Abstract
This paper is about the effectiveness of the Accelerated Reader program (AR). The three fundamental components of AR are discussed. The paper presents the findings of research studies and criticisms by educators and parents regarding the effectiveness of AR.

From the Paper
"Developed by Renaissance Learning the Accelerated Reader AR program has become widely used in schools as a literacy tool for encouraging students to read more and increasing their reading comprehension. AR consists of three fundamental components ..."

Tags:Accelerated, Reader, Program

Abstract
This paper discusses the effectiveness of the Accelerated Reader, a computerized, interactive reading practice and assessment computer program in increasing reading scores, especially among high risk students. The paper reviews the Accelerated Reader program and discusses the value of the Accelerated Reader program as well as its limitations. The paper also and includes numerous literature reviews on the Accelerated Reader program.

From the Paper
"One of the claims of the AR creators and marketers is that AR creates long term readers, who are engaged in and excited about learning. The studies I have read, do not suggest or substantiate these claims, in a scientific way. The research in fact gives a good indication that AR is a good supplemental program, but that the extrinsic reward, system in conjunction with non-phonemic instruction and low-level comprehension support make AR an expensive tool with only moderate demonstrative "scientific" success. This is contrary to the preconceived notions about the success of the program, which may have been skewed by the fact that those who make the considerable investment that is required for AR tend to extol its success with students and it has been marketed very heavily in the education system as a cure all for the ills of below grade level readers."

Tags:education

Abstract
One of the main reasons for students dropping out of school is that they have failed to learn to read in primary school. One of the strategies schools have used to correct this problem consists of the methods and procedures of accelerated reading strategies which emphasize research and evaluation, instruction for children, staff development and home-school interaction. The specific problem in this report is of second graders reading below their grade levels. A review of the literature is used to investigate how the various characteristics and components associated with accelerated strategies (Research Base Accelerated Reading instruction, staff development and the home-school connection) operate to increase students' reading levels. Three questions are posed, one related to each of the three listed components and the existing literature is used to answer them.

From the Paper
"McCormick (1999) has stated that training provides teachers with the knowledge needed to help them focus on continuous progress in language skills and shows them how to emphasize problem-solving and teamwork in their instruction. Moreover, proper implementation of staff development with respect to accelerated strategies is said by McCormick to help teachers acquire those characteristics and traits that maximize instruction. Regarding these traits, McCormick states that teachers need to be tough, compassionate, and professional. Furthermore, it is stated that they must have knowledge of how to relate to the particular cultures represented in their students which also requires substantial training."

Tags:McCormick, Department, of, Education, elementary, school

Abstract
The paper discusses the effective school paradigm that is learner-centered and the accelerated school paradigm that continually improves the existing methods of teaching and learning in order to motivate and encourage children to excel. The paper points out, however, that children are very adaptive and their creativity should be stimulated rather than destroyed by a set of rigid rules according to which the school is directed.

Outline:
Effective Schools
Accelerated Schools

From the Paper
"Effective schools focus on the student in his or her capacity as part of a larger community of students. The school is based upon the assumption that all children, regardless of any distinguishing differences, are allowed to participate in learning the curriculum. It is also assumed that each student, regardless of individual differences, is capable of learning the existing curriculum, and will do so."
"This is achieved by a system of team work by all parties involved in the life of the child. The school faculty, administrator, parents and community are involved in a planning and implementation process that is aimed at helping the child to perform. Such team work allows long-range planning for the improvement of the education system via reform or restructuring. The effective school system is also aimed at providing every student with access to the best quality of education."

Tags:teamwork, collaboration, student, achievement, excellence

Abstract
This paper is a personal statement for a student applying to an accelerated nursing program, which also explores the evolving role of the nurse in the health care field. This application emphasizes the the author's personal philosophy of nursing and how this impacts her professional outlook. First, the paper describes a nurse's role to her patients. Then, she describes her own educational background. In particular, the author notes how a Bachelor's degree is considered the bare minimum in terms of education, since nursing requires strong critical thinking skills and leadership. Next, the paper describes how the field of nursing is constantly changing with new technologies being introduced. A general philosophy of nursing is discussed, and noted scholars in this field are quoted. The author concludes by stating that in order to be prepared for future advances in the field of nursing, it is important to gain a broad base of knowledge that is well-founded in theory, which is provided in the BSN program.

Outline:

Personal Philosophy
Nursing Education and Knowledge
Philosophy of Nursing

From the Paper
"Watson asserts that nurses are called "for a philosophy of moral commitment toward protecting human dignity and preserving humanity" (Watson, 4, p. 31 in Kalb & O'Connor-Von, 2007). Moral values are an important aspect of the nursing philosophy. Moral values affect patient care because they have a direct affect on the actions of nurses in professional and personal life. The values that a nurse carries with them to the job influence their job satisfaction, motivation, and commitment to providing quality care to their patients. Moral values differ from society to society and have a cultural aspect. Conflicting moral values can significantly decrease the quality of care provided by the nurse, and can increase the nurse' anxiety and level of burnout. Conflicting moral values can have a devastating affect on the nurse, leading to poor patient care, failure to meet standards and goals, personally stress, anxiety, and burnout. In the worst cases, these factors can lead to resignation and high turnover rates in the nursing profession. Consistency and core values are an important aspect of building longevity in the nursing profession. Nurses must have a solid understanding of the philosophy of nursing and what it means to them."

Tags:job satisfaction, Florence Nightingale, quality care, patients

Abstract
The author of this paper states that, over the past few years, there has been a gradual decline in the reading ability of American children. The writer proposes a research project to examine the benefits that may be gained from an accelerated reading program rather than by conventional teaching methods. After examining the existing situation and outlining the parameters of the proposed research, the writer proceeds to review current literature on the subject. Following the literature review, the writer describes in detail the process of the proposed research.

Outline:
Introduction
Review of Literature
Statement of Problem
Setting and Subjects
Methodology
Test Classroom
Traditional Reading Classroom
Comparison
Expected Findings
Limitations
Discussion
Suggestion for Further Research
References

From the Paper
"Many argue that the venue of fast paced and extrinsic rewards of video learning and technology pass times has created in this generation, and likely the one that will follow it, a different set of expectations for learning. These expectations do not necessarily favor quietly sitting in a room and reading a book, or even quietly sitting in a room full of peers and being read to. Intrinsic desire to read according to some has gone down significantly over the years as kids have become more exceedingly exposed to the modern brand of instant entertainment available in their own living rooms. Educators and enterprising education program suppliers have in turn attempted to add a whole subset of options for the school consumer that reportedly bridge the gap between the modern information society in which we live and the traditional model of learning core skills, such as reading. One of these so called alternative options, is the much touted Accelerated Reader Program, which will be further explained later in this work."

Tags:education, reading, technology, video, substandard, students, class, standards, testing, assessment, librarian, teacher, computer, school, educators

Abstract
This discusses an accelerated distance learning program, a unique idea, which combines two established ideas, accelerated learning skills and distance learning. The author points out that this combination provides a strategy for students to earn their degree in less time, for less money, without having to attend classes on campus. This paper concludes that distance learning is becoming more and more popular because its methodology is drastically improving.

Table of Contents
Presentation Plans
Outline of Presentation
Introduction
Explanation of Accelerated Learning Skills
Distance Learning: A Widely Accepted Program
The Facts about Accelerated Distance Learning Degrees
Cost Effectiveness
Evaluating Instruction
Conclusion

From the Paper
"There are varieties of procedures that can be used to inform the activities of those involved in providing and supporting instruction. In distance education, the separation between teachers and students usually involves instruction or learning experiences being mediated through written or recorded materials. These 'published' materials often remain in the same form for several (or many) cohorts of learners, although some modifications and amendments can be made. In turn, this separation entails the absence of direct verbal and non-verbal feedback from students that is crucial in all teaching. The evaluation of any distance education teaching materials or course of instruction may serve to provide information that can be used during the process of developing or preparing materials or learning experiences, known as formative evaluation procedures (Slide 6), or information about how well the 'finished' instruction has worked in normal use, known as summative evaluation procedures (Slide 7)."

Tags:combination, strategy, degree, time, money

Abstract
"Many view the accelerated globalization of the 1990s and the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) as the decline of the nation-state. As a result, the world has changed and been challenged creating global interdependence and a worldwide economy. Anthropologists have attempted to examine and understand globalization and its affects on culture, societies, and individuals, however, there is much disagreement in the social sciences community as to the homogeneity and fragmentation that may result. What all agree on is that both the United States and Mexico have been impacted by NAFTA that have created transformations in both countries. "

From the Paper
Student's Name Name of Instructor Name of Course March 10, 2008 NAFTA and the Anthropology of Globalization Introduction Many view the accelerated globalization of the 1990s and the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) as the decline of the nation-state. As a result, the world has changed and been challenged creating global interdependence and a worldwide economy. Anthropologists have attempted to

Tags:nafta, trade, globalization

Abstract
This paper explores the underlying themes in two of Douglas Coupland's novels, "Microserfs" and "Generation X: Tales for an Accelerated Culture." The most predominant theme in both works of writing is the fear of death. Coupland uses this fear, as well as others, to aid in the characters' journey of self-discovery. There is a very clear and present need for the characters to find themselves in both of Coupland's observant and self-conscious novels. Coupland identifies immediately, before one can go so far as to open either book, that what is about to be read is a story of a generation different than any other. This paper discusses the plot of both novels while supplying an analysis of the main characters. The characters' witty, philosophical looks on life, death and morality demonstrate their fear of death. This very morbid fear underlies all of the characters in both works of writing.

From the Paper
"Another trait that is identified within the novels, is the need to not have material things. This trait is well established in many of today's pop culture. Coupland observes of our society that those in search of a pure existence cast away material objects and try to live with as little as possible. In Generation X, Coupland's character Andy gave something different to his family for a Christmas present. Instead of purchasing some material, and inevitably never used gift, he made a moment to remember. The day before Christmas, Andy went out and bought hundreds of candles. Christmas morning, before everyone stumbled out of bed and made for the living room to open presents, Andy lit all of his many hundred candles. The room was glowing."

Tags:literature, self, discovery, analysis

Abstract
The paper discusses how, for older students, family and work issues can affect the time they have to study and how they process the information that has been learned during class time. The paper looks at accelerated instructional techniques that older students may need to employ and highlights their benefits in aiding comprehension, performance, communication and interdependence skills.

From the Paper
"Information processing and learning are different for adults (Donaldson & Graham, 1999). Not only do they learn differently, but the way that they process and remember the information that they have learned is also different (Donaldson & Graham, 1999). The main factor, however, is not really the age of the individual, but the experiences that the individual has had throughout their life (Akin-Little & Little, 2004). All of these life experiences are very relevant to how someone learns, and they present challenges that are not commonly seen in younger learners (Donaldson & Graham, 1999). When someone first starts out in college, usually right out of high school, that person is much more likely to be free and unencumbered (Donaldson & Graham, 1999). If they remain free of excessive partying and other pitfalls of the young college student, they often have little to do other than to study (Donaldson & Graham, 1999)."

Tags:instruction, teamwork, comprehension, performance, communication, interdependence