Abstract
This Dissertation in Practice employed a mixed-methods design to identify preferred instructional methods in a college level science course as well as the self-reported challenges to learning science in college by students with a learning disability. In addition, the relationships between preferred instructional strategies and learner characteristics such as declared major, and learning disability were examined. Qualitative and quantitative data was collected from a sample of 48 participants using an electronic survey. Additionally, eight participants participated in focus groups to collect in-depth qualitative data. All participants are current students enrolled full-time at Beacon College. Each participant completed a science college course and has a diagnosed learning disability. Analysis of the data demonstrated hands-on instruction guided by the instructor is the preferred method of learning and the use of traditional lecture and cooperative learning are self-reported as being least helpful to this student population to learn science. Findings from this study were provided to Beacon College to shape instruction in science courses as well as to shape recommendations for future research activities. Intentional design of instruction following the recommendations found in this study should assist in increasing student performance in college science courses as well as increase engagement to science as a process and field of study.
Notes
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Graduation Date
2017
Semester
Summer
Advisor
Cox, Thomas
Degree
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)
College
College of Education and Human Performance
Department
Teaching, Learning, and Leadership
Degree Program
Curriculum and Instruction
Format
application/pdf
Identifier
CFE0006772
URL
http://purl.fcla.edu/fcla/etd/CFE0006772
Language
English
Release Date
August 2020
Length of Campus-only Access
3 years
Access Status
Dissertation in Practice (Open Access)
STARS Citation
Ogle, Brian, "Improving Instructional Strategies in Higher Education for Students with a Learning Disability in a General Education Science Course" (2017). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 5609.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/etd/5609