The dissertation consists of three studies that are the process of designing, developing, and evaluating generative-AI-powered story-authoring platforms for children. The first study focuses on the formative study on how stakeholders in education (i.e., teachers, parents, and students) perceive and leverage generative AI platforms (i.e., ChatGPT…

Currently, the perceived use of critical theoretical frameworks to shape instruction in public K-12 education is undergoing intense scrutiny in popular and political debate. Chief among such frameworks has been Critical Race Theory (CRT), which, at the time of this writing, has been legally banned or restricted in eighteen states -- with similar…

Elementary students often struggle with their writing skills, particularly in the areas of focus and organization. These problems can make it difficult for teachers to find effective methods for improvement. This project will delve into some causes of this deficit and explore its consequences on academic performance and future educational…

This study addresses a significant gap in educational research by employing statistical methods to measure the sequencing of different components and content topics in textbooks. It is well-documented that the structure and sequencing features of textbooks play a crucial role in enhancing students' learning. However, existing literature has…

In the United States, the student body is increasingly more diverse in ethnicity, family structure, and race; yet oftentimes libraries are not representative of these students. This dissertation aims to develop and provide a framework to help educators select books that reflect the lives of diverse students. In addition to diverse literature…

Understanding fractions, especially their magnitude, is essential for success in mathematics. Unfortunately, fractions are one of the most challenging mathematics concepts to teach and learn. Several studies have examined preservice teacher (PST) knowledge of fractions, but very few studies have looked for ways to improve this knowledge. This…

Many resources for jazz educators and students are readily available online for free. With consistent video content and online platform growth across the globe, jazz educators are called upon to engage within this digital discourse. Additionally, they must find new ways of adopting these resources and administer them within their curriculum. How…

Higher learning institutions teaching gross anatomy are implementing 3D technology, such as the Anatomage Table, to supplement cadaveric dissection. However, the literature is scant about the effects of introducing 3D technologies on students' learning outcomes in the study of gross anatomy. The purpose of this quantitative study was to determine…

The purpose of this qualitative descriptive study was to explore the perceived ease of use and usefulness of an assistive robot educator tool. The theoretical foundation for this study was the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and the Service Robot Acceptance Model (sRAM), which explore perceptions around the utility of technological systems. The…

Guided notes in the form of teacher-prepared materials that guide students through the lesson with cues and space have been recommended as a possible aid to support student learning. The present study investigated the results of guided notes on the students' learning achievement, the quality of the students' notes, and the students' perceptions of…

This study served to enhance STEM education in rural areas elementary classrooms, where schools often contend with limited resources. The literature called attention to a gap in students not exposed to STEM instruction until they reached secondary school. This gap was revealed in the literature to show a decline in students pursuing a career in…

In this dissertation study, I recognized the crucial role of mathematics educators' utilization of instructional materials for effective teaching. I highlighted the significance of content that is taught to students through relevant mathematical tasks and representations. Through a detailed examination, I analyzed the similarities and differences…

The purpose of this Action Research project was to understand the educational needs of the underserved communities in rural Appalachia and to significantly enhance the fairness of currently limited access to Mountain Institute STEM Academy (MISA) STEM seminar programs. Cycle 1 research was conducted with STEM faculty from two rural Appalachian…

This mixed methods study explored how elementary teachers reported using a commercially published instructional unit to plan and deliver science instruction in their elementary classrooms. Of particular focus is what elements of the program teachers eliminated during planning and instruction, what outside materials teachers added to instruction,…

Suprasegmental features (i.e., features realized through pitch, volume, and/or duration changes) are particularly difficult for second language learners. This has led to the creation of many different methods of training, often employing the use of experimenter or instructor-created training materials. However, the use of authentic materials for…