Date of Award
1-1-1992
Document Type
Dissertation - NSU Access Only
Degree Name
Doctor of Education
Department
Child and Youth Care Administration
Advisor
P. Ebbs
Abstract
This major applied research project report describes a program that was designed to improve the Interdisciplinary Middle School Programs lor Advisement/Counseling/Teaming Programs (IMPACT) at Lockhart Middle School. Students and teachers indicated on a survey that they did not feel the IMPACT program was a benefit to the students. Probable causes of the problem were identified as large class size; inadequate materials; inadequate teacher preparation; a rise in discipline and attendance problems; and lack of support from administration, teachers, and guidance counselors. A review of the literature supported a solution strategy that included reducing the size of the class, providing materials and training for teachers, encouraging teacher input into the program, and giving the teachers support from the guidance department and administration to help them enhance the program. As a result of the intervention, the original concerns were reduced. Survey results indicated an improved attitude on the part of the teachers; staff development activities provided adequate training; teachers had an opportunity for input into the design of the program; students benefited from the program; and the program was more effective. The members of the school advisory committee were interviewed and their responses to the program were positive. that included reducing the size of the class, providing materials and training for teachers, encouraging teacher input into the program, and giving the teachers support from the guidance department and administration to help them enhance the program. As a result of the intervention, the original concerns were reduced. Survey results Indicated an improved attitude on the part of the teachers; staff development activities provided adequate training; teachers had an opportunity for input into the design of the program; students benefited from the program, and the program was more effective. The members of the school advisory committee were Interviewed and their responses to the program were positive.