Date

2001

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (M.A.)

Department

Teacher Education

Abstract

This case study was conducted in order to better understand teacher buy-in with respect to the reform taking place at Garden Middle School. The study attempted to determine if teachers were aware of the reform effort and what teachers perceived as their roles in the reform efforts. A survey was given to all teachers which contained questions regarding their attitudes and perceptions about reform efforts at the school as well as background questions. Also, interviews were conducted with a subset of 10 teachers. The survey and interviews revealed that teachers were commited to improving student achievement, but perceived the reform efforts to be driven by SAT 9 preparation test. This perception reflects the pressure that school's like Garden are under due to SAT 9. However, this perception of the reform efforts is in discord with the initial reform effort goals. This discord could potentially limit the participation of teachers and ultimately the success of the reform efforts. Additionally, the study provided a summary of the reform efforts which revealed where the school has built capacity for reform and where it needs to expand.

Comments

Thesis (M.A.) Institute for Advanced Studies in Education

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