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Title: Student Perception of Online Instructors at a Florida Public University.
Creator: Ballard, William Willett, Shockley, Robert, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to determine differences in online student perception of the quality of instruction between online instructors who did and did not complete faculty training for online instruction. There has been very little research identifying the factors influencing online students perception on quality of instruction, specifically at Florida public institutions. This research is important in establishing if public universities should require some level of training before an...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to determine differences in online student perception of the quality of instruction between online instructors who did and did not complete faculty training for online instruction. There has been very little research identifying the factors influencing online students perception on quality of instruction, specifically at Florida public institutions. This research is important in establishing if public universities should require some level of training before an instructor can teach online. Experiencing poor quality of instruction can negatively impact an online student academically, which can, in turn, be detrimental to a university’s student retention and graduation rates. This study adds to the current body of research regarding improvement of the quality of instruction in online courses based on the online students perception of faculty and the completion of faculty training for online instruction. The results of this study demonstrated no significant difference overall in student perception of quality of instruction between online instructors who did and did not complete faculty training as measured in courses with five or more student respondents. Additional results revealed that multiple academic colleges demonstrated a significant difference in student perception of quality of instruction. This study also discovered a slight negative effect of online faculty training on other areas of student satisfaction that did not include quality of instruction. Recommendations for future research are provided, including those for the improvement of online faculty training, university policy, and faculty and student preparation for online teaching and learning, respectively.
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Date Issued: 2018
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005962
Subject Headings: Distance education--Florida, Public universities and colleges, Online teaching, Student evaluation of teachers
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: A Qualitative Examination of Strategic Planning and Process Improvement in Public Universities: Dynamics of the Relationship to State Funding, Competition, and Undergraduate Degree Completion.
Creator: Ford, Stanford E., Wright, Dianne A., Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: Public Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) are facing many challenges including state funding, competition, and maintaining the best possible graduation rate. This study: (1) examined the strategic plans and strategic planning processes to explore how, and to what extent, these tool are being used to address these challenges; and (2) explored the extent to which continuous process improvement is included in strategic planning efforts. A qualitative research design employing a grounded theory...
Show morePublic Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) are facing many challenges including state funding, competition, and maintaining the best possible graduation rate. This study: (1) examined the strategic plans and strategic planning processes to explore how, and to what extent, these tool are being used to address these challenges; and (2) explored the extent to which continuous process improvement is included in strategic planning efforts. A qualitative research design employing a grounded theory approach was used in this study. The researcher reviewed the perceptions of the participants at each of four selected public institutions regarding strategic planning processes, including their beliefs with regard to process improvement as a component of the strategic planning process. Perceived facilitators and detractors of strategic planning and its implementation were also examined. Finally, the researcher sought to design an improved model for strategic planning in higher education that takes continuous process improvement into consideration as a basic component of the approach to planning. The dominant theme that emerged from the data analysis concerned state funding, as performance-based funding offers an opportunity to acquire additional funds. Graduation rate was identified as a core component of student success. Competition from emerging sectors was not a specific topic of discussion during the strategic planning processes. Forty-one percent of participants indicated that some form of process improvement structure exists at their institution, often related to accreditation reviews and was outside of the strategic planning process. 53% of the responses to the question, “What do you believe would be the impact of having process improvement as an integral component in the strategic planning process?” replied that it would be good or beneficial if it were carried out in a meaningful manner. Twenty-nine percent of the 53% stated that process improvement efforts are often performed for it’s own sake, and that including process improvement in the strategic planning process should be done in a manner that adds value to the strategic planning process and the institution. Through the analysis of the approaches to strategic planning examined in this study, the researcher offers a new strategic planning model for HEIs grounded in the findings.
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Date Issued: 2018
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005993
Subject Headings: Public universities and colleges, Strategic planning, Higher education and state, Education, Higher--Planning
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The Relationships Among the Behavioral Agility of School Leadership Teams, Culture, and Performance.
Creator: Shaw, Carletha B., Shockley, Robert, Morris, John D., Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: This quantitative, non-experimental study was conducted to investigate the relationship among the behavioral agility of school leadership teams, school culture, and school performance. Additionally, the study sought to determine whether the influence of these variables and/or their relationships are modified by alterable and unalterable characteristics of the school. The study utilized Pisapia’s (2009) Strategic Leader Questionnaire (SLQ) to measure school leadership team’s behavioral agility...
Show moreThis quantitative, non-experimental study was conducted to investigate the relationship among the behavioral agility of school leadership teams, school culture, and school performance. Additionally, the study sought to determine whether the influence of these variables and/or their relationships are modified by alterable and unalterable characteristics of the school. The study utilized Pisapia’s (2009) Strategic Leader Questionnaire (SLQ) to measure school leadership team’s behavioral agility in using five leadership influence actions (managing, transforming, bridging, bonding, and bartering). Cameron and Quinn’s (2005) Organizational Culture Assessment Instrument (OCAI) was used to determine if the school’s dominant organizational culture type (adhocracy, clan, hierarchy, or market) mediated the behavioral agility of school leadership teams and school performance. The study included 65 schools and approximately 1,500 classroom teachers from a very large urban school district located in the Southeast United States. The results indicate that behavioral agility, unidimensional and multidimensional factors, were significantly correlated to each organizational culture type, with the exception of the managing behavior subfactor in clan and adhocracy cultures. Student suspension moderated the relationship between behavioral agility and school culture. There was no relationship found between school culture and school performance; however, it was found that minority percentage negatively correlated market culture and school performance and student attendance negatively correlated both hierarchy and market cultures and school performance.
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Date Issued: 2018
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005966
Subject Headings: Educational leadership, Organizational culture, Schools, Agility
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Predicting Undergraduate Student Course Success in a Lecture Capture Quantitative Methods Course.
Creator: Sweet, Jonathan A., DeDonno, Michael, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to develop a methodological approach using secondary data that researchers, faculty, and staff can utilize to assess student course performance and to identify the input and course environment factors that best predict student course success in an undergraduate lecture capture quantitative methods course. Using Astin and antonio (2012)’s Input Environment and Outcome (IEO) Model as a framework, this quantitative study examined both input variables that students...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to develop a methodological approach using secondary data that researchers, faculty, and staff can utilize to assess student course performance and to identify the input and course environment factors that best predict student course success in an undergraduate lecture capture quantitative methods course. Using Astin and antonio (2012)’s Input Environment and Outcome (IEO) Model as a framework, this quantitative study examined both input variables that students bring to a course as well as the course environment factors that students experience in the course. Three secondary data sources were utilized and analyzed using descriptive and multivariate statistics. The findings revealed that students with higher levels of student course engagement and academic self-concept were more likely to achieve student course success in this lecture capture quantitative methods course. In addition, prior University GPA along with live-class attendance, discussion board posts, and course quiz and exam scores were the strongest predictors of student course success. The largest implication from this study was the methodological approach developed to identify factors that predicted student course success. This approach can be used to help faculty identify course-embedded measures for assessment as well as develop Keys for Success to help future students succeed in difficult courses. While this study added significantly to the limited research on lecture capture courses, future research should further explore qualitative aspects of the course, such as motivation and student video-viewing behaviors, as well as additional impacts on physical attendance in lecture capture courses.
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Date Issued: 2018
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005988
Subject Headings: Prediction of scholastic success, Undergraduates, Filmed lectures, Quantitative research
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Supportive Programs in Synergistic Middle and High Schools to Increase Engagement and Prevent Students From Dropping Out.
Creator: Collado, Washington B., Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia, Reyes-Guerra, Daniel, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: This study examined how two high schools have successfully increased graduation rates while serving minority-majority and impoverished communities. Data collected for this qualitative, multi-site, case study employed publicly-available archival materials, interviews, focus groups, and observations in leadership meetings to help narrate a story that takes into account the complexities of human relations, specifically those in school settings in an urban school district. Thirty-four...
Show moreThis study examined how two high schools have successfully increased graduation rates while serving minority-majority and impoverished communities. Data collected for this qualitative, multi-site, case study employed publicly-available archival materials, interviews, focus groups, and observations in leadership meetings to help narrate a story that takes into account the complexities of human relations, specifically those in school settings in an urban school district. Thirty-four participants were selected by the principals at the participating schools and included members of their leadership teams, such as literacy coaches, assistant principals, magnet coordinators, students, parents, security specialists, and guidance counselors. The conceptual framework of the study was based on three research questions. The first question examined the synergistic relationships between the selected middle and the high schools with the purpose of addressing students’ at risk of dropping out factors in the areas of academic engagement, behavior, and attendance. The second question investigated the different types of initiatives enacted to provide support and efforts to engage or reengage students. The third question was used as a guide to observe the effects that the principals have on the work of stakeholders and how they serve their students. This study examined the various ways in which two high schools and their three feeder middle schools combine efforts to reengage students academically and socially. The selected high schools have demonstrated success in graduation rates while serving minority-majority students in areas of poverty, as determined by the high percentage of students qualifying for the Free and Reduced Lunch program. The findings indicate the existence of purposeful collaboration between personnel with an emphasis on programmatic continuum, communication, and other initiatives to strengthen articulation. Further, this study identified various forms of support programs for students to remain engaged or reengage, such as extracurricular activities, mentoring, and expansion of interest-based classes. Lastly, the findings demonstrate that the principals involved in this study clearly established a mission and vision and their leadership teams enact such with a balance between their own initiatives and adherence to the goals of their respective school leaders.
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Date Issued: 2018
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013056
Subject Headings: Low-income high school students., Minority high school students., Dropouts--Prevention.
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Student Perception of Professors’ Teaching Attributes in Post-Secondary Hospitality Management Degree Programs.
Creator: Hertz, Oren, Bryan, Valerie, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: This study describes how undergraduate students in their junior and senior year seeking a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management at a regionally accredited university perceive their professors’ instructional attributes and behaviors. This examination concentrated on two critical zones of discernment concerning professors’ instructional practices. Participants were asked what teaching attributes contributed to their academic success, and teaching attributes did not contribute to their...
Show moreThis study describes how undergraduate students in their junior and senior year seeking a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management at a regionally accredited university perceive their professors’ instructional attributes and behaviors. This examination concentrated on two critical zones of discernment concerning professors’ instructional practices. Participants were asked what teaching attributes contributed to their academic success, and teaching attributes did not contribute to their academic success. The study also sought to identify any obstacles faced by the participating undergraduate students and their faculty as indicators of how to mitigate such obstacles. This study included a review of an extensive collection of research on student perspectives and how those perspectives may reflect on the evaluation of the adequacy of various teaching techniques and academic practices. This study found that the instructional attributes that participating students reported that they value include: agreeableness (concern and regard for students), accommodation (accessibility), and receptiveness to others’ conclusions (support of class inquiries and exchange), yet all instructors do not exhibit each of these attributes. This study identified the positive teaching characteristics of professors in one setting and how these professors interact with their students in a manner that captures students’ attention and promotes teaching and learning in the classroom. It also suggests attributes that professors in this setting and discipline may wish to elevate to better connect with students in the classroom.
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Date Issued: 2018
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013068
Subject Headings: College teachers., Effective teaching in higher education., Student evaluation of teachers.
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Factors That Contribute to Healthy Professional Relationships and a Positive Perception of School Climate in Christian Schools.
Creator: Hoffman, Tammy, Vaughan, Michelle, Bogotch, Ira, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: Several Christian schools are becoming insolvent due to competition from larger private and charter schools. The purpose of this explanatory sequential mixed methods study was to determine teacher and administrators’ perception of school climate in the dimension of “Professional Relationships” in two accredited secondary Christian schools in South Florida, identify factors that contribute to healthy interpersonal relationships between the two groups, and determine how each group’s Christian...
Show moreSeveral Christian schools are becoming insolvent due to competition from larger private and charter schools. The purpose of this explanatory sequential mixed methods study was to determine teacher and administrators’ perception of school climate in the dimension of “Professional Relationships” in two accredited secondary Christian schools in South Florida, identify factors that contribute to healthy interpersonal relationships between the two groups, and determine how each group’s Christian faith influenced their actions. This study was unique because it included the administrators. The Organizational Climate Descriptive Questionnaire Revised for Secondary Schools (OCDQ-RS) survey was administered and results indicated that the participants’ perception of school climate was strongly influenced by their interpersonal relationships with their leaders, and positive interactions with one leader balanced out negative interactions with another leader. The survey results determined that School B’s participants scored above average in all five behaviors, and in “Teacher Engaged Behavior” their high score was an outlier, but the qualitative strand proved the score was appropriate. A t-test proved there was a significant statistical difference between the two research sites. Both schools scored above average in their openness scores, supporting the literature that Christian schools tend to have healthier school climates than public schools. An intrinsic case study was used for the qualitative strand, and the results indicated that teachers appreciate “Intentional Compassionate Leaders” who demonstrate healthy communication skills and compassion, and administrators appreciate “Professional Teachers” who demonstrate healthy communication skills and reciprocal compliance. Teachers appreciate administrators who demonstrate humility, Christian leadership, collaboration, accessibility, and visibility. These findings are significant for all educators because they identify concrete actions that teachers and administrators can take to improve their professional relationships. Christian school leaders could consider conducting a school climate study with a qualitative strand and following the Christian Transformational Leadership style, which encourages leaders to develop professional relationships with teachers, provide teachers with growth opportunities, develop a shared vision with their staff, and incorporates the three R’s, which stand for Christian school leaders who are “responsible” to secure “resources” and implement “reform” to keep their school in business.
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Date Issued: 2018
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013069
Subject Headings: Christian schools., Church schools--Administration., Interpersonal relations., School climate
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The Relationship Between Undergraduate Instructor Self- Concept and the Degree of Prosocial Behavior Exhibited by Instructors to Online Undergraduate Business First Year Students.
Creator: Bain, Bernice, Bryan, Valerie, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: The primary goal of this quantitative study was to investigate the connection between instructor self-concept and prosocial behavior and its impact on student learning; thus, gaining more knowledge about assessment of instructor fit for online, undergraduate, business first-year experience (FYE) courses. If an instructor’s selfconcept is related to the degree of prosocial behavior exhibited, then an instructor with a higher likelihood of exhibiting prosocial behavior may be a better fit for...
Show moreThe primary goal of this quantitative study was to investigate the connection between instructor self-concept and prosocial behavior and its impact on student learning; thus, gaining more knowledge about assessment of instructor fit for online, undergraduate, business first-year experience (FYE) courses. If an instructor’s selfconcept is related to the degree of prosocial behavior exhibited, then an instructor with a higher likelihood of exhibiting prosocial behavior may be a better fit for an online, undergraduate, business FYE course. The study failed to reject all null hypotheses, showing no correlations between faculty self-concept and degree of prosocial behavior exhibited to online business firstyear students. The results did show a correlation between instructor self-concept (RSCQ score) and tendency to exhibit prosocial behavior (PTM score), which is outside of the scope of this study, but informed future research considerations discussed in Chapter 5.
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Date Issued: 2018
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013052
Subject Headings: Online learning and distance education., Business teachers., Undergraduates.
Format: Document (PDF)

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

Title: The Wicked Decision Maker: A Collective Case Study of Senior Student Affairs Officers Responding to At-risk Student Retention.
Creator: Camp, Aarika C., Watlington, Eliah, Pisapia, John, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this collective case study was to discover the decision-making processes used by senior student affairs officers when making wicked decisions related to the retention of specialized, at-risk student populations. Wicked decisions are complex, resistant to resolutions, lead to other problems, and are essentially unique. In this study, decisions related to retention of Black males; students with mental health issues; and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer student...
Show moreThe purpose of this collective case study was to discover the decision-making processes used by senior student affairs officers when making wicked decisions related to the retention of specialized, at-risk student populations. Wicked decisions are complex, resistant to resolutions, lead to other problems, and are essentially unique. In this study, decisions related to retention of Black males; students with mental health issues; and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer student retention fall within the wicked problem category and were the focus of this study. These decisions are usually the responsibility of divisions of student affairs in higher education settings and the senior student affairs officer. Hence, the senior student affairs officer is tasked with making responsible and effective decisions that foster the success of all students. This dissertation focused on the decision-making processes, practices, and procedures student affairs officers use to support the retention of select special populations served in higher education.
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Date Issued: 2017
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004985, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004975
Subject Headings: Dissertations, Academic -- Florida Atlantic University
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Time Orientation and the Ability to Envision the Distant Future of Higher Education in a Community College.
Creator: Diaz, Gisela M., Bryan, Valerie, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: Although temporal issues affecting organizations and leaders have been researched, time orientation (preference for one or more of the present, past, and future time frames) and visioning ability of change agents within organizations remain open for additional investigation. This exploratory survey study compared self-reported time orientation (TO) and visioning ability ratings of administrators and faculty at a community college. The research added to the extant literature by contextualizing...
Show moreAlthough temporal issues affecting organizations and leaders have been researched, time orientation (preference for one or more of the present, past, and future time frames) and visioning ability of change agents within organizations remain open for additional investigation. This exploratory survey study compared self-reported time orientation (TO) and visioning ability ratings of administrators and faculty at a community college. The research added to the extant literature by contextualizing the measures of the key constructs and extending the research to a novel setting. Scores for all three time frames were assessed in contrast to studies that emphasize future orientation. In addition, TO measures were obtained using an instrument constructed specifically for organizations (Fortunato & Furey, 2009). An adapted version of a visioning ability by Thoms and Blasko (1999) was constructed to address a specified time depth (the distant future) and domains relevant to higher education. Administrators reported significantly higher ratings than faculty on Future TO and visioning ability measures. Future TO scores for faculty were lower in relation to scores on the other two TO scales, but no within-group TO differences were found for administrators. A multiple regression model indicated that Future TO was the best predictor of visioning ability. Faculty teaching in the Associate of Science areas had higher Present TO scores than those teaching in the Associate of Arts programs. TO and visioning ability did not change as a function of gender, age, culture, and years of experience in higher education. The interpretation of the findings was limited by the lack of benchmarks that allow for meaningful comparisons across organizations, and by a continued need to establish construct and predictive validity for the key measures. The research has implications for hiring decisions, for staff development, and for temporal profiling in organizations interested in envisioning the distant future.
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Date Issued: 2017
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005018, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005927
Subject Headings: Dissertations, Academic -- Florida Atlantic University
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: A Comparative Look at Student and Faculty Perceptions of Professors at a State College.
Creator: Duff, Suzanne M., Bryan, Valerie, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: Research shows that there is a disconnect between student and faculty perceptions in a range of areas. One area that has not been researched is comparing student and faculty perceptions regarding desirable and undesirable traits in professors. The purpose of this mixed methods study was to identify what students perceive are the most and least desirable qualities in professors, and how those qualities affect their overall college experience. This study also identified what professors thought...
Show moreResearch shows that there is a disconnect between student and faculty perceptions in a range of areas. One area that has not been researched is comparing student and faculty perceptions regarding desirable and undesirable traits in professors. The purpose of this mixed methods study was to identify what students perceive are the most and least desirable qualities in professors, and how those qualities affect their overall college experience. This study also identified what professors thought students perceive as the most and least desirable qualities in professors, and how those qualities affect students’ overall college experience. The findings indicate that the largest disparity in perceptions between students and faculty was faculty perception that students rate them based on class rigor and assigned grades, which were two of the least important qualities according to students. The largest similarity that faculty and students agreed upon is that students desire professors who are knowledgeable, passionate, engaging, and able to connect with students. Both groups also perceive that students do not like professors who are boring and monotone. In addition, students and professors agree that students perceive professors as playing an important role in their lives that affect their ability to learn, the grades they receive, and also impact their overall college experience and trajectory in life. The two groups differed when describing how professors’ undesirable qualities can negatively affect students’ emotions and self-confidence. Faculty and students were in agreement in a variety of areas, but they were disconnected in several areas as well. This is a problem as we move into the future. Cox (2009) said, “the traditional college student is no longer the typical college student” (p. 7), especially when it comes to state and community colleges. Professors would benefit from listening to students instead of assuming that their ratings are untrustworthy and based on how hard or easy the class was or what grade they received. The researcher asserts, along with others in the literature, that expertise in content area is no longer good enough to be an effective educator in higher education. Faculty also need to be experts in understanding students.
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Date Issued: 2017
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004967, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004957
Subject Headings: Dissertations, Academic -- Florida Atlantic University
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The Influence of Cultural Intelligence (CQ) on Faculty Leadership.
Creator: Ellis, Althia, Bryan, Valerie, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: The study was born out of a deep concern that there have been missed opportunities to apply cultural intelligence to enrich leadership, instruction, and learning. In particular, direct interaction and observation of students from multicultural backgrounds have revealed the value in adjusting one’s mindset to creating a more inclusive learning environment. The purpose of the study was to examine the influence of cultural intelligence on faculty leadership. The problem addressed was the growing...
Show moreThe study was born out of a deep concern that there have been missed opportunities to apply cultural intelligence to enrich leadership, instruction, and learning. In particular, direct interaction and observation of students from multicultural backgrounds have revealed the value in adjusting one’s mindset to creating a more inclusive learning environment. The purpose of the study was to examine the influence of cultural intelligence on faculty leadership. The problem addressed was the growing need for faculty to expand their cultural intelligence to enable them to demonstrate exemplary leadership in 21st century classrooms. The study measured the cultural intelligence of faculty using the Cultural Intelligence Scale (CQS). Faculty members’ leadership was measured using the Leadership Practices Inventory Self (LPI-Self). This quantitative study used associational and survey methods to predict scores and explain associations among variables. Overall, behavioral CQ and cognitive CQ had a greater influence on the following leadership practices: Model the Way, Inspire a Shared Vision, and Challenge the Process. For the private university, behavioral CQ had a greater influence on the following leadership practices: Model the Way and Inspiring a Shared Vision. The public university did not show preference for any of the five leadership practices. For the state college, cognitive CQ had a greater influence on all leadership practices, except for Model the Way. The results of this study confirmed that cultural intelligence significantly influenced leadership practices of faculty members. These findings provide important information for faculty development programs, curriculum development, and hiring practices. An urgent requirement for advancing teaching and learning in today’s higher education classrooms is a keen understanding of the underlying values, beliefs, and perceptions of students. These qualities affect students’ understanding and how they express themselves in the classroom. The decision to give instructional leaders leadership training in cultural intelligence is highly recommended. While faculty members showed preference for certain leadership practices, their preferences might be incorporated to develop a blended leadership style that may be more suitable for today’s diverse academic community. The association found between cultural intelligence and leadership practices confirms the value of faculty development in cultural intelligence.
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Date Issued: 2017
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004974, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004964
Subject Headings: Dissertations, Academic -- Florida Atlantic University
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: A Quantitative Analysis of Green-Building Features Incorporated in LEED-Certified Campus Buildings.
Creator: Ramdin, Gianna, Wright, Dianne A., Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: Higher education is an idyllically positioned organization from which meaningful dissemination of knowledge and interdisciplinary research is capable of actuating practices that resource consumption. Paradoxically, the construction, maintenance, and operations of the built environment, including the built campus environment, have contributed to the decline of raw resources and degradation of environmental processes. An opportunity exists to bridge the knowledge gap between the design and...
Show moreHigher education is an idyllically positioned organization from which meaningful dissemination of knowledge and interdisciplinary research is capable of actuating practices that resource consumption. Paradoxically, the construction, maintenance, and operations of the built environment, including the built campus environment, have contributed to the decline of raw resources and degradation of environmental processes. An opportunity exists to bridge the knowledge gap between the design and construction phase and the operations and maintenance phase of the green certified building life cycle, while examining the parts that contributed to the green-certification of the whole building. The purpose of this research was to 1.) identify green-building features and determine their frequency of implementation in new capital (NC) LEED-certified, campus buildings to effectuate operations and maintenance cost savings, indoor wellbeing, and environmental stewardship, and 2.) determine the relationships of greenbuilding feature usage across building, institutional, and LEED characteristics. The study used archival data to document the green efforts of each building with the study’s sample of 195 buildings on the campus of 107 universities and colleges, in the United States, between 2007 and 2017. The study’s findings indicated that the public institutions earned the LEED certification more often than private institutions and the sample was void of two-year community colleges. The sample was restricted for green-building features that (a) reduce economic cost, (b) improve indoor wellbeing, and (c) increase environmental stewardship. The results and implications are discussed.
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Date Issued: 2017
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005021, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005930
Subject Headings: Dissertations, Academic -- Florida Atlantic University
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Communicative Leadership During Organizational Change: A Case Study of a New University President’s Change-Initiative Team.
Creator: Sacks, Emily Alice, Shockley, Robert, Pisapia, John, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: As the economy continues to struggle in its recovery from the recent recession, higher education institutions have been hard-hit, affecting stakeholders at all levels, including boards of trustees, students, faculty, and the surrounding communities. In the middle of the turmoil and period of change are the presidents, needing to answer to board members as well as other institutional stakeholders, while still maintaining a balance of organizational consistency and change. Nearly all...
Show moreAs the economy continues to struggle in its recovery from the recent recession, higher education institutions have been hard-hit, affecting stakeholders at all levels, including boards of trustees, students, faculty, and the surrounding communities. In the middle of the turmoil and period of change are the presidents, needing to answer to board members as well as other institutional stakeholders, while still maintaining a balance of organizational consistency and change. Nearly all organizational change literature incorporates interpersonal communication as an integral component in effective change efforts; therefore, the constantly changing higher education landscape necessitates presidents who are skilled in communicative leadership, of which interpersonal skills are a cornerstone. Although all presidents need these skill sets, this study examines only a newly appointed president and one of his change-initiative teams to capture the dynamic environment surrounding new administration.
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Date Issued: 2017
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004999, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004989
Subject Headings: Dissertations, Academic -- Florida Atlantic University
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: African-American Leaders in the Field of Science: A Template for Overcoming Obstacles.
Creator: Schmidt, Waweise J., Bryan, Valerie, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this phenomenological multi-case study and three-person interview, was to discover what select prominent African-American scientists perceived were obstacles to overcome to be successful leaders in their professional lives, and the opportunities that aided in their professional growth. Through the addition of the threeperson interview, the researcher discovered commonalities between the perceived obstacles and opportunities of current science, technology, engineering and...
Show moreThe purpose of this phenomenological multi-case study and three-person interview, was to discover what select prominent African-American scientists perceived were obstacles to overcome to be successful leaders in their professional lives, and the opportunities that aided in their professional growth. Through the addition of the threeperson interview, the researcher discovered commonalities between the perceived obstacles and opportunities of current science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) professionals and the perceptions of selected historically prominent scientists. This study examined documents of the period and relics of prominent African- Americans who were in STEM fields and lived from 1860 to 1968. A description of the setting that influenced how the scientists perceived the phenomenon was written with the approach being anchored in the social constructivist tradition. Commonalities emerged through coding experiences of the individuals, which yielded patterns to help explain the phenomenon. By investigating their perceptions, insight was gained into understanding the attributes, tools and skills, and tailored experiences that encouraged Thomas Burton, Kelly Miller, George Carver, Daniel Williams, Matthew Henson, Ernest Just, Charles Drew, Percy Julian, William Cobb, and Benjamin Peery to achieve success in STEM fields between 1860 and 1968. The significance of the study is multifaceted: understanding the obstacles that African-American scientists had to overcome in their professional lives can result in the development of science educators who are better informed regarding the appropriate types of assistance that can be provided to aid their students in overcoming obstacles. This can hopefully increase their opportunities to succeed within the science field. This study can result in the development of science educators who are more sensitive in addressing the needs of the developing minority student, and can encourage, educate, and enlist more individuals to enter into the dialogue regarding the disparity of minority representation in STEM fields.
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Date Issued: 2017
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004961, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004951
Subject Headings: Dissertations, Academic -- Florida Atlantic University
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: College Professors as Classroom Leaders: Strategic Thinking Capacity, Leader Influence Actions, and Classroom Performance.
Creator: Sfiropoulos, Mike, Reyes-Guerra, Daniel, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: This non-experimental, quantitative study explored the leadership of college professors and the relationship to student assessments of their teaching performance. The leadership constructs under investigation were strategic thinking capacity (cognitive agility) and leader influence actions (behavioral agility), which are rooted in the theories of behavioral and cognitive complexity. Research indicates that cognitive and behavioral agility are two factors that produce more effective results...
Show moreThis non-experimental, quantitative study explored the leadership of college professors and the relationship to student assessments of their teaching performance. The leadership constructs under investigation were strategic thinking capacity (cognitive agility) and leader influence actions (behavioral agility), which are rooted in the theories of behavioral and cognitive complexity. Research indicates that cognitive and behavioral agility are two factors that produce more effective results for leaders in varying organizational contexts. However, previous research does not include college professors in those studies. Thus, this study sought to explore professors as classroom leaders and the relationship between college professors’ cognitive and behavioral agility and their students’ perceptions of their teaching effectiveness, if behavioral agility plays a mediating role, and if that relationship is moderated by alterable and unalterable contextual variables. Ninety-two full-time professors from one Florida college participated in the study. The professors’ strategic thinking capacity (cognitive agility) was measured using the STQP, an adaptation of Pisapia and Reyes-Guerra’s (2007) Strategic Thinking Questionnaire (STQTM), and the professors’ leader influence actions (behavioral agility) were measured using the SLQP, an adaptation of Pisapia, Reyes-Guerra, and Yasin’s (2006) Strategic Leadership Questionnaire (SLQTM) with both instruments employing Pisapia’s (2009) framework of strategic leadership. The ‘P’ denotes the ‘professor’ version of the original STQTM and SLQTM. Locus of control orientation as a contextual variable was measured using Spector’s (1988) Work Locus of Control Scale (WLCS). To measure student perceptions of professor effectiveness, the student assessments of courses and faculty were compiled from existing records from Palm Beach State College’s Institutional Research and Effectiveness (IRE) website. The data were statistically analyzed using correlational and regression analyses and tested for mediation and moderation effects. The findings of this study revealed that college professors demonstrated the same strategic thinking capacity and leader influence actions as leaders in more traditional leadership roles as measured by the STQP and SLQP. The findings were also consistent with previous studies that found that cognitive agility is a significant predictor of behavioral agility. However, it also found that student perceptions of professor effectiveness as measured by student assessments were not correlated to any of the research variables in this study. Findings and conclusions, as well as recommendations for future research, are presented in the concluding chapter.
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Date Issued: 2017
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004993
Subject Headings: Dissertations, Academic -- Florida Atlantic University
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Lives in Transition: The Impact of Career and Technical Education on Under-served High School Students’ Career Growth and Development.
Creator: Smith, Merris A., Maslin-Ostrowski, Patricia, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: This case study examined and described how under-served high school students enrolled in medical sciences academy CTE programs (Certified Nursing Assistant [CNA] and Electrocardiogram Technician [EKG]) at two Florida Title I high schools perceive that their career and technical education experience prepared them with the academic and technical skills and knowledge to pursue postsecondary training or higher education; be better prepared to transition into an ever-more complicated economic...
Show moreThis case study examined and described how under-served high school students enrolled in medical sciences academy CTE programs (Certified Nursing Assistant [CNA] and Electrocardiogram Technician [EKG]) at two Florida Title I high schools perceive that their career and technical education experience prepared them with the academic and technical skills and knowledge to pursue postsecondary training or higher education; be better prepared to transition into an ever-more complicated economic workplace; and become qualified and competent members of the workforce. The study participants were 53 CTE students (CNA and EKG juniors and seniors from both school sites), four CTE instructors (two CNA and two EKG instructors from both school sites), and three CTE administrators (one assistant principal from both school sites and one district Medical Sciences Specialist Administrator) during the academic school year 2016-2017. There were six major findings and ten sub-themes of this study. The first finding is that CTE programs at these schools provide career exploration and planning opportunities and includes four sub-themes; school-based learning, work-based learning, connecting activities, and need for improvement of CTE programs. The second finding is that CTE programs at these schools offer career relevant curricula and includes three subthemes; school-based learning, work-based learning, and connecting activities. The third finding is that students enrolled in CTE programs at these schools are offered consistent support and guidance, and includes three sub-themes: instructor support, guidance counselor support, and administrator support. The fourth finding is that the district plays a key role in the strategic planning and management of CTE programs at these schools. The fifth finding is that procedures are in place that make allowances for accountability and assessment of CTE programs at these schools. The sixth finding is the assessment of students’ career decision-making self-efficacy enrolled in CTE programs at these schools. Results indicated that students enrolled in CTE medical sciences academy programs (CNA and EKG) at these schools reported a high degree of career decisionmaking self-efficacy. Moreover, instructors,’ administrators,’ and students’ perceptions of students’ CTE experiences and engagement in career exploration learnings supported their career growth and development.
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Date Issued: 2017
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004966, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004956
Subject Headings: Dissertations, Academic -- Florida Atlantic University
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Science Comprehension vs. Cultural Cognition as Predictors of Climate Change Risk Perception.
Creator: Steiner, Elyse A., Bryan, Valerie, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Educational Leadership and Research Methodology
Abstract/Description: This study identified factors that affect climate change risk perception in a community college class. The purpose of this research was to determine if students were more influenced by cultural cognition (political affiliation) or science comprehension. Students in an undergraduate level environmental science and biology class were evaluated, using an online survey, for science comprehension level, political affiliation and risk perception at the beginning and end of each course. Data were...
Show moreThis study identified factors that affect climate change risk perception in a community college class. The purpose of this research was to determine if students were more influenced by cultural cognition (political affiliation) or science comprehension. Students in an undergraduate level environmental science and biology class were evaluated, using an online survey, for science comprehension level, political affiliation and risk perception at the beginning and end of each course. Data were analyzed to determine improved scientific literacy and any variation in risk perception. The research found that science comprehension did not contribute significantly to increased risk perception and that political affiliation or political views had a more significant effect on risk perception.
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Date Issued: 2017
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004983, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004973
Subject Headings: Dissertations, Academic -- Florida Atlantic University
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
Subject Headings: Dissertations, Academic -- Florida Atlantic University
Format: Document (PDF)

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