Masters Theses

Date of Award

8-2001

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Major

Agriculture and Extension Education

Major Professor

Randol G. Waters

Committee Members

Dr. Rich Polling, Martha Jo Tolley, Peggy Adkins

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the correlation between schools’ level of involvement in CHARACTER COUNTS! activities and the desired behaviors of elementary school students in Sullivan County, Tennessee. General perceptions of educators and administrators about the CHARACTER COUNTS! program were collected from 328 respondents from 27 public elementary schools, and a profile of school involvement in CHARACTER COUNTS! activities was developed for schools with the best student behavior.

While it cannot be stated that CHARACTER COUNTS! caused changes in behavior, this study revealed a substantial positive correlation (P=.64) between school involvement in CHARACTER COUNTS! activities and desired student behaviors perceived by elementary school educators and administrators.

Findings also revealed that 95.2% of respondents agreed (38.3%) or strongly agreed (56.9%) that character education is an important part of their work, and more than 80% of respondents believe CHARACTER COUNTS! is an effective program. Respondents also agreed (35.3%) or strongly agreed (4.4%) with the statement, "I have fewer discipline problems because of CHARACTER COUNTS!."

Recommendations for primary strategies for school efforts in developing a CHARACTER COUNTS! program are provided as well as recommendations for further research.

Download
Files over 3MB may be slow to open. For best results, right-click and select "save as..."

Share

COinS