Artifact # 9
Context: This artifact was the final product of the "Teacher as Researcher" class that was conducted by Dr. McEwin. I conducted research of current and past studies in retention. Retention as a method to increase motivation and academic success is not effective. Numerous studies have been conducted to illustrate that minimal success in academic perform has been achieved by the retention process.
Impact: The exploration in the topic of retention was a very eye-opening experience. Not only did I learn that retention for academic success is not effective, I discovered that it was ineffective at South Davie Middle School. The project included an analysis of retention, and a data collection and analysis component. The Questionnaire for Grad class analysis was presented to both my class and the faculty at South Davie Middle School. The graphic illustrations can be found in the Retention Study link in artifact 12. As a result of this research, I learned through Reflection of Study of Retention that Retention is not an effective measure to improve academic performance.
Alignment:
Standard C: Research I used student performance data and school practices to identify the students that I selected participate in the questionnaire and study. Also, They were instrumental in developing the action research that was incorporated into the final presentation.
Standard D: Content Knowledge The current trend in education is to retain in order to improve academic performance. Almost all available evidence suggest this is not effective.
Standard E: Professional Development and Leadership Through this study and presentation I was able to present the summary presentation and reflection to the faculty at South Davie Middle School. This helped the administration to reevaluate why and when to retain students. Additionally, we implemented a program to allow students that were currently retained and opportunity to "move up" to the next grade by a series of accomplishments and contract agreements.