effectiveness of the instructional program. This study suggests that educators must examine other programs to adequately address Black male students' needs in reading. They may use a Basal, however, for instruction with Black males when Critical Analysis is weak.
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Date Issued: 2006
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12213
Subject Headings: Educational tests and measurements--Florida, Competency-based educational tests--Florida, Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test, African American young men--Education, Academic achievement--United States--Evaluation
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: A comparative study of elementary character education programs and their levels of alignment to Florida state statute.
Creator: Daniels, Margaret Cullen., Florida Atlantic University, Kussrow, Paul G., Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia
Abstract/Description: Since the shots rang out in Columbine, the call for the return of character education in our schools has been heard all across the United States. After the September 11th travesty, the call became a cry! Nearly every state across the nation is listening. In 2002 Florida legislators strengthened the 1999 character education legislation by mandating instruction of nine core ethical values: citizenship, cooperation, honesty, kindness, patriotism, respect, responsibility, self-control and...
Show moreSince the shots rang out in Columbine, the call for the return of character education in our schools has been heard all across the United States. After the September 11th travesty, the call became a cry! Nearly every state across the nation is listening. In 2002 Florida legislators strengthened the 1999 character education legislation by mandating instruction of nine core ethical values: citizenship, cooperation, honesty, kindness, patriotism, respect, responsibility, self-control and tolerance. In 2005, the Florida Department of Education released a technical assistance paper to help Florida school districts assess their compliance to four requirements: correlation to sunshine state standards and benchmarks, inclusion of kindergarten through twelfth grade, correlation to all reading initiatives, and promotion of Florida's nine core ethical values. The purpose of this study was to determine: (a) the extent to which character education programs are in use by Florida school districts, (b) the extent to which the content of character education programs align with the content of popular character education programs used throughout the state of Florida, (c) the relationship between the cost and content of character education programs and (d) the extent to which Florida core ethical core values align with the core ethical values legislated across the country. Descriptive analysis showed that 40 states, including Florida, encourage character education instruction in legislation. In 19 of these states, current legislation mandates the instruction of specific core ethical values. Clearly, the state legislators who have mandated specific character education values within their character education legislation have put a sudden end, at least in their home states, to the debate over whose and what values should be embraced. Survey results showed that nearly all of the Florida school districts have begun the important work of character education in their schools. Results also identified the most popular-publisher produced character education programs used across the state. Using Florida's nine core values as the desired content for character education programs, the tables of content were assessed to determine program content. Content analysis showed that none of the programs identified in the 2002 statute align completely with the Florida character education legislation. Implementation cost of the most popular publisher produced character education programs varied between $450 and $5000 for every 500 elementary students. No significant correlation was discovered between cost and content of character education programs. Finally, to address cost factor and alignment requirement to preferred Florida traits, this study recommends that school districts develop an inexpensive homegrown character program similar to the one in Palm Beach County. The study also recommends that content analysis of character education legislation can be used to set the standard for character education instruction in any state across the country. With the standard in place, comparison of state legislation with popular character education programs can be determined. Moreover, this study informs educators everywhere of their right and responsibility to teach ethical values. Educators need not fear character education. In fact, they should be fearful if they do not begin the important work of educating for character.
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Date Issued: 2005
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12146
Subject Headings: Moral education--Government policy--Florida, Moral education--Curricula--Florida, Moral education--Study and teaching--Florida, Students--Florida--Conduct of life
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: An exploration of the effectiveness of a phase approach to nutrition counseling using the transtheoretical and brief intervention models.
Creator: Grant, Kaye-Ann., Florida Atlantic University, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia
Abstract/Description: Registered dietitians, while knowledgeable in food and nutrition, are also intrinsically educators, a role that is now receiving in-depth exploration. As nutrition educators or counselors, dietitians have been stereotyped as food cops (Licavoli, 1995, p. 751); that is, individuals who provide the dos and don'ts list. Research in the area of nutrition education may foster movement away from this stereotype. The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of traditional nutrition...
Show moreRegistered dietitians, while knowledgeable in food and nutrition, are also intrinsically educators, a role that is now receiving in-depth exploration. As nutrition educators or counselors, dietitians have been stereotyped as food cops (Licavoli, 1995, p. 751); that is, individuals who provide the dos and don'ts list. Research in the area of nutrition education may foster movement away from this stereotype. The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of traditional nutrition counseling with stage-matched nutrition counseling by registered dietitians using clients in acute care settings while measuring behavioral and cognitive change outcomes. An experimental design using randomly assigned subjects to a control and two experimental groups was utilized. A pretest-posttest design was employed with a 3 month interval between the pretest and posttest. The treatment variables consisted of stage-matched intervention with feedback and stage-matched intervention without feedback. Subjects were recruited from the patient population of dietitians employed in the fourth largest public health care system in the United States based in Broward County, Florida. Two training sessions lasting 2 hours each focused on stage-matched intervention, and the research protocol was provided to prepare dietitians to work with the experimental groups. The small sample size limited the ability to generalize the findings, and interpretation of the study results was done within the context of this limitation. This study indicated the following trends: (a) subjects exposed to the NRCQ and the FRAMES model of intervention improved significantly from preintervention to postintervention compared with subjects not exposed; (b) prior to intervention, the majority of subjects were classified in Preaction Stages and postintervention classified in the Action Stage; (c) stage-matched changes were correlated with body mass index; and (d) there was no difference indicated in nutrient intake between subjects in the control and the experimental groups. Findings at this level were encouraging and consistent with the concepts of the transtheoretical model of change (TTM) and the FRAMES model. The TTM continues to be a growing area in the field of nutrition, and dietitians should receive early educational exposure so that it becomes an accepted part of the practice domain.
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Date Issued: 2004
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FADT12117
Subject Headings: Nutrition counseling, Food habits, Nutrition disorders, Clinical health psychology, Health--Psychological aspects
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Instructional leadership: Principals making a difference with high-poverty and minority populations to improve instruction and increase student achievement.
Creator: Hopkins, Julie., Florida Atlantic University, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia
Abstract/Description: The purpose of the study was to examine instructional leadership through an in-depth multi-case study of three high poverty and high minority elementary school sites where the principals had been identified as instructional leaders. The study identified how schools with unique populations practiced instructional leadership and compared the methods used to the six standards described by the NAESP. In addition, the research identified actions of instructional leaders used to enhance school...
Show moreThe purpose of the study was to examine instructional leadership through an in-depth multi-case study of three high poverty and high minority elementary school sites where the principals had been identified as instructional leaders. The study identified how schools with unique populations practiced instructional leadership and compared the methods used to the six standards described by the NAESP. In addition, the research identified actions of instructional leaders used to enhance school improvement efforts in schools serving high poverty and high minority populations while contributing to the understanding of the principal's role as an instructional leader. The three findings were: that the elementary school principals leading high minority and high poverty schools each incorporated the six standards set by the NAESP to improve instruction and student achievement; each of the principals implemented the NAESP standards based on the specific needs of their schools by using a reframing process to assess the context and identify which standards to focus on; and principals were reflective and responded to the needs of the environment by shifting leadership roles. The findings in this study were based on interviews of teachers and principals, observations of both formal and informal meetings, and review of school documents. Based upon the three findings, the following three conclusions resulted from the study. First, the six NAESP Standards provide a foundation of practice for what principals need to know and be able to implement in order to become effective instructional leaders. Second, instructional leadership is a flexible, not a stagnant model. Third, the use of reflective practice is essential for providing the flexibility in the thinking that is needed to reframe the six NAESP Standards to fit the unique context and lead a school toward continued improvement. Building an effective foundation using the six NAESP Standards is contingent upon the principal applying a focus on the standards that will contribute the most to student achievement and being able to be a reflective practitioner demonstrating flexibility in both thinking and leadership roles.
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Date Issued: 2006
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12190
Subject Headings: Educational leadership--United States, School improvement programs--United States, Elementary school principals--United States, Poor children--Education--United States
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: A study of transformational leadership and student achievement in inner-city elementary schools.
Creator: Bonaros, Demetrios James, Florida Atlantic University, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to establish an empirical link between transformational leadership and student achievement measured by the Florida Comprehensive Achievement Test. In addition, the relationship between transformational leadership and increased levels of teacher satisfaction, willingness to give extra effort, perceptions of principal effectiveness were examined. This study took place in 21 elementary inner-city schools of the Miami-Dade County Public Schools district. Two hundred...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to establish an empirical link between transformational leadership and student achievement measured by the Florida Comprehensive Achievement Test. In addition, the relationship between transformational leadership and increased levels of teacher satisfaction, willingness to give extra effort, perceptions of principal effectiveness were examined. This study took place in 21 elementary inner-city schools of the Miami-Dade County Public Schools district. Two hundred ten personalized packets were delivered to the teachers of the selected schools. Two hundred and three answer sheets were returned to the researcher for a return rate of 97 percent. Data were collected from randomly selected teachers by voluntary completion of Bass and Avolio's Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire Form-5X (Short Form). The data were analyzed using Cronbach's alpha, Pearson correlation coefficients and multiple regression analysis. Transformational leadership was found to be linked to increased learning. In addition, transformational leadership was also related to increased teacher satisfaction, greater perception of principal effectiveness, and increased teacher willingness to give extra effort. Moreover, two ancillary questions were explored. These questions related to gender, and school size. The question on gender could not be analyzed in light of the overwhelming majority of female principals and lack of reliability of gender. School size was not related to transformational leadership. Based on the above findings, the following conclusions can be made with regard to transformational leadership and its impact on elementary education. First, transformational leadership does improve student achievement in inner-city elementary schools. Second, inner-city elementary teachers consider transformational principals superior to non-transformational principals. Third, elementary inner-city teachers demonstrate increased levels of satisfaction, willingness to give extra effort, and a high perception of principal effectiveness for transformational principals. The practical applications of the findings of this study and the implications drawn for further theoretical consideration and research are significant for future school improvement. This study adds to an important line of research. The information available today about transformational leadership and its impact on student achievement may help schools improve the lives of their students and the social and political future of our World.
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Date Issued: 2006
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12196
Subject Headings: School management and organization--Decision making
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: A study of teacher change and its meaning.
Creator: Wills, Eileen W., Florida Atlantic University, Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate how teachers change from being disseminators of information in teacher-centered classrooms and become constructive classroom change agents using a more facilitative teaching style in a learner-centered classroom. The study identified the forces that lead to change and examined what this change means for teachers. It included teachers who have made positive improvements by changing or broadening their instructional practices. This qualitative study...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to investigate how teachers change from being disseminators of information in teacher-centered classrooms and become constructive classroom change agents using a more facilitative teaching style in a learner-centered classroom. The study identified the forces that lead to change and examined what this change means for teachers. It included teachers who have made positive improvements by changing or broadening their instructional practices. This qualitative study examines one important reform program in a district of over 217,000 students. Twenty teachers were interviewed and observed who had participated in a two-year training program, TEAMS (Teachers Exploring and Mastering Strategies), that was based on the Models of Teaching Program developed by Bruce Joyce, Marsha Weil, and Beverly Showers. In numerous schools, six valued teachers were selected by their principal to train with the principal in workshops, meet in study groups, and work with a university coach for the purpose of infusing new facilitative strategies into their teaching repertoires. Teachers in this study showed a positive response to long-term intermittent training with study groups conducted monthly. This approach provided an environment for the development of learning communities, which was enhanced by the requirement that teachers observe each other as they practice the new strategies. Teachers responded positively to working with a coach who gave teachers strong support for using the newly learned strategies. Having the coach observe the teaching of new strategies, as well as being in each other's classrooms, compelled teachers to implement the strategies which helped them overcome the discomfort factor. Results of this study confirmed that teachers implement strategies that have the greatest impact on student achievement. Teachers' attitudes and beliefs about teaching changed and became more positive as they saw students become more engaged in learning. Although teachers did move to become more facilitative and depend less on teacher-directed instruction and rote memory for students, these strategies were not abandoned. Teachers in this study reported feeling more professional and had a heightened sense of efficacy as teachers, and they were more inclined to seek additional training that would increase their facilitative skills.
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Date Issued: 1998
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12571
Subject Headings: Teachers--In-service training, Teachers--Attitudes
Format: Document (PDF)

FAU Theses and Dissertations (53)	+ -
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Educational leadership (12)	+ -
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Academic achievement (3)	+ -
Educational change (3)	+ -

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Educational leadership--Florida (1)	+ -
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Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (1)	+ -
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Schedules, School--Florida--Palm Beach County (1)	+ -

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