School Calendar and Academic Achievement

School Calendar and Academic Achievement
Author: Monica Lucille Huband
Publisher:
Total Pages: 217
Release: 2015
Genre: Education
ISBN:

The quantitative, causal-comparative study posed two research questions: (1) What is the relationship between the type of academic calendar and achievement in reading and mathematics for students from low socioeconomic backgrounds? and (2) Does the type of academic calendar affect the amount of summer learning loss experienced by students from low socioeconomic backgrounds. The sample was comprised of 33 year-round schools and 33 traditional calendar schools in a Southeastern state where at least 40% of the student populations were eligible for the federally supported free or reduced-cost lunch program. Archival achievement data were analyzed using an independent samples t test to determine the statistical significance of the relationship between the academic achievement of students from year-round and traditional calendar schools. The summer learning loss experienced in year-round and traditional calendar schools was measured by calculating improvement scores and compared using an independent samples t test. Study results indicated that school calendars did not significantly influence academic achievement or summer learning loss among fourth grade classes from economically disadvantaged schools in a Southeastern state. These results implied that both year-round and traditional school calendars are equally valuable in terms of academic outcomes. This work contributes to the body of knowledge on school calendar modification and the socioeconomic achievement gap. The theoretical foundation for this study was provided by the spaced learning effect because it addressed the potential of spaced learning intervals to increase the rate of students' information retention.

Balancing the School Calendar

Balancing the School Calendar
Author: Carolyn Kneese
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield
Total Pages: 193
Release: 2009
Genre: Education
ISBN: 1578868785

Balancing the School Calendar is a compilation of perspectives and research reports from those who have experienced the urgent necessity of reorganizing time to effectuate better learning situations for students. Chapter authors have implemented, studied, or contemplated school calendar change and the results of the change.

The Balanced School Calendar and Its Effects on Student Achievement in Two Rural Georgia Schools

The Balanced School Calendar and Its Effects on Student Achievement in Two Rural Georgia Schools
Author: Ernestine R. Jackson
Publisher:
Total Pages: 73
Release: 2007
Genre: Academic achievement
ISBN:

Author's abstract: This study analyzed the impact of the balanced calendar on reading, English/language arts, mathematics, social studies, and science achievement. Performance data on thirdand fifth-grade students enrolled in a school implementing a balanced calendar for three years were compared with the performance data on third- and fifth-grade students enrolled in a similar school utilizing the traditional calendar. The population in this causal-comparative study was third- and fifth-grade students in these two schools. The over-riding research question was: To what extent does a balanced calendar affect student academic achievement? Independent-samples t tests were conducted to determine statistically significant differences in reading achievement, English/language arts achievement, mathematics achievement, social studies achievement, and science achievement. The results indicated no statistically significant findings.

School Calendar Reform

School Calendar Reform
Author: Charles E. Ballinger
Publisher: R & L Education
Total Pages: 262
Release: 2006
Genre: Education
ISBN:

The element of time is crucial in the discussion of school reform. Modifying the school calendar is a primary reform effort that enhances the academic agenda of the schools and responds to current issues in American education. School Calendar Reform: Learning in All Seasons reviews all aspects of restructuring the school-year calendar: presents concepts and research pertaining to school-calendar reform; and examines the theory of year-round education so the general public, educators, and policymakers might better understand the issues involved. It also includes definitions of the various types of year-round education, the historical background and recent developments of calendar restructuring, responses to common questions posed by those involved in calendar reform, an explanation of program evaluation, and indicators of school quality. This book will be of interest to administrators, educators, school officials, parents, and the general public. Book jacket.

Prisoners of Time

Prisoners of Time
Author: United States. National Education Commission on Time and Learning
Publisher: Commission
Total Pages: 58
Release: 1994
Genre: Education
ISBN:

Research of Scheduling Impact on Student Academic Performance

Research of Scheduling Impact on Student Academic Performance
Author: Chanyn J. Dorn
Publisher:
Total Pages: 38
Release: 2015
Genre: Academic achievement
ISBN:

The purpose of this study was to identify the academic performance of students based on their current schedule. The study sought to find out what types of schedules are currently in use, the current state data available for school with different schedules, and what teachers and staff see as major benefits and challenges of schedules available. This research was conducted through the use of the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction's District and School Report Cards website and an online survey tool. In total, 52 teachers, instructional support specialists, and principles from two different schools were sent an email invitation and explanation to participate in the survey. The survey consisted of both closed and open-ended questions. These questions sought to determine teaching experience and whether a teacher taught in block schedule, traditional schedule, or both. It also sought out the opinions on the advantages and disadvantages of the block and traditional schedule. Results of this research indicate that there is very little difference in academic achievement in the modified block and traditional schedule, although both schools used were both academically below the state average scores in reading and mathematics. The participants surveyed indicated to the advantages of the block schedule include smaller class sizes, longer periods to complete lab exercises, an increase in homework completion and turn in ratio, and a feeling a being more prepared for the lessons because fewer classes need to be prepared for. Some of the disadvantages include planning for double the amount of material for each class on a daily basis and the amount information that is covered in a short span of time. The participants surveyed indicated the advantages of the traditional schedule included offering a wider range of class options and the classes are then being taught year long, which allows for more content contact before the various state testing. The survey responses also indicated that some educators felt a traditional schedule led to larger class sizes and teachers preparing for multiple classes every day. This project did not uncover enough evidence to recommend one schedule over the other.