bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adding Value To The First-Year Experience: Embedding Self And Major Exploration In The College Of Business Curriculum
Authors: Damminger Joanne K. , Potter Gregory C. , Pritchard Robert E.
Published: February 2016

This paper details the First-Year Career Development Program (First-Year Program) a component of a comprehensive multi-year program designed to guide business students through self-assessment and the selection of an appropriate business major and ultimately to prepare them to secure professional career positions. The First-Year Program is designed to integrate student self-assessment and career and business major exploration into the First-Year Experience. A survey of students who participated in the First-Year Program indicated a high level of student satisfaction. It further indicated that participants were more positive about completing their degree programs at the regional university where the First-Year Program is conducted. The First-Year Program was developed collaboratively by Career and Academic Planning Center professionals and College of Business faculty.
An Examination Of Kolb's Learning Style Inventory
Authors: Gooden Doreen J. , Preziosi Robert C. , Barnes F. Barry
Published: February 2016

As educators our primary focus is that of ensuring that students experience positive learning outcomes. Research, however, has shown that there are differences in students learning styles and that these differences will impact on the overall learning process. One way of ensuring that these positive outcomes are achieved is by identifying the different learning styles of students and modifying our teaching methodology to meeting those needs. This paper examines Kolbs (1984) Learning Style Inventory and provides suggestions on how to address the different students learning styles in order to enhance the learning process.
Did The Pension Protection Act (PPA) Of 2006 Resolve The Pension Crisis In Corporate America?
Authors: Lucas John J.
Published: February 2016

On August 17, 2006, President George W. Bush signed into law the Pension Protection Act (PL 109-280). The 907-page federal law has been referred to as the most comprehensive reform of the nations pension law since the enactment of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) of 1974 (Lucas, 2008). This paper will examine the major provisions of the Pension Protection Act (PPA). Additionally, the paper will analyze the impact of PPA on the retirement programs in corporate America and whether it resolved the pension crisis that existed prior to its passage as a federal law.
Using A Wiki As A Group Communications Tool
Authors: Mihm Barbara
Published: February 2016

The research explains wiki development and use in industry and potential benefits in higher education as a collaborative communication tool. The findings of a study conducted in a business administration class involving the use of wikis is discussed. The paper concludes with useful guidelines for college instructors incorporating wikis as a teaching methodology.
Two Years Into The Journey: AACSB Assessment Of Learning In A Principles Of Marketing Course
Authors: Clinton Steven R. , Marco Gayle , Chu Yun
Published: February 2016

Using a Principles of Marketing course, the authors demonstrate how compliance with AACSB standards and assessment of learning has been undertaken at Robert Morris University over a two-year period. Learning goals and objectives are tied to a specific assessment instrument to provide an illustration of how broad conceptual ideas are translated into classroom-level implementation. Numerous issues related to this two-year process are discussed.
Comparing And Managing The Relative Importance And Ranking Of Reasons For Selecting The Masters Of Business Administration Program
Authors: Snyder Ronald L. , Kizer Lee E. , Mujtaba Bahaudin G. , Khanfar Nile M.
Published: February 2016

This paper reports the findings of a study involving the selection process that adult graduate students used when choosing to pursue and attain an advanced business degree at Southern Wesleyan University. This study includes a comparison of the initial priorities used in the selection process to priorities that remain important in retrospect. The study also includes a comparison of the schools stated program objectives to the reasons for students program selection. A two-tailed analysis of data supplied by 184 respondents revealed there was no significant difference between student responses at the beginning of the program and student responses at the conclusion of the program. The study also reveals a close alignment between the schools program objectives and some of the highest ranked priorities given by the students for choosing the programs. The four (4) highest ranked priorities at the beginning and at the end of the program included Fits my schedule, Job advancement/marketability, Received undergraduate degree from SWU, and Christian perspective. These results can assist University administrators, managers, and recruiters in adapting their marketing strategies to provide critical and relevant information to prospective students. The study did not consider demographics as a component of the selection process or with the schools stated program objectives.
Long-Run Success In The Accounting Profession: A Study Of Student Perceptions
Authors: Carrington Linda , Harwell Jeff , Morris Philip
Published: February 2016

Accounting students are generally well aware of the skills, education, and accomplishments needed to get that first job and initially enter the accounting profession. However, it is equally important that accounting students approaching graduation have a good understanding of the skills, education and accomplishments required for an experienced accountant (an accountant who is three, five, or even ten years into their career). Armed with this information, students will be better equipped to make the best decisions as they complete their undergraduate degree and begin their careers. This would include decisions about graduate studies, pursuing certifications, accepting a job in a particular industry or one which provides specific experiences or training. Unfortunately, many students do not have accurate or complete information regarding the requirements for continued, long-run success in the profession. This paper reports the results of a project which (1) measured accounting students perceptions of the education, training, knowledge and experience required for experienced accountants, (2) implemented a class project exposing students to employers requirements for experienced accountants, and (3) measured student perceptions after the project was completed.
Who And What Influences Choice Of University? Student And University Perceptions.
Authors: Johnston Timothy C.
Published: February 2016

Emerging peer-to-peer communication via social media, and the role of influential peers, is changing the way that marketers communicate with prospects.  The model is changing from a sender-receiver model to one that includes influential peer-to-peer and receiver-to-sender communication.  This research examines this phenomenon in the context of student choice of a university.  What is the relative influence that various sources of information have on students’ choice of university?  How does the influence of friends and family members compare to the influence of non-personal media?  How do high-touch tools like campus visits compare to high-tech tools such as social media sites?  Results of a survey of students showed that parents, along with other family and friends, were the most influential sources of information.  Outside of personal contacts, a student’s visit to campus was highly influential.  Surprisingly, social media was not rated as highly influential compared to traditional media.  Results of a second survey of university employees generally predicted student responses well, although employees underestimated the influence of university representatives (faculty members, staff, and coaches) and underestimated the impact of a visit to campus as sources of information for prospective students.
The Impact Of Sustainability On Global Trade: A Cross-Curricular Project
Authors: Weber Curt M. , Roy Sharon
Published: February 2016

One of the challenges in higher education is leading students in the application of information from one course to learning material in subsequent coursework.  The authors have devised a joint project for courses in Logistics and Administrative Law to assist students in correlation of material in courses of two business majors, with emphasis on sustainability and college-identified core competencies.  Goals and construction of the project are discussed, with post-project feedback from students participating in the project, and assessment by the authors.
Teaching Innovation And Use Of The ICT In The Teaching-Learning Process Within The New Framework Of The EHEA, By Means Of Moodle Platform
Authors: Ciudad-Gómez Adelaida
Published: February 2016

The framework of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) has turned the student into the main protagonist of the new educational scenario, and the teacher into the coordinator of teaching-learning process instead of transmitter of knowledge. In this new model of learning, the use of ICT is facilitating competency-based learning and the autonomous use of educational resources by the student. In view of this situation, e-learning platform Moodle gives teachers and students a tool that extends and improves the teaching-learning process, and that makes possible the creation of virtual subjects to develop a virtual- presence model which can favour the self-learning, the participation and the acquisition not only of specific skills in our discipline, but also of instrumental skills, personal and systemic. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to share our experience in relation with the virtual university and with the development of an education in Accounting supported by the Moodle platform and new ICTs, with their advantages and disadvantages, putting forward the global design that has been applied to the virtual subject and what technological tools have been considered relevant to achieve our educational aims.
Learning Through Equity Trading Simulation
Authors: Moffit Timothy , Stull Charles , McKinney Hannah
Published: February 2016

Over the past several decades, colleges and universities have moved away from the traditional chalk-and-talk lecture.  Professors have experimented with a myriad of methods to engage students more fully.  Some of the innovations that have been used have succeeded in improving student performance and satisfaction.  In this paper we report the learning results of using an equity trading simulation across three different classes at a small Midwestern liberal arts college.  Sixty-one students participate in a nine-week equity trading simulation exercise. All class levels are represented, and students with a range of prior courses in business and economics are included. Assessment tools include a pre-simulation survey, a pre-simulation investments test, a post-simulation survey, a post-simulation investments test, and simulation performance.  The simulation allows trades in all U.S. equities including ADRs.  Trades use actual delayed market prices with a 20-minute delay in order execution.  No actual investments are made.  The students are given a test before the simulation began to assess their incoming knowledge of investment fundamentals.  None of the three classes covers this material in lecture.  The students have access to online investments resources and information during the simulation via the simulation service provider.  A test is given on the same investment fundamentals after the simulation is completed.  The students are also surveyed as to their motivation, interest and satisfaction.  Initial results show an average 14-point difference (out of 100) between the pre and post-simulation test scores.  This is significantly different from zero at better than the 99 percent level.  The gains in performance are higher for the students with the lower pre-simulation test scores. Pre-simulation test scores are significantly higher for students who have taken more business and economics classes.  Interestingly, post-test scores show no significant relationship to the number of prior courses in business and economics suggesting that the simulation effectively delivers content to students with limited backgrounds.  Survey results show that 64 percent of students regularly use the online education resources provided as part of the simulation, while 97 percent report using outside resources to inform their decisions.  Sixty-six percent report the simulation is effective or very effective at increasing their knowledge of investments.  Most students, 86 percent, indicate that the simulation increased their interest (a little or greatly) in investments and equity markets.
Impact Of The Placement And Quality Of Face-To-Face Meetings In A Hybrid Distance Learning Course
Authors: Colucci William , Koppel Nicole
Published: February 2016

As online and hybrid courses are becoming a wide-spread option for higher education, researchers are exploring various delivery methods.  Hybrid courses involve blending two modes of interaction –both face-to-face as well as online.  The exact distribution and timing of face-to-face meetings verse online delivery is a question that instructors have been struggling with since the inception of hybrid courses.  This paper reports findings from a study evaluating course outcomes in an undergraduate business computer applications course based on the quality and quantity of face to face meetings at the beginning of the course.
Thought Processes College Students Use When Evaluating Faculty: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Pinto Mary Beth , Mansfield Phylis M.
Published: February 2016

This study explores the thought processes college students use when answering survey questions on standardized course/faculty evaluations.   Thought processes are categorized as: System One or System Two, based on the framework developed by Kahneman (2003) and Stanovich and West (2000). System One processes are typically hurried, superficial, effortless, and charged with emotions. System Two processes are considered to be slower, more deliberate, thoughtful evaluations. Results from eight focus group discussions are provided.  Student responses were categorized according to their adherence to System One or System Two cognitive processing. In total, 59% of the student responses were categorized as System One. Implications for faculty and higher education administrators are presented.
Interpreting Bivariate Regression Coefficients: Going Beyond The Average
Authors: Halcoussis Dennis , Phillips G. Michael
Published: February 2016

Statistics, econometrics, investment analysis, and data analysis classes often review the calculation of several types of averages, including the arithmetic mean, geometric mean, harmonic mean, and various weighted averages.  This note shows how each of these can be computed using a basic regression framework.  By recognizing when a regression model is computing one of these averages, students can properly interpret these types of regressions.  Similarly, by seeing how these averages fit into a common framework, students can have a better understanding of the different calculations.
Cooperative Learning At A Distance: An Experiment With Wikis
Authors: Campbell Katherine , Ellingson Dee Ann
Published: February 2016

The merits of incorporating group work into learning environments are well established.  Online classes and other distance learning settings, however, can make it challenging to introduce traditional group projects.  Wikis use technology to facilitate group work in distance learning settings.  Wikis allow individuals in different locations to asynchronously post and edit content on a website to iteratively and cooperatively work toward a solution.  We describe wikis and their use in an online MBA managerial accounting class.  Student feedback on their experiences using wikis as well as instructor observations were mostly positive while negative comments were primarily administrative in nature and easily addressed.  In general wikis can be implemented in any business course using group assignments.  When using wikis for cooperative learning, the obstacles are minimal, but the potential benefits for students may be substantial.  These benefits include developing a sense of community, participating in peer-to-peer learning and using critical thinking and communication skills while still enjoying the convenience of working asynchronously in disparate locations.
Career Expectations Of Accounting Students
Authors: Elam Dennis , Mendez Francis
Published: February 2016

The demographic make-up of accounting students is dramatically changing. This study sets out to measure how well the profession is ready to accommodate what may be very different needs and expectations of this new generation of students. Non-traditional students are becoming more and more of a tradition in the current college classroom. Historically, accounting has been an anglo-male-dominated profession.  The make-up of college students now comprises some 57% women. The enrollment in some college accounting classes is even more skewed with women in Texas representing over 80% of the enrollment. A further changing demographic is the emergence of Hispanic females in accounting classes. Hispanics now make up approximately 20% of the Texas population.  Texas is the second largest state economy in the USA and has recently become a Majority/Minority state.  The conclusion is made that the demographic make-up of college students entering the accounting profession is undergoing profound and permanent change. Female Hispanics will make up a significant segment of accounting employment. How will the expectations of this markedly different group of students mesh with the existing culture of the accounting workplace?  Other researchers have looked at the workplace environment in terms of flextime and location.  An important part of this study involves ‘behavioral accounting’ research.  Expectancy theory offers explanations for the motivation of behavior.
Monitoring The Level Of Students GPA's Over Time
Authors: Bakir Saad T. , McNeal Bob
Published: February 2016

A nonparametric (or distribution-free) statistical quality control chart is used to monitor the cumulative grade point averages (GPAs) of students over time. The chart is designed to detect any statistically significant positive or negative shifts in student GPAs from a desired target level. This nonparametric control chart is based on the signed-ranks of the GPAs of the sampled students. The exact false alarm rate and the in-control average run length of the proposed chart can be computed exactly and are independent of the underlying probability distribution of GPAs. The traditional Shewhart X-bar control chart for monitoring the mean of a process is based on the assumption that data follows a normal distribution. However, student GPAs may differ significantly from the normal distribution. As a result, using a traditional control chart to monitor the GPAs of students may lead to incorrectly specifying the control limits and the average run length and/or the false alarm rate of the chart. A test study was conducted at the College of Business Administration at Alabama State University. The study monitored the median cumulative GPAs of management majors during the period Spring 2005 through Spring 2009. The study revealed that the GPAs of students were stable at a median level of 2.6 over the period of the study.
Team-based Classroom Pedagogy Reframed: The Student Perspective
Authors: Schultz Jennifer L. , Wilson Joel R. , Hess Kenneth C.
Published: February 2016

Postsecondary learning environments often utilize team-based pedagogical practices to challenge and support student learning outcomes. This manuscript presents the findings of a qualitative research study that analyzed the viewpoints and perceptions of group or team-based projects among undergraduate business students. Results identified five pro-team thematic perspectives of team learners’ views including better deliverables, increased ideas, improved learning experiences, reduced workload, and collective security. Responses from students who preferred to work autonomously resulted in three themes centered on self-sufficiency, social loafing, and schedule challenges. Two situational student responses were identified regarding how and why faculty should utilize group and team projects in consideration of individual efficiency and assignment objectives and outcomes conflicts. This study concludes with research-based recommendations for teaching, learning, and further research.
E-Employment? College Grad Career Building In A Changing And Electronic Age
Authors: Eisner Susan
Published: February 2016

The unusual nature of the current economic environment combined with changing labor market demographics heightens the importance to those engaged in employment activity of utilizing methods that fulfill their needs. But electronic technology is transforming available employment methods. How can career building and recruiting best be sustained in today’s continually changing and ever-more electronic age?  This paper identifies current practices employers, prospective employees, and career service providers seeking to optimize contemporary employment methods can consider.
Alignment Of Two Grading Systems: A Case Study
Authors: Hohner Margaret , Tsigaris Panagiotis
Published: February 2016

For the past number of years, a Canadian university has been offering its business degree program in universities located in Tianjin and Shanghai, China. This paper examines the alignment of the two grading systems and its implications on the grade distribution of graduates from the programs. An attempt is made to find an exchange rate of the two grading systems which reflects the fundamental value of the students’ academic achievement.
Perceived Value Of Educational Hypermedia: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Gao Yuan , Wu Xiaoyu
Published: February 2016

This paper explores the idea of perceived value of educational hypermedia by extending prior research in advertising and information systems.  It proposes that the value of a course support site comes from both its information content and users’ experience whenthey visit the site.  The cognitive antecedents of a site’s perceived valueinclude perceived informativeness, perceived entertainment and perceived irritation. Through a field study using a course companion site and the subsequent data analysis via structural equation modeling (SEM), this study confirms that learners appreciate informative content in an entertaining format in accessing Internet-based course support.  Findings of this study will help researchers and educators better understand the cognitive dimensions that enhance the perceived value of a learning technology.
A Statistical Analysis Of The Performance Distance Learning Students And The Full-Time Students At The University Of Lagos
Authors: Adewara Johnson Ademola , Adeleke Ismail Adedeji , Ogundeji Rotimi Kayode , Ahani Edesiri Bridget
Published: February 2016

The study compares the performance of distance learning students with full-time students in a traditional face-to-face learning environment. This study is one aspect of a larger research project designed to gain insight into factors that may influence the performance of distance learning students. The data used in the study represent the graduating GPA (Grade Point Average) and CGPA (Cumulative Grade Point Average). The result showed that students of Distance Learning Institute (DLI) performed better in business administration than the mainstream students, while the mainstream accounting students perform better than the DLI accounting students. Results indicated that there was a statistically significant difference in final grades of these groups of students.
Topics In Finance Part V - Capital Structure
Authors: Laux Judy
Published: February 2016

Continuing this series on the theory of financial management, the current article investigates capital structure, offering insight into the roles of stockholder wealth maximization, the risk-return tradeoff, and agency conflicts.  Much literature addresses this topic, and some of the most recent literature challenges certain theoretical cornerstones touted in the textbooks, as revealed in this work.
It Is A Small World After All: Teaching Business Ethics In A Global Environment
Authors: Budden Connie B. , Budden Michael C.
Published: February 2016

Increasingly, managers and employees are facing ethical issues when conducting business in the global marketplace. Business educators attempting to teach appropriate ethical behavior and develop skills for dealing with complex ethical situations need to incorporate realistic case scenarios to challenge students.  Such cases should appropriately address personal, corporate and international and cultural issues students are likely to face.  This paper presents realistic cases that have been used to teach ethical decision-making in international business classes.
Today's Learner, Preferences In Teaching Techniques
Authors: Agnello Vincent , Pikas Bohdan , Agnello Audrey J. , Pikas Anastasia
Published: February 2016

The computer age is here. Students are tuned in to the latest digital devices and methods available today. Most students are exposed to short messages with video enhancements. This gives rise to a student who gets frustrated and bored with the standard lecture technique of years past. To achieve a greater effectiveness and learning outcome in delivering a lecture and subsequent learning, the professor has to know and understand the changes that are occurring in today’s learner. This paper presents findings of a study comparing the perceptions of first year freshmen business students’ with upper class business students’ perceptions as to how learning and assessment should occur in the classroom. The study also evaluates the differences between the various types of business majors.
Developing A Community Of Practice Through Learning Climate, Leader Support, And Leader Interaction
Authors: Baker-Eveleth Lori J. , Chung Yunhyung , Eveleth Daniel M. , O'Neill Michele
Published: February 2016

The Communities of Practice (CoP) concept and the knowledge management literature both provide useful frameworks for conceptualizing how an individual’s performance in the classroom (e.g., earning a grade) or in an organization (e.g., solving a client’s problem) can be supported by a collection of other individuals performing similar tasks and pursuing similar goals. When individuals in a CoP report high levels of meaning, involvement, identification, and belongingness to the community (Wenger, 1998) the individuals act “as resources to each other exchanging information, making sense of situations, sharing new tricks and new ideas, as well as keeping each other company and spicing up each other’s working days” (Wenger, 1998, p. 47). In this paper, we report the results of a study that identifies three factors (learning climate, leader support and leader interaction) that impact the development of a CoP. Specifically, among a sample of 94 undergraduate business students in two cohort groups participating in a year-long program, we found that meaning and involvement were related to leader interaction in a positive manner, identification was related to leader support and CoP climate in a positive manner, and belongingness was related to leader support and leader interaction in a positive manner. Implications are presented for practitioners and educators who wish to facilitate the development of a Community of Practice.
The Value Of Graduate Certificate Programs In Engineering Education: A Strategic Assessment
Authors: Murray Susan L. , Long Suzanna K. , Elrod Cassandra C. , Akula Susmitha
Published: February 2016

There has been a significant increase in the popularity of non-degree graduate certificates throughout the past decade. This increase has raised questions about the value of engineering graduate certificate programs from students, alumni, and employers. Do engineering certificate programs provide real world skills and knowledge? Do they serve as effective recruiting tools for universities? Do they provide opportunities for students to meet their professional goals in terms of salary increase and promotions? This study explores these questions. Eighty-three current and former engineering certificate students, as well as forty professionals from industry, were surveyed about their value perception of graduate certificate programs. Guidance for engineering educators and other professionals concerned with development and marketing of engineering graduate certificate programs is also presented.
Vertical And Horizontal Integration Of Laboratory Curricula And Course Projects Across The Electronic Engineering Technology Program
Authors: Zhan Wei , Goulart Ana , Morgan Joseph A. , Porter Jay R.
Published: February 2016

This paper discusses the details of the curricular development effort with a focus on the vertical and horizontal integration of laboratory curricula and course projects within the Electronic Engineering Technology (EET) program at Texas A&M University. Both software and hardware aspects are addressed. A common set of software tools are introduced to the sophomore students in the EET curriculum; these tools are then used in several junior and senior level courses. Through early and repeated exposure to these tools, students learn to use them more effectively to solve various engineering problems in laboratory and course projects. A DC permanent magnetic motor is identified as one of the common hardware platforms for multiple course projects. By using a common platform for different course projects, the students can spend much less time preparing for the course projects. With each course adding different features to the common platform, the learning experience in several courses becomes seamlessly integrated. Surveys were conducted to show that the curriculum development effort improved the efficiency of student learning and enhanced the students’ educational experience.
First-Year Effects Of An Engineering Professional Development Program On Elementary Teachers
Authors: Yoon So Yoon , Diefes-Dux Heidi , Strobel Johannes
Published: February 2016

The ultimate objective of teacher professional development (TPD) is to deliver a positive impact on students’ engagement and performance in class through teacher practice via improving their content and pedagogical content knowledge and changing their attitudes toward the subject being taught. However, compared to other content areas, such as mathematics and science, relatively few engineering TPD programs have been developed, and there has been a lack of research on the effective practice of TPD for K-12 engineering education. As a part of a five-year longitudinal project, this study reports the first-year effect of TPD offered by the Institute for P-12 Engineering Research and Learning (INSPIRE) at Purdue University on elementary teachers integrating engineering. Thirty-two teachers of second through fourth grade from seven schools attended a one-week intensive Summer Academy and integrated engineering lessons throughout the year. Based on a pre- and post-test research design, multiple measures were utilized to examine changes in teachers’ knowledge and perceptions of engineering and their variations in knowledge and perceptions by school and teacher characteristics. Overall, teachers were satisfied with the engineering TPD program, significantly increased their engineering design process knowledge, and became more familiar with engineering. While teachers’ knowledge about engineering did not vary by school and teacher characteristics, some aspects of teachers’ perceptions regarding engineering integration and their practice differed by school and teacher characteristics.
High School Pre-Engineering Programs: Do They Contribute To College Retention?
Authors: Cole Belinda , High Karen , Weinland Kathryn
Published: February 2016

The study examines the retention of studentsin the College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology at Oklahoma StateUniversity that enter college with a defined course sequence in a pre-engineeringprogram from a regional career technology center as compared with the retentionrates of university engineering students for the same time period. In additionto descriptive data, results from one-sample
Educating The Next Generation Of Energy-Savvy Workforce
Authors: Wu Bin , Abad Jorge
Published: February 2016

This paper reports a problem-based learning model for the training of university students in the area of industrial energy efficiency, and discusses its context, contents, and the results from its implementation. The impact has been significant, with hundreds of university graduates trained and many of them now working in industry, leading their organization’s energy efficiency initiatives.
From Knowing-About To Knowing-To: Development Of Engineering Pedagogical Content Knowledge By Elementary Teachers Through Perceived Learning And Implementing Difficulties
Authors: Sun Yan , Strobel Johannes
Published: February 2016

The present study sought to reveal how elementary teachers develop their engineering pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) after leaving professional development programs to practice engineering teaching in real classroom settings. Participants of this study were the elementary teachers who received one-week training of engineering education provided by EfF (a P-12 Engineering teaching and learning institute in a Midwestern university). Data of this study were collected from these elementary teachers through face-to-face interviews and an online open-ended survey. Based on a phenomenological research method and a constructivist ELC (engineering instruction, learners, and contexts) framework developed by the researchers to investigate engineering PCK development, this study explored the elementary teachers’ lived engineering teaching experiences following the procedures of inductive qualitative data analysis. Findings yielded in this study revealed that the elementary teachers developed their knowledge about engineering teaching and learning situations through their engineering teaching practice. But such knowledge was the knowledge of knowing-about and it did not automatically transfer into the elementary teachers’ engineering PCK or knowing-to knowledge allowing them to act effectively and responsively to engineering teaching and learning situations at hand. In their engineering teaching practice, the elementary teachers engaged themselves in a dynamic and evolving trial-failure-success process. It was in this process that the elementary teachers made sense of new engineering teaching and learning situations and transformed their knowing-about into engineering PCK responsive to these situations.
An Online Tutorial Vs. Pre-Recorded Lecture For Reducing Incidents Of Plagiarism
Authors: Henslee Amber M. , Goldsmith Jacob , Stone Nancy J. , Krueger Merilee
Published: February 2016

The current study compared an online academic integrity tutorial modified from Belter & du Pre (2009) to a pre-recorded online academic integrity lecture in reducing incidents of plagiarism among undergraduate students at a science and technology university. Participants were randomized to complete either the tutorial or the pre-recorded lecture and then completed an academic integrity quiz. We hypothesized that students who completed the tutorial would exhibit fewer incidents of plagiarism and complete the quiz with fewer attempts. Results revealed no statistically significant difference in incidents of plagiarism between the groups. There was a significant positive relation between the number of quiz attempts and the incidents of plagiarism (r (31) = .388, p = .03). Results suggest that an online tutorial is equally effective as a pre-recorded online lecture in addressing issues of plagiarism in the classroom. These results are discussed in the context of education strategies, intrinsic motivation, and time-saving methods.
Exploring Faculty Insights Into Why Undergraduate College Students Leave STEM Fields of Study- A Three-Part Organizational Self-Study
Authors: Martinez Ortiz Araceli , Sriraman Vederaman
Published: February 2016

An institutional self-study at a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) explored factors thought to impact students’ decisions to persist in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields of study. This self-study is presented as a model first step for Institutions of Higher Education interested in launching efforts to improve STEM education and STEM student success and persistence. A methodology combining qualitative and quantitative analysis approaches was used to examine different aspects of the overarching research question, “Why do undergraduate students leave college STEM fields of study?” A quantitative review of institutional data was used to identify four particular gaps in student persistence and success in STEM fields of study at Texas State University. An online survey and a focus group guide were developed based on existing but more broadly focused instruments and used to collect faculty insights regarding faculty and student experiences and possible reasons for student attrition in STEM. A review of retention theories was undertaken to better inform the process of generating remedies to the STEM persistence issue. Data were collected and analyzed separately for each component to produce two sets of findings. Findings indicated that there were retention issues in regard to STEM majors in general and underrepresented student groups in particular. Underrepresented students do not pursue STEM degrees percentage wise in comparison to other degrees. The self-study and retention theories suggest the following remedial measures: supporting faculty to transform their teaching, providing supplemental instruction in math and science and including discipline specific introductory courses and early internship experiences.
Character Is Key To Ethical Healthcare Leadership
Authors: Wallingford Valerie
Published: February 2016

Character, leadership and ethics are key to long-term success of healthcare organizations. Good character and strong ethics together assist leaders in making good decisions. Leaders who base their decisions on the Golden Rule (do unto others as you would have them do unto you) make ethical decisions. It is not essential that healthcare leaders adopt any one of the many different leadership theories and styles, but what is essential is that they assess their current character, ethics, and leadership skills and create a plan on how they will continue to grow and develop to the level they would like to be. Leaders that seek to develop good character and strong leadership through continued growth in knowledge and understanding along with a commitment to ethical practices will contribute to organizational success.
Influencers On The Decision For Bariatric Surgery: A Pilot Study And Proposed Model
Authors: Ragus Elmer , Harmon Harry A , Conrad Craig A.
Published: February 2016

The costs associated with obesity in the United States are estimated to be $120 billion annually and an estimated 400,000 deaths. In addition, obesity has been shown to significantly diminish the quality of life through lower self-esteem, depression, and discomfort in social situations. Although the treatment for obesity, defined as a body mass index (BMI) of 40, through bariatric surgery is not new, the literature is lacking in explaining the decision to undergo the procedure. The research reported here employs a small sample as a pilot study to examine potential influences on the decision-making process. Scales from the existing literature, e.g., vanity, fear of success, are adapted for this research. The findings suggest that prospective patients seek an enhanced quality of life but criticism by loved ones does not significantly influence the decision. The results suggest several issues that should be examined in greater detail with a larger sample.
The Determinants Of Profitability In The Pharmaceutical Industry
Authors: Leahy Arthur S.
Published: February 2016

This paper uses several measures of profitability to examine the determinants of profitability for a segment of the U.S. pharmaceutical industry. Following Leahy (1998, 2004), I test the proposition that profitability is related to the functions performed and risks assumed by a company. As in those studies, the results vary according to the measure of profitability employed, i.e., the significance of the independent variables may depend on the profitability measure employed. These findings are consistent with those of Leahy (1998, 2004), which found that the results did not vary systematically according to estimation method. In addition, this paper suggests that the results vary with the industry examined.
My Baby Bird - Living With Type 1 Diabetes: A Phenomenological Analysis
Authors: Aquino-Russell Catherine , Russell Roger , Russell Allison , Russell Catrina
Published: February 2016

“This is a life-changing experience for all of us. You have one child with diabetes and your whole family has diabetes” (Isenberger, 2009, p. 134). More than two million Canadians have diabetes; 10% live with type 1 diabetes, involving the pancreas not being able to produce insulin (Canadian Diabetes Association, 2009). The incidence of type 1 diabetes is greater than has previously been described (Karvonen et al, 2000). One longitudinal phenomenological study used interviews for data collection to uncover family members’ lived experiences when their children (aged 9-14) were diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (Wennick & Hallstrom, 2006, 2007; Wennick, Lundqvist, & Hallström, 2009). Interestingly, Balfe (2009) wrote, “young adults with type 1 diabetes are a “forgotten group” (p. 128). The purpose of our ongoing phenomenological research is to explore the experiences of young adults and their family members. We are having challenges recruiting potential participants (individuals and their family members) to write about and email their experiences living with or having a young adult member who lives with type 1 diabetes; however, we have one description of a lived experience written by a young adult which is so eloquent, that we wanted to share it with others. We have completed a Giorgi (2009; Giorgi & Giorgi, 2003) descriptive phenomenological analysis guided by the humanbecoming theory for nurses (Parse, 1998) and have related the findings to the literature. This paper includes a moving metaphorical illustration about what it is like for one young adult to live with type 1 diabetes.
An Empirical Investigation Of Adolescent Depression, Alcohol Use, And Health Issues: Evidence From Family Structure And Gender
Authors: Grant Monique S. , Osho G. Solomon
Published: February 2016

A hundred and fifty (150) cases were chosen from the 2007 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. The study examined the relationship between alcohol use and depression and considered the impact of family structure and gender. Using ANOVA, it was concluded that family structure did not have a significant impact on the relationship between alcohol use and depression. Similar results were found when gender was also analyzed.
Adolescents’ Reproductive Health Status In Urban Slums In The Khon Kaen Municipality, Thailand
Authors: Anusornteerakul Soiy , Srisaeng Pakvilai , Rujiraprasert Nilubon , Maungpin Somjit
Published: February 2016

This descriptive study aimed to explain the reproductive health of urban slum adolescents in the Khon Kaen Municipality area of Khon Kaen, Thailand. A self-reported questionnaire that took about 20 minutes to complete was used for data collection. Multi-stage simple random sampling was adopted in the selection of five target communities to recruit 277 male and female adolescents aged 10–19 years in accordance with the proportion of male and female adolescents in the area. Frequencies, percentages, standard deviations, and means were used for the data analysis. The female and male participants had an average age of 14.62 ± 2.66 years and 14.58 ± 2.84 years, respectively. The average menarcheal age was 12.96 ± 1.58 years, while the age at which the first wet dream was experienced for boys was 14.12 ± 1.44 years. Most of the participants were in elementary school, while 5.7% of female and 2.4% of male adolescents did not attend school. Most girls and boys knew about contraceptive pills and condoms, but not other birth control methods. Contraceptive pills were used by 26.4% of female adolescents and condoms were used by 39.8% of male adolescents. However, it was reported that less than 10% of males and females regularly used condoms. The lowest age of the 36.5% of girls who had had a sexual experience was 10 years, whereas the lowest age of the 40.7% of sexually experienced boys was 11 years. The average age of the group of females who had started to have sexual intercourse was 14.81 ± 1.71 years, and the average age of the group of males who had had sexual intercourse was 15.23 ± 1.32 years. Most of the sample had had intercourse with their girlfriends or boyfriends. It was found that 1.3% of the girls and 1.8% of the boys were prostitutes and that 10.9% of the boys had visited brothels. Twenty-two percent of the girls admitted that they had masturbated, while 41.0% of the males did. About 17.8% of the female adolescents had been pregnant; 50% of those pregnancies ended in abortion and 50% of the females had been pregnant more than once.
Improve Accounting For Cost Allocations From Support To Revenue-Generating Departments With The Reciprocal Method
Authors: Togo Dennis
Published: February 2016

The best accounting method for allocating the cost of support departments to revenue-generating departments is the reciprocal method because it recognizes all services provided to other departments. Hence, the reciprocal method better captures the full cost of services consumed by revenue-generating departments. Yet, many healthcare organizations continue to use the direct or step-down methods because the reciprocal method requires solving algebraic simultaneous equations in the allocation of many support departments. This educational resource removes the difficulty associated with the reciprocal method with a matrix approach that is demonstrated with an example. From information provided for any cost allocation method, three spreadsheet matrix commands formulate the set of linear equations for reciprocated costs of support departments, solve for the reciprocated costs, and then allocate the reciprocated costs to both support departments and revenue-generating departments.