ConnectionsSpring / Summer 2013

Tarleton State University College of Education

Preparing tomorrow’s professionals one student at a time

Greetings from the DeanQuality and Excellence!These words describe

our faculty and their accomplishments as evidenced by a number of recent recognitions.

Two faculty awards are featured in this edition of the newsletter. Dr. James Gentry received recognition as a member of the Chancellor’s Academy of Teacher Educators and Dr. Joe Gillespie received the esteemed Regents Professor Award. Congratulations to both!

Technology permeates our everyday life and is transforming much of what we do in higher education. In the College of Education we have embraced technology as a tool to support and enhance teaching and learning, the core responsibilities of our faculty. We hope you enjoy reading about various examples of how the use of technology in our academic departments is enhancing the teaching-learning process.

One of the events of which I am most proud is the Crystal Apple Society Induction and Dinner. Another class of outstanding educators has been recognized, the education profession was celebrated, and future educators have been supported. I hope additional alums will take the opportunity to become involved in this important event by sponsoring an honoree. Please contact me if you would like to learn more about the Crystal Apple Society.

The Effective Schools Project (ESP) in the College of Education has always sought to recognize exemplary instructional leadership in the member school districts. This year Debbie Braudaway, principal of Hall Middle School in Weatherford ISD, was the recipient of the 2012-2013 Instructional Leadership Award for an administrator, and Pam Carver, at Baccus Elementary in Granbury ISD, was the teacher selected to receive the 2012-2013 Instructional Leadership Award for Teaching Excellence.

As always, I appreciate your interest in and support of the College of Education, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Dr. Jill Burk

Mark Your CalendarJune 4

Summer classes begin

July 4Independence Day Holiday

August 10Summer

Commencement

August 26Fall classes begin

September 2Labor Day Holiday

October 1Effective Schools Project

Silver AnniversaryCelebration

November 1Doctoral program

early admission deadline

November 28-29Thanksgiving Holiday

December 14Fall Commencement

Dr. James Gentry Named to Chancellor’s AcademyDr. James Gentry was recently

named as one of five faculty members in The Texas A&M University System Chancellor’s Academy of Teacher Educators.

The purpose of the academy is to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of teacher education. Academy members each receive a $1,000 stipend and recognition at the Chancellor’s Century Council annual meeting in March in Austin. The second class of Academy inductees was selected by the inaugural members and highlights the role of the A&M System in producing K-12 teachers for the state of Texas.

Dr. Jill Burk, dean of the College of Education said, “Dr. Gentry is truly an exemplary educator who is dedicated to preparing highly effective teachers for Texas public schools. He is innovative, passionate about the teaching profession, and is one of those rare faculty members who excels in all three areas of teaching, scholarship and service. This honor is well-deserved.”

Gentry joined the Tarleton faculty in 2006 and

teaches both undergraduate and graduate courses in special education and reading. He also serves as editor of the Journal of the Effective Schools Project, and was a 2011 recipient of the O.A. Grant Excellence in Teaching Award. In recognizing Gentry’s selection, Dr. Ann Calahan, head of the Department of Curriculum and Instruction said, “The Department of Curriculum and Instruction is extremely proud of Dr. Gentry. He is a true ambassador for Tarleton and an outstanding role model for teacher educators.”

The Texas A&M System produced nearly 4,000 certified teachers in 2009 and has a 100 percent job placement rate for students completing teacher preparation programs in middle school, bilingual and special education. During the 2011-2012 academic year, Tarleton prepared 289 teachers.

Gentry joins 2013 Academy inductees Dr. Karen Sue Bradley, Texas A&M-Kingsville; Dr. Ashley J. Campbell, West Texas A&M; Dr. Barbara Hammack, Texas A&M-Commerce; and Dr. Vince Schielack, Texas A&M University.

Dr. James Gentry

InsideUsing Technology to Enhance Teaching and Learning . . . . . . . .2

Curriculum & Instruction Dept . Deploys iPads in Supervision . . .2

Jim Boyd Instructional Leadership Awards Presented . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Crystal Apple Society Inducts Nine New Members . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Dr . Joe Gillespie Named A&M System Regents Professsor . . . . . .4

Using Technology to Enhance Teaching and Learning

Contrary to popular belief, statistics lessons are not required to be dull or dense. Doctoral students in Dr. Lesley Leach’s Foundations of Statistics in Educational Leadership course have been using Turning Technology® ResponseCard NXT devices, also known as clickers, to learn about correlation, a fundamental concept in statistics. Students were asked to estimate the strengths of various correlations displayed in graphic form using their clickers. The real-time responses displayed onscreen provoked discussions of the factors that impact correlation strength.

Students in Dr. Leach’s Methods of Educational Research course used another type of

polling technology called Poll Everywhere (polleverywhere.com) to provoke a discussion of sampling bias. Each student was asked to submit an answer to the question, “Do you love statistics?” to Poll Everywhere via his or her mobile device or URL. Anonymous real-time responses led to a discussion of potential sources of sampling bias that could limit generalization of students’ responses to groups beyond that class (one potential source of bias being that their statistics instructor was leading the poll). Using technological interactive enhancements, Dr. Leach has made what is typically considered a difficult field of study more interesting and interactive for students.

Educational Leadership ProfessorUses Interactive Polling Technology

Man’Dee Mason, an instructor in the Department of Psychology and Counseling, is currently using technology in her PSY 101 courses to facilitate understanding of historical research studies in psychology.

Students use Blackboard to access all assignment instructions via the video and media links to the assignments are also embedded in the course shell for easier access. Completing an assignment of this nature provides students with an applied learning experience regarding research methods and ethics related to conducting research in the field of psychology. Students are to evaluate the media in written format based on their classroom learning experiences.

Another technology-based learning activity that is used to increase understanding of chapter content involves embedding Web links in Blackboard that provide examples of theory application, research techniques, case studies and empirical research studies

“Students access the Blackboard course shell and view the media resources for each chapter. Students are given extra credit for summaries of the media resources at midterm and final exam dates,” said Mason. “I also use Blackboard tracking of students to determine which students have accessed the web links and have discovered that over half of the students have viewed the media.”

Psychology Course UtilizesTechnology to Enrich Learning

In the summer of 2012, the Department of Curriculum and Instruction received approval to pilot a program in which university student teacher supervisors working with Tarleton student teachers would use iPads and WuFoo software to document classroom observations of student teachers for the 2012-2013 school year.

Ms. Allison Andrews, Program Specialist in Educator Preparation Services, created the documents used to provide feedback to student teachers, mentor teachers and principals.

In August, 2012, 13 university supervisors were supported in their purchase of Apple® iPads and began to learn how to use the new technology. University IT personnel, Stephen Wilson and Allison

Andres provided training to university supervisors, our “road scholars” on how to enter and save data and then submit the data records to others. The use of iPads is a part of equipping Tarleton educators with tools needed for 21st century classrooms.

The use of iPads in the College of Education is currently expanding to include observation documentation and feedback for principals, superintendents and school counselors. The use of this technology facilitates the reporting required by the Texas Education Agency for all field supervision

No more paper forms, travel reports or logs. Educator Preparation Services is going “green”. Our “road scholars” use the iPads for work and have discovered other applications to share with students.

Curriculum & Instruction Department Deploys iPads in Supervision

Dr. Jennifer Blevins-McNaughton uses the Flip Model course design as a means to help students not only learn complicated physiological concepts, but to also provide an additional tool to help students retain this information in applied settings in the future.

The “Flip Model” uses technology that involves providing a class structure in which the instructor records and posts lecture content for students to review before coming to class for discussion. The instructional model “flips” the typical instructional approach of providing course content during class by having students review the information before class.

Then, during the scheduled class period, students discuss the lecture, text and notes assignment in a collaborative group format in

which they receive immediate feedback about their retention of the material.

For this course, the instructor first records lectures using software that allows voice-over recording of PowerPoint® lectures, such as Panopto®. Next, the lectures are imbedded as

widgets into an online course development tool, such as SoftChalk®, which is utilized to not only embed lectures, but to also provide additional study materials, games and feedback for learning.

Students access the SoftChalk® modules through Blackboard Learn 9 (BB9). Student compliance is monitored by having students submit questions about the lecture and module within BB9 before coming to class. The instructor then prepares a series of multiple choice questions about the content to be discussed in class. Students are separated into small groups of two or three students.

Kinesiology Professor Uses ‘Flip Model’ in Exercise Physiology Classes

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In February, the College of Education honored nine individuals during the Crystal Apple Society induction ceremony and dinner. The Society honors educators who have made significant contributions to the education profession. Teachers, professors, coaches, librarians, administrators and counselors are eligible to receive the award and are nominated by a sponsor. The primary purpose of the Society is to provide scholarships for students at Tarleton who will become the next generation of educators. In recognition of educators whose careers have made an impact on the lives of countless students, a crystal apple was presented to each inductee.

Among those honored at the second annual induction dinner were: Julie Brinkley, a veteran a teacher at Central Elementary, Stephenville ISD; Dr. Joe Gillespie, professor of kinesiology and former dean of the College of Education at Tarleton State University; Julie Terrell Hinds, a Kindergarten teacher in Glen Rose ISD; and Kathleen Huckabee, a science teacher at Stephenville High School.

Also honored were: Dr. Pam Littleton, professor emeritus in the Department of Mathematics

at Tarleton State University and former associate dean in the College of Arts and Sciences; Dr. Dennis McCabe, professor of educational leadership and the 14th President of Tarleton State University; Dr. Kyle McGregor, associate professor of agricultural and consumer science at Tarleton State University; Dr. James Stewart, professor emeritus in the Department of Biology at the University of Texas at Tyler; and the late Mary Lynn Larmer, who was a special education teacher at

Briarhill Middle School in Flower Mound, Texas.

Dr. Jill Burk, dean of the college said, “As we have seen in the class of 2013, perhaps it was a kindergarten teacher who instilled a love of learning, a coach who inspired you to achieve, a high school teacher who stirred an interest in biology that influenced your career choice. For others, it may have been a counselor who convinced you to attend college or an administrator who provided support. We can all think of

special educators who made a difference in our lives and the lives of others. The Crystal Apple Society is the perfect opportunity to honor these dedicated individuals.”

By making a minimum contribution of $500 in honor of a recipient, each sponsor will provide future education students with scholarships. The legacy exemplified by Crystal Apple inductees inspires and supports another generation of educators.

Also honored at the 2013 induction were students who were the recipients of scholarships provided by the Crystal Apple Society donors. Those students included: Jordan McCleery, Interdisciplinary Studies major (Math 4-8 certification); Brittani Price, Interdisciplinary Studies Major (Math 4-8 certification); Amber Bates, Educational Administration Masters Degree (Principal certification); and Sue Lewis, Educational Leadership Doctoral Student.

The next Crystal Apple Society induction dinner has been scheduled for March 28, 2014 and the College of Education is seeking sponsors to honor even more individuals whose work at all levels of education and in various roles has impacted the lives of students.

Crystal Apple Society Inducts Nine in Class of 2013

Inducted into the Crystal Apple Society at the College’s 2nd annual event were (l-r) Julie Brinkley, Dr. Joe Gillespie, Dr. James R. Stewart, Dr. Kyle McGregor, Julie Terrell Hinds, Dr. Dennis P. McCabe, Dr. Pam Littleton, Kathleen Huckabee, and Charles Larmer, accepting on behalf of his late wife, honoree Mary Lynn Larmer.

Jim Boyd Instructional Leadership Awards PresentedThe Jim Boyd Instructional Leadership

Award is given annually to recognize the superior accomplishments of educators representing the 65 schools participating in the Effective Schools Project (ESP) at Tarleton. One administrator and one teacher are selected from the many outstanding educators who participate in the ESP.

Debbie Braudaway, principal of Hall Middle School in Weatherford, was the recipient of the 2012-2013 Instructional Leadership Award for an administrator. Braudaway was recognized as a visionary who leads her campus with enthusiasm and a constant effort to “get better and be better.” In a prior assignment as an elementary principal she was successful in leading her school to “Exemplary” status for five straight years. She strives to create a culture based on caring relationships and a commitment to excellence.

Pam Carver, 5th grade science teacher at Baccus Elementary in Granbury, was the teacher selected to receive the 2012-2013

Instructional Leadership Award for Teaching Excellence. Carver was noted for being the teacher who stimulates curiosity and creates enthusiasm among her students as she guides them through the exploration of science. She instills a love of learning and serves as a mentor to those who need extra guidance.

Carver provides leadership for her colleagues, and she maintains open communications with the parents of her students.

A celebration of excellence has been a part of the Jim Boyd ESP since its inception in 1988. ESP is proud to recognize the leadership of two outstanding educators.

Instructional Leadership Award recipient Pam Carver (center) with Dr. Jill Burk (left) and Dr. Bill Larmer.

Instructional Leadership Award recipient Debbie Braudaway (center) with Dr. Jill Burk (left) and Dr. Bill Larmer.

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Dr. Joe Gillespie Named Regents ProfessorLongtime Tarleton State

University faculty member Dr. Joe W. Gillespie was named a Texas A&M University System Regents Professor in honor of his exemplary service to the System. The recognition was announced during the regents’ regular scheduled meeting held on the campus of Texas A&M– Kingsville, on Nov. 2, 2012.

Gillespie, professor of kinesiology, came to Tarleton in 1973 as head track coach and assistant football coach. Since his arrival on campus he has served as chair of the Department of Health and Physical Education, athletics director and spent 16 years in university administrative capacities, including dean of the College of Education.

“These awards are an opportunity for us to recognize the outstanding work our faculty and staff are doing throughout the A&M System,” said Dr. Richard

A. Box, then-chairman of the Board of Regents. “The recipients come from different backgrounds and areas of expertise, but the common thread they have is their dedication to their professions and the A&M System.”

“I am extremely pleased with the selection of Dr. Joe Gillespie, as recipient of the distinguished Regents Professor award. I congratulate him on joining the very few and elite group of Tarleton faculty who have received this honor,” said Dr. Karen Murray, provost and vice president of academic affairs. “His leadership and service to our university are truly exemplary and he is most deserving of this recognition.”

A native of Coleman, Texas, Gillespie received his bachelor’s degree from McMurry University and a master’s from Stephen F. Austin State University before earning his doctorate in education

at Texas A&M. During his tenure on the Tarleton faculty, he has developed specializations in physical education, University Interscholastic League (UIL) regulations, track meet administration, exercise, health education and sports.

In spring 2011, Gillespie was among 10 Tarleton faculty members receiving the Student Recognition Award for Teaching Excellence, which recognizes superb classroom teaching skills based on student-administered evaluations. His professional affiliations include a longtime membership in the Texas Association of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (TAHPERD), an organization in which he has served in a variety of offices and committees. His experience and reputation as a track official and meet supervisor has also earned him recognition from the UIL.

Gillespie has also been selected to the McMurry University Athletic Hall of Fame as a student-athlete, the Tarleton Athletic Hall of Fame as a coach, and the Texas A&M University College of Education Hall of Fame as an academician.

Dr. Joe W. Gillespie

SAVE THE DATE! • OCT. 1, 2013 Effective Schools Project Silver Anniversary Celebration4