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The Impact of Graded Practicum Course Lesson Enactments on Preservice Teachers’ Self-Efficacy Ratings and Performance Rubric Scores
No full textThis quantitative observational study explored changes in preservice teachers’ self-efficacy ratings and performance rubric scores during a single-semester practicum course. The participants, 29 preservice teachers, spent one full day each week in an elementary classroom observing and practicing various aspects of teaching. Central to the course were two graded practice teaching opportunities referred to as lesson enactments. The Teacher Sense of Efficacy Scale (TSES) was administered prior to the first lesson enactment series and after completion of final enactments to measure changes in teacher self-efficacy. All lesson enactments were scored using a course performance rubric. This study aimed to explore the impacts of practicum-based lesson enactments on preservice teachers’ self-efficacy ratings and rubric scores. Paired t-tests were used to analyze changes in teacher self-efficacy ratings and changes in rubric scores. Associations between TSES ratings and rubric scores were explored through comparisons of final TSES ratings and performance rubric scores using Pearson’s r calculations and Spearman’s rank calculations. The results indicated significant increases in both self-efficacy ratings and performance rubric scores, demonstrating the value of incorporating graded lesson enactments in practicum courses. The results of correlations between TSES ratings and rubric scores provided an initial examination of associations between the two instruments exposed areas where future research would benefit educator preparation efforts. These findings have implications for enhancing practicum course designs to better support preservice teacher preparation. Recommendations for future research include further exploration of factors that influence self-efficacy ratings and development, feedback methods, and how these preparation elements can be most effectively combined to optimize lesson enactment opportunities during practicum courses
The Adoption and Diffusion of AI Tools in Local Journalism: A Journalist’s Perspective Through the Lens of Diffusion of Innovations Theory
No full textThis thesis explores the diffusion and adoption of innovative AI tools in localnewsrooms. Academics, professionals, and technologists alike have imagined the potential of
these tools for journalist’s purposes. In local newsrooms that are more resource needy, it’s
pondered that AI can be used to help ensure their survival. Local news is an essential component
of a healthy democracy that is vanishing in the U.S, according to various studies. In response,
this study seeks to understand the context surrounding the adoption of AI by journalists from
their unique perspective, and also explore how it may be aiding them in their responsibilities.
In-depth interviews were conducted with nine different journalists in unique newsrooms
across the continental U.S and Europe. Journalists weren’t always in traditional newsroom
positions, and the sample had to be carefully defined to encompass the complex nature of AI and
new media.
The results show that the diffusion of AI tools is occurring amongst local journalists at
various rates. There seems to suggest a relative advantage to their use, with limited barriers to
adoption. Some tools are designed specifically for journalism and offer great potential.
There also importantly seems to be a correlation with adoption and increased
sustainability, due to the routine use of AI tools by journalists in local news organizations
Implementing High RAP Asphalt Mixtures: A Staged Approach
No full textThis document provides information to facilitate better understanding of how to effectively use asphalt mixtures with varying levels of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP). It highlights key practices employed by several State Departments of Transportation (DOTs) to achieve engineering, economic and environmental benefits when using high RAP mixtures. Additionally, it presents a staged approach based on the identified key practices and strategies for reliably increasing RAP content.Federal Highway Administratio
AIEI Webinar Series on Balanced Mix Design (Session 3 of 5): Specimen Fabrication
No full textThis webinar explores key insights from across the country on specimen fabrication for Balanced Mix Design (BMD). It highlights the critical role of proper specimen preparation in minimizing variability in BMD testing. Topics include effective practices for laboratory operations aimed at reducing variability, along with the latest findings on the impact of lag and dwell time on BMD results.Federal Highway AdministrationUnited States Department of Transportatio
Meal Consumption Impact on Isotonic Lingual Endurance
No full textOlder adults report eating can become a chore as the demands increase during mealtimes. Currently, the effects of aging on isotonic endurance of the swallow musculature is not well understood. The current study aimed to determine the effect of a meal on lingual isotonic endurance in two age groups. An additional aim was to determine the effect of sex and age on isotonic lingual endurance. Sixty healthy participants were recruited for the study, and were divided into two groups: younger adults (18-35 years) and older adults (65+ years). Participants completed pre-meal strength and isotonic endurance tasks, a meal task, and post-meal strength and isotonic endurance tasks. A mixed-effects model determined statistical significance. No significance was found for the influence on meal consumption on isotonic lingual endurance. No age or sex effects were found. Based on the current findings, mealtimes have no effect on lingual isotonic endurance