Date Approved

5-31-1999

Embargo Period

8-2-2016

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

M.A. in School Administration

Department

Educational Services and Leadership

College

College of Education

Advisor

Capasso, Ronald L.

Subject(s)

Critical thinking; Technology--Study and teaching

Disciplines

Elementary and Middle and Secondary Education Administration

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the positive benefits to students enrolled in the new Applied Technology course offered at Bridgeton High School. The intern wishes to determine if the course has enhanced students' ability in critical skills such as: communicating, teamwork, problem solving and critical thinking.

The study will focus on students' ability to define and solve real world problems as presented in a high school technology laboratory. The design of the study was based on qualitative research of students' ability to identify criteria, develop possible solutions and solve problems of a technical nature based on pre-test and post-test research of each lesson. In addition, teachers will be questioned to obtain input on the relevance of this program's assistance in increasing students' competency in other courses such as in mathematics and science.

Data will be analyzed by comparing pre-test and post-test scores administered before and after the treatment. In addition to the pre-test and post-test, student observations will be conducted throughout the treatment, as well as surveys conducted with the sample students' mathematics and science teachers.

The conclusions of this study were inconclusive. At this juncture no measurable benefit to the enhancement of students' critical skills were found.

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