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Title: Examining the Effectiveness of Turnaround Models in Florida Public Schools.
Creator: Fulton, Angela R., Shockley, Robert, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: Improving student performance in America’s chronically underperforming schools has been a challenge for many decades. Despite various school reforms, little to no progress has been shown. Schools have continued to fail, and achievement gaps have widened. The current state of schools has called for a drastic intervention. School turnaround has emerged as the country’s response to improving persistently-low performing schools. This study was designed to determine if the turnaround models...
Show moreImproving student performance in America’s chronically underperforming schools has been a challenge for many decades. Despite various school reforms, little to no progress has been shown. Schools have continued to fail, and achievement gaps have widened. The current state of schools has called for a drastic intervention. School turnaround has emerged as the country’s response to improving persistently-low performing schools. This study was designed to determine if the turnaround models outlined in the federal school improvement grant (SIG) were effective in improving student performance in low-performing schools in Florida. Specifically, this study investigated the impact of the transformation and turnaround intervention models on student achievement. This study also sought to determine if size (school enrollment), socioeconomic status (FRL), minority enrollment rates (Black and Hispanic), as well as principal gender, race, and years of experience moderate the relationship between the intervention model used and student achievement. The ultimate objective was to determine if turnaround intervention models improved student performance in low-performing schools in Florida. A quantitative method, including three statistical analyses, was employed to respond to three research questions and test nine corresponding null hypotheses. Florida’s 69 SIG Cohort I schools were identified for data collection and analysis. A t test analysis revealed there was not a significant difference in the performance of the transformation and turnaround model schools as measured by percent of points earned towards school grade. Further, chi square analysis revealed there was not a relationship between the model (transformation or turnaround) and school grade. Additionally, multiple regression analysis revealed none of the moderator variables were statistically significant. A discussion of the findings, implications for policy and practice, and recommendations for turnaround are explained in detailed, followed by suggestions for future research.
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Date Issued: 2018
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013131
Subject Headings: Public schools--Florida, School improvement programs--Florida--Evaluation, Student achievement, Academic achievement--Florida
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: A STUDY OF THE ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF A COMMUNITY COLLEGE SERVICE DISTRICT'S TRANSFER STUDENTS.
Creator: WEAVER, MARCELYN ELLEN., Florida Atlantic University, Urich, Ted R.
Abstract/Description: The Problem. The purpose of this study was to determine whether significant differences existed between the academic achievement of two-year transfer students from Indian River Community College (IRCC) and native students from the same service district. Both the native and transfer students graduated from the University of Florida (UF) or Florida State University (FSU) between 1977 and 1981. Further, there was the attempt to formulate a predictive equation for upper division grade point...
Show moreThe Problem. The purpose of this study was to determine whether significant differences existed between the academic achievement of two-year transfer students from Indian River Community College (IRCC) and native students from the same service district. Both the native and transfer students graduated from the University of Florida (UF) or Florida State University (FSU) between 1977 and 1981. Further, there was the attempt to formulate a predictive equation for upper division grade point average. Summary. The transfer students graduated from high schools in the four counties served by IRCC where they completed their lower division before transferring to FSU or UF. The native students graduated from high schools in the counties served by IRCC and enrolled directly at FSU or UF. The academic performance of these two groups was studied in terms of lower division, upper division, first semester upper division, and cumulative grade point averages, as well as Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) scores. An important application of this study was the attempt to formulate a predictive equation for upper division grade point average based on either the lower division grade point average, the SAT, or both. Procedure. As a preliminary study, the analysis of variance factorial design was used to determine if there was interaction between the two independent variables. For the hypotheses comparing grade point averages, the one-way analysis of variance was used. Linear regression was used to determine if upper division grade point average could be predicted by lower division grade point average, SAT score, or both. Multiple regression was used to test lower division grade point average and SAT as multiple variables.
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Date Issued: 1982
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/11806
Subject Headings: Transfer students--Florida, Prediction of scholastic success, Academic achievement
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: A STUDY OF THE OPINIONS OF FLORIDA'S PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOL PRINCIPALS, ENGLISH DEPARTMENT CHAIRPERSONS, AND SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS ON SELECTED ISSUES CONCERNING THE "NO PASS/NO PLAY" RULE.
Creator: HODGES, JAMES WALTER, JR., Florida Atlantic University, Urich, Ted R.
Abstract/Description: This study was designed to determine if significant differences exist in the opinions of Florida's public secondary school principals, English department chairpersons, and school board members concerning the proposed "no pass/no play" rule. The population of 401 subjects included the principals and English department chairpersons from all 167 public secondary schools with enrollments of grades nine through twelve, and a school board member from each of the sixty-seven counties in Florida. The...
Show moreThis study was designed to determine if significant differences exist in the opinions of Florida's public secondary school principals, English department chairpersons, and school board members concerning the proposed "no pass/no play" rule. The population of 401 subjects included the principals and English department chairpersons from all 167 public secondary schools with enrollments of grades nine through twelve, and a school board member from each of the sixty-seven counties in Florida. The assessment instrument was a questionnaire that employed a Likert scale providing each subject with a five-point scaled response to fourteen items related to the rule. These items elicited the opinions of these groups concerning the adoption of the rule, its potential impact, and other related issues. Statistical treatment of the data included a 3 x 2 x 5 analysis of variance to determine if a significant difference existed between the mean scores of the three groups, also subdivided by gender and five age categories on each set of items tested. Significant differences (p >.05) were found between the groups but not between gender and age categories. The Scheffe post hoc test revealed which pairwise group differences were significant. Analysis of the data indicated that significant differences existed among all three groups in their opinions concerning the "no pass/no play" rule, with English department chairpersons being the only group to show some support for its adoption. Secondary school principals were consistently opposed to the rule and felt that it would have an undesirable impact on their school communities. Although English department chairpersons and school board members agreed that the rule would increase academic achievement, they were undecided about the total effect the rule could have. The "no pass/no play" rule could serve to re-focus the attention of the educational community on academic achievement by encouraging innovative procedures to assist students and by reminding students that they must shoulder the responsibility for their academic success.
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Date Issued: 1987
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/11905
Subject Headings: Academic achievement, High schools--Legal status, laws, etc --Florida
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: A status study of nonpublic high schools' voluntary compliance with Florida RAISE requirements and other selected quality variables.
Creator: Mims, Nancy Griffin., Florida Atlantic University
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to determine the levels of voluntary compliance with Florida's Raise Achievement in Secondary Education (RAISE) requirements and other quality variables by nonpublic high schools in five geographical regions. A population of 137 nonpublic schools with 40 or more students were divided into three school categories: Catholic, religious affiliated (non-Catholic), and non-religious. The data were organized into 24 selected items taken from a questionnaire to determine...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to determine the levels of voluntary compliance with Florida's Raise Achievement in Secondary Education (RAISE) requirements and other quality variables by nonpublic high schools in five geographical regions. A population of 137 nonpublic schools with 40 or more students were divided into three school categories: Catholic, religious affiliated (non-Catholic), and non-religious. The data were organized into 24 selected items taken from a questionnaire to determine the status of teacher certification, school accreditation, courses and credits required for graduation, length of class periods, enrollment, and availability of science laboratories. The data obtained determined the level of voluntary compliance with Florida's RAISE requirements and other quality variables, the eligibility of nonpublic schools graduating seniors seeking admission to Florida public universities and the Florida Academic Scholar Program. Items of concern were cross tabulated for frequencies and percentages in the three school categories and within each of the five geographical regions. It was concluded that there was a 76.5% compliance with RAISE requirements by nonpublic high schools. Eighty-eight percent of the Catholic schools, 71% of the religious affiliated schools, and 75% of nonreligious schools complied with RAISE requirements. Therefore, graduating seniors would have the courses in the curriculum required for entrance to Florida public universities. The nonpublic high schools (75.3%), however, fell short of meeting the requirements for the Florida Academic Scholar Program. This deficiency was due to a lack of advanced courses or not enough extra credits offered to students. The data also showed that 53% of the nonpublic school teachers hold Florida professional certificates and that schools accredited by major accrediting agencies were more often in full compliance with RAISE requirements. A lack of response by nonreligious schools indicated that they had no interest in the study or were not willing to share information and, therefore, the findings were not conclusive. The study did, however, indicate that the RAISE requirements have had an impact on nonpublic high schools who have begun to implement more fine arts and life skills into their curriculum and add additional class periods.
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Date Issued: 1988
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/11927
Subject Headings: Raise Achievement in Secondary Education--Florida, Academic achievement--United States, Education, Secondary--Florida
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The Impact of Undergraduate Research Participation on Research Self-Efficacy.
Creator: Baker, Tracy N., DeDonno, Michael, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: Current literature confirms that self-efficacy, academic self-concept, and participation in undergraduate research influence the academic performance and aspirations of students. However, a gap in the literature remains as research has yet to explore whether students who have participated in research have a higher sense of research self-efficacy and academic self-concept than students who have not participated in these activities. In addition, it is unknown whether undergraduate researchers...
Show moreCurrent literature confirms that self-efficacy, academic self-concept, and participation in undergraduate research influence the academic performance and aspirations of students. However, a gap in the literature remains as research has yet to explore whether students who have participated in research have a higher sense of research self-efficacy and academic self-concept than students who have not participated in these activities. In addition, it is unknown whether undergraduate researchers pursuing STEM degrees differ from students pursuing non-STEM degrees, nor if they vary by gender. The purpose of this study was to investigate the research self-efficacy and academic self-concept of undergraduate researchers, compare these beliefs to nonresearchers, and to examine how these measures differ by gender and field of study (i.e. STEM and non-STEM fields) among undergraduate researchers. Additionally, this research identified various factors that predict research self-efficacy and academic selfconcept. This quantitative study was conducted at a public university located in the Southeast region of the United States. Using survey methods participants’ background information, academic self-concept, and research self-efficacy was collected. Participants were students who had participated in undergraduate research as well as students who had not participated in research activities. Both groups completed the same survey. This study gained insight into the research self-efficacy, academic self-concept, field of study, and gender differences among undergraduate researchers and how they compare to non-researchers. Research findings may assist colleges, universities, and offices that promote undergraduate research in recruiting students to participate in research activities. Findings also contribute to literature supporting undergraduate research as an element that contributes to student success in undergraduate education.
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Date Issued: 2017
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004978, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004968
Subject Headings: Dissertations, Academic -- Florida Atlantic University, Undergraduates--Research., Self-efficacy., Academic achievement.
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The impact of homelessness on the academic achievement of children.
Creator: Neill, Phyllis Pacifico., Florida Atlantic University, MacKenzie, Donald G.
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this research was to consider the possible relationships between the academic achievement of homeless children and their attitudes towards school, their parents' attitudes toward school, their relationships with their peers, their relationships with their parents and their self-esteem. The "subjects" were 42 families living in seven shelters in Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Sixty-nine children and their parents were interviewed. Three questionnaires were used to obtain...
Show moreThe purpose of this research was to consider the possible relationships between the academic achievement of homeless children and their attitudes towards school, their parents' attitudes toward school, their relationships with their peers, their relationships with their parents and their self-esteem. The "subjects" were 42 families living in seven shelters in Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. Sixty-nine children and their parents were interviewed. Three questionnaires were used to obtain demographic information and to define the predictor variables. The perceptions of homeless children and their parents, how these perceptions relate to each other and the relationships of these perceptions to school success add to the theoretical knowledge of the academic achievement of homeless children.
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Date Issued: 1990
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12253
Subject Headings: Homeless children--Education--Florida, Academic achievement--Florida, Homeless students--Florida
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The relationship between non-school factors and reading achievement among LEP and English-fluent students in the school district of Palm Beach County, Florida.
Creator: Pinkos, Margarita Perera-Zamora., Florida Atlantic University, Kerensky, Vasil M.
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between reading gains and the following demographic variables: economic status, ethnicity, and gender. The reading gains of limited English proficient (LEP) and English-fluent students in the school district of Palm Beach County, the fourth largest school district in Florida, were examined for two consecutive years. The researcher also sought to determine if LEP status affected the relationship between reading gains and the variables...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between reading gains and the following demographic variables: economic status, ethnicity, and gender. The reading gains of limited English proficient (LEP) and English-fluent students in the school district of Palm Beach County, the fourth largest school district in Florida, were examined for two consecutive years. The researcher also sought to determine if LEP status affected the relationship between reading gains and the variables identified. The sample included 51,590 English-fluent and 11,907 LEP students in the first year. In the second year of the study, the sample included 53,400 English-fluent and 12,830 LEP students. Multiple regression analysis was used to test the correlations and significance of the predictor variables for the subgroups, LEP and English-fluent students. Factorial analysis of variance was used to determine if there was an interaction between LEP status and the regression models for each of the predictor variables. The results indicated that yearly reading gains of English-fluent and Limited English Proficient students in Palm Beach County Schools could not be predicted from the predictor variables used during the years of the study. The results of multiple regressions revealed that a very small percentage of the criterion variable could be explained by the predictor variables (R 2 values ranged from .000 to .003). In the cases where the regression model was statistically significant, the results were not practically significant but the product of a trivial relationship between the variables, perhaps due to the size of the sample. After examining the interaction of LEP status with each of the predictor variables, it was concluded that the interaction between LEP status and each of the predictor variables did not increase significantly the predictive value of the models. No significant difference was found in the regression slopes between LEP and English-fluent students for any of the predictor variables.
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Date Issued: 2002
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FADT12019
Subject Headings: Limited English-proficient students, Minorities--Education, Academic achievement, Reading--Florida--Palm Beach County
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The effect of a supplemental multiple modalities learning program on the academic success of student-athletes at Florida Atlantic University.
Creator: Ayaz, Sandra Marie, Florida Atlantic University, MacKenzie, Donald G.
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to determine if student athletes at an urban university who participated in a supplemental multiple modalities sensitive instructional program experienced greater academic success at the end of their first semester than a control group of student athletes who received traditional instruction in Introduction to Academic Skills (SLS 1501). The subjects were drawn from the 1997 Summer Orientation and Academic review (S.O.A.R.) enrollment at Florida Atlantic...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to determine if student athletes at an urban university who participated in a supplemental multiple modalities sensitive instructional program experienced greater academic success at the end of their first semester than a control group of student athletes who received traditional instruction in Introduction to Academic Skills (SLS 1501). The subjects were drawn from the 1997 Summer Orientation and Academic review (S.O.A.R.) enrollment at Florida Atlantic University. The researcher randomly assigned 23 at-risk student athletes to the control group and 27 at-risk student athletes to the treatment group. The treatment group received academic skills instruction supplemented with multiple modalities sensitive instructional techniques congruent with the methodologies and philosophies of accelerated learning. All subjects completed a demographic survey on the first day of class. On the second day of class, the treatment group completed the Learning Style Inventory (LSI)/Productivity Environmental Preferences Survey (PEPS), a comprehensive assessment of an individual's learning style. The results of these surveys, in conjunction with the students' daily program evaluations, were used to determine the best, most conducive plan for classroom activities and teaching techniques. A 2 x 2 factorial ANOVA was performed to determine the existence of a main effect for instructional method on retention, GPA, and fall enrollment. ANCOVA was performed to determine the effect of the variables above the extraneous covariates. Neither procedure resulted in any statistical significance. The discriminant analysis of 50 unweighted cases revealed that the model is overall 86% accurate for both the original grouped cases and the cross-validated cases. The model is 90.7% accurate for predicting group membership for retention and 51.7% accurate for predicting group membership for no retention. This is an initial study which provides adult educators with data and reproducible methodology in order to further explore and improve teaching techniques for student athletes.
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Date Issued: 1998
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12558, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FADT12558
Subject Headings: Academic achievement, College athletes--Education, Florida Atlantic University--College athletes
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The effects of the Ready for Success program in the reading achievement of second- and third-grade students.
Creator: Goldberg, Michelle L., College of Education, Department of Counselor Education
Abstract/Description: The focus of this study is on evaluating the impact of a school counselor-led program, Ready for Success (RFS) on the academic achievement of second- and third grade students. The research question investigated in this study was: How do students in grades 2 and 3 who receive the RFS classroom intervention perform on the Scholastic Reading Inventory (SRI) when compared to students in grades 2 and 3 who do not receive the RFS classroom intervention. This study is significant because it...
Show moreThe focus of this study is on evaluating the impact of a school counselor-led program, Ready for Success (RFS) on the academic achievement of second- and third grade students. The research question investigated in this study was: How do students in grades 2 and 3 who receive the RFS classroom intervention perform on the Scholastic Reading Inventory (SRI) when compared to students in grades 2 and 3 who do not receive the RFS classroom intervention. This study is significant because it addresses the need for more outcome research tying school counselor led interventions to student achievement. Research based interventions for school counselors that improve academic achievement directly address the current focus on student achievement outcomes as well as the need for accountability of school counselors. The sample for this study included 240 participants, 107 in the treatment group and 133 in the comparison group. Students were selected from all second- and third-grade classes at four schools in South Florida. There were 66 participants in the second grade; 37 were male and 29 were female. There were 174 participants in the third grade; 92 were male and 82 were female. Academic achievement was measured using a standardized, objective, state-wide assessment instrument, the Scholastic Reading Inventory (SRI). The analysis used for this study was an analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). Pretest scores on the SRI were used in the study as covariates on the dependent variable to account for group differences at pretest. The statistical analysis shows that there was no significant difference between the comparison and treatment group reading achievement levels on the SRI. Upon further review of the research a significant, confounding variable was discovered. High concentration of non-ESOL students were in the comparison group as compared to the treatment group., Further data exploration led to a discovery of variance in the fidelity of treatment, which may have also accounted for the given results. The lack of a significant finding may suggest the need for elements of the program to be adjusted particularly when considering that the two programs upon which RFS was based have been consistently shown to be effective.
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Date Issued: 2009
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/359924
Subject Headings: School improvement programs, Academic achievement, Educational tests and measurements, Reading (Elementary), Study and teaching
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: "Con respeto": Factors related to the academic performance of Mexican-American fourth graders in selected Florida elementary schools.
Creator: Mosley, Mary Lindquist., Florida Atlantic University, Gray, Mary B., Morris, John D.
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to identify how various student, school, and staff predictors related to the academic performance of Mexican American fourth graders in selected schools as evidenced by their scores on the Florida Writes Assessment as well as on norm referenced achievement tests in reading comprehension and math applications. Three null hypotheses were tested to show if there was a correlation between predictors and these criterion variables: writing skills, reading comprehension...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to identify how various student, school, and staff predictors related to the academic performance of Mexican American fourth graders in selected schools as evidenced by their scores on the Florida Writes Assessment as well as on norm referenced achievement tests in reading comprehension and math applications. Three null hypotheses were tested to show if there was a correlation between predictors and these criterion variables: writing skills, reading comprehension, and math applications. A sample of 64 students from two Florida districts and twelve elementary schools was obtained. Data were collected from archival sources within each school district as well as from surveys distributed to English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) teachers. These were then analyzed to determine correlations with Florida Writes and with Stanford Achievement Test (SAT) as well as California Test of Basic Skills (CTBS) subtests in reading comprehension and math applications. The researcher was most interested in determining the relationship between a language arts pull-out program and achievement of ESOL students at a focal school which was in danger of being identified by the Florida Department of Education as "critically low" in academic performance because of low test scores. Correlations of predictor variables including the pull-out program were analyzed to determine statistical significance. Only the third hypothesis--that relating to math applications--was rejected at a probability level of.05. In this case, three predictors were considered significant: number of Limited English Proficient (LEP) students, number of Mexican American students, and the pull-out program. Because of small sample size and limited applications, no far reaching conclusions were drawn although further study was suggested because the Mexican American population in Florida is growing, and these students have historically not performed well in school. It was also recommended that the Florida Department of Education reconsider the timeline for ESOL student participation in norm referenced testing in writing and reading because most research shows that it takes at least five to seven years for most students to acquire comprehensible second language skills.
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Date Issued: 1998
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12557
Subject Headings: Mexican American students--Florida, Academic achievement, Educational tests and measurements--United States, Education, Elementary--Florida
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The comparison of three eighth-grade-to-ninth-grade transition programs in a South Florida high school.
Creator: Black, Kris Janet, Florida Atlantic University, Urich, Ted R.
Abstract/Description: This study compared three groups of ninth grade students in a selected high school in South Florida. The three groups were ninth grade students who attended Blanche Ely High School in Broward County, Florida during the 1999--2001 school years. The first program is the Ninth Grade Learning Community Academy or LCA. This program was housed on the north campus of Broward Community College. The second program is the Environmental Science Technology Program or ESTP. This program parallels the LCA...
Show moreThis study compared three groups of ninth grade students in a selected high school in South Florida. The three groups were ninth grade students who attended Blanche Ely High School in Broward County, Florida during the 1999--2001 school years. The first program is the Ninth Grade Learning Community Academy or LCA. This program was housed on the north campus of Broward Community College. The second program is the Environmental Science Technology Program or ESTP. This program parallels the LCA program, but was housed on the main campus of Blanche Ely High School. The third group was randomly selected from ninth grade students who attended Blanche Ely High School's main campus. This random sample served as the control group. Factors that were associated with academic success such as low socio-economic status, an urban community, and ethnicity were represented equally in all groups. Special education students and those students who were classified as limited language proficiency were eliminated from this study. The purpose of this study was to determine which school environment had the most positive impact on eighth graders transitioning into the ninth grade as determined by GPA, attendance, and school climate. The significance of this research was generated by the fact that 38.2 percent of Broward County ninth graders failed to achieve a 2.0 GPA during the 1997--98 school year. The primary means of data collection for this study was through (a) transcript evaluation using grade point averages, (b) attendance records and (c) school climate survey attitudes. The data collected covered August, 1999 through February, 2001. The School Board of Broward County, Florida may determine through this study which environment was most beneficial to increasing student achievement, attendance, and school climate at the ninth grade level. There are currently 23 high schools in Broward County. Each high school enrolls approximately 800 to 1000 rising ninth graders each year and the number is growing (Broward Schools, 1999). The goal of the School Board of Broward County, Florida is to increase student achievement at all levels. By creating alternatives to the large traditional high school environment, students at the ninth grade level might be more successful in their academic pursuits thus raising the standards of excellence in the county.
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Date Issued: 2002
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/11980
Subject Headings: Student adjustment, Academic achievement
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Factors affecting success in organic chemistry.
Creator: Zaplatynski, Andrea Maria, Florida Atlantic University, Haky, Jerome E.
Abstract/Description: In this study we correlate academic and non-academic descriptors with Organic Chemistry final grades for students enrolled at a Florida public university. Using multiple regression analysis, the following predictors are analyzed for a sample population of 904 students: age, gender, ethnicity, academic classification, SAT scores, major, overall grade point average (GPA), semesters lapsed between courses, institution where General Chemistry was taken, prerequisite grades, and number of math and...
Show moreIn this study we correlate academic and non-academic descriptors with Organic Chemistry final grades for students enrolled at a Florida public university. Using multiple regression analysis, the following predictors are analyzed for a sample population of 904 students: age, gender, ethnicity, academic classification, SAT scores, major, overall grade point average (GPA), semesters lapsed between courses, institution where General Chemistry was taken, prerequisite grades, and number of math and science courses taken with their respective grades. Results indicate strong correlations exist between final grade in Organic Chemistry, GPA and General Chemistry final grade. Additionally, Organic Chemistry final grades correlate with academic course load and the type of institution where General Chemistry was studied. We believe these results can be employing as a tool for advising students in planning their academic programs.
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Date Issued: 2006
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/13389
Subject Headings: Chemistry, Organic--Study and teaching, Education, Secondary, Regression analysis, Academic achievement--Education (Higher)--Florida
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Teacher perspectives on the effect of the Florida Public Accountability System on the middle school classroom.
Creator: Roberts, Helen, Florida Atlantic University, Jurenas, Albert C.
Abstract/Description: The Florida Public Accountability System and the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test, FCAT, have been in use since 1996. Since that time, schools have received grades, rewards and sanctions for performance, promotion requirements have changed, and the results of the FCAT are published annually for public scrutiny. With testing required in grades 3 through 11, middle schools (grades 6--8) must test all the students in their schools. A literature review revealed that, although achievement...
Show moreThe Florida Public Accountability System and the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test, FCAT, have been in use since 1996. Since that time, schools have received grades, rewards and sanctions for performance, promotion requirements have changed, and the results of the FCAT are published annually for public scrutiny. With testing required in grades 3 through 11, middle schools (grades 6--8) must test all the students in their schools. A literature review revealed that, although achievement studies, drop out studies, and other data had been analyzed, little research focused on the impact of the FCAT from the perspective of the classroom teacher. This study examines the impact of the Florida Public Accountability System and the FCAT on the middle school classroom from the teacher's perspective. A survey of 130 middle school teachers was conducted in the spring of 2004. The study included closed-ended questions and space for additional comments. The impact was measured based on three variables, the impact on instructional methodologies, the impact on the quality of education and the impact on job satisfaction. Each of these variables was further analyzed to see if the grade of the school in which the teacher works has an effect on their responses to the survey. Furthermore, an analysis was conducted to determine if the subject area which the teacher teaches affected responses to the survey. Results indicate that responses are split on the majority of questions relating to the impact of the FCAT and the Florida Public Accountability System on both the instructional methodologies in classrooms and on the quality of education. These results showing both positive and negative responses between individual teachers indicate a lack of agreement within the teaching profession and create an interesting dynamic for school leaders. The results indicate less disagreement on the effects on job satisfaction with teachers reporting little impact on their own personal job satisfaction however, more impact on staff morale. A school's grade did not appear to influence differences in responses. However, the subject areas that a teacher reported teaching did seem to influence teacher responses. With increasing emphasis on accountability in mind, including Federal No Child Left Behind requirements, further research in this area is recommended.
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Date Issued: 2005
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12160
Subject Headings: Educational accountability--Florida, Educational tests and measurements--Florida, Academic achievement--Florida, Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test, Middle school education, Middle school teachers--Florida--Attitudes
Format: Document (PDF)

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

Title: 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)

Title: Reading, writing, and privatization: the narrative that helped change the nation's public schools.
Creator: Meyers, Merrie Elyn., Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters, Department of Sociology
Abstract/Description: The face of North America's public education system is changing. Across the United States, hundreds of thousands of students have migrated away from traditional public school into charter schools. While both are considered public schools, often that is where the similarity ends. Claims and counter claims have been made about the virtues and advantages of a charter school versus the traditional public school. This study, focused on the nation's sixth-largest school system in Broward County,...
Show moreThe face of North America's public education system is changing. Across the United States, hundreds of thousands of students have migrated away from traditional public school into charter schools. While both are considered public schools, often that is where the similarity ends. Claims and counter claims have been made about the virtues and advantages of a charter school versus the traditional public school. This study, focused on the nation's sixth-largest school system in Broward County, Florida, compares comments from stakeholders involved in charter programs to feedback from those still involved in the traditional public system. Three hypotheses are evaluated including: whether traditional schools are not adequately serving the needs of students; whether charter schools are better at serving student needs; or people believe that charter schools are doing a better job at serving the needs of students. Evidence suggests that while each model of education has its advantages and disadvantages, neither clearly provides a ""better" opportunity for students. Conclusions are that consumer perceptions are driving the shift in enrollment. This is attributed to the narrative about "choice" created by charter school advocates that aligns with American ideologies of liberty, freedom and independence. Ultimately, it is argued that the deconstruction of the traditional public education system is part of a larger effort to shift selected rights and privileges out of the public sphere and back into private control. For traditional public schools to regain momentum, they must learn to control the narrative and ultimately public policy and public opinion about our nation's public schools.
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Date Issued: 2013
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/3360949
Subject Headings: Charter schools, Evaluation, Public schools, Evaluation, School choice, Evaluation, Academic achievement, Evaluation
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Florida Student Progression Policies and Their Effect on Student Achievement.
Creator: Wright, Marielena P., Pisapia, John, Florida Atlantic University
Abstract/Description: This study investigated the varied district student progression policies from 9th to lOth grade and their effect on the district-level achievement of the high schools as measured by six categories of FCA T achievement consistent with those that comprise district grades during the 2005-2006 academic year. In Florida, the state assessment policy and the resulting rewards and sanctions policy, known as the Florida A+ Plan, are uniformly defined across districts while the state student...
Show moreThis study investigated the varied district student progression policies from 9th to lOth grade and their effect on the district-level achievement of the high schools as measured by six categories of FCA T achievement consistent with those that comprise district grades during the 2005-2006 academic year. In Florida, the state assessment policy and the resulting rewards and sanctions policy, known as the Florida A+ Plan, are uniformly defined across districts while the state student progression policy simply provides guidelines for districts to follow. This results in varied student progression policies in the 67 school districts within the state. A quantitative study of the district student progression policies for promotion from 9th to lOth grade and student achievement, as measured by the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCA T), was conducted to determine the effect of varied student progression policies on district FCA T achievement. Five predictor variables, based upon promotion requirements from the 9th to 1Oth grade, - number of credits, the type of credits, the availability of midyear promotion, additional requirements to be met for midyear promotion, and minimum grade point average - the six FCA T based criterion variables; and, two contextual variables - district socioeconomic status (SES) and district size were used in the study. Linear regression analysis was used to find that the inclusion of a minimum grade point average had a significant inverse relationship with FCA T Reading Learning Gains. Additionally, theSES of the district was found to significantly affect the relationship between the midyear promotion of students and FCAT Reading proficiency; the type of credits required for promotion and FCA T Math proficiency; and the minimum number of credits required for promotion and both FCA T Math learning gains and FCA T Reading learning gains of the lowest quartile of students. The second order interaction of district size on the effect of SES on the relationship between the predictor and criterion variables yielded significant moderating effects of district size on the moderating effect of SES for the relationships between the minimum number of credits required for promotion and both FCA T Math proficiency and FCA T Math learning gains.
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Date Issued: 2008
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00000716
Subject Headings: Academic achievement--Florida--Evaluation, Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test--Evaluation, Educational tests and measurements--Florida--Evaluation, Grading and marking (Students), Educational sociology--Florida
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: How Do Children's Attitudes Toward Reading Relate To Reading Practice And Reading Achievement?.
Creator: Galipault, Lorraine D., Towell, Janet, Florida Atlantic University
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to investigate whether children's attitudes toward reading and their perceptions of themselves as readers impacted their academic achievement. Additionally, the study investigated the effect oftime spent reading and reading practice on student achievement. Finally, the research examined whether reading attitudes and reading practice were moderated by gender or ethnicity. Participants included 63 third-grade students in a Title I Elementary School. Students were...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to investigate whether children's attitudes toward reading and their perceptions of themselves as readers impacted their academic achievement. Additionally, the study investigated the effect oftime spent reading and reading practice on student achievement. Finally, the research examined whether reading attitudes and reading practice were moderated by gender or ethnicity. Participants included 63 third-grade students in a Title I Elementary School. Students were administered a questionnaire to collect evidence of their reading preferences and their reading practices. In addition, students kept reading logs as a measure of what they read and how often they read. The data collected were correlated to students' reading achievement scale scores on the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT). The study concluded that in the overall study sample, there was a negative correlation for the reading practice item, talking about reading, and FCA T Scale Scores and a positive correlation between the reading attitude item, how well do you think you read, and FCA T Scale Scores. In the examination of the moderation effect for gender, there was a positive correlation for the reading attitude item reading is important and FCA T Scale Scores for males. The examination of the moderation effect for ethnicity indicated a negative correlation between talking about reading and FCAT Scale Scores for White students.
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Date Issued: 2008
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00000666
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: Block scheduling: Its impact on academic achievement, and the perceptions of students, teachers, and administrators.
Creator: Hamdy, Mona., Florida Atlantic University, Urich, Ted R.
Abstract/Description: This study consists of three parts. The first part determined if significant differences exist in the scores of students on four standardized tests between two block and two traditional scheduling schools. The assessment instruments were standardized tests given to students in Palm Beach County School District in the state of Florida: (a) Comprehensive Test of Basic Skills (CTBS) for grade 9, (b) Grade Ten Assessment Test (GTAT), (c) Florida Writes (FW) for grade 10, and (d) High School...
Show moreThis study consists of three parts. The first part determined if significant differences exist in the scores of students on four standardized tests between two block and two traditional scheduling schools. The assessment instruments were standardized tests given to students in Palm Beach County School District in the state of Florida: (a) Comprehensive Test of Basic Skills (CTBS) for grade 9, (b) Grade Ten Assessment Test (GTAT), (c) Florida Writes (FW) for grade 10, and (d) High School Competency Test (HSCT) for grade 11. Approximately 2,000 students took each of the four tests for each grade, a total of 8,000 participants. Significant differences (p <.00125) were found between students scores on the FW and the HSCT. The traditional scheduling students outperformed those at the block scheduling schools in regards to the FW and the HSCT. Results of statistical analysis indicated a significant difference between the 4 x 4 schedule and the alternate day schedule only in terms of achievement on the Florida Writes. Students at the alternate day school outperformed those at the 4 x 4 scheduling school on the Florida Writes test. Schools' records indicated that the rate of suspension has decreased during the year of implementing block scheduling for the alternate day scheduling school, and increased for the 4 x 4 scheduling school. There was no change in the absentee rate at both types of block scheduling schools. The second part of this study was to compare differences in perceptions among teachers and students towards the two types of block scheduling. A Likert-type survey was answered by 101 teachers from both types of schools. Statistical analysis indicated a significant difference between the perceptions of teachers from the 4 x 4 and the alternate day scheduling schools in terms of class size. Teachers disagreed that class size has decreased because of the implementation of block scheduling. Regarding students' perceptions, 931 students from both schools participated in answering the questionnaire. There were significant differences among students on their preference to remain on block scheduling. The third part of this study examined differences between the perceptions of administrators of different types of block scheduling. A Likert-type survey consisting of 26 items was sent to selected principals throughout the nation. Twenty two out of the 24 items did not prove to be significant at the 0.0021 level. There were differences in administrators perceptions towards the failure rate. Similar results were found in regards to discipline problems. The Scheffe post hoc test was administered to determine which pairwise group differences were significant. Survey results indicated that administrators perceived that the science department is the happiest department with block scheduling, and that mathematics and foreign language are the least happy.
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Date Issued: 1996
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12477
Subject Headings: Schedules, School--Florida--Palm Beach County, High schools--Florida--Palm Beach County, School year--Florida--Palm Beach County, School management and organization, Academic achievement
Format: Document (PDF)

Academic achievement (15)	+ -
Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (6)	+ -
Academic achievement--Florida (3)	+ -
Education (3)	+ -
Educational equalization (3)	+ -

School improvement programs (3)	+ -
Education, Secondary (2)	+ -
Educational tests and measurements (2)	+ -
Educational tests and measurements--Florida (2)	+ -
Educational tests and measurements--Florida--Evaluation (2)	+ -
School management and organization (2)	+ -
School management and organization--Decision making (2)	+ -
Academic achievement -- Florida (1)	+ -
Academic achievement -- United States -- Florida (1)	+ -
Academic achievement--Economic aspects--Florida (1)	+ -
Academic achievement--Education (Higher)--Florida (1)	+ -
Academic achievement--Florida--Broward County (1)	+ -
Academic achievement--Florida--Broward County--Case studies (1)	+ -
Academic achievement--Florida--Evaluation (1)	+ -
Academic achievement--Florida--Fort Lauderdale--Case studies (1)	+ -
Academic achievement--Florida--Miami-Dade County (1)	+ -
Academic achievement--Florida--Palm Beach County (1)	+ -
Academic achievement--Social aspects (1)	+ -
Academic achievement--United States (1)	+ -
Academic achievement--United States--Evaluation (1)	+ -
Academic achievement. (1)	+ -
Acculturation (1)	+ -
Activity programs in education (1)	+ -
Advanced placement programs (Education) (1)	+ -
African American high school students--Florida--Broward County--Case studies (1)	+ -

Florida (6)	+ -
United States (4)	+ -
Academic achievement--Florida--Evaluation (2)	+ -
Educational tests and measurements--Florida (2)	+ -
Academic achievement--Florida (1)	+ -

Academic achievement--Florida--Broward County (1)	+ -
Academic achievement--Florida--Palm Beach County (1)	+ -
Block scheduling (Education)--Florida (1)	+ -
Broward County (1)	+ -
Charter schools--Florida--Broward County (1)	+ -
Cognitive styles--Florida--Palm Beach County--Case studies (1)	+ -
Curriculum planning--Florida (1)	+ -
Educational leadership--Florida (1)	+ -
Educational leadership--Florida--Broward County (1)	+ -
Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (1)	+ -
High school environment--Florida--Broward County (1)	+ -
High schools--Florida--Palm Beach County (1)	+ -
Individualized instruction--Florida--Palm Beach County--Case studies (1)	+ -
Mathematics--Study and teaching (Middle school)--Florida--Palm Beach County--Case studies (1)	+ -
Motivation in education--Florida (1)	+ -
Motivation in education--Florida--Palm Beach County (1)	+ -
Ninth grade (Education)--Florida--Broward County (1)	+ -
Palm Beach County (1)	+ -
Reading (Elementary)--Ability testing--Florida (1)	+ -
Schedules, School--Florida--Palm Beach County (1)	+ -
School improvement programs--Florida--Broward County (1)	+ -
School management and organization--Florida--Broward County (1)	+ -

Florida Atlantic University (30)	+ -
College of Education (10)	+ -
Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology (5)	+ -
Kerensky, Vasil M. (4)	+ -
Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia (4)	+ -

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