bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ASEAN–EU Relations: Laos in ASEAN–EU Relations
Authors: Thepphavanh Nimitxay
Published: May 2023

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is an important regional organisation in Southeast Asia. It has ten Member Countries with approximately 642 million people, a large market for foreign investors. The European Union (EU) is a dynamic organisation in the European region. It has 27 Member States with a population of approximately 446 million, where an essential destination for investment is coming from the ASEAN region. ASEAN and EU have kept their cooperation for decades not only on economic integration but also connectivity, environment, climate change mitigation and education. They aim to develop their relationship from a dialogue partnership to a strategic one.This paper analysed the ASEAN–EU relation regarding the aims and benefits of their cooperation. Furthermore, Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Laos), an ASEAN Member Country, was studied as an example country in this paper. Since 1997, Laos has enhanced its cooperation with European countries under the Cooperation Agreement between them. In addition, it would be more beneficial to analyse how this country has influenced ASEAN–EU relations.
Az Európai Unió Arktisz-politikájának pillérei
Authors: Németh Viktória
Published: May 2023

Az Arktisz térsége az elmúlt évtizedekben a nemzetközi politikai érdeklődés homlokterébe került, aminek két legfőbb oka van: a helyi klímaváltozás által felvetett problémák és az újonnan kibontakozó gazdasági lehetőségek. Az Európai Unió (EU) több szállal kötődik a térséghez, aminek földrajzi, történelmi és gazdasági gyökerei egyaránt vannak. Emellett Európa szerepet kíván vállalni az újonnan kialakuló regionális rendben. Jelen tanulmány fő célja, hogy megvizsgálja az EU szerepvállalását az Arktisszal kapcsolatos ügyekben. A dolgozat abból a megközelítésből indul ki, hogy az EU érdekérvényesítését a térségben ambivalencia jellemzi. Az EU egyszerre a régión belüli és azon kívül álló nemzetközi szereplő. Jelenléte tagadhatatlan, de számos kihívással és korláttal néz szembe.
A Székelyföldi régió fejlesztésének lehetséges irányvonalai
Authors: Kocsis Lóránt Zsombor
Published: May 2023

Közigazgatásilag Székelyföld nem elismert régió, három megye alkotja – Maros, Hargita, Kovászna –, azonban még ezek határai sem körvonalazzák ennek területét, hiszen Maros megye csak részben tartozik az említett régióba. E terület egyik fő jellegzetessége, hogy több mint 70% arányban magyar ajkú lakosság lakja. Részben ennek köszönhetően, részben pedig a történelmi eseményeknek, az itt élők ezt a földrajzi egységet, ha államigazgatási határokkal nem is, de lélektani határokkal mindenképp rendelkező régióként értelmezik. A tanulmányból kitűnik, hogy ennek gazdasági helyzete félperifériásnak mondható, Európa keleti szegletében, egy félperifériás ország, Románia, keretén belül. A kérdés, hogyan képes a régió kitörni jelenlegi helyzetéből és a gazdasági fejlődés útján elindulni? Bemutatom az ismert makrogazdasági mutatókat, az infrastruktúra helyzetét, az egyedülálló és kiaknázatlan lehetőségeket, és azonosítom azokat a fő irányvonalakat, amelyek gazdasági sikerekhez vezethetnek, figyelembe véve ugyanakkor a globális környezet sajátosságait.
Warren Eugene Howell, Seventh-day Adventist Educational Administrator
Authors:   , Waters John ,   Andrews University
Published: May 2023

Problem. Warren Eugene Howell served the Seventh-day Adventist educational system as an administrator and teacher for thirty-four years. He pioneered in two important Adventist educational institutions and led the General Conference Education Department during a critical period in the history of Seventh-day Adventist education. Notwithstanding Howell's contribution to Adventist education, no comprehensive study of his administration has been attempted. Method. In this study a historical-documentary method of research has been used. Correspondence collections; minutes of boards, committees, and faculty meetings; church periodicals; transcripts of lectures; and miscellaneous archival materials have provided primary source materials. These sources may be found in the Adventist Heritage Center and Andrews University, Berrien Springs, Michigan; the Ellen G. White Research Centers in Washington, D.C., and Andrews University; the archives of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, Washington, D.C.; and the archives and special collections of the Loma Linda University Libraries, Loma Linda, California. Conclusions. During Howell's thirty-four years in Seventh-day Adventist education, he served as academy principal, president of two colleges, founding principal of the Fireside Correspondence School, and assistant then executive secretary of the department of education of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. As academy principal, Howell faced the challenge of introducing Christian values to a non-Christian student body in a mission school setting. He promoted school growth, planned new facilities, supervised the faculty, and developed programs. In his role as college president, he fought to prevent the financial collapse of Healdsburg College, then presided over its demise. Following this experience, he pioneered in establishing the College of Evangelists, which later became Loma Linda University, one of the leading institutions in the Adventist educational system. While assistant secretary and executive secretary of the department of education, Howell promoted Adventist education, encouraged greater professional development of teachers, stimulated enrollment growth in Adventist schools, wrote prolifically for Adventist publications, and struggled with changes brought by shifting societal values and rising standards of education. As an administrator, Howell's strengths were in his abilities as a promoter and builder. His greatest weakness lay in his relationships with strong subordinate administrators. Howell's administrative style tended to be authoritarian but was often indecisive and hesitant, qualities which annoyed his subordinates and eventually contributed to his undoing. While Howell led the educational program of the church during a critical period of consolidation, he has been almost forgotten in the chronicles of its development.
The Empirical Development of a Curriculum to Train SDA Professional Youth Leaders
Authors:   , Case Steve ,   Andrews University
Published: May 2023

Problem. The purpose of this study was to meet the need for SDA youth ministry training by empirically developing a curriculum to train church youth leaders. Method. The instructional product development of Baker and Schutz (1971) was utilized for this research. After the need for the product was established, instructional specifications were established by means of behavioral objectives. Criteria for these objectives were rooted in current youth ministry literature. Strategies to promote affect were included. The curriculum was prepared in the form of a weekend seminar. Mastery was set at 80% of the participants scoring at least 80% on each of the 21 behavioral objectives. Seminary students and their spouses were selected as representative SDA professional youth leaders. The seminar was presented first to small groups. As the product was modified and the groups achieved mastery, the group size was increased. The curriculum was considered to be empirically developed when mastery was attained by a statistically significant group ($>$30). Modification of affect was measured by means of a Likert scale of attitudinal statements related to youth ministry. Results. After developing the curriculum through the specified series of seminars, the instruction was presented to a statistically significant group of 34. Mastery was achieved on all of the behavioral objectives. Modification of affect was significant at the.05 level. Conclusions. Because the SDA Church lacked a curriculum for youth ministry training, and because the curriculum from this research was developed empirically, this youth ministry curriculum could be utilized as the primary tool for SDA youth ministry instruction.
The Peruvian Education Reform of 1968-1980 and Seventh-day Adventist Education at Inca Union College : a Study in Models
Authors:   , Del Pozo Luis ,   Andrews University
Published: May 2023

Problem. The purpose of this study was to compare and contrast two distinct educational models: (1) Peruvian educational reform, which affected both public and private education throughout the country, and (2) the Seventh-day Adventist educational system as represented by Inca Union College. This research was limited geographically to Peru chronologically to the educational reform of 1968 and 1980. After the historical background was established, emphasis was placed on the Peruvian educational reform as a model of innovation as compared with the Seventh-day Adventist model at Inca Union College. Method. This study utilized the historical method of research. Major sources included documents regarding the history and educational philosophy of Peruvian educational reform and Inca Union College. Minutes of the institution, periodicals, and other primary sources were used. Conclusions. Both models had similar outward appearances, especially since they promulgated the need for a holistic education which assumes that people need formation in physical, intellectual, spiritual, vocational, and social aspects; nevertheless, the study of their philosophical foundations demonstrates different meanings for their programs and activities. In conclusions, it may be stated that: (1) The Peruvian educational reform identifies itself with humanism and is anthropocentric, while the Seventh-day Adventist system classifies itself as theocentric. From this observation derive the other conclusions in the various philosophical categories. (2) While the Peruvian system views social change as its ultimate goal, Seventh-day Adventist education seeks man's redemption in both the present and eschatological dimensions. (3) The Peruvian system accepts conscientization as an epistemological means which stimulates creative and critical thinking about social reality.Seventh-day Adventist education amplifies social reality to include the relationship with the rest of humanity and with God. (4) The Peruvian reform recognizes education for work as the source of personal and societal well-being. Adventist education recognizes the importance of societal well-being; in addition to this, it presents work as a means of restoring God's image in man. (5) Both systems promulgate the need for a holistic education but with different meanings. (6) Under the educational reform, religious education received unprecedented support and freedom through participation of all religious confessions in the National Religious Education Council.
Concurrent Validity of the Strong-Campbell Interest Inventory for Seventh-day Adventist Seminarians and Ministers
Authors:   , Erickson M. Lloyd ,   Andrews University
Published: May 2023

Problem. The purpose of this study was to detemine if the Strong-Campbell Interest Inventory (SCII) is a valid instrument for measuring the vocational interests of Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) seminarians and ministers and to discover if denominational differences exist on the SCII. Another purpose of the study was to determine if preferred type of ministry is related to vocational interests. Method. The SCII and questionnaire were administered to randomly selected SDA seminarians and ministers. The data-producing sample consisted of 75 seminarians and 189 ministers. Statistical analyses included Hotelling's T test, t-tests, univariate and multivariate analyses of variance, and discriminant analysis. Findings. (1) SDA seminarians have significantly more Social interests and less Artistic interests than does the SCII criterion minister sample as measured by the General Occupational Themes. (2) There is no significant difference between the vocational interests of the SCII criterion minister sample and the vocational interests of SDA seminarians as measured by the Minister (male) Occupational Scale. (3) SDA ministershave significantly less Investigative and Artistic interest than does the SCII criterion minister sample as measured by the General Occupational Themes. (4) SDA ministers score significantly lower than the SCII criterion minister sample on the Minister (male) Occupational Scale. (5) SDA seminarians score significantly higher than SDA ministerson the Artistic and Social General Occupational Themes. (6) SDA seminarians score significantly higher than SDA ministers on the Minister (male) Occupational Scale. (7) The type of preferred ministry makes a significant difference, generally in the expected direction, in the interests of SDA seminarians and ministers as measured by the General Occupational Themes. (8) The type of preferred ministry makes a significant difference, with the administration group scoring the lowest and the counseling group scoring the highest, in the interests of SDA seminarians and ministers as measured by the Minister(male) Occupational Scale. Implications. In spite of the aforementioned differences, the research provides support for the concurrent validity of the SCII for SDA seminarians and ministers. However, vocational counselors need to be aware that denominational differences exist on the SCII and utilize denominational norms as they become available.
Identification of the Presence of the Restoration Concept in Seventh-day Adventist Nursing Programs in the United States
Authors:   , Hunt L. Phil ,   Andrews University
Published: May 2023

Problem. In 1976 Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) nursing educational leaders adopted a statement of philosophy and goals that incorporated the concept of restoring humans to God's image. Although Adventist education was founded upon restoration themes, no empirical evidence indicates that nursing faculty and students perceive restoration as important or evident in nursing education today. It was the purpose of this study to determine the extent to which the concept of restoration is manifested in SDA nursing programs in the United States. Method. Ten summary statements provide a definition of restoration consistent with the beliefs and teachings of the SDA church. An SDA Concept of Restoration Inventory was developed from the 10 summary statements to determine student and faculty perceptions of the restoration theme. The Inventory was used to measure the extent to which faculty and students perceived restoration concepts to be manifested in philosophy statements, program goals, course objectives, student-teacher interactions, and the teachers' professional activities. The Inventory was administered to 67 full-time faculty and 208 associate degree and baccalaureate degree seniors in nine SDA nursing programs. Corroborative data was gathered from NLN Self-Study Reports and faculty and student interviews. Results. Findings from the Inventory, supported in part by document analyses, indicate that the restoration concept is manifested considerably more in philosophy statements than in program goals and more specific course objectives. Overall, both faculty and students rated the importance of restoration concepts above the actual existence of restoration in the programs. Students perceived restoration concepts to be significantly less apparent in all areas than did faculty. Divergence was highest between faculty and student responses on the perceived inclusion of restoration in teachers' professional activities. Conclusions. Faculty, and particularly students, agree that the restoration concept is of major importance and should be manifested in all areas of the curriculum. Faculty and students alike indicate dissatisfaction with the inadequate inclusion of restoration concepts in statements of philosophy, program goals, course objectives, student-teacher interactions, and the teachers' professional activities.
Motivation of Secondary-School Teachers in the Lake Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists Based on Herzberg's Dual-Factor Theory of Job Satisfaction and Motivation
Authors:   , Khillah Khillah ,   Andrews University
Published: May 2023

Several studies in industry and public education have defined areas of job satisfactionand dissatisfaction. It appears that the Seventh-day Adventist secondary-school teachers are confronted with most of the same motivating factors as their counterparts in public schools. Job dissatisfaction can result in teacher mobility which may disrupt the operation of any school system. The study population included all the secondary-school teachers for 1984-85 in ten Lake Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists senior academies. Herzberg'sinstrument to measure workers' motivation was modified and used for the collection of data; Chi-square and Spearman r tests provided tests of significance as well as rank order. Seven hypotheses were tested. Four of the conclusions reached are: (1) The principal's role in motivating teachers is vital. (2) Older teachers were more satisfied and fulfilled than younger ones. (3) Thefirst three satisfiers were: (a) interpersonal relations with principal, (b) interpersonal relations with students, and (c) interpersonal relations with peers, other staff, and parents. (4) The first three dissatisfiers were: (a) union/local conference policies and educational leadership provided, (b) job security, and (c) interpersonal relations with principal. Some of the recommendations presented for discussion, consideration, and possible adoption are: (1) Similar studies might be conducted in other North American unionsand other divisions to test whether these findings can be generalized to other entities. (2) A similar study might be conducted at the elementary-school level in the Lake Union Conference. (3) School principals must be carefully selected; further, teachers, trained in the area of school administration and supervision, should be chosen as school principals. (4) Inservice training seminars and workshops in administration and supervision are recommended for current principals. (5) Supervision should provide assistance, encouragement and growth to younger as well as experienced teachers to eliminate dissatisfaction. (6) Teachers should be involved in making, adopting, and updating union/conference educational policy and in decision making at all levels, especially on decisions directly affecting them. (7) Attendance at professional meetings and conventions is recommended to help teachers grow professionally and come intouch with their peers in public and private school systems.
A Study of Group Attitudes Toward the Professional Status of Teachers in Selected Adventist Elementary and Secondary Schools
Authors:   , Kunitz Edward ,   Andrews University
Published: May 2023

Problem. It was not known to what extent groups associated with Adventist education supported the professional role orientation of teaching which in turn affected the work behavior and morale of teachers. Method. A Professional Role Orientation Scale (PROS) was responded to by 701 randomly selected subjects. The scale contained four criteria identifying professional aspects of teaching as a profession. Responses to the instrument were item weight analyzed and judged for point multiserial reliability before insertion into a BMDP statistical program. Four null hypotheses were tested using two-way ANOVA with the Scheffe test for multiple mean comparisons. Stepwise multiple regressions were conducted on 13 demographics. Ranked and proportional scoring for maximum agreement or disagreement to PROS-items by groups and school levels was performed. Responses to three critical issue questions involving group recognition of teacher professionalism were analyzed. Results. (1) There was no significant difference (P < 0.7156) between the attitudes of elementary- and secondary-school groups to teacher professionalism recognition. (2) There was a significant difference (P < 0.0005) between the groups attitudes toward recognition of teacher professionalism. (3) There was no significant interaction (P < 0.5013) between the four groups and their related school levels. Comparative studies with proportional scoring indicated pastors and principals had less positive attitudes toward recognizing teacher professional status as colleagues with dual-parallel roles. (4) Of the four PROS-categories, the most disagreed with were: (1) professional colleague association, and (2) decision-making authority over work-related teaching activities. (5) Group responses were significantly influenced (P < 0.05) by: (1) Income (Pastors), (2) Race (Principals), (3) Occupation, Age, Gender, Income, Marital Status (Teachers), and (4) Race, Occupation, Locale, Marital Status (Parents). (6) Professional role recognition of teachers was influenced by: (1) teacher mobility, (2) pastoral support and recognition, and (3) positive student attitudes and achievement. Conclusions. (1) Fear of union-related association with loss of traditional control over decision-making authority was evident, particularly among church school pastors and principals, but not among parents and teachers. (2) Job insecurity, due to short-term hiring practices, was related to increased deprofessionalization of the teacher's role in the Adventist Church organization. (3) Church pastors must recognize and respond positively to distinctive role of Adventist teachers as co-professional.
The Employed Versus the Nonemployed Mother: the Effects on the Seventh-day Adventist Family in Southwestern Michigan
Authors:   , Lawson A. Melville ,   Andrews University
Published: May 2023

Previous research indicates that researchers are not always agreed as to the negative or positive effects that the employed mother has on the family. The purpose of this study was to research the effects that the nonemployed and employed Seventh-day Adventist mother, in southwestern Michigan, has on the family. The broad hypothesis for this study is that nonemployed mothers have a more positive effect on families, in general, as opposed to mothers who were employed outside of the home. Two hundred Seventh-day Adventist mothers, after completing a specially designed instrument, were placed in various categories depending on the numbers of hours they were employed or the number of hours they spent in volunteer work each week. In this ex-post facto study the data were studied statistically by Chi-square analysis to compare the frequencies of the various responding groups. The results indicated that sixteen of the one hundred and twelve subhypotheses were significant. The data indicate that the mothers in the various categories of employment (0 - 30+ hours per week) and those involved in volunteer activities (0 - 20 hours per week) differ in their opinions concerning their roles in family life. As the overall picture of the nonemployed and employed mothers in their roles in the home is studied, it appears that there are some effects on the family. The more the mother is out of the home, irrespective of the reason, the greater the negative effects this absence from the home has on the family in general. It may be concluded from this study that there are more positive aspects related to the role the nonemployed mother has in the home compared to that of the employed mother. Recommendations for further research are offered.
Alexander Hegius (ca. 1433-98) : His life, Philosophy, and Pedagogy
Authors:   , Matthews John ,   Andrews University
Published: May 2023

Problem. There are scholars who have suggested that Alexander Hegius was among the three most important educators of the fifteenth century. Whether or not this can be substantiated is open to question. The fact remains that he was a pivotal figure in the development of education in the Northern Renaissance. Scholars have argued at length about his life, the obscure details of which are significant for understanding the youth of Desiderius Erasmus. There are also a few outdated studies that deal in a cursory manner with his pedagogy. Although some of this material is based on genuine primary research, only a small proportion of it is of any great consequence. Little of significance has been published in English. When it comes to an analysis of his writings, there has been no definitive study made in any language. In view of the paucity of scholarly material available, it is the purpose of this study, after giving a brief biography of Hegius' life, to examine his prose writings and to make an analysis of his philosophy and the consequent educational corollaries. The investigation was undertaken in order to evaluate Hegius' contribution to the emerging Northern Renaissance. Method. An historical-documentary method of research was used in approaching this topic. The major primary source for the study is the Dialogs of Alexander Hegius published in 1503. Other sources include letters and treatises of Hegius' contemporaries. Conclusions. Hegius was principal of the school at St. Lebuins in Deventer for sixteen years prior to his death in 1498. During that time the school grew and prospered. What had been a fairly typical school of the late medieval period in that area soon became one of the main centers for the study of the "humanities." It must consequently be acknowledged that Hegius' efforts had a considerable influence on the emergence of the Renaissance in the Netherlands. An analysis of Hegius' writings reveals a subtle shift in attitude in the direction of a nominalist philosophy and away from the Thomism prevalent in the schools of the Low Countries. The complex interplay of this nominalism with his emerging humanism had far-reaching effects on the curriculum and methods in Deventer and made St. Lebuins an outstanding center of the new Learning.
Lesser Gods of the Ancient Near East and Some Comparisons with Heavenly Beings of the Old Testament
Authors:   , Alomia K. Merling ,   Andrews University
Published: May 2023

This study examines the concept and imagery of heavenly beings as they appear described and depicted in the texts and iconography of the Ancient Near East, and compares the variegated concept and imagery with the angelic realm in the Old Testament. Utilizing motifs commonly repeated in the mytho-epic literature of the Fertile Crescent--such as the divine assembly and its diverse constituency, the protector gods, the messenger gods, the sons of the gods, the warrior gods, the demonic gods, etc.--the study exposes the diversity among heavenly beings and their place within the divine realm or the hierarchical pantheon. The study abounds with drawings illustrative of the heavenly population as depicted in Ancient Near Eastern iconography. The OT references to angelic beings, examined alongside the Ancient Near Eastern material, clearly show Israelite awareness of an elaborate tradition. Although a graphic representation of heavenly beings is totally lacking on the biblical side, descriptive semblances are found in the biblical material from Adamic times to Danielic days. Finally, the study synthesizes the differences and similarities between the Ancient Near Eastern and Old Testament imagery. Although the polytheistic side appears to be--in both written and graphic sources--more colorful and varied, there is an appreciation for the uniqueness of the monotheistic view sustained in the biblical passages. The investigation concludes by asserting that the Ancient Near Eastern literary-graphic imagery of the celestial population serves to illustrate the biblical angelic realm. Biblical and non-biblical sources alike--in their own peculiar way--attest to the reality of angelic population.
The Philosophy of Christian Service and its Practice in the Seventh-day Adventist Senior Academies of the United States during the 1979-1980 School Year
Authors:   , Norton Edward ,   Andrews University
Published: May 2023

Problem. Service-learning in the educational system of the Seventh-day Adventist church in the United States, as is true in public education, generally has been overshadowed by a subject-matter orientation. It was the purpose of this study to determine the level of practice of service to others in the secondary schools of the Adventist church in the United States, to research the principles necessary to write a philosophy of service, and to specify the organizational components required for service projects. Method. Two types of closely related research were used in this study : descriptive analysis and descriptive developmental. A descriptive analysis was made of the philosophy and practice of service as presented in the literature. The data obtained provided the information necessary for the descriptive development of philosophical principles and organizational components necessary for the educational practice of service. In addition, a Christian Service questionnaire was developed and sent to the seventy-three secondary schools. Responses registered in the instrument provided data which were used to determine the level of practice of service to others. Results. Principles necessary for writing a Christian philosophy of service-learning and components necessary for organizing; service were formulated. Data obtained from the questionnaire revealed that each academy had a mean of 4.29 projects per school during the 1979-1980 school year. Approximately 18 percent of the available students and staff participated in each project and do percent of the available students and 41 percent of the available staff participated in at least one project. Conversely, approximately 54 percent of the students and 59 percent of the staff did not participate in any service project. Conclusions. In summary: (1) The Life and ministry of Jesus Christ was motivated by selfless service to others and is therefore the supreme model for Christian education. (2) Service to others, motivated by individual choice and love, should be an integral part of the educational curriculum of the Seventh-day Adventist church. (3) The literature provides the principles necessary to formulate a philosophy of service and the components necessary to organize service projects.
The Relationship Between Academic Achievement and Perceived Organizational Effectiveness and the Michigan Elementary Exemplary Public School Recognition Program
Authors:   , Ratajik David ,   Andrews University
Published: May 2023

Problem The study is about the selection process used to determine exemplary Michigan public elementary schools. Do those public elementary schools selected for recognition by the Michigan Department of Education represent the highest levels of educational quality within the state? Method The study was causal-comparative in design. The sample consisted of the 79 public elementary schools which applied in 1985 for recognition as a Michigan Department of Education exemplary school. Additionally, the 80 highest academic-achieving Michigan public elementary schools were identified. Multiple regression analyses were used to determine the relationships between eight sociological elements, while analysis of variance compared the perceived effectiveness between "exemplary" schools, "non-exemplary" schools, and schools which demonstrated highest pupil achievement. Results 1. Among eight dependent variables there is one statistically significant difference between schools recognized as exemplary, the schools not selected as exemplary, and the schools which demonstrate the highest pupil achievement. 2. Pupils in schools which demonstrate the highest achievement score significantly higher on pupil-achievement tests when compared with pupils in both exemplary and non-exemplary schools. 3. There exists no significant difference when comparing the household income, household education, and school district total per-pupil expenditure in exemplary schools, non-exemplary schools, and schools which demonstrate the highest pupil achievement. 4. Three distinct geographic areas of pupil achievement exist within Michigan. Conclusions Exemplary Michigan public elementary schools do not appear to be more organizationally effective than other schools which have applied for recognition or have been identified as top-achieving schools. Moreover, no significant relationship exists between socioeconomic factors, pupil achievement, organizational conditions, and exemplary school status. Recommendations It is recommended that the Michigan Department of Education conduct a review of the recognition program to honor both academic achievement as well as improving schools. The three geographic areas which are highest in pupil academic achievement need analysis to determine why they exist. Since the findings suggest that no significant difference exists between the schools which were studied with regard to school district per-pupil expenditures, the wealth-based formula upon which the state aid act is founded should be questioned.
A Correlational Study of the Relationship Between Adolescent Religiosity and Adolescent Perception of Parental Behavior in Antigua and Barbuda
Authors:   , Sheppard Eustace ,   Andrews University
Published: May 2023

Purpose. This study investigated the relationship between adolescent religiosity and (a) adolescents' perception of paternal supporting, controlling, demanding, and punishing behavior; (b) adolescents' perception of maternal supporting, controlling, demanding, and punishing behavior; (c) the ten dimensions of adolescents' religiosity and three predictor variables of age, sex, and religious affiliation. Methodology. The population investigated comprised adolescents between the ages of fourteen and seventeen years old, in forms three and four, attending fifteen secondary schools in Antigua and Barbuda. A sample of 400 was chosen by purposive sampling from eleven of the fifteen secondary schools; of the 400 chosen 314 were included in the final analysis. The Basic Religiosity and Composite Scales by King and and Hunt (1975) were used to measure the religiosity dimensions. To measure adolescents' perception of parental behavior, the Bonfenbrenner Parent Behavior Questionnaire was used. The major statistical methods of analysis used were (1) canonical correlation analysis, and (2) multiple-regression analysis. Results. Seventeen hypotheses were tested for possible relationship between the ten dimensions of adolescents' religiosity and (a) age, sex and religious affiliation; (b) adolescents' perception of paternal supporting, controlling, demanding and punishing behavior; and (c) adolescents' perception of maternal supporting, controlling, demanding, and punishing behaviors. The results of the hypotheses were as follows: (a) Religious affiliation emerged as the best predictor of adolescent religiosity. (b) No significant relationship emerged between adolescents' religiosity and adolescents' perception of Paternal Supporting, Controlling, Demanding, and Punishing behaviors. (c) Significant relationship was found between the ten dimensions of adolescents' religiosity and adolescents' perception of Maternal Demanding, and Punishing behaviors. However, no significant relationship was found between adolescents' religiosity and adolescents' perception of Maternal Supporting and Controlling behaviors. Conclusion. Mothers appeared to play a more significant role in the religious socialization of adolescents than fathers in the sample studied. There was, also, minimal support for Bandura's social interaction theory relating to the parent-child relationship. Finally, the findings of this study raises serious questions regarding the utility of studying adolescents' religiosity based solely on their perception of certain parental variables.
The Meaning of Marriage to the Voluntarily Childless Couple
Authors:   , Smith June ,   Andrews University
Published: May 2023

Problem. The literature is replete with findings to show that childlessness is a contemporary and growing trend. However, no known study has been done to explore what marriage means to the couple who chooses childlessness. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the meaning of marriage to the voluntarily childless couple. Method. This study was done with a purposive sample of 42 couples. These couples were selected from referrals made through contact with a local radio station. Some were selected from referrals made by church pastors who were aware of couples in their congregations who are voluntarily childless, and others from referrals through a snowballing effect, i.e., from some of the subjects themselves and personal contact made by the researcher. The couples were purposively selected to represent a wide cross-section of the American population (two were from Canada and one from Portugal) with specific reference to demographics, economic level, religious values, and occupational orientations. This study used the qualitative approach and the major research method was in-depth interviews. Findings. The findings of this study revealed that: 1. There are three main motivations for the choice of childlessness, (a) painful experiences in childhood, (b) fear of the future, and (c) tension between personal goals and parenting. 2. Childless life-style promoted autonomy. 3. Childless marriages lacked disturbances often brought on by teenagers. 4. Childlessness promoted a one-to-one marital relationship. 5. Childlessness fostered companionship between spouses. 6. Childless couples are usually professionals and usually lived in the city. 7. Childless couples are well-adjusted and are socially approved individuals who seem concerned about saving children from the abuse and pain they often face. 8. Childless couples often have pets but do not see pets as a substitute for children. 9. The choice to be childless appeared to be developmental. 10. The life cycle of the childless couple was found to be divided into four stages. 11. Voluntarily childless couples had a higher percentage of discretionary income. 12. Childless couples enjoyed their life-style-they saw their involvement in their careers as their social investments. Conclusions. One may conclude that the choice to be childless was reactive. It was an attempt to reduce anxiety created by a perceived dysfunction in one’s family of origin or perceived fear from the lack of control one has over the things that impact parenting and its outcome.
Occupational Choice and Academic Planning in the Colombia-Venezuela Union of Seventh-day Adventists : a Needs Assessment
Authors:   , Franco Leonardo ,   Andrews University
Published: May 2023

Problem. In Colombia and Venezuela the number of students demanding higher education commonly surpasses the capacity of their educational systems. Furthermore, the academic programs may not match the occupational needs of the region. When academic planning occurs without systematic needs assessment, resources are wasted and graduates are ill prepared tor the labor market. The Subjects. The subjects included senior high-school students attending SDA institutions, teachers serving those schools, the students’ parents/representatives, school and church administrators, and SDA members within Colombia and Venezuela. The Method. A design for needs assessment was developed upon the implementation of a Data Flow Diagram (DFD) as used in systems analysis to design pertinent computer programs. Using this design, information was secured from a variety of sources to provide approaches for academic planning in the Colombia-Venezuela Union. Findings. 1. Occupation preferences of sample SDA respondents matched the preferences of each country's larger population; differences in preferences were observed between the two countries. 2. Significant positive correlations were observed in the occupational preferences of adult groups-parents, teachers, and administrators. 3. Occupational preferences of adult groups, failed to match career preparation provided for in the master plan of Corporacion Universitaria Adventista. 4. Occupation preferences of students and adult groups were only partially compatible with the officially documented needs of the labor market. 5. In both countries students tended to prefer careers related to technology. Preferences for social areas were more prevalent in Venezuela, artistic areas in Colombia, but neither was strong. 6. Occupational preferences of students failed to realistically consider their financial capacity to participate in career-preparation programs. Conclusions. 1. The Colombia-Venezuela Union of Seventh-day Adventists should examine its Educational program offering to address the needs and opportunities of the labor market. 2. Students’ occupational preferences matched the traditional and frequently irrelevant preferences of their adult counterparts. 3. CUA Academic Master Plan needs to be re-designed to reflect current and future demands of the labor market. 4. Administrative involvement is crucial in securing institutional commitment to the needs-assessment process. Implications. The Educational system of the Colombia-Venezuela Union should be revised to reduce mismatch between traditional offerings and the growing demands of a developing society. Needs assessment may assist in reducing the gap between academic training and the labor market.
Variables Which Discriminate Successful Versus Unsuccessful Placement of Adolescents in an Open Residential Treatment Program
Authors:   , Turner Teresa ,   Andrews University
Published: May 2023

Problem. Little information exists that clarifies what type of adolescent in need of out-of-home care is appropriate for open residential treatment. The purpose of this study was to identify variables that discriminate between those adolescents who complete and those who fail to complete an open residential treatment program. Method. Information on 208 adolescents placed at the Family and Children's Center Residential Treatment Program was obtained on 36 independent variables. The variables covered demographic and family characteristics, behavior problems prior to placement, and academic/intellectual functioning. Descriptive statistics were cited; five groups of variables (models) were analyzed by discriminant analysis. Results. All five models were statistically significant. Model 1 (demographic, family, and behavior variables) obtained a chi-square of 58.514 (df = 11, p < .0001) and correctly classified 72.12% of the cases; 11 variables entered model 1. Those models that used the WISC-R Verbal and Performance IQ scores (Models 3 & 5) were more effective in classifying adolescents than those that used the WISC-R Full Scale IQ score (Models 2 & 4). Model 3 (demographic, family, and behavior variables, WRAT-R scores, WISC-R Verbal & Performance IQ scores) obtained a chi-square of 58.252 (df = 16, p < .0001) and correctly classified 76.64% of the cases; 16 variables entered model 3. Model 5 (demographic, family, and behavior variables, WRAT-R scores, WISC-R Verbal & Performance IQ scores, and WISC-R subtest scores) obtained a chi-square of 40.688 (df = 13, p < .0001) and correctly classified 80.77% of the cases; 13 variables entered model 5. Currently, only 51% of those adolescents placed at the Family and Children's Center were found to be successful graduates. Conclusions. The findings of this study indicate that distinguishing characteristics can be identified that discriminate between those adolescents who are likely to complete a given residential treatment program and those who are unlikely to complete the same program. Recommendations for residential treatment staff, placing agencies, juvenile judiciary staff, and future research are given.
Study of the Attitudes Concerning Church Standards Expressed by Seventh-day Adventists in Relation to Selected Personality Traits
Authors:   , Walker Hampton ,   Andrews University
Published: May 2023

Problem. This study attempted to explore whether or not traits of personality accounted for differences among Seventh-day Adventists, predicting attitudinal tendencies of either strict or lenient adherence toward traditional church standards. Methodology. This study utilized the Sixteen Personality Factor Questionnaire, Form C for measuring personality variables, and a Likert-type scale which was developed to measure attitudes of adherence to six Adventist church standards within a sample of 447 Seventh-day Adventists. The relationship between the sixteen personality variables and each of the six attitudinal variables toward selected church standards (i.e., diet, dress, entertainment, Sabbath keeping, sexual activities, and divorce and remarriage) were investigated. In addition, the relationship of the sixteen personality variables and general attitude towards church standards according to six moderator variables (i.e., gender, age, education, generation of church membership, duration of church membership, and size of church) were also examined. Both investigations used step-wise regression procedures. Finally, each of the six attitudinal variables were correlated with each of the six moderator variables. Findings. (1) Attitudes of lenient or strict adherence toward Adventist church standards correlated significantly with personality variables. (2) Attitudes toward Adventist church standards expressed by each demographic subgroup (gender, age, education, duration of church membership, generation of church membership, and size of church) correlated significantly with personality variables. (3) When correlating attitudes toward Adventist church standards with each of the six moderator variables, age produced the highest significant correlation while gender and education produced negligible correlations. (4) Factors G (Conscientious/Expedient), E (Submissive/Dominant), Q1 (Conservative/Experimenting), and F (Serious/Happy-go-lucky) constituted the most reliable personality factors for predicting attitudes toward church standards. Conclusions. (1) Overall, the attitudes that Seventh-day Adventists expressed concerning the standards of the church were significantly related to personality characteristics. When comparing lenient adherents with strict adherents to Adventist church standards, lenient adherents tended to be more expedient, assertive, experimenting, and happy-go-lucky, while strict adherents tended to be more conscientious, submissive, conservative, and serious. (2) Of all the moderator variables that were correlated with attitudes toward church standards, age emerged as having the greatest relationship. This suggested that the older an Adventist member was, the more likely that he would exhibit an attitude of strict adherence.