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• 21. [Article] Improving ecological risk assessment of pesticides for nontarget terrestrial vertebrates

  The Quotient Method (QM) is used by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) in ecological risk assessments of pesticides for nontarget organisms. The QM requires several assumptions regarding ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Improving ecological risk assessment of pesticides for nontarget terrestrial vertebrates Author: Wang, Guiming The Quotient Method (QM) is used by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) in ecological risk assessments of pesticides for nontarget organisms. The QM requires several assumptions regarding exposure and hazards of pesticides to wildlife; several of these assumptions have not been tested. During 1997-99, I conducted three experiments using the gray-tailed vole (Microtus canicaudus) as a model species to test three assumptions of the QM. The experiments were conducted in 24 0.2-ha fenced vole-proof enclosures. In Experiment 1, I tracked voles using radio-telemetry and found that animals did not move from contaminated to uncontaminated habitat to avoid exposure to a pesticide, thus supporting one assumption of the QM. In Experiment 2, I studied demographic responses of gray-tailed voles and northern bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus) to liquid and granular formulations of diazinon. The results of Experiment 2 indicated that quail were more susceptible to granular diazinon than to liquid diazinon because of direct consumption of diazinon granules. Neither formulation of diazinon at 0.55 or 1.55 kg AI/ha adversely affected vole demography. In Experiment 3, I used sprinklers to simulate a 0.25-cm rainfall to test the assumption that the expected environmental concentration (EEC) of a pesticide is estimated immediately after application, and that rainfall does not modify the risk of pesticides to animals. The 0.25-cm rainfall may have reduced the risk of voles to Guthion® 2S either by improving the dry season habitat or by washing more pesticide residues down to the soil and reducing exposure of the animals. This experiment did not support the assumption of the QM that weather would not affect the EEC of pesticides. Last, I used a Ricker model incorporating demographic stochasticity to simulate the 1998 and 1999 vole populations and a single pesticide application at different population sizes. The simulations demonstrate that demographic stochasticity could cause uncertainties in predictions of significant effects of pesticide on voles, especially for small populations. These simulations suggest that ecological risk assessments of pesticides to nontarget wildlife should consider demographic characteristics of wildlife species to minimize the uncertainty of predictions. Title: Improving ecological risk assessment of pesticides for nontarget terrestrial vertebrates Author: Wang, Guiming The Quotient Method (QM) is used by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) in ecological risk assessments of pesticides for nontarget organisms. The QM requires several assumptions regarding exposure and hazards of pesticides to wildlife; several of these assumptions have not been tested. During 1997-99, I conducted three experiments using the gray-tailed vole (Microtus canicaudus) as a model species to test three assumptions of the QM. The experiments were conducted in 24 0.2-ha fenced vole-proof enclosures. In Experiment 1, I tracked voles using radio-telemetry and found that animals did not move from contaminated to uncontaminated habitat to avoid exposure to a pesticide, thus supporting one assumption of the QM. In Experiment 2, I studied demographic responses of gray-tailed voles and northern bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus) to liquid and granular formulations of diazinon. The results of Experiment 2 indicated that quail were more susceptible to granular diazinon than to liquid diazinon because of direct consumption of diazinon granules. Neither formulation of diazinon at 0.55 or 1.55 kg AI/ha adversely affected vole demography. In Experiment 3, I used sprinklers to simulate a 0.25-cm rainfall to test the assumption that the expected environmental concentration (EEC) of a pesticide is estimated immediately after application, and that rainfall does not modify the risk of pesticides to animals. The 0.25-cm rainfall may have reduced the risk of voles to Guthion® 2S either by improving the dry season habitat or by washing more pesticide residues down to the soil and reducing exposure of the animals. This experiment did not support the assumption of the QM that weather would not affect the EEC of pesticides. Last, I used a Ricker model incorporating demographic stochasticity to simulate the 1998 and 1999 vole populations and a single pesticide application at different population sizes. The simulations demonstrate that demographic stochasticity could cause uncertainties in predictions of significant effects of pesticide on voles, especially for small populations. These simulations suggest that ecological risk assessments of pesticides to nontarget wildlife should consider demographic characteristics of wildlife species to minimize the uncertainty of predictions. Close

• 22. [Article] Needs assessment of Oregon home-based business owners

  This exploratory study examined Oregon home-based business owners' needs and their willingness to participate in selected educational activities. The specific objectives of the study were: (1) to determine ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Needs assessment of Oregon home-based business owners Author: Oelschlaeger, Irmtraud This exploratory study examined Oregon home-based business owners' needs and their willingness to participate in selected educational activities. The specific objectives of the study were: (1) to determine home-based business owners' needs in the areas of Planning and Evaluation, Marketing and Sales, Finance, Laws and Regulations, Product and Quality Control, and Family; (2) to investigate relationships between home-based business owners' demographic factors and their needs; (3) to investigate the relationship between home-based business owners' business-related factors and their needs; (4) to determine home-based business owners' willingness to participate in educational activities; (5) to investigate the relationship between home-based business owners' demographic factors and their willingness to participate in educational activities; and (6) to investigate the relationship between home-based business owners' business-related factors and their willingness to participate in educational activities. The data used in this study were collected by the Oregon State University Extension Service in 1988. The sample included 353 Oregon home-based business owners who completed and returned a twenty six question, mail survey. Statistical analyses of the data were conducted using simple linear regressions, stepwise multiple regressions, t̲-tests, and chi-square statistics. At a significance level of p <̲ .05 there were significant relationships between home-based business owners' (1) demographic factors and their needs, (2) business-related factors and their needs, (3) demographic factors and their willingness to participate in educational activities, and (4) business-related factors and their willingness to participate in educational activities. The results of this study should benefit educators by helping them understand home-based business owners' needs and to assist them in designing, developing, and delivering effective educational resources for home-based business owners. Title: Needs assessment of Oregon home-based business owners Author: Oelschlaeger, Irmtraud This exploratory study examined Oregon home-based business owners' needs and their willingness to participate in selected educational activities. The specific objectives of the study were: (1) to determine home-based business owners' needs in the areas of Planning and Evaluation, Marketing and Sales, Finance, Laws and Regulations, Product and Quality Control, and Family; (2) to investigate relationships between home-based business owners' demographic factors and their needs; (3) to investigate the relationship between home-based business owners' business-related factors and their needs; (4) to determine home-based business owners' willingness to participate in educational activities; (5) to investigate the relationship between home-based business owners' demographic factors and their willingness to participate in educational activities; and (6) to investigate the relationship between home-based business owners' business-related factors and their willingness to participate in educational activities. The data used in this study were collected by the Oregon State University Extension Service in 1988. The sample included 353 Oregon home-based business owners who completed and returned a twenty six question, mail survey. Statistical analyses of the data were conducted using simple linear regressions, stepwise multiple regressions, t̲-tests, and chi-square statistics. At a significance level of p <̲ .05 there were significant relationships between home-based business owners' (1) demographic factors and their needs, (2) business-related factors and their needs, (3) demographic factors and their willingness to participate in educational activities, and (4) business-related factors and their willingness to participate in educational activities. The results of this study should benefit educators by helping them understand home-based business owners' needs and to assist them in designing, developing, and delivering effective educational resources for home-based business owners. Close

• 23. [Article] New international students' perceptions of U.S. professors

  The purpose of this study was to determine new international students' perceptions of United States professors upon entrance into the university and after two months in class, and if differences in expectations exist ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: New international students' perceptions of U.S. professors Author: Barclay, Heather E. The purpose of this study was to determine new international students' perceptions of United States professors upon entrance into the university and after two months in class, and if differences in expectations exist between groups of students based on demographic variables. A survey designed to assess these expectations was administered to 81 new international students during the fall 1997 international student orientation sessions. The survey was readministered to respondents of the pre-test after two months to evaluate changes in their perceptions of U.S. professors. During winter term 1998 follow-up interviews were conducted with several students to confirm and expand upon the statistical data. Student responses to 12 of the 25 items changed significantly over time. Significant change occurred on items related to the value of international exchange, cultural adaptation, academic adaptation, and on some non-clustering items. In general, new international students held positive views of professors in the United States on both the pre- and post-tests. Of the demographic variables considered in the research, region of origin yielded the greatest number of significantly different responses between groups. European students generally held more positive views of professors in the United States than did Southeast Asian or East Asian students. Graduate status and prior experience in the United States also affected student response rates to certain items. Gender did not significantly affect response rates. Changes in pre- and post-test response rates indicate that students enter the university with expectations for U.S. professors that somewhat inaccurate. The findings also indicate that demographic variables significantly affect the expectations which new international students have upon arrival. The most effective manner to address these issues is to expand upon the information currently presented to new international students during orientation on topics such as classroom and academic expectations and student-faculty interaction. Addressing different perceptions based on demographic variables would require either multiple sessions to meet the needs of diverse student groups, or sessions which cover the above topics expansively. Title: New international students' perceptions of U.S. professors Author: Barclay, Heather E. The purpose of this study was to determine new international students' perceptions of United States professors upon entrance into the university and after two months in class, and if differences in expectations exist between groups of students based on demographic variables. A survey designed to assess these expectations was administered to 81 new international students during the fall 1997 international student orientation sessions. The survey was readministered to respondents of the pre-test after two months to evaluate changes in their perceptions of U.S. professors. During winter term 1998 follow-up interviews were conducted with several students to confirm and expand upon the statistical data. Student responses to 12 of the 25 items changed significantly over time. Significant change occurred on items related to the value of international exchange, cultural adaptation, academic adaptation, and on some non-clustering items. In general, new international students held positive views of professors in the United States on both the pre- and post-tests. Of the demographic variables considered in the research, region of origin yielded the greatest number of significantly different responses between groups. European students generally held more positive views of professors in the United States than did Southeast Asian or East Asian students. Graduate status and prior experience in the United States also affected student response rates to certain items. Gender did not significantly affect response rates. Changes in pre- and post-test response rates indicate that students enter the university with expectations for U.S. professors that somewhat inaccurate. The findings also indicate that demographic variables significantly affect the expectations which new international students have upon arrival. The most effective manner to address these issues is to expand upon the information currently presented to new international students during orientation on topics such as classroom and academic expectations and student-faculty interaction. Addressing different perceptions based on demographic variables would require either multiple sessions to meet the needs of diverse student groups, or sessions which cover the above topics expansively. Close

• 24. [Article] Demographic analysis of Erigeron decumbens var. decumbens, an endangered plant species of the Willamette Valley, Oregon: 1999 Field Studies

  Erigeron decumbens var. decumbens, known only from the Willamette Valley of western Oregon, is listed as Endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and by the state of Oregon. In 1993 a long-term ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Demographic analysis of Erigeron decumbens var. decumbens, an endangered plant species of the Willamette Valley, Oregon: 1999 Field Studies Author: Clark, Deborah Louise, 1950- Erigeron decumbens var. decumbens, known only from the Willamette Valley of western Oregon, is listed as Endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and by the state of Oregon. In 1993 a long-term population monitoring program for Erigeron decumbens var. decumbens was initiated at Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge (Polk County). The objectives were to assess long-term population trends, particularly patterns of reproduction, recruitment, and mortality. This report presents the results of the demographic monitoring from 1993-1999. Considered together the following demographic parameters indicate that the measured population at Baskett Butte (Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge) is declining. 1. The population size decreased every year but one with the 1999 population only 48% of the 1993 population. 2. Increasing mortality rates exceeded recruitment rates every year but one. 3. The percentage of the population that flowered generally decreased every year. 4. The average number of heads per flowering plant decreased each year beginning in 1995 to 3.4 heads per flowering plant in 1999. 5. The pattern of average basal area per plant varied but the 1999 average basal area is only 63% of that measured in 1993. To stabilize the population, adaptive management strategies need to be developed in conjunction with experimental approaches that will determine the factors responsible for the population decline. A second approach to aid in the recovery of Erigeron decumbens var. decumbens is to increase the population by transplanting cuttings or plants grown from seed under greenhouse conditions or by sowing seeds in the field under more controlled conditions. It is strongly recommended that future efforts to stabilize the population at Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge be coordinated with other agencies in the Valley who are also responsible for management of Erigeron decumbens var. decumbens populations. Title: Demographic analysis of Erigeron decumbens var. decumbens, an endangered plant species of the Willamette Valley, Oregon: 1999 Field Studies Author: Clark, Deborah Louise, 1950- Erigeron decumbens var. decumbens, known only from the Willamette Valley of western Oregon, is listed as Endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and by the state of Oregon. In 1993 a long-term population monitoring program for Erigeron decumbens var. decumbens was initiated at Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge (Polk County). The objectives were to assess long-term population trends, particularly patterns of reproduction, recruitment, and mortality. This report presents the results of the demographic monitoring from 1993-1999. Considered together the following demographic parameters indicate that the measured population at Baskett Butte (Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge) is declining. 1. The population size decreased every year but one with the 1999 population only 48% of the 1993 population. 2. Increasing mortality rates exceeded recruitment rates every year but one. 3. The percentage of the population that flowered generally decreased every year. 4. The average number of heads per flowering plant decreased each year beginning in 1995 to 3.4 heads per flowering plant in 1999. 5. The pattern of average basal area per plant varied but the 1999 average basal area is only 63% of that measured in 1993. To stabilize the population, adaptive management strategies need to be developed in conjunction with experimental approaches that will determine the factors responsible for the population decline. A second approach to aid in the recovery of Erigeron decumbens var. decumbens is to increase the population by transplanting cuttings or plants grown from seed under greenhouse conditions or by sowing seeds in the field under more controlled conditions. It is strongly recommended that future efforts to stabilize the population at Baskett Slough National Wildlife Refuge be coordinated with other agencies in the Valley who are also responsible for management of Erigeron decumbens var. decumbens populations. Close

• 25. [Article] Demographic trends, the wildland-urban interface, and wildfire management

  Testimony of Roger B. Hammer, Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, Sustainable Rural Communities Initiative, Oregon State University before the House Interior, Environment & Related Agencies Appropriations ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Demographic trends, the wildland-urban interface, and wildfire management Author: Hammer, Roger B., Radeloff, Volker C., Stewart, Susan I. Testimony of Roger B. Hammer, Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, Sustainable Rural Communities Initiative, Oregon State University before the House Interior, Environment & Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, Oversight Hearing on Wildfire Management, February 12, 2008 Title: Demographic trends, the wildland-urban interface, and wildfire management Author: Hammer, Roger B., Radeloff, Volker C., Stewart, Susan I. Testimony of Roger B. Hammer, Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, Sustainable Rural Communities Initiative, Oregon State University before the House Interior, Environment & Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, Oversight Hearing on Wildfire Management, February 12, 2008 Close

• 26. [Article] Using local climate to explain temporal variation in rare plant populations

  Increased temperatures due to anthropogenic-induced climate change may raise the threat of extinction for taxa with sessile life histories (e.g., plants) in the near future. Linking climate change models ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Using local climate to explain temporal variation in rare plant populations Author: Pfingsten, Ian A. Increased temperatures due to anthropogenic-induced climate change may raise the threat of extinction for taxa with sessile life histories (e.g., plants) in the near future. Linking climate change models to demographic models may provide useful insights into the potential effects of environmental changes on rare plants, and therefore aid in their current and future conservation. Population demographers generally agree that mechanistic models from a reductionist perspective are necessary to test assumptions in population drivers. For the first study, I assessed the climate vulnerability of a rare plant species, Pyrrocoma radiata, with a mechanistic model of four climatically-similar populations. I used environmentally-driven demographic models to estimate vital rates and population sizes from a nonlinear, nonparametric regression with local climate variables. I assessed the utility of this environmentally-correlated, stage-structured population matrix model compared to a stationary model of independent and identically-distributed environmental stochasticity. I then simulated future population projections based on climate conditions predicted by General Circulation Models (GCMs) under opposing emission scenarios. The second study hopes to answer population-level questions using a traditionally community-level method, non-metric multidimensional scaling, which considers correlation structure between response variables and can be used to find environmental correlates of the ordination axes. Demographic data on a threatened perennial, Astragalus tyghensis, were collected from five sites in the Tygh Valley, OR. I considered correlation structure between demographic vital rates to find environmental correlates of the ordination axes. The search for an environmental driver of population vital rates was successful for the two study species. Previous year dry dormant season precipitation likely affects the fertility rates a year later in P. radiata populations, and dry growing season reference evapotranspiration rates positively correlated with a growth gradient in A. tyghensis. Based on predicted precipitation, P. radiata is expected to rapidly decline by 2050, but this may be due to biases in the two GCMs and reliance on only one environmental factor. The NMS ordination adequately captured most of the variation in transition elements for the years and populations from A. tyghensis demographics. I provided support to the claim that model predictions can improve with the inclusion of mechanistic relationships. The inclusion of abiotic drivers in models used to predict population trends is supported by our study and may enhance predictive power in population viability assessments under changing climates. Title: Using local climate to explain temporal variation in rare plant populations Author: Pfingsten, Ian A. Increased temperatures due to anthropogenic-induced climate change may raise the threat of extinction for taxa with sessile life histories (e.g., plants) in the near future. Linking climate change models to demographic models may provide useful insights into the potential effects of environmental changes on rare plants, and therefore aid in their current and future conservation. Population demographers generally agree that mechanistic models from a reductionist perspective are necessary to test assumptions in population drivers. For the first study, I assessed the climate vulnerability of a rare plant species, Pyrrocoma radiata, with a mechanistic model of four climatically-similar populations. I used environmentally-driven demographic models to estimate vital rates and population sizes from a nonlinear, nonparametric regression with local climate variables. I assessed the utility of this environmentally-correlated, stage-structured population matrix model compared to a stationary model of independent and identically-distributed environmental stochasticity. I then simulated future population projections based on climate conditions predicted by General Circulation Models (GCMs) under opposing emission scenarios. The second study hopes to answer population-level questions using a traditionally community-level method, non-metric multidimensional scaling, which considers correlation structure between response variables and can be used to find environmental correlates of the ordination axes. Demographic data on a threatened perennial, Astragalus tyghensis, were collected from five sites in the Tygh Valley, OR. I considered correlation structure between demographic vital rates to find environmental correlates of the ordination axes. The search for an environmental driver of population vital rates was successful for the two study species. Previous year dry dormant season precipitation likely affects the fertility rates a year later in P. radiata populations, and dry growing season reference evapotranspiration rates positively correlated with a growth gradient in A. tyghensis. Based on predicted precipitation, P. radiata is expected to rapidly decline by 2050, but this may be due to biases in the two GCMs and reliance on only one environmental factor. The NMS ordination adequately captured most of the variation in transition elements for the years and populations from A. tyghensis demographics. I provided support to the claim that model predictions can improve with the inclusion of mechanistic relationships. The inclusion of abiotic drivers in models used to predict population trends is supported by our study and may enhance predictive power in population viability assessments under changing climates. Close

• 27. [Article] Study on consumer knowledge and attitudes toward consumer education of college students in secondary teacher education preparatory program in Korea

  The purpose of the present study was to investigate consumer knowledge and attitudes toward consumer education of college students in secondary teacher education preparatory programs in Korea. Specifically, ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Study on consumer knowledge and attitudes toward consumer education of college students in secondary teacher education preparatory program in Korea Author: Lee, Sun-young The purpose of the present study was to investigate consumer knowledge and attitudes toward consumer education of college students in secondary teacher education preparatory programs in Korea. Specifically, this study was aimed to 1) measure the degree of consumer knowledge of college students in secondary teacher education preparatory programs, 2) assess the influences of socio-demographic variables such as academic level, academic major, sex, total family income, urban/rural background, and previous coursework in consumer economics on consumer knowledge, 3) evaluate attitudes of college students in secondary teacher education preparatory programs in Korea toward consumer education, 4) assess the influences of socio-demographic variables on attitudes toward consumer education, 5) examine the relationship between the degree of total consumer knowledge and attitudes toward consumer education when other socio-demographic variables are controlled. The sample was 388 freshmen and seniors in secondary teacher education preparatory programs, with majors in home economics, social studies, and business education, in the five randomly selected colleges in Korea. They were tested during May, 1991. The mean score for consumer knowledge was 30.18 which represented 75.4 percent correct. The relationships between consumer knowledge and selected socio-demographic variables were investigated using a one-way ANOVA. The results were as follow: 1) The degree of total consumer knowledge differed significantly by academic level, 2) The degree of total consumer knowledge and knowledge of the subarea of economic principles, consumer advocacy and buying practices differed significantly by academic major, 3) Only the degree of knowledge of the sub-area of buying practices differed significantly by sex, 4) There was no significant difference in the degree of total consumer knowledge and any sub-areas of consumer knowledge by total family income, 5) The degree of total consumer knowledge and knowledge of the sub-area of economic principles differed significantly by urban/rural background, 6) There was no significant difference in the degree of total consumer knowledge and any sub-areas of consumer knowledge by previous coursework in consumer economics. The mean score of attitudes toward consumer education was 2.94 on a scale of 1 to 4. The relationships of attitudes toward consumer education and socio-demographic variables were examined using a one-way ANOVA. Attitudes toward consumer education differed significantly only by previous coursework in consumer economics. To examine the relationship between the degree of total consumer knowledge and attitudes toward consumer education when other socio-demographic variables are controlled, a stepwise multiple regression anaysis was used. There was a significant positive relationship between consumer knowledge and attitudes toward consumer education. The results indicated that students majoring in home economics, female students, students who have taken consumer economics coursework, and students who have a higher degree of consumer knowledge have more favorable attitudes toward consumer education. Title: Study on consumer knowledge and attitudes toward consumer education of college students in secondary teacher education preparatory program in Korea Author: Lee, Sun-young The purpose of the present study was to investigate consumer knowledge and attitudes toward consumer education of college students in secondary teacher education preparatory programs in Korea. Specifically, this study was aimed to 1) measure the degree of consumer knowledge of college students in secondary teacher education preparatory programs, 2) assess the influences of socio-demographic variables such as academic level, academic major, sex, total family income, urban/rural background, and previous coursework in consumer economics on consumer knowledge, 3) evaluate attitudes of college students in secondary teacher education preparatory programs in Korea toward consumer education, 4) assess the influences of socio-demographic variables on attitudes toward consumer education, 5) examine the relationship between the degree of total consumer knowledge and attitudes toward consumer education when other socio-demographic variables are controlled. The sample was 388 freshmen and seniors in secondary teacher education preparatory programs, with majors in home economics, social studies, and business education, in the five randomly selected colleges in Korea. They were tested during May, 1991. The mean score for consumer knowledge was 30.18 which represented 75.4 percent correct. The relationships between consumer knowledge and selected socio-demographic variables were investigated using a one-way ANOVA. The results were as follow: 1) The degree of total consumer knowledge differed significantly by academic level, 2) The degree of total consumer knowledge and knowledge of the subarea of economic principles, consumer advocacy and buying practices differed significantly by academic major, 3) Only the degree of knowledge of the sub-area of buying practices differed significantly by sex, 4) There was no significant difference in the degree of total consumer knowledge and any sub-areas of consumer knowledge by total family income, 5) The degree of total consumer knowledge and knowledge of the sub-area of economic principles differed significantly by urban/rural background, 6) There was no significant difference in the degree of total consumer knowledge and any sub-areas of consumer knowledge by previous coursework in consumer economics. The mean score of attitudes toward consumer education was 2.94 on a scale of 1 to 4. The relationships of attitudes toward consumer education and socio-demographic variables were examined using a one-way ANOVA. Attitudes toward consumer education differed significantly only by previous coursework in consumer economics. To examine the relationship between the degree of total consumer knowledge and attitudes toward consumer education when other socio-demographic variables are controlled, a stepwise multiple regression anaysis was used. There was a significant positive relationship between consumer knowledge and attitudes toward consumer education. The results indicated that students majoring in home economics, female students, students who have taken consumer economics coursework, and students who have a higher degree of consumer knowledge have more favorable attitudes toward consumer education. Close

• 28. [Article] Identification of in-service personnel development needs in career awareness for Portland and Seattle elementary schools

  The main objective of this research was to determine the professional in-service development needs of fourth, fifth, and sixth grade teachers in the metropolitan school districts of Portland and Seattle. The ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Identification of in-service personnel development needs in career awareness for Portland and Seattle elementary schools Author: Syhlman, Bill Duane The main objective of this research was to determine the professional in-service development needs of fourth, fifth, and sixth grade teachers in the metropolitan school districts of Portland and Seattle. The primary objectives for conducting this research investigation were as follows: 1. To determine the professional in-service development needs of fourth, fifth and sixth grade elementary teachers in Portland and Seattle public schools. 2. To examine the differences between control teacher groups and experimental teacher groups, and to determine the treatment effect advisory committee members have on elementary teacher decision-making processes. 3. To analyze the differences between teachers located in average and above average income demographic areas and teachers located in poverty or minority income demographic areas for the two cities. There were four subsidiary objectives of the research project and they were as follows: 4. To determine the subsidiary interaction differences between city teacher groups and demographic teacher groups. 5. To analyze the statistical subsidiary interaction differences between city teacher groups and treatment effect groups. 6. To examine the subsidiary interaction differences between demographic teacher groups and treatment effect groups. 7. To determine the subsidiary interaction differences between city teacher groups, demographic teacher groups and the treatment effect groups. Procedures Research data were obtained through the utilization of a Q-Sort Card Deck. This Card Deck was a result of the efforts put forth by a selected Delphi panel; panel members reacted to three rounds of the Delphi technique in determining what need statements should be included in the research project. In all, a total of 84 need statements or dependent variables were presented to the 160 elementary teachers for their reactions. Elementary teachers met in small groups of ten each at various locations in the two cities when reacting to the Card Deck. The last card of the Card Deck provided the respondents an opportunity to rank the top ten priorities they believed to be most important in meeting their professional in-service development needs. A priority matrix revealed the findings of responses to this card. The research project applied the fixed three-way analysis of variance design for the analyses of data and tests of hypotheses. Conclusions The statistical findings of this research project offers the following conclusions: 1. The top twenty priorities should be included in the professional in-service education programs for Portland and Seattle. 2. There appears to be very few differences between the two cities. Out of 84 primary main effects, there were only four rejections. 3. The treatment effect of advisory committees appears to have little influence on the decision-making processes of elementary teachers. 4. There were very few differences between demographic areas in the two cities. Seventy-nine tests of significance were accepted and five were rejected. Implications In view of the findings and conclusions of this study, the following implications are provided. 1. The eight functional areas of career awareness should be considered when planning, developing and implementing career awareness in-service programs; they are as follows: individual self-awareness, economic and social awareness, educational awareness, awareness of careers, decision making abilities, work understanding and job skills, work aptitudes and appreciations, and other areas in career awareness. 2. The top twenty priority needs should be given consideration as a part of in-service education for metropolitan city schools. 3. Additional research needs to be conducted on the effectiveness and influence of advisory committees as a part of the educational environment. Title: Identification of in-service personnel development needs in career awareness for Portland and Seattle elementary schools Author: Syhlman, Bill Duane The main objective of this research was to determine the professional in-service development needs of fourth, fifth, and sixth grade teachers in the metropolitan school districts of Portland and Seattle. The primary objectives for conducting this research investigation were as follows: 1. To determine the professional in-service development needs of fourth, fifth and sixth grade elementary teachers in Portland and Seattle public schools. 2. To examine the differences between control teacher groups and experimental teacher groups, and to determine the treatment effect advisory committee members have on elementary teacher decision-making processes. 3. To analyze the differences between teachers located in average and above average income demographic areas and teachers located in poverty or minority income demographic areas for the two cities. There were four subsidiary objectives of the research project and they were as follows: 4. To determine the subsidiary interaction differences between city teacher groups and demographic teacher groups. 5. To analyze the statistical subsidiary interaction differences between city teacher groups and treatment effect groups. 6. To examine the subsidiary interaction differences between demographic teacher groups and treatment effect groups. 7. To determine the subsidiary interaction differences between city teacher groups, demographic teacher groups and the treatment effect groups. Procedures Research data were obtained through the utilization of a Q-Sort Card Deck. This Card Deck was a result of the efforts put forth by a selected Delphi panel; panel members reacted to three rounds of the Delphi technique in determining what need statements should be included in the research project. In all, a total of 84 need statements or dependent variables were presented to the 160 elementary teachers for their reactions. Elementary teachers met in small groups of ten each at various locations in the two cities when reacting to the Card Deck. The last card of the Card Deck provided the respondents an opportunity to rank the top ten priorities they believed to be most important in meeting their professional in-service development needs. A priority matrix revealed the findings of responses to this card. The research project applied the fixed three-way analysis of variance design for the analyses of data and tests of hypotheses. Conclusions The statistical findings of this research project offers the following conclusions: 1. The top twenty priorities should be included in the professional in-service education programs for Portland and Seattle. 2. There appears to be very few differences between the two cities. Out of 84 primary main effects, there were only four rejections. 3. The treatment effect of advisory committees appears to have little influence on the decision-making processes of elementary teachers. 4. There were very few differences between demographic areas in the two cities. Seventy-nine tests of significance were accepted and five were rejected. Implications In view of the findings and conclusions of this study, the following implications are provided. 1. The eight functional areas of career awareness should be considered when planning, developing and implementing career awareness in-service programs; they are as follows: individual self-awareness, economic and social awareness, educational awareness, awareness of careers, decision making abilities, work understanding and job skills, work aptitudes and appreciations, and other areas in career awareness. 2. The top twenty priority needs should be given consideration as a part of in-service education for metropolitan city schools. 3. Additional research needs to be conducted on the effectiveness and influence of advisory committees as a part of the educational environment. Close

• 29. [Article] Relationship between fashion leadership and apparel buying behavior among Oregon women

  Researchers have investigated the behavioral and demographic characteristics of fashion innovators, opinion leaders, and innovative communicators in samples drawn from populations residing outside of Oregon. ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Relationship between fashion leadership and apparel buying behavior among Oregon women Author: Johnson, Cheryl Cruzan Researchers have investigated the behavioral and demographic characteristics of fashion innovators, opinion leaders, and innovative communicators in samples drawn from populations residing outside of Oregon. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to examine differences between innovative communicators and non-innovative communicators in a sample of Oregon women in their shopping behavior and demographic characteristics. This study was conducted in order to compare these two segments of Oregon women with samples drawn from other populations. The first objective of the study was to examine what retail outlets were patronized for apparel purchases, what form of payment was used for clothing purchases, and how much money was spent annually on these purchases by Oregon women. A second objective was to develop shopping behavior profiles of Oregon women who were categorized as innovative communicators and non-innovative communicators. Diffusion theory was used to explain the adoption process by consumers when adopting innovations. On the basis of their level of innovativeness, Rogers (1983) categorized individuals into one of five adopter categories: innovators, early adopters, early majority, late majority, and laggards. Innovators were found to be the first in a social group to adopt an innovation, whereas early adopters were opinion leaders of innovations. Although functionally different, similarities were found in the demographic and life-style chararacteristics of innovators and opinion leaders. The term "innovative communicator" was used to identify individuals who simultaneously performed the role of innovator and opinion leader (Baumgarten, 1975). Life-style research examined consumer characteristics of innovative communicators and non-innovative communicators in relation to their shopping behavior. Based on diffusion and life-style literature, a number of hypotheses were developed that examined store patronage, form of payment, annual amount spent on apparel purchases, and demographic characteristics in relation to level of fashion leadership. Data used for this study were taken from a larger study, Agriculture Experiment Station Western Region Project W- 175, that was conducted in 1987. From this questionnaire, items that asked about retail store patronage, clothing expenditures, fashion leadership, and demographic characteristics were used for the present study. The sample consisted of 234 adult Oregon women. Subjects were classified as innovative-communicators, medium innovative communicators, or non-innovative communicators based on summed scores from the fashion innovativeness and fashion opinion leadership items from the questionnaire. For statistical analysis, one-way analysis of variance, post-hoc analysis using the Tukey HSD test, and chi-square were performed. The .05 confidence level was selected for claims of statistical significance. Profiles of Oregon women classified as innovative communicators and non-innovative communicators emerged relating to their shopping behavior and demographic characteristics. Women in Oregon who categorized themselves as innovative communicators had a higher household income, spent more money on apparel, always or often purchased their apparel at specialty stores, and sometimes purchased apparel at department stores. Oregon women who categorized themselves as non-innovative communicators had lower household incomes, spent less money on apparel, always or often purchased their apparel at discount stores, and sometimes purchased apparel at department stores. In terms of shopping behavior and demographic characteristics, similarities were found between this sample of innovative communicators and non-innovative communicators and samples previously studied. Innovative communicators and non-innovative communicators among Oregon women were found to be similar to samples previously studied with regard to store patronage, clothing expenditures, and level of income. Innovative communicators and non-innovative communicators in the present sample were also similar to samples previously studied in their use of store credit cards for apparel purchases. Because of these similarities, results on profiles of innovative communicators and non-innovative communicators can be used by retailers in developing marketing strategies to fit their retail establishments. Title: Relationship between fashion leadership and apparel buying behavior among Oregon women Author: Johnson, Cheryl Cruzan Researchers have investigated the behavioral and demographic characteristics of fashion innovators, opinion leaders, and innovative communicators in samples drawn from populations residing outside of Oregon. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to examine differences between innovative communicators and non-innovative communicators in a sample of Oregon women in their shopping behavior and demographic characteristics. This study was conducted in order to compare these two segments of Oregon women with samples drawn from other populations. The first objective of the study was to examine what retail outlets were patronized for apparel purchases, what form of payment was used for clothing purchases, and how much money was spent annually on these purchases by Oregon women. A second objective was to develop shopping behavior profiles of Oregon women who were categorized as innovative communicators and non-innovative communicators. Diffusion theory was used to explain the adoption process by consumers when adopting innovations. On the basis of their level of innovativeness, Rogers (1983) categorized individuals into one of five adopter categories: innovators, early adopters, early majority, late majority, and laggards. Innovators were found to be the first in a social group to adopt an innovation, whereas early adopters were opinion leaders of innovations. Although functionally different, similarities were found in the demographic and life-style chararacteristics of innovators and opinion leaders. The term "innovative communicator" was used to identify individuals who simultaneously performed the role of innovator and opinion leader (Baumgarten, 1975). Life-style research examined consumer characteristics of innovative communicators and non-innovative communicators in relation to their shopping behavior. Based on diffusion and life-style literature, a number of hypotheses were developed that examined store patronage, form of payment, annual amount spent on apparel purchases, and demographic characteristics in relation to level of fashion leadership. Data used for this study were taken from a larger study, Agriculture Experiment Station Western Region Project W- 175, that was conducted in 1987. From this questionnaire, items that asked about retail store patronage, clothing expenditures, fashion leadership, and demographic characteristics were used for the present study. The sample consisted of 234 adult Oregon women. Subjects were classified as innovative-communicators, medium innovative communicators, or non-innovative communicators based on summed scores from the fashion innovativeness and fashion opinion leadership items from the questionnaire. For statistical analysis, one-way analysis of variance, post-hoc analysis using the Tukey HSD test, and chi-square were performed. The .05 confidence level was selected for claims of statistical significance. Profiles of Oregon women classified as innovative communicators and non-innovative communicators emerged relating to their shopping behavior and demographic characteristics. Women in Oregon who categorized themselves as innovative communicators had a higher household income, spent more money on apparel, always or often purchased their apparel at specialty stores, and sometimes purchased apparel at department stores. Oregon women who categorized themselves as non-innovative communicators had lower household incomes, spent less money on apparel, always or often purchased their apparel at discount stores, and sometimes purchased apparel at department stores. In terms of shopping behavior and demographic characteristics, similarities were found between this sample of innovative communicators and non-innovative communicators and samples previously studied. Innovative communicators and non-innovative communicators among Oregon women were found to be similar to samples previously studied with regard to store patronage, clothing expenditures, and level of income. Innovative communicators and non-innovative communicators in the present sample were also similar to samples previously studied in their use of store credit cards for apparel purchases. Because of these similarities, results on profiles of innovative communicators and non-innovative communicators can be used by retailers in developing marketing strategies to fit their retail establishments. Close

• 30. [Article] Adult 4-H volunteer empowerment in 4-H youth development settings

  The primary purpose of this study was to determine which factors related to adult 4-H volunteer empowerment in 4-H youth development settings. This study examined the relationship of adult 4-H volunteers’ ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Adult 4-H volunteer empowerment in 4-H youth development settings Author: Olsen, Pamela The primary purpose of this study was to determine which factors related to adult 4-H volunteer empowerment in 4-H youth development settings. This study examined the relationship of adult 4-H volunteers’ perceived leadership styles of Oregon 4-H Youth Development Educators (YDE) to the adult 4-H volunteer sense of empowerment. In addition, selected demographic and environmental variables of gender, years in role, alumni background, educational background, leadership training, and level of involvement were examined for their correlation to adult 4-H volunteer sense of empowerment. Bass and Avoilio’s Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (rater form), Spreitzer’s Psychological Empowerment Instrument, and a demographic/ environmental questionnaire were mailed to 498 randomly selected Oregon adult 4-H volunteers. There were 209 responses received for a 42% return rate. Participants were described in terms of their demographics, perceived leadership styles, and sense of psychological empowerment. This study involved multiple variables, including the latent variables of transformational leadership style, transactional leadership style, and empowerment, so structural equation modeling (SEM) was used as the statistical analysis. SEM was able to test various models concerning the interrelationship between each of the independent variables (leadership styles and demographic/ environmental factors) and the dependent variable (empowerment). Preliminary analysis reported adequate Cronbach alpha reliabilities as well as appropriate convergent and discriminant validity. The confirmatory factor analysis with the two leadership style factors revealed a modest fit (CFI=0.846) and the confirmatory factor analysis with the empowerment factors revealed an excellent fit (CFI=0.99). In the structural model, the only demographic/environmental variable to show a significant relationship to empowerment was years in role. The more years a volunteer had been in their leadership role, the more they expressed a sense of empowerment. A significant negative correlation (β= -0.693) was found when comparing transformational leadership style to transactional leadership style, meaning that 4-H YDE who are rated as using transformational leadership are very likely NOT to use transactional leadership. Finally, strong support was found for the hypothesis that transformational leadership style has a significant positive relationship (β= 0.031) to adult 4-H volunteer sense of empowerment. The 4-H YDE who are rated as using transformational leadership are very likely to be empowering adult 4-H volunteers. Title: Adult 4-H volunteer empowerment in 4-H youth development settings Author: Olsen, Pamela The primary purpose of this study was to determine which factors related to adult 4-H volunteer empowerment in 4-H youth development settings. This study examined the relationship of adult 4-H volunteers’ perceived leadership styles of Oregon 4-H Youth Development Educators (YDE) to the adult 4-H volunteer sense of empowerment. In addition, selected demographic and environmental variables of gender, years in role, alumni background, educational background, leadership training, and level of involvement were examined for their correlation to adult 4-H volunteer sense of empowerment. Bass and Avoilio’s Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (rater form), Spreitzer’s Psychological Empowerment Instrument, and a demographic/ environmental questionnaire were mailed to 498 randomly selected Oregon adult 4-H volunteers. There were 209 responses received for a 42% return rate. Participants were described in terms of their demographics, perceived leadership styles, and sense of psychological empowerment. This study involved multiple variables, including the latent variables of transformational leadership style, transactional leadership style, and empowerment, so structural equation modeling (SEM) was used as the statistical analysis. SEM was able to test various models concerning the interrelationship between each of the independent variables (leadership styles and demographic/ environmental factors) and the dependent variable (empowerment). Preliminary analysis reported adequate Cronbach alpha reliabilities as well as appropriate convergent and discriminant validity. The confirmatory factor analysis with the two leadership style factors revealed a modest fit (CFI=0.846) and the confirmatory factor analysis with the empowerment factors revealed an excellent fit (CFI=0.99). In the structural model, the only demographic/environmental variable to show a significant relationship to empowerment was years in role. The more years a volunteer had been in their leadership role, the more they expressed a sense of empowerment. A significant negative correlation (β= -0.693) was found when comparing transformational leadership style to transactional leadership style, meaning that 4-H YDE who are rated as using transformational leadership are very likely NOT to use transactional leadership. Finally, strong support was found for the hypothesis that transformational leadership style has a significant positive relationship (β= 0.031) to adult 4-H volunteer sense of empowerment. The 4-H YDE who are rated as using transformational leadership are very likely to be empowering adult 4-H volunteers. Close