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Buckingham, Elizabeth Ann. "Socialisation to higher mathematics : men's and women's experience of their induction to the discipline." Monash University, Faculty of Education, 2004. http://arrow.monash.edu.au/hdl/1959.1/5425.
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Addison, Patricia A. "Receptivity to a proposed change in accounting education." Thesis, Edith Cowan University, Research Online, Perth, Western Australia, 1995. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/1196.
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This cross-sectional correlation study is concerned with accounting practitioners' receptivity to a propose change in accounting education; specifically, that the existing three year degree course be extended to four years. This change is proposed by the Accounting Profession in Australia. A model of accounting practitioners' receptivity towards the proposed change, at the adoption stage, was revised and adapted from a general model of teacher receptivity to any system-wide change. The revised model has one dependent variable, receptivity, which is measured in three aspects; overall feelings, attitudes, and general behaviour intentions towards the proposed change in accounting education. It has eight Independent variables, and a number of situation variables. These independent variables are; attitudes towards the structure and content of the proposed change, general beliefs about the change based on the expanding scope of accounting practice, overall feelings about the strengths and weaknesses of accounting graduates, overall feelings about alleviating fears and uncertainties of the proposed change, overall feelings about the practicality of the proposed change in the lecture room and tutorial room in two aspects, general behaviour intentions about expectations and achievements for the proposed change, and general behaviour intentions to support instructors and the accounting profession. The relationships between the dependent variables and the independent variables are examined in the context of a number of situation variables.
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Salehi, Faiz. "Attitudes Toward Teaching and Research Among Biology Faculty in Texas Institutions of Higher Education." Thesis, University of North Texas, 1993. https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc279128/.
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This study investigated the attitudes toward teaching and research among biology faculty in Texas institutions of higher learning. The purposes of the study were to: 1) determine what the attitudes of Texas biology faculty were toward teaching; 2) to determine the attitudes of Texas biology faculty toward research; 3) to determine if biology faculty attitudes toward teaching vary according to faculty rank; 4) to determine if biology faculty attitudes toward research vary according to faculty rank; 5) to determine if attitudes of biology faculty in Texas toward teaching vary according to institutional type; and 6) to determine if attitudes of biology faculty in Texas toward research vary according to institutional type.
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Blevins, Mary Jean. "College Freshman Biology Two Semester Course: Integrating Deep Processing Teaching Techniques." Thesis, University of North Texas, 2002. https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc3158/.
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Development of a college level freshman biology course was undertaken in response to government reports that American students have fallen behind students of other countries in the area of the sciences. Teaching strategies were investigated to accomplish two objectives, to define essential academic material to include in the course and to investigate teaching techniques that would increase deep processing of the information. An active process that consisted of applying the cognitive information to solving problems or developing answers to questions was defined as critical thinking. Critical thinking was incorporated into the course by the use of case studies.
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Joubert, Lydia-Marie. "Enhancing the quality of first-year Biology teaching at the University of Stellenbosch." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2002. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/52824.
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Thesis (MPhil) (Higher Education)--University of Stellenbosch, 2002.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Transformation in biology teaching is inevitable. There is a global concern about the quality of undergraduate biology teaching, especially when considering the growth in the fields of biotechnology and the molecular sciences. Programmes of learning have to be market orientated, and the contents of curricula have to equip students for entrance into a specific career. At the University of Stellenbosch the School for Biological Sciences has developed an interdisciplinary approach to first-year biology teaching. The new programmes in Biological Sciences, implemented in 2000, contain first-year curricula that introduce students to the disciplines of genetics, botany, zoology, microbiology, biochemistry and statistics. This involves participation by six departments, and lecture facilitation in two languages for up to 600 students. As contact sessions between lecturers and students are limited, self-study is becoming increasingly important, and lectures should be fully exploited to obtain deep learning. This study investigated various ways to enhance the teaching and learning process for first-year biology students in a module fraught with growing pains and problems. The influence of software support on student learning was evaluated, while the introduction of an innovative approach to teaching statistics to first-year students was analyzed. Supplementing the statistics section with video-recordings of the lectures was further considered as a possible way of overcoming various obstacles in especially this section of the module. The application of a practical laboratory course to enhance the quality of the theoretical lectures was also investigated and evaluated. It can be concluded that no simple solution could be found to solve the variety of problems that arose with implementation of the new programmes of learning. Technology proved to be invaluable, but should be applied after thorough needs assessment and impact studies have been performed. Provision of IT tools and facilities do not necessarily imply their application and effect, and innovation and inspiration still proved to be most effective in enhancing biology teaching.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Transformasie in biologie-onderrig is onvermydelik. Daar is wêreldwye kommer oor die kwaliteit van voorgraadse biologie-onderrig, veral in die lig van die vooruitgang in biotegnologie en die molekulêre wetenskappe. Programme van onderrig moet markgerig wees, en die inhoud van leerplanne loopbaangerig. Die Skool vir Biologiese Wetenskappe van die Universiteit van Stellenbosch het sedert sy stigting 'n interdissiplinêre benadering tot eerstejaarsbiologie-onderrig ontwikkel. Die nuwe programme in die Biologiese Wetenskappe wat in 2000 geïmplementeer is, bevat eerstejaarskurrikula wat studente bekendstel aan die dissiplines van genetika, botanie, sooloqie, mikrobiologie, biochemie en statistiek. Ses departemente is hierby betrokke, en lesings word in twee tale vir tot 600 studente aangebied. Aangesien kontaksessies tussen dosente en studente beperk is, word selfstudie toenemend belangrik, en lesure moet ten volle benut word om 'n diepgaande leerproses te verkry. Hierdie studie ondersoek derhalwe verskeie potensiële maniere waarop die onderrigen leerproses by eerstejaarbiologie-studente versterk kan word. Die invloed van sagteware-ondersteuning by die leerproses is geëvalueer, terwyl 'n nuwe innoverende benadering tot statistiek-onderrig vir eerstejaarstudente geanaliseer is. Uitbreiding en ondersteuning van die statistiek-seksie, d.m.v. videoopnames van die lesings, is verder oorweeg om verskeie van die hindernisse in veral hierdie deel van die module te oorkom. Die toepassing van 'n laboratoriumkursus om die kwaliteit van die teoretiese lesings uit te brei is ook geëvalueer. Daar kan saamgevat word dat geen enkelvoudige oplossing bestaan om die verskeidenheid van probleme op te los wat met implementering van die programme ontstaan het nie. Tegnologie is onontbeerlik, maar moet toegepas word nadat behoorlike behoeftebepaling en impakstudies uitgevoer is. Verskaffing van informasietegnologie impliseer nie noodwendig die nodige toepassing en effek nie, en innovasie en inspirasie blyk steeds onontbeerlik te wees om biologie-onderrig uit te brei en te versterk.
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Shaw, Peter. "The conceptions of art practice held by tertiary visual art students." Thesis, Queensland University of Technology, 1993. https://eprints.qut.edu.au/36703/1/36703_Digitised%20Thesis.pdf.
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This study explores student learning in a tertiary visual arts institution. Students' conceptions of art practice are described using the phenomenologically based educational research method of phenomenography. The study addresses the intentional content of student art practice in the contexts of the visual arts institution and the status of visual arts in the 1990s. Data collection was carried out through interviews with Honours Year visual arts students, which was processed using textual analysis to examine understandings related to the visual arts.
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Santhanam, Elizabeth. "Investigation and innovation of teaching and learning genetics at the introductory level in the University of Adelaide /." Title page, contents and abstract only, 1996. http://web4.library.adelaide.edu.au/theses/09PH/09phs2338.pdf.
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Phipps, Owen Dudley. "The use of a database to improve higher order thinking skills in secondary school biology: a case study." Thesis, Rhodes University, 1994. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1003696.
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The knowledge explosion of the last decade has left education in schools far behind. The emphasis in schools must change if they are to prepare students for their future lives. Tertiary institutions as well as commerce and industry need people who have well-developed cognitive skills. A further requirement is that the school leaver must have skills pertaining to information processing. The skills that are required are those which have been labelled higher order thinking skills. The work of Piaget, Thomas and Bloom have led to a better understanding of what these skills actually are. Resnick sees these skills as being: nonalgorithmic; complex; yielding multiple solutions; involving nuanced judgements; involving the application of multiple criteria; involving uncertainty; involving self-regulation of the thinking process; imposing meaning and being effortful. How these can be taught and the implication of doing so are considered by the researcher. The outcome of this consideration is that higher order - thinking entails communication skills, reasoning, problem solving and self management. The study takes the form of an investigation of a particular case: whether a Biology field trip could be used as a source of information, which could be handled by a computer, so that higher order thinking skills could be acquired by students. Students were instructed in the use of a Database Management System called PARADOX. The students then went on an excursion to a Rocky Shore habitat to collect data about the biotic and abiotic factors pertaining to that ecosystem. The students worked in groups sorting data and entering it into the database. Once all the data had been entered the students developed hypotheses and queried the database to obtain evidence to substantiate or disprove their hypotheses. Whilst this was in progress the researcher obtained data by means of observational field notes, tape recordings, evoked documents and interviews. The qualitative data was then arranged into classes to see if it showed that the students were using any of the higher order thinking skills. The results showed that the students did use the listed higher order thinking skills whilst working on the database.
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Dooey, Patricia. "Issues of English language proficiency for international students." Thesis, Edith Cowan University, Research Online, Perth, Western Australia, 2005. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/628.
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In the last 20 years or so, there has been a phenomenal increase in the number of international full-fee paying students applying to study in Australian universities, The revenue provided in this way has helped to address the problems faced by cash-starved universities facing recurring funding cuts over the same period. Furthermore, the presence of such students on any university campus provides immeasurable enrichment to the student body in terms of cultural diversity and research potential, and indeed it is very tempting in an ever,-increasing global market, to be as flexible as possible with prospective international students. However, the process of admission also demands careful consideration on the part of the various stakeholders involved. Although several factors need to be taken into account, the most obvious and certainly of primary importance would be the need to prove proficiency in the English language, Given that English is the dominant means of communication in the university, all students are required to draw from a complex web of linguistic resources to construct meaning and to complete the range of tasks required of them during their tertiary studies, This volume deals :with the overarching theme of issues of English language proficiency for overseas students studying in an Australian university. This focus can be viewed from many angles, and there are certainly many key facets involved, a selection of which is explored in the papers of the portfolio. These include the following broad areas: recruitment and admissions, language testing and technology, curriculum and inclusivity, English language support, academic conduct and finally the specific needs of international students, as viewed from their own perspective.
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Smallwood, Susan. "Contemporary Biology Curriculum for Non-majors." Thesis, University of North Texas, 1998. https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc278892/.
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The proposed biology curriculum for non-majors has one main objective, namely to improve scientific literacy among college students. The National Science Education Standards defines scientific literacy as "the knowledge and understanding of scientific concepts and processes required for personal decision making, participation in civic and cultural affairs, and economic productivity". The suggested strategies to accomplish this goal are to limit the number of topics covered, introduce relevant scientific terminology, emphasize general biological concepts and themes, and hone critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Activities such as group projects, written and oral assignments, and class discussions are effective tools to assess student ability to communicate scientifically. It is also important for students to make connections between the course subject matter and how it affects real life events.
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Katung, Martha. "A study of student attitudes to teaching strategies aimed at encouraging autonomous learning in University level biology." Thesis, University of Glasgow, 1997. http://theses.gla.ac.uk/5434/.
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This thesis examines the attitudes of students to teaching strategies that are aimed at encouraging autonomous learning in university level biology. Attitudes determine the learning which occurs within a student as he/she selects from the environment what he/she learns according to his ideas, values and feelings as well as his concepts. Attitudes may indeed lead to a rejection or acceptance of new ideas. Hence there is the need to inculcate the right attitudes in the students. Favourable attitudes to a subject could be promoted by the use of appropriate teaching strategies. The result indicated that :- (1) The students were encouraged to become autonomous in their learning and this position was more evident when the changes were made to the course in 1995/96 session. (2) The laboratory method with its many activities which serve to ensure that each student has an opportunity to participate effectively also indicated that the students were encouraged to think for themselves. (3) The tutorial method which had become more varied and frequent encouraged the students to become more free in airing their views thereby enabling them to become more independent. (4) The project method enhanced the student's ability to carry out their studies independently. (5) The organisation of the course, especially the new course, was considered very good as it facilitated their moving towards autonomy. (6) The Perry model confirmed that the changes made in the course did make a difference in students' attitudes to their learning producing a shift towards a higher degree of autonomy. The findings have shown that students were undergoing changes in their perception and approach to their study while at university.
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Veal, David. "An investigation into computer and network curricula." Thesis, Edith Cowan University, Research Online, Perth, Western Australia, 2003. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/1331.
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This thesis consists of a series of internationally published, peer reviewed, journal and conference research papers that analyse the educational and training needs of undergraduate Information Technology (IT) students within the area of Computer and Network Technology (CNT) Education. Research by Maj et al has found that accredited computing science curricula can fail to meet the expectations of employers in the field of CNT: “It was found that none of these students could perform first line maintenance on a Personal Computer (PC) to a professional standard with due regard to safety, both to themselves and the equipment. Neither could they install communication cards, cables and network operating system or manage a population of networked PCs to an acceptable commercial standard without further extensive training. It is noteworthy that none of the students interviewed had ever opened a PC. It is significant that all those interviewed for this study had successfully completed all the units on computer architecture and communication engineering" (Maj, Robbins, Shaw, & Duley, 1998). The students' curricula at that time lacked units in which they gained hands-on experience in modern PC hardware or networking skills. This was despite the fact that their computing science course was level one accredited, the highest accreditation level offered by the Australian Computer Society (ACS). The results of the initial survey in Western Australia led to the introduction of two new units within the Computing Science Degree at Edith Cowan University (ECU), Computer Installation & Maintenance (CIM) and Network Installation & Maintenance (NIM) (Maj, Fetherston, Charlesworth, & Robbins, 1998). Uniquely within an Australian university context these new syllabi require students to work on real equipment. Such experience excludes digital circuit investigation, which is still a recommended approach by the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) for computer architecture units (ACM, 2001, p.97). Instead, the CIM unit employs a top-down approach based initially upon students' everyday experiences, which is more in accordance with constructivist educational theory and practice. These papers propose an alternate model of IT education that helps to accommodate the educational and vocational needs of IT students in the context of continual rapid changes and developments in technology. The ACM have recognised the need for variation noting that: "There are many effective ways to organize a curriculum even for a particular set of goals and objectives" (Tucker et al., 1991, p.70). A possible major contribution to new knowledge of these papers relates to how high level abstract bandwidth (B-Node) models may contribute to the understanding of why and how computer and networking technology systems have developed over time. Because these models are de-coupled from the underlying technology, which is subject to rapid change, these models may help to future-proof student knowledge and understanding of the ongoing and future development of computer and networking systems. The de-coupling is achieved through abstraction based upon bandwidth or throughput rather than the specific implementation of the underlying technologies. One of the underlying problems is that computing systems tend to change faster than the ability of most educational institutions to respond. Abstraction and the use of B-Node models could help educational models to more quickly respond to changes in the field, and can also help to introduce an element of future-proofing in the education of IT students. The importance of abstraction has been noted by the ACM who state that: "Levels of Abstraction: the nature and use of abstraction in computing; the use of abstraction in managing complexity, structuring systems, hiding details, and capturing recurring patterns; the ability to represent an entity or system by abstractions having different levels of detail and specificity"(ACM, 1991b). Bloom et al note the importance of abstraction, listing under a heading of: “Knowledge of the universals and abstractions in a field” the objective: "Knowledge of the major schemes and patterns by which phenomena and ideas arc organized. These are large structures, theories, and generalizations which dominate a subject or field or problems. These are the highest levels of abstraction and complexity'' (Bloom, Engelhart, Furst, Hill, & Krathwohl, 1956, p. 203). Abstractions can be applied to computer and networking technology to help provide students with common fundamental concepts regardless of the particular underlying technological implementation to help avoid the rapid redundancy of a detailed knowledge of modem computer and networking technology implementation and hands-on skills acquisition. Again the ACM note that: “Enduring computing concepts include ideas that transcend any specific vendor, package or skill set... While skills are fleeting, fundamental concepts are enduring and provide long lasting benefits to students, critically important in a rapidly changing discipline" (ACM, 2001, p.70) These abstractions can also be reinforced by experiential learning to commercial practices. In this context, the other possibly major contribution of new knowledge provided by this thesis is an efficient, scalable and flexible model for assessing hands-on skills and understanding of IT students. This is a form of Competency-Based Assessment (CBA), which has been successfully tested as part of this research and subsequently implemented at ECU. This is the first time within this field that this specific type of research has been undertaken within the university sector within Australia. Hands-on experience and understanding can become outdated hence the need for future proofing provided via B-Nodes models. The three major research questions of this study are: •Is it possible to develop a new, high level abstraction model for use in CNT education? •Is it possible to have CNT curricula that are more directly relevant to both student and employer expectations without suffering from rapid obsolescence? •Can WI effective, efficient and meaningful assessment be undertaken to test students' hands-on skills and understandings? The ACM Special Interest Group on Data Communication (SJGCOMM) workshop report on Computer Networking, Curriculum Designs and Educational Challenges, note a list of teaching approaches: " ... the more 'hands-on' laboratory approach versus the more traditional in-class lecture-based approach; the bottom-up approach towards subject matter verus the top-down approach" (Kurose, Leibeherr, Ostermann, & Ott-Boisseau, 2002, para 1). Bandwidth considerations are approached from the PC hardware level and at each of the seven layers of the International Standards Organisation (ISO) Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) reference model. It is believed that this research is of significance to computing education. However, further research is needed.
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Paterson, Craig Chalmers. "An experimental study of self-regulated learning in biology with special reference to instructional control, locus of control, and academic performance." Master's thesis, University of Cape Town, 1993. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/15996.
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Bibliography: pages 189-198.Applying theoretical conceptualisations of current theories of self-regulated learning, a biology instructional programme facilitating learner perceptions of control by offering choices in task engagement was undertaken with two intact samples of Caucasian standard ten higher grade biology pupils in Cape Town, with the student groups matched for IQ and ability. A counter-balanced, quasi-experimental research design was implemented for two five-day cycles. Learner locus of control and self-regulatory behaviour were established using, respectively, the Intellectual Achievement Responsibility Questionnaire (Crandall, et al, 1965), and the Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (Pintrich and De Groot, 1990). The primary aim was to test the prediction that, in contrast to teacher-regulated instruction, academic performance after learner self-regulation would be appreciably greater. Differences between the experimental and control group mean achievement scores at the end of the programme were highly significant.
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Baird, Craig A. "Cognitive apprenticeship in a building design office." Thesis, Edith Cowan University, Research Online, Perth, Western Australia, 2001. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/1065.
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This thesis presents a research study that investigated student learning in a mentor supported design office situation, using a cognitive apprenticeship learning approach that utilised authentic design project tusks. In this study, 29 final year Technical And Further Education (TAFE) building design students undertook authentic building design projects with expert building designers, who acted as mentors, in commercial design office situations. The mentors guided student learning by using a cognitive apprenticeship approach to learning, implemented with authentic design projects designed to replicate the everyday culture of practice activities typical of commercial design office operations. This study follows the progress of these students as they worked in collaboration with their mentors in the design and presentation of design solutions developed for the projects. Data about the students' learning experiences in this setting were collected and analysed to determine their learning outcomes, the kinds of knowledge acquired and the means through which knowledge was transferred in the study situation. A holistic interpretivistic approach was used to collect data in three phases. The first of these was a pilot-study with the other two phases providing the main data gathering parts of the study. Much of the focus of the third phase of this study was on verifying findings emergent from analysis of data collected in the first two phases, as well as seeking greater understanding of the study phenomena. Throughout each of the three phases, data were collected from multiple sources, which included interviews, direct observations, personal journals and drawings. Analysis of the data showed that using cognitive apprenticeship learning methods organised around mentor supported authentic projects implemented in authentic commercial design office situations provided successful transfer of declarative, tacit and procedural knowledge from the mentor to the students. This thesis concludes with recommendations for the classroom application of cognitive apprenticeship learning methods, as used by the expert building designers who participated in this research.
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Moreland, Amy L. "General Biology Lecture and Laboratory Curriculum Outline in a Two or Four-Year College." Thesis, University of North Texas, 2000. https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc2559/.
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In July of 1999, I wrote to 24 Texas junior and community colleges (and one four-year institution) describing my thesis agenda of a general biology lecture and laboratory syllabus for introductory biology students. I requested the titles and authors of the general biology textbooks and laboratory manuals they were currently using, the publishers of these texts, and the edition of said texts. I then contacted publishers of the various textbooks who, in turn, directed me to the Dallas-area representatives for further inquiries. I assimilated the various authors' general biology topics into a two-semester syllabus of lecture and one semester of laboratory. The document is not a text manuscript, but an all-inclusive listing of a general biology syllabus broken down by subject.
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Yip, Wing-shun, and 葉榮信. "The difference between traditional learning environment and information enriched learning environment on the acquisition andtransfer of higher order thinking skills in a biological context." Thesis, The University of Hong Kong (Pokfulam, Hong Kong), 1998. http://hub.hku.hk/bib/B31960595.
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Harris, Molly Ann. "Investigation into the Effectiveness of an Inquiry-Based Curriculum in an Introductory Biology Laboratory." Fogler Library, University of Maine, 2009. http://www.library.umaine.edu/theses/pdf/HarrisMA2009.pdf.
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Puhl, Les. "An evaluation of the procedures used to assess and remediate the perceived writing difficulties of undergraduate students in the Faculty of Education at Edith Cowan University." Thesis, Edith Cowan University, Research Online, Perth, Western Australia, 1992. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/1127.
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The standards of written literacy of teacher-education students at Edith Cowan University are perceived by many staff to be inadequate. The Faculty of Education's response to this perceived inadequacy is to carry out a mandatory skills-based remedial writing programme for students whose literacy competencies are judged to be deficient, The instrument used to assess the students' literacy competencies is the English Skills Assessment test. The students' performances in the various skills which the test purports to measure, also determine the area in which they are given remedial instruction if the results of the test suggest this is necessary. However, many Faculty of Education staff are concerned that there are important conceptual, structural, and organisational inadequacies in students' writing which are not identified by the English Skills Assessment test and, therefore, are not attended to in remediation programmes based on the results generated by this test. This study was an evaluation of the remedial literacy programme conducted by the Faculty of Education at Edith Cowan University. The programme was evaluated from two perspectives (a) a theoretical perspective and (b) a practical perspective. Firstly, the study evaluated the procedures used by the Faculty of Education to diagnose and remediate writing difficulties among its first year student intake by comparing the assumptions underlying those procedures to the assumptions underlying a contemporary perspective of writing and the teaching of writing. This comparison revealed that not only were many of the procedures used by the Faculty ineffectual, but also some of the procedures used had the potential to inhibit the literacy development of its students. Secondly, the study investigated whether the English Skills Assessment test was able to identify (a) all the areas in which students experienced difficulties inwriting and (b) the students who were likely to experience the difficulties. The performances of 426 first year primary and secondary teacher education students attending the Mount Lawley Campus of the Edith Cowan University in the English Skills Assessment test were compared with their performances in a research-essay assignment, carried out as a normal part of their course work. The results of this aspect of the study reinforce the findings of an earlier study (Holbrook & Bourke, 1989) which reported that the English Skills Assessment test neither identified all the areas in which tertiary level students experience difficulty in their real writing nor the students likely to experience difficulties, This study shows that Holbrook and Bourke's findings, which related to narrative text, also applied when students wrote expository text. These results challenge the validity of the Faculty's use of the English Skills Assessment test as a means of identifying students with writing problems and show that any remedial writing programme based solely on the areas identified by the test will have a limited impact on the development of students' written literacy. In addition to the data originally sought for this study, other information came to light which showed the limitations of the way in which the Faculty conceptualises students' literacy needs. The emphasis of this programme is diagnosis and remediation. This conceptualisation has produced a literacy unit which is peripheral to the mainstream academic programme and which teaches the surface features of language in decontextualised, skills-based lessons. As a consequence, the unit: (a) is accorded marginal status by lecturers and students alike, ( b ) bears little relationship to what is happening in other units of the course, and (c) contributes little, if anything, to students' literacy development. It is clear from the findings of this study that the Faculty of Educator's remedial literacy programme contains serious flaws which cannot be rectified by attempting to modify the existing programme, The study concludes by recommending that the Faculty of Education should abandon its existing programme, along with its remedial emphasis, and institute a new programme designed to cater for the literacy needs of all its students. That is, all incoming students should be required to undertake a foundation unit which outlines the Faculty of Education's requirements and expectations of students, and teaches them the structures and processes (reading, writing, and thinking) required for successful learning in Bachelor of Arts (Education) courses.
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Wood, Leigh Norma. "Graduate voices the nexus between learning and work /." Phd thesis, Australia : Macquarie University, 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/1959.14/47704.
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"2006"Thesis (PhD)--Macquarie University, Australian Centre for Educational Studies, Institute of Higher Education Research and Development, 2007.
Bibliography: p. 167-173.
Introduction -- Experience and expression -- Becoming a professional -- Study design -- Graduates' experiences: a narrative -- Reflections on communication -- Examples of texts -- Reflections on learning and teaching -- Reflections and implications.
The aim of this study is to inform curriculum change in the mathematical sciences at university level. This study examines the transition to professional work after gaining a degree in the mathematical sciences. Communication is used as the basis for the analysis of the transition because of the importance of language choices in work situations. These experiences form part of the capabilities that become part of a person's potential to work as a professional. I found a subtle form of power and, of the opposite, lack of power due to communication skills. It is not as obvious as in, say, politics but it is just as critical to graduates and to the mathematical sciences. -- There were 18 participants in the study who were graduates within five years of graduation with majors in the mathematical sciences. In-depth interviews were analysed using phenomenography and examples of text from the workplace were analysed using discourse analysis. Descriptions of the process of gaining employment and the use of mathematical discourse have been reported in the thesis using narrative style with extensive quotes from the participants. -- The research shows that graduates had three qualitatively different conceptions of mathematical discourse when communicating with a non-mathematical audience: jargon, concepts/thinking and strength. All participants modified their use of technical terms when communicating with non-mathematicians. Those who held the jargon conception tried to simplify the language in order to explain the mathematics to their audience. Those who held the concepts/thinking conception believed that the way of thinking or the ideas were too difficult to communicate and instead their intention with mathematical discourse was to inspire or sell their ability to work with the mathematics. The strength conception considers the ethical responsibility to communicate the consequences of mathematical decisions. Not one of the participants believed that they had been taught communication skills as part of their degree. -- Participants gained a 'mathematical identity' from their studies and acquiring a degree gave them confidence and a range of problem-solving skills. Recommendations are made about changes in university curriculum to ensure that graduates are empowered to make a high-quality transition to the workplace and be in a position to use their mathematical skills. Mathematical skills are necessary but not sufficient for a successful transition to the workplace. Without the ability to communicate, graduates are unable to release the strength of their knowledge.
Mode of access: World Wide Web.
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Medley, Stuart. "Less realism : more meaning : evaluating imagery for the graphic designer." Thesis, Edith Cowan University, Research Online, Perth, Western Australia, 2008. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/232.
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Typography' as a defining term has become interchangcable with 'graphic design'. and while font choice and application is seen as of paramount importance. image choice, virtually half , . of the communication design equation, is neglected in the theory and in pratice is left to the instinct of the designer. In this thesis I try to find approaches for graphic designers to understand image to the degree that they understand type. These approaches are tested through assignments for graphic design students and the results recorded and analysed. I seek to address the paradox that we are able to communicate more accurately through less accurately rendered images. I will explain how the human visual system. evolved over time by looking only upon the natural world in all its reality. can look upon a stick-figure and make an emotional and intellectual connection. I examine the design implications of this strange faculty of the visual system. Gombrich. Arnheim and others have explored realism in, and applied psychology to, art in order to become better art historians. I explore the implications in the more pragmatic. economically imperative field of design of moving away from realism in the visual aspects of communication.
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Garner, Stuart K. "Exploring a technology-facilitated part-complete solution method for learning computer programming." Thesis, Edith Cowan University, Research Online, Perth, Western Australia, 2005. https://ro.ecu.edu.au/theses/668.
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Learning to program is now a requirement in many courses of study in such areas as computer science, information technology, information systems, multimedia. engineering, and science. However, research indicates that many students have great difficulties in learning to program and this results in high failure rates and high levels of withdrawal from academic courses. It is accepted that programming is an intrinsically difficult subject however the teaching and learning methods used in many programming courses have changed little over the years. The literature indicates the importance of reducing the cognitive load that students experience when learning programming and that one method that has potential to do this uses part-complete program solutions. This study sought to explore a technology supported part-complete solution method (TSPCSM) for the learning of computer programming. A teaching and learning framework for programming was developed and a technology supported “COde Restucturing Tool” CORT, was then designed around the learning framework and developed to support the part-complete solution method and provide a suitable learning environment. A quasi-experimental research design framework was utilised in the study which used both qualitative and quantitative research methods. A series of programming problems was developed for CORT and an experiment was undertaken with students who were studying introductory programming. Experimental and control groups were utilised in the experiment which took place over a 14 week semester at an Australian university The data were analysed and they provided rich information concerning three research questions relating to the part-complete solution method (PCSM) through CORT: how students engaged with CORT; how CORT supported the learning process; and how CORT impacted upon their learning outcomes. Results from the study indicated that the PCSM within CORT imposed a low cognitive load on students; provided high levels of cognitive support; strong scaffolding for learning; and students engaged well with the system and generally used a thoughtful and considered strategy to solving programming problems. No differences in learning achievement were found between the experimental and control groups, however other findings indicated that the students who used the PCSM within CORT required significantly less time and less help than the control group and the students who benefited most from the use of CORT appeared to have well developed mental models of program execution, More research is clearly needed to further explore the best ways to implement CORT so that learning advantages can be gained e solution method and provide a suitable learning environment. A quasi-experimental research design framework was utilised in the study which used both qualitative and quantitative research methods. A series of programming problems was developed for CORT and an experiment was undertaken with students who were studying introductory programming. Experimental and control groups were utilised in the experiment which took place over a 14 week semester at an Australian university The data were analysed and they provided rich information concerning three research questions relating to the part-complete solution method (PCSM) through CORT: how students engaged with CORT; how CORT supported the learning process; and how CORT impacted upon their learning outcomes. Results from the study indicated that the PCSM within CORT imposed a low cognitive load on students; provided high levels of cognitive support; strong scaffolding for learning; and students engaged well with the system and generally used a thoughtful and considered strategy to solving programming problems. No differences in learning achievement were found between the experimental and control groups, however other findings indicated that the students who used the PCSM within CORT required significantly less time and less help than the control group and the students who benefited most from the use of CORT appeared to have well developed mental models of program execution, More research is clearly needed to further explore the best ways to implement CORT so that learning advantages can be gained to solving programming problems. No differences in learning achievement were found between the experimental and control groups, however other findings indicated that the students who used the PCSM within CORT required significantly less time and less help than the control group
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Allkins, Michael T. "General education in the natural sciences: comparisons of selected sections of a coummunity college general biology course." Diss., Virginia Tech, 1990. http://hdl.handle.net/10919/39746.
Full textAbstract:
From the establishment of Harvard in 1636, to the establishment of the first public Junior College in 1901, to the curricular reforms of the 1960's and 1970's, the purpose of higher education and the role of general education have been the subjects for many lively debates. The national debate on issues relating to general education has intensified within the last decade, and community colleges continue to be active participants in these debates.
The purpose of this study was to describe the course contents and classroom environments of selected community college general education general biology courses in sufficient detail as to shed light on the contribution each makes to general education. This study offers descriptions, interpretations, and evaluations of community college general education biology classrooms and laboratories. The intent was to present vivid descriptions of the classroom experience and to offer interpretations of what was being taught and what was being learned.Ed. D.
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Shepard, Pamela Ann. "The Use of Part-Time Faculty in Associate Degree Nursing, Social Science, and Biological Science Programs." Thesis, University of North Texas, 1990. https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc332403/.
Full textAbstract:
This study surveyed the opinions of academic administrators of associate degree nursing programs, community college social science programs, and community
college biological science programs regarding major benefits and concerns associated with the employment of part-time faculty.
This study found that most part-time social science faculty teach in the classroom, half participate in non-teaching faculty activities, and most are paid a contract amount per course or credit hour. Part-time biological science faculty differed only in that most teach a combination of classroom and lab/practicum. Part-time nursing faculty differed in all three areas.
Most part-time nursing faculty teach in lab or practicum settings, most participate in more non-teaching activities than other part-time faculty, and most are paid an hourly wage. However, the benefits and concerns associated with the employment of part-time nursing faculty were not significantly different from those identified by academic administrators of the other programs with one exception. Academic administrators felt that part-time nursing faculty expose students to the latest technologies in specialty areas and part-time social science faculty do not.
The benefits cited by the respondents, that were in addition to the benefits most frequently cited in the literature, include increased interaction with the community and the ability to "try out" prospective full-time faculty. The concerns cited by respondents, that were in addition to the concerns most frequently cited in the literature, include the inability to find qualified part-time faculty to fill available positions and the concern that the employment of part-time faculty causes resentment among full-time faculty.
The results from this study indicate that the literature pertaining to the benefits and concerns associated with the employment of social science and biological science part-time faculty in community colleges can be used to develop policies regarding part-time faculty in associate degree nursing programs.
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Jones, Janet. "Multiliteracies for academic purposes : a metafunctional exploration of intersemiosis and multimodality in university textbook and computer-based learning resources in science." University of Sydney, 2006. http://hdl.handle.net/2123/2259.
Full textAbstract:
Doctor of EducationThis thesis is situated in the research field of systemic functional linguistics (SFL) in education and within a professional context of multiliteracies for academic purposes. The overall aim of the research is to provide a metafunctional account of multimodal and multisemiotic meaning-making in print and electronic learning materials in first year science at university. The educational motivation for the study is to provide insights for teachers and educational designers to assist them in the development of students’ multiliteracies, particularly in the context of online learning environments. The corpus comprises online and CD-ROM learning resources in biology, physics and chemistry and textbooks in physics and biology, which are typical of those used in undergraduate science courses in Australia. Two underlying themes of the research are to compare the different affordances of textbook and screen formats and the disciplinary variation found in these formats. The two stage research design consisted of a multimodal content analysis, followed by a SF-based multimodal discourse analysis of a selection of the texts. In the page and screen formats of these pedagogical texts, the analyses show that through the mechanisms of intersemiosis, ideationally, language and image are reconstrued as disciplinary knowledge. This knowledge is characterised by a high level of technicality in image and verbiage, by taxonomic relations across semiotic resources and by interdependence among elements in the image, caption, label and main text. Interpersonally, pedagogical roles of reader/learner/viewer/ and writer/teacher/designer are enacted differently to some extent across formats through the different types of activities on the page and screen but the source of authority and truth remains with the teacher/designer, regardless of format. Roles are thus minimally negotiable, despite the claims of interactivity in the screen texts. Textually, the organisation of meaning across text and image in both formats is reflected in the layout, which is determined by the underlying design grid and in the use of graphic design resources of colour, font, salience and juxtaposition. Finally, through the resources of grammatical metaphor and the reconstrual of images as abstract, both forms of semiosis work together to shift meanings from congruence to abstraction, into the specialised realm of science.
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Woodson, Jolie. "Tapping into Students' Culturally Informed Prior Knowledge: A Study of Four Instructors Teaching Undergraduate Biology." Thesis, 2021. https://doi.org/10.7916/d8-rezg-nn97.
Full textAbstract:
While it is well established that pedagogies purposefully linking subject matter to students’ cultural contexts and prior knowledge can help students learn subject matter, little is known about practices for so doing in undergraduate biology courses enrolling substantial numbers of racially, culturally, and otherwise diverse students. This study sought to understand how four biology instructors of primarily Black and Hispanic students enact a form of teaching that draws out and uses knowledge from and about students’ lives—what I refer to as students’ culturally informed prior knowledge—to help students learn key subject-matter ideas in biology. It also examined how instructors managed their efforts to teach in this way and how they portrayed their reasons for so doing.
The study derived several insights. One, instructors can connect important subject-matter ideas, in the study of biology, to facets of students’ daily lives, using the latter to advance students’ understanding of the former. Thus, the teaching of college-level biology with knowledge drawn from students’ lives is more than an aspiration. It can and—per my study—does occur. It is then possible to teach college-level biology with knowledge drawn from students’ lives.
Two, to enact such teaching, instructors can strive to draw comparisons between topics that are concrete and familiar to students and new subject-matter ideas to make the latter comprehensible to them. Three, instructors can connect subject matter to their students’ physiological experiences, treating students’ thinking about their bodies as a form of prior knowledge. Four, instructors can call students’ commonly accepted yet incomplete or unexamined ideas and beliefs into question to facilitate their learning of subject-matter ideas. Five, instructors’ efforts to teach using knowledge from students’ lives can include planning and forethought—but also improvisation while teaching. Six, a desire to make the subject matter of their course relatable to students can inspire instructors to teach using knowledge from students’ lives.
The study recommends (a) changes in institutional policy toward supporting faculty in efforts to teach using knowledge from students’ lives, and (b) future research into teaching of biology and other STEM subjects that takes into account students’ prior knowledge.
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Charoux, Marie Odylle. "The TED matriculation, higher grade, biology examination as an evaluator of educational objectives for effective biology teaching." Thesis, 1993. http://hdl.handle.net/10539/22408.
Full textAbstract:
A research project submitted to the Faculty of Science, University of the
Witwatersrand, .Johannesburg, in part fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree
of Master of Science. Johannesburg 1993.This study aims at providing some evaluation of the impact of the Transvaal Senior Certificate, Higher Grade, Biology Examination on Biology teaching in the Transvaal, It also looks. at the effectiveness of this exarnlnatlon as an assessment/evaluation instrument. A questlonnalre is used to secure the views qf practising Biology teachers, and teacher trainers, about the stated objectives of Biology teaching at senior high school level in terms of:- - their relative merit and importance. - their attainment through current teachinq practices. - their evaluation by the examination Board, The views of 63 teachers and 9 teacher trainers are analysed and the views of Transvaal and Natal teachers are compared to those of Teacher Trainers. Much consensus is found in the responses of all three groups of educators. They are well aware of modern trends and methodologies in the field of Biology Education but are pessimistic about the current achievement of many of the objectives they identify as being Important for effective Biology Teaching. They see the examination as one which focuses mainly on the assessment of Recall of Knowledge, The implications of these findings are discussed and several recommendations are made.
AC2017
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Errington, Sharyn. "Interactive multimedia in Australian university science teaching : a new toy or a useful tool?" Master's thesis, 1997. http://hdl.handle.net/1885/145270.
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Guillot, Blandine. "Les repr{u00E9}sentations sociales de l'{u00E9}criture et le rapport {u00E1} l'{u00E9}criture en langue {u00E9}trang{u00E8}re : une approche didactique pour l'enseignement et l'apprentissage de l'{u00E9}crit en FLE en milieu universitaire australien = Social representations in students' writing and the relation to writing in a foreign language : a didactics-based approach to the teaching and learning of written French as a foreign language in an Australian tertiary institution." Phd thesis, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/1885/150714.
Full textAbstract:
This thesis examines the ideas of social representations and the "relation to writing" (Barre-De Miniac 2000) in a multilingual context. Firstly, the thesis examines these ideas, arising from the research field of didactics of teaching French as a first language, in the multilingual context of a French program at an Australian university. Secondly, it analyses the progress in writing ability made by students from the second to the fourth year of French studies, and compares the ways in which they describe the process of writing in their first language and in a foreign language. The objective is to understand the process of writing in its psychological, social and cognitive dimensions. An analysis of the topic (Berthoud 1996) carried out on the discursive corpus of teachers (based on individual interviews) illustrates the limitations of the concept of "relation to writing" in a multilingual context, and makes it possible to identify an idea specific to this teaching situation: the "relation to the foreign language" being learned. An analysis of the topic carried out on the discursive corpus of learners (discussion groups) indicates that their written work in a foreign language originates with ideas, and that the "transposition to writing" in a foreign language can be recognised as a key point in the awareness of linguistic phenomena insofar as this as moment of writing engages knowledge of at least two languages. The situation of transition between languages, made more explicit through the process of writing, is akin to the "zone of proximal development" (ZPD) in Vygotsky's sociocultural theory in that the development of learning strategies and the internalisation of the language are apparent in this negotiation process. A comparison of the processes of writing in a foreign language and writing in a first language shows that the student's level of ability influences the attention given to different aspects of writing. The analysis of written data is divided into three parts. First, those elements in the guidelines for written assignments that reinforce literacy in the foreign language through writing are identified. Secondly, the students' written work enables exploration of another possibility in their "relation to writing". Adopting an analytical approach based on M. K. Halliday's systemic-functional linguistics to determine the writer's investment in his or her output, the data show that the investment varies depending on the stage the student has reached in their foreign language learning. Finally, an analysis of. the comments made by those reading or marking the work establishes a certain continuity of the topics between spoken and written discourse, and highlights the fact that these comments mainly confirm the importance of the "relation to language". The thesis contributes empirical oral and written data in a multilingual university context in which the "relation to writing" can be observed through a grasp of the continuity of the topic. It also constitutes a theoretical contribution to the teaching methodology of writing in a foreign language in that it highlights ideas including the "relation to language", the "relation to learning" and the "transposition to writing".
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Cossa, Eugenia Flora Rosa. "Evaluation of a practical component of the biology course of the Basic University Science Course Experimental Project at Universidade Eduardo Mondlane in Maputo." Thesis, 1997. https://hdl.handle.net/10539/24285.
Full textAbstract:
A research report submitted to the Faculty of Science, University of the
Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the
degree of Master of Science.The purpose of this study was to determine whether the goals of the practical component of the cytology section of the biology course at Basic University Science Course Experimental Project (BUSCEP) at Universidade Eduardo Mondlane in Maputo were being achieved. Two kinds of instruments were used in this study. They were (i) a written practical test and (ii) an observation schedule (checklist I and II). A total of 41 first year biology students of the BeSCEP course were involved in the study. The written practical test determined whether the students had mastered the knowledge of the parts of the microscope and their functions and whether they had understood how to use the microscope. Checklist I tested whether the students had mastered the physical skills necessary to operate a light microscope correctly. Checklist II tested whether the students had mastered the skills needed to prepare a wet mount slide. The results revealed that the goals of the practical component of the cytology section of the biology course at BUSCEP were not achieved. This was because most students have problems in understanding how to use the microscope as well as in mastering the logical sequence of the skills needed for effective use of the microscope. It is imperative that teachers find and use effective ways of assessing laboratory activities and skills during practicals, as this will contribute to the improvement of the BUSCEP biology course.
AC 2018
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Clark, I. F. (Ian F. ). "An analysis of geology curricula in secondary and tertiary education / Ian Clark." 1996. http://hdl.handle.net/2440/18909.
Full textAbstract:
Errata is tipped in after contents.Bibliography: p. 249-264.
iv, 264 p. : ill. ; 30 cm.
Title page, contents and abstract only. The complete thesis in print form is available from the University Library.
Thesis (Ph.D.)--University of Adelaide, Dept. of Geology, 1997?
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Clark, I. F. (Ian F. ). "An analysis of geology curricula in secondary and tertiary education / Ian Clark." Thesis, 1996. http://hdl.handle.net/2440/18909.
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Sandery, Peter. "A critical analysis of existing and potential use of computer based technology to deliver and support undergraduate physics education in Australia." Thesis, 1996. http://hdl.handle.net/2440/110184.
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Bitmead, Jan. "Communications in industry - university interactions : some tips (of icebergs)." Master's thesis, 1997. http://hdl.handle.net/1885/145190.
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Schmidt, Gabriele. "Re-examining the profile and motivation of German studies students in Australian universities." Phd thesis, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/1885/150548.
Full textAbstract:
The last comprehensive data on the profile and motivation of German Studies students in Australian universities was collected in the late 1980s and hence does not reflect changes to the Australian higher education sector introduced in the late 1990s. This lack of current data constrains German Studies programs in their options to prepare for the future. The main objective of this thesis is not only to fill the gap of recent data but at the same time to analyse the new data in the context of relevant theories of language learning motivation. The analysis establishes a theoretically informed and data-based platform for future course design which will assist German Studies programs in designing their courses. The thesis begins with a review and critique of former research on German Studies students in Australian universities as well as pertinent models of language learning motivation. It will be argued that previous studies related their findings to Gardner's dichotomy of integrative and instrumental motivation without testing whether their data matched Gardner's model. The thesis' centrepiece is the analysis and discussion of new data collected for this thesis. The data focuses on students' demographic backgrounds, their motivation to learn German, and on their expectations towards course content. Where possible, the new data is compared with data from former studies in order to investigate what changes have occurred over the last two decades. In this context, it will be shown that these changes are primarily a reflection of changes to higher education policies. The data-based analysis of student motivation will reveal that students' reasons for choosing German as part of their degree are more complex than Gardner's dichotomy of integrative and instrumental motivation.
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Osodo, Joseph. "3D visualization skills incorporation into an undergraduate biology course." Thesis, 1999. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/3298.
Full textAbstract:
Current trends indicate that the population explosion and invasion of information technology, particularly in developing nations, are likely to overwhelm education systems and policy makers, educators, researchers and therefore the community faces enormous challenges. Also, many graduates of various levels and disciplines appear unable to practically apply their knowledge in problem solving situations. In an attempt to achieve and maintain high educational standards, many nations are devoting substantial proportions of the gross domestic product toward educational endeavours. However, few systems are adopting modern education practices that intrinsically motivate and engage learners, and are at the same time flexible enough to consider students' aspirations and interests. It is argued that such systems would make learning more relevant, meaningful and enjoyable to the learners and are bound to improve exit performances. In such a system, the role of the teacher is that of a facilitator, and not instructor. Constructivism, a philosophy which holds that knowledge is actively constructed by learners through learning, is regarded as promising to provide a long-term solution to many educational problems since its underlying principles are argued to be holistic. It has become imperative that technology in general and the computer in particular should play a role as educational tools as these have capabilities that could be designed to make learning relevant and interesting to learners. It is argued that its use within constructivist approaches and curriculum considerations would increase learner abilities. An eclectic approach to curriculum design is advised for success in this endeavour. Since computers permeate most aspects of our lives (directly or indirectly) their inclusion in teaching and learning situations must become a reality. This project is focused on underscoring the fact that computer based education (CBE), under constructivist philosophy, can provide solutions to problems brought about by extreme interpretations of the deductive or traditional teaching approach. Particularly, it attempts to show that use of three-dimensional (3D) visualizations could significantly aid comprehension and perception of, among other units of discourse, cytoplasmic structure, geo-referenced graphical data, and the understanding of spatial relationships. This is a technique that has, in the recent past, received little attention and no extensive educational research has been carried out with the aim of perfecting it. Recent research carried out by members of the Biological Pedagogy (Bioped) research group identified conceptual problems in learners regarding biological processes such as photosynthesis and respiration. Having established that the misconceptions in learners were attributable to their lack of visualization ability, the first part of the project involved identifying some of the specific visual problems. A qualitative research approach was used to ascertain from university lecturers what convictions, beliefs and experiences they had had with their students that related to use of visualization skills. Skills most required included interpretation of 2D and 3D structures as well as their rotation in space. A survey was also carried out among Cell Biology first and second year students of the School of Life and Environmental Studies in order to precisely determine aspects of three-dimensionality and visual skills suspected to cause conceptual difficulties. Quantitative data analysis showed that the most deficient skills in the learners included pattern folding (projecting 2D material into 3D objects), orientation of form (identifying 3D objects that are oriented differently) and rotation (identifying 3D objects from top and front views). These findings corroborated qualitative analysis of lecturers opinions and convictions. An educational computer game was designed with the aim of ameliorating these problems. The game consisted of 3D scenes where puzzles related to the skills mentioned above needed to be solved. It was recommended that visualization skills should be incorporated into the biology curriculum for all undergraduate students within the first year of the course.Thesis (M.Ed.)-University of Natal, 1999.
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Ward, Helen 1963. "The "adequacy of their attention": gender-bias & the introductory law course in Australian law schools." 1999. http://web4.library.adelaide.edu.au/theses/09LM/09lmw258.pdf.
Full textAbstract:
Includes bibliographical references (leaves 220-229) Considers to what extent feminist theoretical and critical perspectives have been incorporated into law. A law course or law textbook that uncritically presents legal doctrines, or representations of men's and women's social roles, risks adopting and perpetuating the unstated point-of-view of a particular cultural group in society. Argues for a legal education that has an open self-consciousness of the culturally specific and inevitably partial point-of-view of the law and, consequently, a conscious recognition of the unavoidable point-of-view of legal education.
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Gupthar, Abindra Supersad. "Biochemistry students' difficulties with the symbolic and visual language used in molecular biology." Thesis, 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/3562.
Full textAbstract:
This study reports on recurring difficulties experienced by undergraduate students with respect to understanding and interpretation of certain symbolism, nomenclature, terminology, shorthand notation, models and other visual representations employed in the field of Molecular Biology to communicate information. Based on teaching experience
and guidelines set out by a four-level methodological framework, data on various topic-related difficulties was obtained by inductive analyses of students’ written responses to specifically designed, free-response and focused probes. In addition, interviews, think-aloud exercises and student-generated diagrams were also used to collect information.
Both unanticipated and recurring difficulties were compared with scientifically correct propositional knowledge, categorized and subsequently classified. Students were adept at providing the meaning of the symbol “Δ” in various scientific contexts; however, some failed to recognize its use to depict the deletion of a leucine biosynthesis gene in the
form, Δ leu. “Hazard to leucine”, “change to leucine” and “abbreviation for isoleucine” were some of the erroneous interpretations of this polysemic symbol. Investigations on
these definitions suggest a constructivist approach to knowledge construction and the inappropriate transfer of knowledge from prior mental schemata. The symbol, “::”, was
poorly differentiated by students in its use to indicate gene integration or transposition and in tandem gene fusion. Idiosyncratic perceptions emerged suggesting that it is, for
example, a proteinaceous component linking genes in a chromosome or the centromere itself associated with the mitotic spindle or “electrons” between genes in the same way
that it is symbolically shown in Lewis dot diagrams which illustrate covalent bonding between atoms. In an oligonucleotide shorthand notation, some students used valency to differentiate the phosphite trivalent form of the phosphorus atom from the pentavalent phosphodiester group, yet the concept of valency was poorly understood. By virtue of the visual form of a shorthand notation of the 3,5 phosphodiester link in DNA, the valency was incorrectly read. VSEPR theory and the Octet Rule were misunderstood or forgotten when trying to explain the valency of the phosphorus atom in synthetic oligonucleotide intermediates. Plasmid functional domains were generally well-understood although restriction mapping appeared to be a cognitively demanding task. Rote learning and substitution of definitions were evident in the explanation of promoter and operator
functions. The concept of gene expression posed difficulties to many students who believed that genes contain the entity they encode. Transcription and translation of in tandem gene fusions were poorly explained by some students as was the effect of plasmid conformation on transformation and gene expression. With regard to the selection of transformants or the hybridoma, some students could not engage in reasoning or lateral thinking as protoconcepts and domain-specific information were poorly understood. A failure to integrate and reason with factual information on phenotypic traits, media components and biochemical pathways were evident in written and oral presentations. DNA-strand nomenclature and associated function were problematic to some students as
they failed to differentiate coding strand from template strand and were prone to interchange the labelling of these. A substitution of labels with those characterizing DNA replication intermediates demonstrated erroneous information transfer. DNA replication models posed difficulties integrating molecular mechanisms and detail with line drawings, coupled with inaccurate illustrations of sequential replication features. Finally, a remediation model is presented, demonstrating a shift in assessment score dispersion from a range of 0 - 4.5 to 4 - 9 when learners are guided metacognitively to work with domain-specific or critical knowledge from an information bank. The present work shows that varied forms of symbolism can present students with complex learning difficulties as the underlying information depicted by these is understood in a superficial way. It is imperative that future studies be focused on the standardization of symbol use, perhaps governed by convention that determines the manner in which threshold information is disseminated on symbol use, coupled by innovative teaching strategies which facilitate an improved understanding of the use of symbolic representations in Molecular Biology. As Molecular Biology advances, it is likely that experts will continue to use new and diverse forms of symbolic representations to explain their findings. The explanation of futuristic Science is likely to develop a symbolic language that will impose great teaching
challenges and unimaginable learning difficulties to new generation teachers and learners, respectively.Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2007.
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Moore, Michael Edward. "Study of a hybrid course in non-majors biology : an assessment of changes in student attitudes and levels of engagement." 2013. http://liblink.bsu.edu/uhtbin/catkey/1728252.
Full textAbstract:
This study has presented a comprehensive overview of the context and significance of
changes in attitudes and levels of engagement in Ball State University’s BIO 100 class which is
taught using the blended learning method. The evidence suggests that this method exhibits no
significant overall change in attitudes or levels of engagement over the course of the semester.
Several individual question couplets exhibited positive change. The combination of no
significant overall change and positive couplet changes suggests that this method is a viable
alternative to more traditional methods. In addition students overwhelmingly agree that this
method of education should be used in other classes. Future research is needed to confirm the
effects of this method. It is also paramount that as this method becomes implemented on larger
scale training and coaching be available for students and faculty members. These services are
necessary in order to achieve maximum method effectiveness.
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Lang, Sarah Adrienne 1973. "Stories of staying and leaving: a mixed methods analysis of biology undergraduate choice, persistence, and departure." Thesis, 2008. http://hdl.handle.net/2152/3872.
Full textAbstract:
Using a sequential, explanatory mixed methods design, this dissertation study compared students who persist in the biology major (persisters) with students who leave the biology major (switchers) in terms of how their pre-college experiences, college biology experiences, and biology performance figured into their choice of biology and their persistence in or departure from the biology major. This study combined 1) quantitative comparisons of biology persisters and switchers via a questionnaire developed for the study and survival analysis of a larger population of biology freshmen with 2) qualitative comparison of biology switchers and persisters via semi-structured life story interviews and homogenous focus groups. 319 students (207 persisters and 112 switchers) participated in the questionnaire and 36 students (20 persisters and 16 switchers) participated in life story and focus group interviews. All participants were undergraduates who entered The University of Texas at Austin as biology freshmen in the fall semesters of 2000 through 2004. Findings of this study suggest: 1) Regardless of eventual major, biology students enter college with generally the same suite of experiences, sources of personal encouragement, and reasons for choosing the biology major; 2) Despite the fact that they have also had poor experiences in the major, biology persisters do not actively decide to stay in the biology major; they simply do not leave; 3) Based upon survival analysis, biology students are most at-risk of leaving the biology major during the first two years of college and if they are African-American or Latino, women, or seeking a Bachelor of Arts degree (rather than a Bachelor of Science); 4) Biology switchers do not leave biology due to preference for other disciplines; they leave due to difficulties or dissatisfaction with aspects of the biology major, including their courses, faculty, and peers; 5) Biology performance has a differential effect on persistence in the biology major, depending on how well students perform in comparison to other courses or other students.text
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Ellison, Mark J. "The communication of chemistry : how effective is current practice?" Phd thesis, 2003. http://hdl.handle.net/1885/148686.
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Barrett, Joan. "An investigative study into the effectiveness of using Computer-aided Instruction (CAI) as a laboratory component of college-level biology : a case study." Thesis, 1997. http://hdl.handle.net/1957/33720.
Full textAbstract:
Community colleges serve the most diverse student populations in higher
education. They consist of non-traditional, part-time, older, intermittent, and mobile
students of different races, ethnic backgrounds, language preferences, physical and mental
abilities, and learning style preferences. Students who are academically challenged may
have diverse learning characteristics that are not compatible with the more traditional
approaches to the delivery of instruction. With this need come new ways of solving the
dilemma, such as Computer-aided Instruction (CAI). This case study investigated the use
of CAI as a laboratory component of college-level biology in a small, rural community
college setting. The intent was to begin to fill a void that seems to exist in the literature
regarding the role of the faculty in the development and use of CAI. In particular, the
investigator was seeking to understand the practice and its effectiveness, especially in
helping the under prepared student. The case study approach was chosen to examine a
specific phenomenon within a single institution. Ethnographic techniques, such as
interviewing, documentary analysis, life's experiences, and participant observations were
used to collect data about the phenomena being studied. Results showed that the faculty
was primarily self-motivated and self-taught in their use of CAI as a teaching and learning
tool. The importance of faculty leadership and collegiality was evident. Findings showed
the faculty confident that expectations of helping students who have difficulties with
mathematical concepts have been met and that CAI is becoming the most valuable of
learning tools. In a traditional college classroom, or practice, time is the constant
(semesters) and competence is the variable. In the CAI laboratory time became the
variable and competence the constant. The use of CAI also eliminated hazardous
chemicals that were routinely used in the more traditional lab. Outcomes showed that
annual savings from operations were realized after the initial capital investment for
computer hardware and software were made.Graduation date: 1998
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Kirsten, Fadeela. "Life sciences teachers' understanding of the nature of science within the context of teaching evolution." Thesis, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/11353.
Full textAbstract:
The introduction of evolution in the ‘new’ Grade 12 life sciences curriculum in 2008 has created many challenges for life sciences teachers. The curriculum requires teachers to integrate evolution in all aspects of their teachings. The literature reveals that many life sciences teachers teach the concept of evolution in isolation and fail to integrate the topic as the underlying principle of Biology. Various studies conclude that teachers’ understandings and beliefs about the NOS no doubt influence their classroom instruction. This study explores life sciences teachers’ understanding of the NOS when teaching the theory of evolution. The NOS is used as the framing concept of the study. My research is a case study of three experienced life sciences teachers. Data was obtained from questionnaires, classroom observations and interviews with the teachers. This data provided valuable insight into the teachers’ understanding of the NOS as well as the way in which this understanding influences their pedagogical practices. Furthermore I was able to develop some understanding of why teachers teach evolution in the way that they do. The instruments were analysed qualitatively. The findings were reported as narratives and reveal that the teachers have different levels of understanding of the NOS. These different understandings have a profound influence on their understanding of evolution, however their understanding of the NOS did not have the same effect on the manner in which they taught evolution. While all three teachers had some misunderstandings, two teachers were able to teach evolution without demonstrating these misconceptions, while one teacher was not. Furthermore, there are also a number of additional factors such as exam-driven approaches, teacher identity, controversy surrounding the theory of evolution, and finally, lack of resources that impact negatively on the way evolution is taught. In conclusion I offer strategies to improve life sciences teachers’ understanding of the NOS and evolution and highlights areas for further research.M. Ed. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 2013.
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"Research and development of Internet-based courseware in higher education." Thesis, 1999. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/3921.
Full textAbstract:
Curriculum experts, instructional technologists and teachers are looking at computer technology to address many of the inadequacies that plague traditional teaching. These inadequacies include practical limitations and outdated educational philosophies that encourage rote learning and passive transfer of information from teacher to student via the typical lecture-based classroom. Often educational technology is used as an add-on to make content available to students. However, technological tools should rather be used to facilitate productivity and communication in the modern classroom. In addition, the introduction of technology into the classroom can be used to completely transform the traditional lecture into interactive computer-based learning environments. Provided that innovation can be sustained and supported over a period of time, the creative use of technology should enhance sound pedagogical principles rather than replace it. This project reports on the development and evaluation of two, second year, Biology Internet-based software packages used by students in a computer-based constructivist environment that replaced the traditional lecture based model. The first part of the project involved the evaluation of a number of Internet-courses to identify appropriate design and development criteria. This information was then used to create an Educational Software Evaluation Tool (ESET). The courses on carbohydrate and lipid metabolism were then developed in conjunction with subject experts. Evaluations of these learning environments were conducted via paper-based questionnaires, student interviews and student evaluations using ESET. Additional quantitative data was obtained by comparing examination results with the previous year to measure the impact of the technology on learning outcomes. The results of the software evaluation indicated that students found the user interface of the software products easy to use and navigate. Students also rated construction of information from a searchable database highly. This project showed that student learning was improved by self-paced, user-controlled, non-linear software usage. The results also showed that personal information construction by students improved understanding of concepts and led to deeper learning and acquisition of specific skills such as problem solving, information navigation and self-management. Giving students responsibility for their own learning was also shown to be beneficial to them as a life-long learning skill. Evaluation of the learning environment by students indicated that they valued the permanent availability of Internet-based information highly and felt that having assistants (demonstrators and the subject expert) helped them to direct and guide their learning. The results also revealed that students learnt better in groups and that members of the group participated in communicating and constructing shared knowledge. The role of the teacher in this project was transformed from information provider to information facilitator, as the teacher became an additional resource and had more time to spend answering specific questions and problems. Evaluation of student behaviour via interviews revealed that student attitudes were improved and that they enjoyed working with the software. Students found the environment comfortable to work in, were motivational and thought the system was a highly effective way of preparing for the examinations. Students also regarded this active form of learning as far more effective than traditional lectures, although they felt that introductory lectures could still play a role in providing them with direction and focus. Quantitative analysis indicated that students understood key concepts in both the courses, and examination performances revealed that students performed better in both the computer-based courses than in the lecture-based courses for this particular year. Further analysis showed that students performed better than the previous year with respect to the Carbohydrate Metabolism course, but not for the Lipid Metabolism Course (no significant difference). Quantitative and qualitative comparisons between the Carbohydrate and Lipid Metabolism course identified that the Carbohydrate Metabolism course offered students with dynamic content that fostered knowledge construction from a searchable database with easy navigation tools, whereas the Lipid Metabolism course consisted of pre-structured static content that students found difficult to search. This result indicates that interactive components foster constructivist based learning skills are an essential part on on-line learning environments. The results of this study include a model for designing, developing and evaluating education software and concluded that technology based on sound pedagogy can be successfully and effectively integrated into the classroom and form the basis for future prolonged development and learning.Thesis (M.Sc.)-University of Natal, 1999.
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Steen, Tangikina 'Utumeimoana Moimoi. "Students' adjustments to use of information technology (IT) in their university studies." 2003. http://arrow.unisa.edu.au:8081/1959.8/25015.
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The current thesis is concerned with investigating students' adjustments to the use of IT in their university studies, through three specific foci: Viz, (a) to document students' patterns of IT usage, (b) to identify factors which influence students' use of IT in a university environment, and (c) to investigate problem solving strategies that students use when encountering difficulties in IT. Three empirical studies were conducted. The current thesis found that given appropriate opportunities, students do make successful adjustments to use of IT during their university studies. Although indigenous students rated their competencies lower than non-indigenous students, no significant differences were found between ethnicity and the types of problem solving strategies that students used in IT.thesis (PhD)--University of South Australia, 2003.
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Hong, Yuh-fong. "The impact of teachers' approaches to teaching and students' learning styles on students' approaches to learning in college online biology courses." Thesis, 2005. http://hdl.handle.net/2152/1574.
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Lujan, Vanessa Beth. "Education biographies from the science pipeline : an analysis of Latino/a student perspectives on ethnic and gender identity in higher education." Thesis, 2008. http://hdl.handle.net/2152/3881.
Full textAbstract:
This study is a qualitative narrative analysis on the importance and relevance of the ethnic and gender identities of 17 Latino/a (Hispanic) college students in the biological sciences. This research study asks the question of how one's higher education experience within the science pipeline shapes an individual's direction of study, attitudes toward science, and cultural/ethnic and gender identity development. By understanding the ideologies of these students, we are able to better comprehend the world-makings that these students bring with them to the learning process in the sciences. Informed by life history narrative analysis, this study examines Latino/as and their persisting involvement within the science pipeline in higher education and is based on qualitative observations and interviews of student perspectives on the importance of the college science experience on their ethnic identity and gender identity. The findings in this study show the multiple interrelationships from both Latino male and Latina female narratives, separate and intersecting, to reveal the complexities of the Latino/a group experience in college science. By understanding from a student perspective how the science pipeline affects one's cultural, ethnic, or gender identity, we can create a thought-provoking discussion on why and how underrepresented student populations persist in the science pipeline in higher education. The conditions created in the science pipeline and how they affect Latino/a undergraduate pathways may further be used to understand and improve the quality of the undergraduate learning experience.text
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Xaba, Nomzamo. "Investigating 4th year pre-service teachers’ levels of understanding of the disciplinary nature of Life Sciences as a discipline." Thesis, 2017. https://hdl.handle.net/10539/25122.
Full textAbstract:
A research report submitted to the faculty of Science, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Masters of Science.
20 July 2017.Disciplinary knowledge is recognised as teacher professional knowledge base that is central in promoting effective teaching and learning in science education. Although that is the case, in one of the South African University, that this study was conducted in, the 4th year Life sciences Pre-service teachers’ were not tested on their understanding of the disciplinary nature of their subject of specialisation. As a result, the type of disciplinary gaze that they acquired by the end of the teacher training remained unknown within the institution. Thus, this study then used a case study methodology to investigate the Pre-service teachers’ levels of understanding of the disciplinary nature of Life Sciences as a discipline. The participants of this study consisted of twenty nine 4th year Pre-service teachers’ who were enrolled for a Life sciences Bachelor of Education program and one Life sciences lecturer who was involved in teaching the subject. This research took on a qualitative approach, which yielding both qualitative and quantitative data, through the use of questionnaires as well as semi-focused interviews as research instruments. The outcomes of this study showed that, although the Pre-service teachers’ were not explicitly taught about the nature of the subject, but they still showed a satisfactory understanding of it. Although that was the case, the Pre-service teachers’ still demonstrated a fractured comprehension of the disciplinary knowledge aspects, such as the history, philosophy and the nature of science. On the other hand, the findings of this study also demonstrated that, the Pre-service teachers’ acquired an extensive gaze of understanding of Subject Matter Knowledge, which is another component of Disciplinary knowledge, and this was because, this knowledge base was explicitly taught and assessed with the teacher training program.
LG2018
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Armstrong, Irawati Raharjo. "The acquisition of the syntax of negation and adjectives by adult Australian learners of Indonesian." Phd thesis, 2003. http://hdl.handle.net/1885/151282.
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Gobaw, Getachew Fetahi. "An assessment of the state of practical biology skills of undergraduate students in Ethiopian universities." Thesis, 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/20223.
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The purpose of this study was to evaluate the undergraduate biology practical
instructions and the level of competence of undergraduate biology students in practical
laboratory skills in some Ethiopian universities using skill performance rubric and
questionnaires. A sample of 208 third year students and 26 instructors and laboratory
assistants from three universities were selected as sample of the study. Students reported that
more than 84.2% of the laboratory activities are below the average number of laboratory
activities recommended by the curriculum with no significant difference between universities.
The laboratory skill performance test score was below the midpoint. None of the students
could be able to estimate and determine fields of vision of a microscope. There is a significant
and a positively linear relationship between the students’ grade point average (GPA) with
identification of laboratory equipment, handling of microscope, setting of microscope,
estimation of diameter of field of vision and measuring liquid. Laboratory skill performance
test score is correlated with higher education entrance exam score but not with students’ high
school laboratory back ground. There is no significant difference in instructor’s manipulative
skills among universities (p ≥ 0.09) and instructors manipulative skills is neither correlated
with qualification nor teaching experience (P≥0.056). The most common method of
assessment instructors’ use in the laboratory is laboratory report and identification of
specimen examination (46.4%) and written exam and identification of specimen examination
(35.7%). The number of courses having laboratory manuals is as low as 14.3%, in the new
university. Manipulating materials, measuring and using numbers, and pre lab activity were
common activities, and were found in every manual and in every university. Moreover, the
result also revealed that the manuals contain high percentage rate of basic science process
skills (75.4%) as compared to the integrated science process skills (24.6%). Correlation and
multiple regression analyses revealed that students’ laboratory performance skills is significantly positively correlated with higher education entrance exam score, availability of
laboratory resources and instructors experiences. Instructors’ experience has significant
positive regression weightsLife and Consumer Sciences
D. Phil. (Mathematics, Science and Technology Education)
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Houlbrook, Michael C., University of Western Sydney, College of Arts, and School of Social Sciences. "The politics and practices of work-based learning : accounts of experiences in the community services sector." 2007. http://handle.uws.edu.au:8081/1959.7/20801.
Full textAbstract:
This thesis is a phenomenological study of the experiences of students engaged in a work-based learning (WBL) degree in the community service (CS) sector in NSW. The degree – a graduate diploma in social sciences (GDSS) - was developed through an industry/community partnership in response to identified workforce development needs. Positioned as a novel pedagogy, WBL is presented in the broad context, before the specifics of the research are outlined. The thesis presents, first, a political economy of higher education (HE) and the CS sector, followed by a description of the defining principles of WBL, characteristics of practice and issues arising from these things. The phenomenological study of the student experiences is supported by a case study of the GDSS. The research is approached from an ontological and epistemological framework informed by critical theory and critical hermeneutics. The methods draw substantially on data collection through semi-structured interviews and supporting data collected form other sources. The analysis of the data is presented as five major data stories – access, self and study, work-based learning and organisation, managing learning and outcomes. In discussing the data the thesis argues that the students are strongly positioned as non-traditional students with an orientation towards issues of access to HE, as well as a concern with critical practice. The concluding comments of the thesis consider the context of work-based learning under systemic influences of the political economy of the day, notably neo-liberalism and the application of a techno-economic framing of the knowledge economy. Some final comments are offered on the practice of WBL in the CS sector, including the defence of knowledge production as a public good and the life world/system dynamics of partnership.Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)