Effective K– 6 Mathematics Teachers’ Mathematical and Mathematics Teaching Self-Efficacy, Instructional Beliefs, and Use of Effective Mathematics Teaching Practices

The use of student-centered practices is influenced by several factors (Peterson et al., 1989). Specifically self-efficacy has been shown to influence teachers’ self-reported teaching practices (Hadley & Dorward, 2011; Peterson et al., 1989; Skaalvik & Skaalvik, 2007). The purpose of this study was to determine possible relationships among effective teachers’ mathematical and mathematics teaching self-efficacy, instructional beliefs, and the enacted use of effective practices in mathematics. The study involved two K–6 mathematics teachers who were identified as effective by recommendations from highly regarded mathematics teacher educators or administrators. To determine teachers’ level of self-efficacies, instructional beliefs, and enacted teaching practices, I used self-efficacy surveys, multiple observations, and a stimulated recall end-of-study interview. Using a descriptive multi-case study methodology (Yin, 2003), I examined the relationships among the three factors (i.e., self-efficacy, instructional beliefs, and practices) of my participants. I found that the teachers’ mathematical self-efficacy (MSE) influenced their mathematics teaching self-efficacy (MTSE). Additionally, teachers’ self-efficacy interacted with their instructional beliefs and enactment of Standards of Mathematical Practices (NGA & CCSSO, 2010) and mathematical teaching practices (NCTM, 2014). Although teaching during a global pandemic was difficult, the teachers were able to adapt in ways that reflected their instructional beliefs and allowed them to enact effective teaching practices. The resiliency of these effective teachers underscores the value of developing and supporting effective mathematics teachers

Racial/ethnic differences in adults in randomized clinical trials of binge eating disorder.

Recent studies suggest that binge eating disorder (BED) is as prevalent among African American and Hispanic Americans as among Caucasian Americans; however, data regarding the characteristics of treatment-seeking individuals from racial and ethnic minority groups are scarce. The purpose of this study was to investigate racial/ethnic differences in demographic characteristics and eating disorder symptoms in participants enrolled in treatment trials for BED

Race/ethnicity, education, and treatment parameters as moderators and predictors of outcome in binge eating disorder.

Binge eating disorder (BED) is prevalent among individuals from minority racial/ethnic groups and among individuals with lower levels of education, yet the efficacy of psychosocial treatments for these groups has not been examined in adequately powered analyses. This study investigated the relative variance in treatment retention and post-treatment symptom levels accounted for by demographic, clinical, and treatment variables as moderators and predictors of outcome

Race/ethnicity, education, and treatment parameters as moderators and predictors of outcome in binge eating disorder.

OBJECTIVE: Binge eating disorder (BED) is prevalent among individuals from minority racial/ethnic groups and among individuals with lower levels of education, yet the efficacy of psychosocial treatments for these groups has not been examined in adequately powered analyses. This study investigated the relative variance in treatment retention and post-treatment symptom levels accounted for by demographic, clinical, and treatment variables as moderators and predictors of outcome. METHOD: Data were aggregated from eleven randomized, controlled trials of psychosocial treatments for BED conducted at treatment sites across the United States. Participants were N = 1,073 individuals meeting criteria for BED including n = 946 Caucasian, n = 79 African American, and n = 48 Hispanic/Latino participants. Approximately 86% had some higher education; 85% were female. Multi-level regression analyses examined moderators and predictors of treatment retention, Eating Disorder Examination (EDE) global score, frequency of objective bulimic episodes (OBEs), and OBE remission. RESULTS: Moderator analyses of race/ethnicity and education were non-significant. Predictor analyses revealed African Americans were more likely to drop out of treatment than Caucasians, and lower level of education predicted greater post-treatment OBEs. African Americans showed a small but significantly greater reduction in EDE global score relative to Caucasians. Self-help treatment administered in a group showed negative outcomes relative to other treatment types, and longer treatment was associated with better outcome. CONCLUSIONS: Observed lower treatment retention among African Americans and lesser treatment effects for individuals with lower levels of educational attainment are serious issues requiring attention. Reduced benefit was observed for shorter treatment length and self-help administered in groups

PDA+: A Personal Digital Assistant for Obesity Treatment - An RCT testing the use of technology to enhance weight loss treatment for veterans

Background: Obese adults struggle to make the changes necessary to achieve even modest weight loss, though a decrease in weight by as little as 10% can have significant health benefits. Failure to meet weight loss goals may in part be associated with barriers to obesity treatment. Wide-spread dissemination of evidence-based obesity treatment faces multiple challenges including cost, access, and implementing the programmatic characteristics on a large scale. Aims: The PDA+: A Personal Digital Assistant for Obesity Treatment randomized controlled trial (RCT) was designed to test whether a PDA-based behavioral intervention enhances the effectiveness of the existing group weight loss treatment program at VA Medical Centers Managing Overweight/Obese Veterans Everywhere (MOVE!). We also aim to introduce technology as a way to overcome systemic barriers of traditional obesity treatment. Methods/Design: Veterans enrolled in the MOVE! group at the Hines Hospital VAMC with BMI >= 25 and = 4 on the NRS-I scale for >= 6 months prior to enrollment) and are able to participate in a moderate intensity exercise program will be recruited and screened for eligibility. Participants will be randomized to receive either: a) MOVE! treatment alone (Standard Care) or b) Standard Care plus PDA (PDA+). Those randomized to PDA+ will record dietary intake, physical activity, and weight on the PDA. In addition, they will also record mood and pain intensity, and receive biweekly telephone support for the first 6-months of the 12-month study. All participants will attend in-person lab sessions every three months to complete questionnaires and for the collection of anthropomorphic data. Weight loss and decrease in pain level intensity are the primary outcomes. Discussion: The PDA+ trial represents an important step in understanding ways to improve the use of technology in obesity treatment. The trial will address barriers to obesity care by implementing effective behavioral components of a weight loss intervention and delivering high intensity, low cost obesity treatment. This RCT also tests an intervention approach supported by handheld technology in a population traditionally considered to have lower levels of technology literacy