Doctoral Dissertations

Date of Award

12-1995

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Major

Education

Major Professor

Jerry J. Bellon

Committee Members

Don Dickinson, Bob Williams, Rich Saudargas

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate Project B.A.S.I.C., a school-based prevention/mental health promotion program which serves K-3rd grade students. The Child Development Specialist (CDS) conducts the program in the assigned school and is responsible for mental health education, early intervention, teacher consultation, and school climate enhancement. The program has been in the state of Tennessee since 1985, serves 16 schools, and has not been subjected to a formal evaluation.

The program evaluation used both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. The qualitative data collection were conducted through semi-structured interviews. The data sources for the qualitative data collection were 30 interviews with teachers and principals from 6 schools served by Project B.A.S.I.C. Also, data were collected from 8 interviews with 6 CDSs and 2 program administrators. The information from the interviews was subjected to content analysis to determine any themes. The quantitative data collection consisted of 3rd and 4th grade teacher-ratings of students from 6 schools served by Project B.A.S.I.C. and 5 schools not served by Project B.A.S.I.C. The teachers were asked to rate the students on measures of coping, school problems, student competencies, achievement, behavior, and social skills. The quantitative data were subjected to a MANOVA to determine any significant difference between the experimental and control groups. Within the experimental group, students who received individual program services. versus those students who did not, and 3rd and 4th grade students were also subjected to a MANOVA to determine any significant differences.

Qualitative results described the program's purposes, resources, activities, outcomes, and changes needed. The findings were fairly consistent with the program's stated goals and objectives. Quantitative results showed significant differences between the experimental and control groups in skills related to coping, shy and anxious behavior, frustration tolerance, assertiveness, and peer relations. Differences were also demonstrated for students who received individual services. No difference was demonstrated between 3rd and 4th grade students.

A conclusion drawn from the findings was that Project B.A.S.I.C. is having an impact but some modification of the goals is suggested. Other conclusions regarded accounting for any biases, continuing program evaluations, and facing challenges.

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