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Title: DESIGN OF A MODEL TO TRAIN SECONDARY AND POST SECONDARY INSTRUCTORS IN THE DISCUSSION METHOD OF TEACHING.
Creator: WINEBRENNER, LAWRENCE MURRAY, JR., Florida Atlantic University
Abstract/Description: A training model in the use of the discussion method by secondary school teachers and community college faculty was developed, evaluated, and tested to determine its effectiveness. The study was done at Florida Atlantic University in an Improvement in College Instruction class in the summer term of 1980. Sixteen of eighteen students enrolled in the course completed it. Prior to conducting the course a test was given to the students examining their knowledge about discussion and the use of...
Show moreA training model in the use of the discussion method by secondary school teachers and community college faculty was developed, evaluated, and tested to determine its effectiveness. The study was done at Florida Atlantic University in an Improvement in College Instruction class in the summer term of 1980. Sixteen of eighteen students enrolled in the course completed it. Prior to conducting the course a test was given to the students examining their knowledge about discussion and the use of discussion. The same test was given to the students after the module was used to improve their discussion skills. Video tapes were used as discussions were held and students viewed the tapes to evaluate themselves using three evaluation instruments. Students evaluated their discussion skills prior to the training experience and again after the training was completed. Five hypotheses were established. A t-test measured hypotheses one through five to determine whether significant differences existed between pretraining and posttraining scores on four evaluation instruments (Subject Matter, Flanders Interaction Analysis, Group Member, and Self). Three of the hypotheses were rejected using a.01 level of significance and a fourth hypothesis was rejected using a.05 level of significance. These four hypotheses examined change in the group and the individuals. A fifth hypothesis examined changes in students' perception of the quality of their first discussion and was not rejected. The five hypotheses were used to answer three research questions regarding an increase in subject matter scores, a change in group behavior, and a change in perception of group behavior. The results of the study indicate that subject matter scores increase and group behavior changes, but the group's perception of their behavior shows no significant change. It was recommended that the study be replicated using a larger population, subjects from a variety of backgrounds and measures of specific kinds of behavior in the groups.
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Date Issued: 1987
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/11898
Subject Headings: Teachers--Training of, Discussion
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: NO SUBSTITUTION FOR SUBSTITUTE TEACHING EXPERIENCES: A CASE STUDY EXPLORING PERSPECTIVES OF NEW SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS.
Creator: Barnes, Linda S., Vaughan, Michelle, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry, College of Education
Abstract/Description: Substitute teachers organize the classroom and instruct students in the absence of the regular teacher. An expectation placed on substitute teachers is to ensure learning experiences continue (Duggleby & Badali, 2007); however, this charge may exceed the preparation. Three central research questions and four sub-questions guided this case study. The questions focused on initial experiences of new substitute teachers in a Kindergarten through twelfth grade public school, the factors they...
Show moreSubstitute teachers organize the classroom and instruct students in the absence of the regular teacher. An expectation placed on substitute teachers is to ensure learning experiences continue (Duggleby & Badali, 2007); however, this charge may exceed the preparation. Three central research questions and four sub-questions guided this case study. The questions focused on initial experiences of new substitute teachers in a Kindergarten through twelfth grade public school, the factors they believed influenced their confidence for instruction and perceived strengths and weaknesses of the required training in a large urban public school system. This case study explored perspectives of 32 new substitute teachers. An online survey, semi-structured interviews, and artifact reviews captured data. Online tools organized data for coding and analysis to discover themes and answer research questions. Findings indicated that the initial experiences substitute teachers had while working were varied, significant and often had a direct impact on their own performance and perceptions of school community members. Lesson plans, student activities and classroom management contributed to a new substitute teacher’s success in the classroom. Opportunities to interact with school community members strengthened a sense of belonging. These feelings were reflected in their own confidence as a substitute teacher. Additional factors impacting confidence included a personal knowledge of subject areas being taught, consistency with job assignments and building relationships with students in the classroom. The required training for the new substitute teachers highlighted more strengths than weaknesses along with a few recommendations for improvement. Implications from this study can uncover, design and implement a pipeline to full-time teaching - experience as a substitute teacher. There are no substitutes for an optimistic, well-prepared, engaged substitute teacher. By understanding the perceptions of new substitute teachers, a new direction improving the work of this instructional position as a valuable school community member is justified.
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Date Issued: 2022
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013905
Subject Headings: Substitute teachers, Teachers—Training of
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: GUIDELINES FOR A COMPETENCY-BASED MODEL TRAINING PROGRAM FOR TEACHERS OF ADULT BASIC EDUCATION STUDENTS.
Creator: KLINEDINST, MARY ALLEN REID., Florida Atlantic University
Abstract/Description: Teachers of Adult Basic Education need certain competencies to teach undereducated adult learners. Presently, teachers have very little specialized training or preparation in how to teach these ABE students. There are few agencies or institutions from which people can obtain these competencies. After a search of the literature, Donald Mocker's prioritized list of ABE teacher competencies was chosen as the model to send to three groups of educators (higher education personnel, practitioners of...
Show moreTeachers of Adult Basic Education need certain competencies to teach undereducated adult learners. Presently, teachers have very little specialized training or preparation in how to teach these ABE students. There are few agencies or institutions from which people can obtain these competencies. After a search of the literature, Donald Mocker's prioritized list of ABE teacher competencies was chosen as the model to send to three groups of educators (higher education personnel, practitioners of ABE, and state department personnel). Through a survey of these adult educators and a prioritizing process, the list of 153 high priority teacher competencies was refined to a more manageable list of fifty-one competencies. The competencies were divided into the categories of Scope and Goal of Adult Education, Curriculum, ABE Learner, and Instructional Process. Since fifty-one competencies were ranked as important by adult educators, they are recommended for use as: an evaluation tool to discern whether ABE teachers possess them; a basis for in-service programs to train existing teachers; and/or a program of study to be offered by institutions of higher education for a college major, minor, or area of interest in Adult Basic Education. Seven courses are recommended, composed of or based on the fifty-one competencies. They are as follows: Principles of Adult Learning; Basic Reading, Writing, Oral Communication; Individualized Instruction; Creative Adult Learning; Characteristics of Adult Learners; Counseling Adults; and Psychology of Adult Learning. The competency-based teacher education program suggested in this study could be used by state departments of education as guidelines for a teacher certification program to insure that there would be well-prepared and well-qualified ABE teachers.
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Date Issued: 1983
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/11829
Subject Headings: Adult education teachers--Training of
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Going global: Faculty development in intercultural communication.
Creator: Caldwell, Susan., Florida Atlantic University, Guinn, Dorothy
Abstract/Description: This thesis asks "How can a community college most effectively prepare its faculty to teach students to communicate competently in a society that has gone global?" To answer this question, this thesis examines experiential learning theory and determines that experience is key to learning. It also determines that (1) intercultural communication competencies are acquired through experience with other cultures and (2) faculty who possess these competencies are more apt to participate in...
Show moreThis thesis asks "How can a community college most effectively prepare its faculty to teach students to communicate competently in a society that has gone global?" To answer this question, this thesis examines experiential learning theory and determines that experience is key to learning. It also determines that (1) intercultural communication competencies are acquired through experience with other cultures and (2) faculty who possess these competencies are more apt to participate in intercultural activities. An assessment of research and programs helps to determine components of faculty development, and results of a community college survey give an overview of their involvement in faculty development programs. This thesis concludes that successful faculty development programs in intercultural communication must include (1) institutional support, (2) experiential elements, (3) assessment, (4) continuous, in-depth training, (5) a rewards component, and (6) an adequate budget. To complete this research, a faculty development plan, including a timeline and budget, has been designed.
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Date Issued: 2001
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12773
Subject Headings: College teachers--Training of, Intercultural communication
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: “Panyard” Steelpan Experiences Impact on Secondary Teachers’ Pedagogical Practices: A Case Study.
Creator: Massy, Paul, Nightengale-Lee, Bianca, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry, College of Education
Abstract/Description: This study investigates the impact of the Trinidad and Tobago Panyard steelpan experiences on the development of the secondary school, forms one to three (middle school), music teachers’ pedagogical implementation, and how these pedagogical practices are represented in today’s classroom or not. The case study exploration acknowledges that while the instrument was being developed in formal educational systems, there was already a history of teaching and learning of the steelpan in the...
Show moreThis study investigates the impact of the Trinidad and Tobago Panyard steelpan experiences on the development of the secondary school, forms one to three (middle school), music teachers’ pedagogical implementation, and how these pedagogical practices are represented in today’s classroom or not. The case study exploration acknowledges that while the instrument was being developed in formal educational systems, there was already a history of teaching and learning of the steelpan in the community Panyard contributing to its global growth. The symbiosis among instructional practices in the Panyard, the K-12 system, and postsecondary institutions continues to be the fertile space for understanding steelpan curriculum and instruction. Using the lenses of Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy, Decoloniality and Legitimation Code theory I analyzed these Panyard steelpan experiences and their impact on teachers’ pedagogical practice. I used some of the data to map the observed integrative knowledge building using the Autonomy dimension of Legitimation Code Theory. “Within-group cultural practices” and “common, across-group cultural practices” (Paris, 2012, p. 95) were also analyzed iteratively, contributing to the growth of both the researcher and participants. This study intentionally provided opportunities to understand Steelpan's histories and social constructs better. Moreover, participants’ backgrounds, biographies and experiences also provided contextual evidence for their pedagogical perspectives (Greene, 2001).
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Date Issued: 2023
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00014332
Subject Headings: Pedagogy, Teachers—Training of, Curriculum planning
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: Beginning teachers' perceptions of support provided by mentors, school administrators, and district personnel.
Creator: Dangerfield, Leslie J., Florida Atlantic University, Shockley, Robert
Abstract/Description: Research suggests that beginning teachers will remain in education if they are supported by their district and school-based administrators. A considerable number of beginning teachers, however, continue to leave teaching each year. This study investigated the value of identified strategies used in assisting new teachers as perceived by beginning teachers. A total of 156 surveys were sent to eligible participants, as identified from an instructional employee database. There were 64 surveys...
Show moreResearch suggests that beginning teachers will remain in education if they are supported by their district and school-based administrators. A considerable number of beginning teachers, however, continue to leave teaching each year. This study investigated the value of identified strategies used in assisting new teachers as perceived by beginning teachers. A total of 156 surveys were sent to eligible participants, as identified from an instructional employee database. There were 64 surveys returned, resulting in a 41 response rate. The survey instrument asked participants to identify if a strategy was provided and indicate their perceived value of such strategy. The strategies include mentor assignment and support, school administrator support, and district-level support. Chi square and ANOVA tests were employed to compare the responses. Results show significant differences in responses by student teaching experience, years of experience, and teacher preparation. Descriptive analysis identified the strategies that were most frequently provided by mentors, administrators, and district personnel, including curriculum and emotional support. In addition to frequency of strategies, the perceived values of strategies are also reported. Results show significant differences in relation to student teaching experience(s), years of teaching experience, and types of teacher preparation.
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Date Issued: 2006
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12230
Subject Headings: Mentoring in education, Teachers--In-service training, First year teachers--Training of, First year teachers--Supervision of
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: DESIGN AND EVALUATION OF A MODEL TO TRAIN COMMUNITY COLLEGE INSTRUCTORS IN EFFECTIVE USE OF LECTURE-DISCUSSION.
Creator: VICKERS, THOMAS WESLEY, Florida Atlantic University
Abstract/Description: A model to train community college instructors in the use of classroom lecture-discussion was designed, field tested and evaluated. Data for the design of the model were obtained through questionnaires submitted to community college instructors and administrators, feedback from students involved in the field test and a review of the literature. Evaluation of the model measured its effectiveness in positively altering classroom use of lecture-discussion skills. Three instruments were developed...
Show moreA model to train community college instructors in the use of classroom lecture-discussion was designed, field tested and evaluated. Data for the design of the model were obtained through questionnaires submitted to community college instructors and administrators, feedback from students involved in the field test and a review of the literature. Evaluation of the model measured its effectiveness in positively altering classroom use of lecture-discussion skills. Three instruments were developed and used for evaluation along with the Flanders Interaction Analysis Scale. Demographic data were collected and analyzed to discern trends, patterns and interrelationships among the variables. Pre- and post-training scores on the evaluative instruments were obtained by having subjects present lecture-discussions under controlled conditions prior to and after undergoing the training prescribed in the model. Results indicated that the training model had a significant impact on classroom use of lecture-discussion. Subjects scored significantly higher on post-training evaluations, leading to the conclusion that the model was effective in teaching subjects lecture-discussion skills. A comparison of pre- and post-training scores obtained on the Flanders Scale indicated the training model had little effect on the amount of classroom time devoted to the four areas of activity measured. A correlation between self-evaluation scores and scores generated by subjects participating as students in the lecture-discussions indicated no relation. Regression analysis indicated self-evaluation scores were not accurate predictors of student evaluation scores, leading to the conclusion that instructor self-evaluations alone do not provide adequate measures of classroom use of lecture-discussion skills. Analysis of trends, patterns and interrelationships among the variables found that sex and age had little effect. Years of teaching experience had little effect, except for the indication that teachers with ten to twenty years of experience received greater training benefit than subjects in other age groups. Subjects with master's degrees received greater benefit from the training than subjects with bachelor's degrees. Active teachers scored higher on both pre- and post-training tests than non-teachers; however, the per cent of increase in scores was approximately the same. It was impossible to draw any conclusions as to the effect of subject taught upon scores received. Subjects presenting lecture-discussions under controlled conditions received scores that were not significantly different from scores received by subjects presenting under actual classroom conditions. It was recommended that the model be implemented to train community college instructors in the use of lecture-discussion.
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Date Issued: 1980
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/11762
Subject Headings: Lecture method in teaching, College teachers--Training of, Discussion
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Teaching reading strategies through science to middle school below-level readers and its implications for staff development.
Creator: Centrone, Elena Marie, Florida Atlantic University, Urich, Ted R.
Abstract/Description: This study investigated the effect of teaching reading through the content area of science on the reading achievement test scores of middle school below level readers when the science teachers received extensive staff development. Therefore, the staff development model developed and implemented by the researcher was an important part of this study. Participants were 811 seventh and eighth grade students who scored between the 21st and 50th percentile on a standardized measure administered...
Show moreThis study investigated the effect of teaching reading through the content area of science on the reading achievement test scores of middle school below level readers when the science teachers received extensive staff development. Therefore, the staff development model developed and implemented by the researcher was an important part of this study. Participants were 811 seventh and eighth grade students who scored between the 21st and 50th percentile on a standardized measure administered each spring. Four hundred and five students served as the experimental group and 406 students served as the control group. The control group received reading instruction in separate reading classes taught by certified reading teachers. There were 16 teachers from 10 middle schools who volunteered to be a part of this study. The 10 science teachers received 60 hours of staff development that included modeling, coaching, and feedback. There were four full days of training prior to school opening, after school seminars, on site assistance with lesson planning, modeling of lessons, coaching, and feedback. A 2X2 ANCOVA was used to determine statistical relationships between the method of instruction (reading taught through science and reading taught in separate classes) and the grade level of the students (seventh and eighth grades). Informal qualitative data was gathered on the teachers' knowledge base for teaching reading and teacher attitudes regarding their responsibility for teaching reading. A pre- and posttest of teacher knowledge and a pre- and post survey of teacher attitudes were administered to each teacher involved in this study. The results indicated that there was no significant difference in the reading achievement test scores of seventh and eighth grade below-level readers who received reading instruction in science and those who received reading in separate classes of reading taught by certified reading teachers. The informal data showed that the science teachers who were involved in the study did significantly increase their knowledge base about teaching reading through their content area. This was reflected in the difference between their pretest and posttest scores on the test of teacher knowledge. There was also a change in their attitudes about the responsibility for teaching reading. On the pre survey they indicated that the science content should be their main instructional responsibility. On the post survey they indicated that teaching reading should be a major focus of their instruction.
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Date Issued: 1996
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12478
Subject Headings: Reading (Middle school), Science--Study and teaching, Reading comprehension, Teachers--In-service training, Reading teachers--Training of
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The status of the substitute teacher delivery system in the sixty-seven Florida Public School Districts and the perceptions of administrators, teachers, and substitute teachers toward the substitute teacher delivery system in the Polk County, Florida, Public School District.
Creator: Helmick, Robert William, Florida Atlantic University, Hunt, John J.
Abstract/Description: The primary purpose of this study was to find the status of the substitute teacher delivery system in the sixty-seven school districts in the State of Florida. The use of substitute teachers by Florida school districts has increased each year in alignment with the national trends found in the professional literature. Since July 1990, Florida law requires no academic preparation or teacher training before beginning work as a substitute teacher. The 67 Florida School Districts now issue...
Show moreThe primary purpose of this study was to find the status of the substitute teacher delivery system in the sixty-seven school districts in the State of Florida. The use of substitute teachers by Florida school districts has increased each year in alignment with the national trends found in the professional literature. Since July 1990, Florida law requires no academic preparation or teacher training before beginning work as a substitute teacher. The 67 Florida School Districts now issue substitute teacher certificates with the only Florida law requirement being fingerprints prior to employment. Substitute teacher delivery system identifies the preparation, selection, training, support, and evaluation of substitute teachers in a school district. Issues related to substitute teachers were substitute teacher pay, substitute teacher credentials, and substitute teacher training. The corollary purpose of this study was to compare the perceptions of selected administrators, teachers, and substitute teachers concerning the Polk County Schools substitute teacher delivery system, one of Florida's sixty-seven school districts. A review of the literature provides a national summary of teacher pay, substitute teacher role, substitute teacher status, and administrative procedures used to recruit, select, place, orient, and train substitute teachers. The analysis of data from the 1993-94 state survey provides the teachers per substitute teacher ratio, students per substitute teacher ratio, and state average of these values. In addition, the percentage of the total budgets used for substitute teacher pay is calculated. Daily pay rates and academic requirements for short-term and long-term substitute teachers were collected and state average values calculated. Seven research questions concerning the substitute teacher delivery system are answered. The district perception instrument was conducted in Polk County School District at 20 schools using a stratified random sample and analyzed with the chi-square analysis technique. Seven null hypotheses were rejected using the significance level of chi-square value indicating significant differences in perception in the survey participants; school-based administrators, teachers, and substitute teachers. The combination of the state survey results and district perception instrument can be used to assist a district in developing an action plan for improving a district's substitute teacher delivery system.
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Date Issued: 1995
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12400
Subject Headings: Substitute teachers--Florida--Evaluation, Substitute teachers--Rating of--Florida, Substitute teachers--Training of--Florida
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Possible Futures for Teacher Education Programs: Meta-Theory Orientation.
Creator: Svendsen, Jared C., Bogotch, Ira, Schoorman, Dilys, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: This study problematizes teacher education, and its accreditation guidelines as set forth by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. The analysis herein conceptualizes teacher education as contextually contingent on sociocultural metanarratives, as functioning paradigmatically through consensus and gatekeeping mechanisms, and as a structure existing within a matrix of discipline and surveillance that is designed to perpetuate status quo power dynamics. This...
Show moreThis study problematizes teacher education, and its accreditation guidelines as set forth by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. The analysis herein conceptualizes teacher education as contextually contingent on sociocultural metanarratives, as functioning paradigmatically through consensus and gatekeeping mechanisms, and as a structure existing within a matrix of discipline and surveillance that is designed to perpetuate status quo power dynamics. This conceptualization grounds dominant teacher education modalities within a specific meta-theory orientation. Through this analysis, the author also explores an alternative conceptualization of teacher education that appeals to the educative power of contextual awareness, ontological sensitivity, and democratically recursive pedagogical and relational processes. Such a conceptualization reflects an alternative meta-theory orientation. For the purposes of this analysis, the author employed textual analysis of sampled website literature from Teacher Education Programs in six geographic regions within the United States. This textual analysis was grounded in the aforementioned conceptualizations and was intended to reveal meta-theory orientations as expressed in a program’s official text.
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Date Issued: 2016
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004679, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004679
Subject Headings: Action research in education, Education -- Philosophy, Educational leadership, Effective teaching, Teacher effectiveness, Teachers -- Training of -- Evaluation
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Missed Opportunities and Connections in Teacher Learning.
Creator: Ferris, Deborah Melchers, Hyslop-Margison, Emery, Weber, Roberta K., Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: The current qualitative study focused on understanding the process of learning to teach. Using interviews of teacher educators, the study explored the importance of a set of teaching activities developed as part of the Teacher Self Efficacy Survey (Tschannen- Moran & Woolfolk Hoy, 2001) as well as the inclusion of instructional and assessment strategies for the teaching activities and the quality of beginning teacher performance of the activities. Data were collected from interviews of 15...
Show moreThe current qualitative study focused on understanding the process of learning to teach. Using interviews of teacher educators, the study explored the importance of a set of teaching activities developed as part of the Teacher Self Efficacy Survey (Tschannen- Moran & Woolfolk Hoy, 2001) as well as the inclusion of instructional and assessment strategies for the teaching activities and the quality of beginning teacher performance of the activities. Data were collected from interviews of 15 teacher educators. A process of open, axial, and substantive coding was applied to the data to inductively identify and categorize data relevant to the purpose of the study and to allow comparisons among and between categories. Findings suggested that teaching activities are critically important to and a comprehensive description of effective teaching, and that beginning teachers struggle with differentiation and applying their learning to their practice. Further, findings suggested that the source of beginning teacher struggles was found within the teacher education program, within school contexts, and between the two institutions. In addition, findings suggested that beginning teachers perform the student engagement activities and those related to instructional strategies more proficiently than classroom management activities, and that all three teaching activity categories were included in the curriculum, but to different degrees and not all as part of curriculum design. A variety of pedagogies were used to prepare preservice teachers; however, there was no reported knowledge of assessment instruments used to measure preservice teachers’ readiness for teaching and to obtain data on the performance of their graduates. Lastly, this study revealed that teacher education program leaders were reluctant to participate in a study that sought to draw direct connections between the skills taught in the program and how well beginning teachers perform them. Based on the findings, the researcher recommends further studies to determine the viability of the teaching activities as a comprehensive and accurate definition of effective teaching. Further the researcher recommends that teacher education programs and school districts adopt the teaching activities as a consistent framework for providing preservice education, for setting school district expectations, and for conducting teacher evaluations.
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Date Issued: 2016
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004676, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004676
Subject Headings: Action research in education, Educational leadership, Effective teaching, Pedagogical content knowledge, Teacher effectiveness, Teachers -- Training of
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Teacher Expertise in Motion: A Theory of the Synergistic Gears That Shape and Sustain Teacher Expertise.
Creator: Rodriguez, Christine N., Hyslop-Margison, Emery, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: This study explored the factors expert teachers reported as influences in the development and sustainment of their expertise as well as those that challenge it. Through one-on-one interviews with 15 expert teachers, the generated data were scrutinized using a grounded theory approach. The analysis protocol followed a multi-step process of three stages – exploration, amalgamation, and conceptualization. In each of those stages, the data were examined using a cyclical and recursive process of...
Show moreThis study explored the factors expert teachers reported as influences in the development and sustainment of their expertise as well as those that challenge it. Through one-on-one interviews with 15 expert teachers, the generated data were scrutinized using a grounded theory approach. The analysis protocol followed a multi-step process of three stages – exploration, amalgamation, and conceptualization. In each of those stages, the data were examined using a cyclical and recursive process of investigation-interpretationintegration- illustration. By the completion of the conceptualization stage, a theory was developed to describe the interdependence of the four influential factors that shape and sustain teacher expertise. Among the findings, the study revealed that both endogenous and exogenous elements are necessary to develop and sustain teacher expertise. The endogenous factors are more intrinsic and include energy (a teacher’s drive, commitment, and ability to extend past her/his comfort zone) and examination (reflection and goal-setting), while the exogenous factors are more environmental and include encouragement (the succor a teacher receives through collaboration and school leadership) and erudition (professional learning that influences a teacher’s knowledge and skills). The theory proposes that the evolution of expertise is neither chronological nor linear; rather, each of the four factors plays an integral role and is interconnected and synergistic with the others. In addition, when one or more influences is lacking or is compromised, expertise is impeded. Impedances represent the challenges the participants reported as their expertise evolved. These challenges interfere with their energy, examination, encouragement, or erudition and, ultimately, their expertise. Furthermore, a diagram depicting a quaternary gear system was created to illustrate teacher expertise in motion. This is especially relevant at a time when teacher quality is the prominent discourse in the field and at the forefront of educational policy. Understanding the interdependent factors that shape and sustain teacher expertise can inform pre-service teachers, developing and expert teachers, educational leaders, and decision-makers on the nuances of teacher expertise as a way to optimize teacher growth and maximize student success.
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Date Issued: 2016
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004660, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004660
Subject Headings: Effective teaching, Expertise, Performance -- Psychological aspects, Teacher educators, Teachers -- Training of, Teaching -- Psychological aspects
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Preservice teachers' developing beliefs about diversity as revealed through reflection and discourse.
Creator: Schaub, Cynthia R., College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to analyze the development of preservice teachers' beliefs in regard to diversity concepts and issues. The current study finds a positive development in preservice teacher candidates' professional beliefs about diversity as shown through observations, interviews, and document analysis at the beginning and end of upper division coursework in an elementary education degree program that infuses diversity throughout the program. Reflection is at the core of the goals...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to analyze the development of preservice teachers' beliefs in regard to diversity concepts and issues. The current study finds a positive development in preservice teacher candidates' professional beliefs about diversity as shown through observations, interviews, and document analysis at the beginning and end of upper division coursework in an elementary education degree program that infuses diversity throughout the program. Reflection is at the core of the goals of the college of education in which this program resides. Findings from this study revealed that through reflection and discourse, a majority of the senior students did show development in their professional beliefs about diversity concepts and issues. These findings may add to literature on program evaluation in the study of diversity concepts and infusion throughout upper division coursework. This study was limited due to an extremely low response rate and other spurious factors.
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Date Issued: 2013
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/3362566
Subject Headings: Teachers, Training of, Teachers, Attitudes, Teaching, Sociological aspects, Teacher-student relationships, Multicultural education
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The effects of a self-evaluation intervention on the instructional behavior of special education interns.
Creator: Keller, Cassandra L., Florida Atlantic University, Taylor, Ronald L.
Abstract/Description: This study investigated the effects of an audiotaped self evaluation intervention on the instructional behavior of interns in classrooms for students with disabilities. Three interns teaching in elementary school settings in Southeast Florida participated in the study. The dependent variable was frequency of specific social praise statements. The independent variable was the self evaluation intervention which consisted of an individual training session that required each intern to listen to...
Show moreThis study investigated the effects of an audiotaped self evaluation intervention on the instructional behavior of interns in classrooms for students with disabilities. Three interns teaching in elementary school settings in Southeast Florida participated in the study. The dependent variable was frequency of specific social praise statements. The independent variable was the self evaluation intervention which consisted of an individual training session that required each intern to listen to five minute audiotaped samples of their instruction and then graph the frequency of specific social praise. A multiple baseline design was used to measure the effects of the intervention. Generalization probes were administered to determine the effects of the intervention in other content areas and maintenance probes were evaluated to determine the effects of the intervention over time. A qualitative design employing an open ended interview was used to enhance and amplify the quantitative portion of the study and to find out what value the interns placed on the intervention. Results indicated that the intervention had a positive effect on all three interns' use of specific social praise. Generalization probes indicated that two of the three interns increased their use of specific social praise during non-targeted content areas. The maintenance probes indicated that all three interns' average use of specific social praise was well above their baseline averages, although two of the three interns had a decreasing trend. The findings from the qualitative data supported the results from the quantitative analyses and revealed that interns valued the self evaluation intervention because it allowed them to reflect, evaluate, and then change their behavior. Recommendations for future research were made.
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Date Issued: 2003
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12044
Subject Headings: Interns (Education), Teachers--Self-rating of, Students with disabilities--Education, Teachers of children with disabilities--Training of
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: A descriptive study of coteaching in Florida: From teacher education to implementation.
Creator: Earley, Deborah L., Florida Atlantic University, Scott, Jack
Abstract/Description: One of the recent trends in special education is inclusion. A new instructional strategy, coteaching, assists teachers in meeting the demands of a diverse group of students. Coteaching involves general and special educators jointly planning, instructing, and assessing all learners in an integrated classroom. The purpose of this study was to compile descriptive research on the prevalence of coteaching in Florida and investigate the degree to which Florida's state universities are preparing...
Show moreOne of the recent trends in special education is inclusion. A new instructional strategy, coteaching, assists teachers in meeting the demands of a diverse group of students. Coteaching involves general and special educators jointly planning, instructing, and assessing all learners in an integrated classroom. The purpose of this study was to compile descriptive research on the prevalence of coteaching in Florida and investigate the degree to which Florida's state universities are preparing preservice teachers for a coteaching instructional setting. The data was collected through surveys that were completed by university faculty and facilitators at the Florida Inclusion Network (FIN). The data were analyzed using a frequency and percentage table. As a result, coteaching was found to be quite prevalent in Florida. According to participants, preservice programs at the universities should include training for coteaching settings.
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Date Issued: 1996
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/15400
Subject Headings: Inclusive education--Florida, Student teachers--Training of--Florida, Mainstreaming in education--Florida, Teachers--Training of--Florida
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Relationships between pre-service teachers' characteristics, high-stakes testing, and math efficacy beliefs in a former community college teacher preparation program in Florida.
Creator: Bingham, Amy A., Florida Atlantic University, Kumar, David D.
Abstract/Description: In Florida, recent changes in legislation have granted community colleges the ability to now offer Baccalaureate degrees in education, frequently to non-traditional students. Additionally, teachers face more high-stakes tests than ever before, and often times struggle with the mathematics sections of such tests. A comprehensive literature review in the areas of pre-service teachers' math knowledge, teachers' efficacy beliefs about teaching math, and the high-stakes mathematics testing of...
Show moreIn Florida, recent changes in legislation have granted community colleges the ability to now offer Baccalaureate degrees in education, frequently to non-traditional students. Additionally, teachers face more high-stakes tests than ever before, and often times struggle with the mathematics sections of such tests. A comprehensive literature review in the areas of pre-service teachers' math knowledge, teachers' efficacy beliefs about teaching math, and the high-stakes mathematics testing of teachers was conducted. Based on the information obtained from the literature review, the study examined a population of pre-service teachers in a new teacher preparation program in Florida. The research investigated relationships surrounding pre-service teachers' characteristics such as: ages, failed attempts on high-stakes math sub-tests, levels and grades earned in lower-division math courses, time elapsed between lower-division and upper-division math courses, and the grade earned in the math methods course, in relation to their efficacy beliefs about teaching math. Results from the study revealed that pre-service teachers' ages, levels and grades of lower-division math courses, and grades earned in the math methods courses, did have a significant relationship with their math efficacy beliefs, as measured by the Mathematics Teaching Efficacy Beliefs Instrument (MTEBI). The variables of failed attempts on high-stakes math tests, and the time elapsed between lower- and upper-division math courses, did not significantly correlate with pre-service teachers' MTEBI scores. Additionally, a multiple regression model including the previously mentioned variables did predict pre-service teachers' MTEBI scores greater than chance, although the model did not generalize to the greater population. The findings from this study can assist new teacher preparation programs, which may serve non-traditional students, in isolating variables that can identify pre-service teachers who are at risk for poor mathematical experiences and attitudes in the early stages of the program. If pre-service teachers are prone to negative beliefs about teaching math, then any information in assisting these students prior to their having an effect on math education for future students can be beneficial. While this study posits some avenues to pursue in fostering positive math beliefs and experiences in teacher preparation programs, recommendations for further research in this area also will be discussed.
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Date Issued: 2004
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/12110
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Early Childhood Preservice Teachers’ Knowledge of Children’sCognitive Development and Developmentally AppropriatePedagogical Practices: Understanding the Role of ClinicalExperiences.
Creator: Beers, Courtney, Bhagwanji, Yashwant, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Curriculum, Culture, and Educational Inquiry
Abstract/Description: The quality of early caregiving and educational environments has a significant effect on children’s later cognitive outcomes. Early childhood teachers are an important determining factor in the quality of these environments. Due to inconsistencies in practice across the early childhood field, there is a call for better prepared teachers. Teacher preparation itself is criticized for its lack of innovative and effective practices. While research finds that more effective teacher preparation...
Show moreThe quality of early caregiving and educational environments has a significant effect on children’s later cognitive outcomes. Early childhood teachers are an important determining factor in the quality of these environments. Due to inconsistencies in practice across the early childhood field, there is a call for better prepared teachers. Teacher preparation itself is criticized for its lack of innovative and effective practices. While research finds that more effective teacher preparation programs are those that are steeped in clinical practice, these types of experiences are inconsistent and fragmented in the early childhood field. Part of the issue is the lack of knowledge on how to integrate highquality clinical experiences carefully into early childhood teacher preparation in order to prepare all preservice teachers successfully for the classroom.
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Date Issued: 2016
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004647, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004647
Subject Headings: Cognition in children, Early childhood educators -- Training of, Early childhood teachers -- In service training, Pedagogical content knowledge, Preschool teaching
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The Impact of iCoaching on Teacher-delivered Opportunities to Respond.
Creator: Randolph, Kathleen M., Duffy, Mary L., Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Exceptional Student Education
Abstract/Description: Employment coaching is essential for performing job duties and for developing and enhancing skills. Coaching in the school setting typically follows the traditional format of pre-conference, observe, and post-conference, where feedback on teaching performance is shared but often delayed. Professional development provides teachers with skills to enhance their teaching practice with little to no follow-up or support. The most effective way to produce change in the school setting is to show the...
Show moreEmployment coaching is essential for performing job duties and for developing and enhancing skills. Coaching in the school setting typically follows the traditional format of pre-conference, observe, and post-conference, where feedback on teaching performance is shared but often delayed. Professional development provides teachers with skills to enhance their teaching practice with little to no follow-up or support. The most effective way to produce change in the school setting is to show the connection between professional development and student performance, and iCoaching can help to bridge the gap. Research shows that effective feedback is immediate, systematic, positive, constructive, and detailed (Scheeler & Lee, 2002). Bug-in-ear (BIE) coaching is a way to provide immediate feedback so correction can be made live, and errors are reduced. iCoaching uses iPods as a BIE device with a coach serving as a remote observer providing coaching prompts or immediate feedback to the teacher to allow the teacher to implement ideas or make corrections immediately. Increasing opportunities to respond (“Increasing Opportunities to Respond,” 2015) is a way to increase academic achievement and on task behavior (Sutherland, Alder, & Gunter, 2003). This study utilized a multiple probe across participants design to investigate the effect of iCoaching on teacher-delivered OTR. Four teacher participants and their students participated in the study, where the teachers completed a teacher preparation session and live iCoaching sessions to increase their OTR. Data were collected on OTR (including the type of OTR), coaching comments, student responses, and student curricular performance. The results indicate that iCoaching was effective in increasing teacher-delivered OTR and increasing student responses and academic performance. Implications for future research are discussed.
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Date Issued: 2017
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004881, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004881
Subject Headings: Teachers--Training of., Teacher effectiveness., Feedback (Psychology), Interaction analysis in education., Behavior modification., Communication in education., Bluetooth technology.
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Principal leadership: the missing link in teacher retention.
Creator: Cornella, Janet A., College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this research study was to identify practices that principals utilize that are believed to influence teacher retention. Teacher turnover is a major problem facing principals and school systems today. Much of the present research focuses on why teachers leave the field, but there is little research on the principals' perceptions of what they do to stem the flow of educators leaving the classroom. To accomplish this purpose, a case study was conducted, focused on identifying the...
Show moreThe purpose of this research study was to identify practices that principals utilize that are believed to influence teacher retention. Teacher turnover is a major problem facing principals and school systems today. Much of the present research focuses on why teachers leave the field, but there is little research on the principals' perceptions of what they do to stem the flow of educators leaving the classroom. To accomplish this purpose, a case study was conducted, focused on identifying the principals' role in teacher retention and their perceptions of the most important strategies utilized to stimulate high teacher retention. Qualitative research methods including individual interviews, open-ended questionnaires, and focus groups enabled the researcher to identify, compare, and contrast the perceptions, beliefs, and practices used by the nine study participants. The research design produced interviews filled with rich narratives describing the practices used by principals at schools with high teacher retention. The focus group discussion elucidated the common behaviors that were perceived to support teacher retention. The study yielded evidence that high-performing principals with high teacher retention rates clearly and consistently identified specific practices they believe support teacher retention; that principals play a vital role in teacher retention and that their leadership, support, and daily practices influence a teacher's decision to remain in teaching. The data collected indicates the centrality of creating a positive school culture and a sense of belonging. All the other identified principal practices are intertwined with and contribute to this outcome., Choosing, supporting, and valuing faculty and encouraging shared decision-making appear to be the central practices in building teacher retention; and these practices are supported by and integrated with principals' modeling of positive personal characteristics, exercising fairness and equity, being visible and approachable, and communicating in an open two-way manner. Congruence of findings from all data collection methods provided an updated list of common practices identified by these highly successful principals that may inform principal preparation and a professional development model for present and future educational leaders interested in maintaining a stable teaching faculty.
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Date Issued: 2010
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/2683125
Subject Headings: Teacher turnover, School prinicipals, Training of, Teachers, Recruiting, School management and organization, Educational leadership
Format: Document (PDF)

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