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Learning tactics of successful online learners: Author: Besich, Marilyn Ann; Date: 2005-05-15; Program: Education; Abstract: The relationship between locus of control and academic performance has been documented in numerous studies. However, there are very few studies that have been designed to investigate that relationship with online learners. Individuals with a strong internal locus of control are said to use resources in unique ways, are persistent, and generally reach the goals that they set for themselves. However, it is not known what specific tactics these individuals utilize in order to succeed. The purpose of this study was twofold. The first was to explore the relationship between internal locus of contro...; Download File | View full details

An assesment of historic and contemporary models of native representation from ethno-entertainment films to experiential education films: Author: Chaikin, Eric Justin; Date: 2006-05-15; Program: Science and Natural History Filmmaking; Abstract: Ethno-entertainment is a term that makes apparent the merger of entertainment and science in the depiction of the Native presence in film. This approach to filmmaking is assessed and is determined to be defunct. Experiential-education filmmaking is offered as an alternative approach. It is suggested that Native science can inform this approach in a way that allows a contextual understanding of Native language and culture. My video thesis work, K'anecho'xdekdiigh- I'm Not Going to Teach You, is suggested as an example of how the prominence of Native science may promote survivance rather than pe...; Download File | View full details

Visualizing the minimization of a deterministic finite state automaton: Author: Kshatriya Jagannath, Rajini Singh; Date: 2007-12-15; Program: Computer Science; Abstract: The minimization of deterministic finite state automata is one of the challenging concepts that students of an introductory theory of computation course must master. The minimization algorithm identifies redundant states that may occur in any deterministic finite state automaton and combines them in order to minimize the total number of states. Traditional textbooks provide a static presentation of this process. The average student seems to grasp the process better if it is presented dynamically. In this thesis we visualize every step of a minimization algorithm in sequence through a Java appl...; Download File | View full details

Different encoding strategies affect retrieval of information in collaborative groups: Author: Freuen, Margaret Taffy; Date: 2008-05-15; Program: Applied Psychology; Abstract: This study examined collaborative memory and encoding strategies. Participants read three different stories processed with three different encoding strategies. Each story had two encoding strategies, but participants were only given one strategy per story (Pichert & Anderson, 1977). Later participants recalled and recognized the stories in three test trials. Recall occurred either individually or collaboratively. Pairs of participants read the same stories with the same strategy (congruent condition), the same stories with different strategies (incongruent condition) or the same stories wi...; Download File | View full details

The natural circumstances of place: design to awaken sensibilities: Author: Lueth, Marit Lee; Date: 2009-05-15; Program: Architecture; Abstract: This thesis suggests redirecting our attention to our immediate, palpable natural environment in an effort to re-establish an attachment to place through a better understanding of the unique qualities of our natural surroundings. It acknowledges that a better understanding of the natural environment, the one outside one's backdoor, is gained through first-hand experience and discovery and when provided with the opportunity to engage in primary experience of our natural places there exists the potential for improved understanding and emotional involvement in place....; Download File | View full details

Elements of reflective and non-reflective discourse in an online induction program for experienced and novice science teachers: Author: Farrar, Beth Lauri; Date: 2009-12-15; Program: Education; Abstract: Reflection is frequently cited in the literature as integral to the type of learning in which professionals engage. However, throughout the literature the concept of reflection has been ill-defined and shown to be difficult to operationalize in studies. Beginning with a comprehensive review of the literature, this study sought to develop a research based way to operationalize reflection. Once reflection was defined and operationalized, a discourse analysis rubric was designed to identify elements of non reflective and reflective discourse used by participants in an online content-based mentori...; Download File | View full details

Community education on stroke: early recognition and timely access to healthcare: Author: Stobie, Paula Anna; Date: 2009-12-15; Program: Nursing; Abstract: In 2006, data collected from a hospital emergency room centrally located in Sanders County, Montana revealed that 33% of patients presenting with possible stroke symptoms were eligible to be evaluated for treatment with a potentially life-saving intervention. As a member of the community, I felt this rate of treatment could be improved. Review of data from state and national sources showed similar treatment statistics nationwide. One consistent suggestion in the literature for improving stroke detection and treatment was for increased public education. As a result of these findings I developed...; Download File | View full details

What effect will using inquiry methods of teaching science have on sixth grade students?: Author: Striclyn, Joyce Ann; Date: 2011-08-15; Program: Science Education; Abstract: How should science be taught? Is it enough to be familiar with vocabulary words and to learn concepts others have figured out? Or should the desire to know be the initiator and sustainer of the learning situation? How should science be taught? This project studies the effect of using the 5E method of inquiry - Engage, Explore, Explain, Extend, Evaluate - to teach sixth grade students. Of interest was the effect it would have on students' attitude towards science, their understanding of science content, students' data collection and data organizational skills, students' ability to design and co...; Download File | View full details

How does 'just-in-time' scaffolding of descriptive and inferential statistics within an existing, quarter-long, group poster presentation of survey data impact undergraduate statistics students' ability to apply their learning?: Author: Spraker, Ralph E., Jr.; Date: 2011-08-15; Program: Science Education; Abstract: The treatment of this project was based on the American Statistical Association's (ASA) GAISE project recommendations on how students best learn statistics. I implemented a student-designed survey and poster project to provide an opportunity for my students to learn by constructing their own knowledge through active involvement and having modeled content and technology concepts and practice. They were assessed on their statistical thinking while doing open-ended investigative project as groups instead of as individuals. They received consistent and helpful feedback on their performance from th...; Download File | View full details

Differentiating instruction with regard to gender and learning style in a biology class: Author: Torske, Jeanne Rose; Date: 2011-08-15; Program: Science Education; Abstract: In this investigation, daily lessons, assignments, labs, lectures, and assessments were differentiated with regard to both gender and learning style preference to determine the effect on student in-class performance and classroom dynamics. Males and females were shown to prefer different learning modalities and in-class performance varied with the differentiation technique employed. Students who showed an equal preference for more than one learning style consistently out preformed their peers who only preferred one modality. Additionally, a subpopulation of students was identified based on the...; Download File | View full details

The effects of shared common experiences on learning in the English language learners' science classroom: Author: Hentschel, Hadley; Date: 2011-08-15; Program: Science Education; Abstract: The purpose of this study was to make the science content being taught to the general science students more accessible by placing an emphasis on creating and using shared common experiences. Knowing that the range of experiences among these students was varied and limited in many ways, I felt it necessary to create a shared common experience for these students that we could then use as a foundation for our understanding in each unit of learning throughout the year. Emphasis was also placed on other common life experiences students had in an attempt to better connect their lives to science, whi...; Download File | View full details

What are the effects of science outreach by college students with elementary school children?: Author: Knutson-Person, JoDean Lynn; Date: 2011-08-15; Program: Science Education; Abstract: This project focused on developing a service learning group of college students to do science outreach with elementary students as a win-win opportunity to increase the content knowledge of all the students involved, give the college students the opportunity to empower the elementary students, and fulfill some of the needs of the college awareness program at an elementary school. Analysis of this project was completed using results from pre- and post-outreach experience questionnaires as a way to establish demographic information of the participants, get comparative awareness and interest of c...; Download File | View full details

What impact do student-led demonstrations versus teacher-led demonstrations have on the retention rate of AP biology students?: Author: Conner, Sarah Marie; Date: 2011-08-15; Program: Science Education; Abstract: In this investigation strategies were implemented with the purpose of improving student engagement and learning in the biology classroom. I investigated whether or not a student-led demonstration versus a teacher-led demonstration had an impact on the retention rate of AP biology students. A progressive Bloom's Taxonomy technique was used in accordance with a student-led demonstration. I believe that because of the student-led demonstrations and a progressive Bloom's Taxonomy technique, students reached a higher level of Bloom's Taxonomy, became self-sustained critical thinkers, and in turn su...; Download File | View full details

The effects of using an inquiry-approach through the 5 E lesson format on middle school earth and space science students: Author: Magonigle, Margaret K.; Date: 2011-08-15; Program: Science Education; Abstract: In this investigation an inquiry-based instructional approach called the 5 E Learning Cycle was implemented with the purpose of improving students' learning in science and improving students' ability to understand and apply inquiry. The effects of this 5 E Learning Cycle on 8th grade Earth and Space Science students were studied in a small public middle school. Additionally, this project looked at the effects of the 5 E Learning Cycle on teacher instruction. Instructional lessons were planned and presented using the 5 E Learning Cycle while pre-, mid.-, and post- formal and summative assessmen...; Download File | View full details

The use of inquiry-based instruction to increase motivation and academic success in a high school biology classroom: Author: Madden, Kathryn R.; Date: 2011-08-15; Program: Science Education; Abstract: A variety of inquiry based lessons and non inquiry based lessons were used to motivate and increase academic success with a freshman biology honors students. Student self surveys, biology journals, and lab skills were indicators of motivation. Scores on standardized tests and other assessments were used to monitor students' academic success. Trends indicated an increase in student motivation to do science while testing scores were varied....; Download File | View full details

Collaboration facilitated through technology: part of a comprehensive inquiry-based teaching and learning strategy: Author: Montoya, Richard; Date: 2011-08-15; Program: Science Education; Abstract: As our school embraces technology integration, identifying effective methods of reinforcing and enriching inquiry-based instruction through technology has become a focus. My study compared the academic and motivational impacts of technology-based collaboration to traditional face-to-face collaboration. Emphasis was placed on determining if collaborating through technology distracted students or if it facilitated cognitive growth in terms of improved critical thinking and problem solving. Within the context of thematic units, students were given instruction on conducting cooperative activities ...; Download File | View full details

The effect of science notebooks on student achievement: Author: DeLuca, Joseph John; Date: 2011-08-15; Program: Science Education; Abstract: Based on the data, I conclude that the implementation of science notebooks improved my students' achievement on summative assessments and their ability to do valid science. However, my students' interest in science did not increase and may have actually decreased. Finally, my level of organization did not necessarily get better, but I did become better at identifying what I wanted my students to do, what successful completion of that task would look like, and how I would evaluate it....; Download File | View full details

The student experience in traditional and inquiry-based chemistry labs: Author: Grant, Heather Marie; Date: 2011-08-15; Program: Science Education; Abstract: This project introduced two inquiry-based labs to an existing sequence of traditional labs in a sophomore chemistry class. The student experience in both types of lab instruction was examined through surveys, interviews, misconception probes, pre- and post-lab content quizzes, and student-teacher communication logs. It was found that both types of lab instruction had strengths and potential weakness, which indicate areas that require particular attention when using each instructional method....; Download File | View full details

The impact of service-learning on 'at risk' high school biology students: Author: Dayton-Wolf, Joann; Date: 2011-08-15; Program: Science Education; Abstract: Students who may not graduate with their peer cohort are deemed "at risk." This investigation studied the effect of service- learning on attendance, attitude, and achievement of at- risk high school biology students. Students participated in two community service- learning projects: raising trout for release into local streams and/or implementing a vegetable garden on high school property. Data collected included attendance records of students both prior to the projects and during the projects. Surveys and interviews were conducted to assess the confidence factor, and pre- and post-p...; Download File | View full details

Envirothon teaching methods: how do they impact learning in the traditional biology classroom?: Author: Perry, Janet Elise; Date: 2011-08-15; Program: Science Education; Abstract: My Action Research Project connects the Envirothon contest with a traditional biology classroom. In the Envirothon, a national environmental contest, teams of high school students work together outdoors, solving site-based natural resource questions and problems in aquatics, forestry, soils, wildlife, and a current environmental issue. During this competition, teams rotate from Station to Station, working on a variety of "hands on" tasks specific to each environmental area; the students are also tested on sets of questions that cover a very wide range of information for each topic. &...; Download File | View full details

The effects of interactive engagement on motivation, participation and conceptual understanding in high school physics: Author: Ritter, Mary Seabrook; Date: 2011-08-15; Program: Science Education; Abstract: The purpose of this study was to determine if there was a correlation between student motivation and participation in the understanding of physics concepts. Participation of students did increase with the introduction of interactive engagement. Cooperative group work (one type of interactive engagement) did not show any higher increase in learning of the material as compared with lecture format, although students reported experiencing more motivation during interactive engagement....; Download File | View full details

What did I learn? : helping students learn through scientific inquiry: Author: Brown, Deborah Louise; Date: 2011-08-15; Program: Science Education; Abstract: Students enjoy doing labs in biology. However, too often the labs are prearranged cookbook labs where students follow detailed directions blindly without understanding lab concepts or purposes. This research was designed to increase student understanding of biological concepts through the use of frequent inquiry activities. In an effort to help students remember the importance and application of the lab, three self-reflection questions were included at the end of each activity: "What did I do? What did I see? What did I learn?" Pretests and post-tests were used to measure performance...; Download File | View full details

Relative effectiveness of educational video games in the science classroom: Author: Nickerson, Erik; Date: 2011-08-15; Program: Science Education; Abstract: Research has shown that educational video games are effective learning tools, but have not made a significant impact in the classroom. This gap could be a result of the design of the games, in that most educational video games imitate classroom style activities (such as answering multiple choice questions or memorizing flash cards) instead of using the computer's superior simulation capabilities to create a unique learning experience. This research project examined the difference between different styles of educational video games, as well as the overall effect of these games. Each different t...; Download File | View full details

The effects of inquiry instruction on problem solving and conceptual knowledge in ninth grade physics class: Author: Rust, Peter Melvin Hooper; Date: 2011-08-15; Program: Science Education; Abstract: This project documents the impact of inquiry instruction on two ninth grade physics classes. Problem solving skills, conceptual knowledge, and students' reactions to the teaching style were assessed while students studied rotational motion and energy. Students showed improvements in both problem solving skill and conceptual knowledge when they learned a topic using the inquiry model. Students generally preferred the traditional, non-inquiry style lessons....; Download File | View full details

Morrell Creek riparian classroom: introducing students to outdoor education through the creation, use and maintenance of an outdoor classroom: Author: Bartlett, Patti Rae; Date: 2011-08-15; Program: Science Education; Abstract: Although I teach in a small rural school, my students do not seem to have a strong connection to the land. This project focused on building an Outdoor Classroom and using it to compare traditional classroom learning to that in an outdoor/experiential setting. My hope was to improve comprehension of outdoor education and create better attitudes towards the environment. I compared traditional (teacher centered) classroom lessons to similar lessons in the Outdoor Classroom, which were by nature, more hands on. My junior high student's comprehension was assessed with pre and posttests, student sur...; Download File | View full details

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