Academic and Affective Outcomes of Computer-Based Instruction on Developmental Math Students

A study aligning the positive aspects of technological-based learning with the high-risk population of developmental math students was conducted to ascertain the academic and affective outcomes of an emporium model of instruction on students with a case history of mathematical failure. By running parallel course sections in both emporium (treatment) and lecture-based (control) formats at two comparable universities, the quasi-experimental research design examined the effects of instructional delivery on students\u27 academic completion rates, pass rates, and retention rates. Affective responses, namely mathematics anxiety levels and locus of control, were also studied using pre-post survey data to identify students\u27 within-group emotionality differences during the semester. Statistically, chi-squared analyses showed that emporium-model students completed and passed their courses at significantly lower rates than lecture-based control students. Likewise, a repeated-measures ANOVA indicated that teacher-led, lecture students reported a significant decrease in anxiety levels throughout the semester that was not evident among emporium-model students. No significant differences were found between the groups\u27 student retention rates and pre-post locus of control measures. The results reflect a disconnect between emporium-model pedagogies and developmental student aptitudes and attitudes. Developmental math programs should not underestimate the imperative role of a quality classroom teacher. Developmental programs must also use intensive academic and affective diagnostics to place students into the appropriate courses, taught by appropriately-matched models of instruction. Suggestions for further research are also included

An examination of technology-based formative assessment feedback and the impact on student learning

Although researchers have provided evidence to support the effectiveness of collaborative and cooperative learning (Magana & Marzano, 2014; Marzano, 2006) and embedding formative assessment within instruction (Black & Wiliam, 2009; Wiliam, 2011), researchers (Chu, 2013; Hwang & Chang, 2011; Sung, Chang & Liu, 2016) further identified the need for research related to the impact of mobile devices on student learning. Purposefully selected for this study was the school district, as it is a highly innovative school district with regard to technology initiatives. Utilized during the process of collecting data for this case study, several sources were utilized. These included interviews with building and district administrators, focus groups with mathematics teachers and district instructional support staff, analysis of district and building documents, and observation of daily activities. Qualitative analysis of interviews of district and site leaders, focus groups with instructional specialist and teacher focus groups, observation of meetings, and analysis of documents from the district resulted in three emerging reoccurring themes: The impact of mobile learning on mastery learning; The Impact of Mobile Learning on the Quality and Timeliness of Data; Lack of fidelity, training and accountability. Research from this study shows infusion of technology-based formative assessment applications has a positive effect on student learning. Further considerations when embedding technology-based formative assessment strategies within the teaching and learning cycle are to provide common training, resources, and accountability for implementation.Includes bibliographical reference

A mixed-methods investigation of heterogeneously grouped inclusion students at southeast high school

Inclusion education led to academically-homogeneous grouping of students at southeast high school. Administratively, the decision was made to increase rigor, inclusion students would be grouped heterogeneously in senior economics classes. Guided by Dewey\u27s pragmatic theory, the purpose of this sequential, explanatory, mixed method study was to investigate whether a significant difference exists in the course passing rates, end-of-course test (EOCT) scores, and graduation rates between inclusion students in heterogeneous classes and those in homogeneous classes and how participants perceived the grouping. Archival data (N = 42) on student instructional grouping, passing rates, EOCT scores, and graduation rates were analyzed using 3 t tests. Data were also collected via interviews with 13 participants, including current and former teachers and several former students to determine the perceptions of those involved with the change. Findings from the quantitative analysis showed a significant difference in EOCT scores, demonstrating an improvement for the heterogeneous inclusion students, but not on course passing or graduation rates. The qualitative data were open coded and thematically analyzed and 6 themes emerged on how the heterogeneously-grouped classes benefitted inclusion students. Based on these findings, a 3 day professional development program for teachers was developed to assist local faculty in the construction of project-based and differentiated learning environments. This study contributes to social change by affecting the academic placement and academic success of inclusion students. Inclusion students\u27 increased test scores could lead to increased passing rates, which could result in increased graduation rates

The Relationship Between Using Study Island Supplemental Math Software and Third, Fourth, and Fifth Grade Students\u27 Mathematics Achievement

The ex post facto study investigated the relationship between the use of Study Island supplemental math software and students’ math achievement in a Title I public elementary school in Georgia during the 2011-2012, 2012-2013, and the 2013-2014 school years. Data from the school was collected regarding the use of a supplemental math software program called Study Island during the 2012-2013 and the 2013-2014 school years. Data on students’ math achievement test scores was collected from school level reports for the 2011-2012, 2012-2013, and the 2013-2014 school years. Data was analyzed using a two-tailed t test to investigate the possible relationship between the use of the supplemental math software and students’ math achievement. Study results can be used to inform current school curriculum leaders, administrators, and teachers as they invest in technology tools and integrate technology into the math classroom. Results could also help schools of educational leadership working with finance, curriculum and instructional leaders, schools of educational technology, and teacher preparation academies as they train educators to effectively integrate technology into the classroom

Selbststudium im digitalen Wandel

Selbststudium ist ein wichtiges Element im Zuge der Digitalisierungsbestrebungen an Hochschulen. Das Projekt optes widmet sich dem digitalen, begleiteten Selbststudium im Fach Mathematik. Es bietet mit seinen webbasierten Angeboten die Möglichkeit, das Selbstlernen in der Studienvorbereitung zu unterstützen, um so die Abbruchquoten in MINT-Fächern zu reduzieren. Neben dem Studienvorbereitungsprogramm und Assessment-Tools in der Mathematik im Lernmanagementsystem ILIAS wurden in optes diverse Materialien zur Lernprozessbegleitung entwickelt, inklusive adaptiver Lernempfehlungen, diagnostischer Testverfahren zur Prüfung des Wissensstandes (vor und während des Studiums), Selbstreflexionstools und überfachlicher Lernmodule sowie persönliche E-Mentoring- und E-Tutoring-Programme. Der vorliegende Open-Access-Sammelband stellt die wissenschaftlichen Erkenntnisse und praktischen Umsetzungen aus dem Projektkontext von optes dar