identifier: Doyle, Brendan J. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Doyle=3ABrendan_J=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1978) A study of the status of economics in grade XI as perceived by students and teachers in the Roman Catholic School Board District of St. John's.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The dynamic nature of society today, particularly in the economic realm, has made it impossible to avoid economic considerations in making political decisions at the level of citizenship. The wisdom of our political decisions, then will largely depend on the level of economic literacy of citizens and most of our youth must rely on the high schools for the acquisition of basic economic understanding. -- The major purpose of this study was to investigate the status of Economics in Grade XI as perceived by students and teachers in the Roman Catholic School Board District of St. John's. While the study was limited to one aspect of economic education, the intent was to provide some basis upon which further research could be initiated. -- One thousand and twelve Grade XI students and twenty-four social studies teachers in five high schools received questionnaires that were devised by the researcher. Eight hundred and fifty-one students and twenty-three teachers completed the questionnaires (representing a 84.1 percent and 95.8 percent response respectively). Data from the completed questionnaires were tabulated and processed by the SPSS system of computer programming. Descriptive statistics were used and the results presented in tabular form. -- Analysis of the data concerning students and Economics revealed that, in spite of an apparent absence of much attention to economic education in the schools to date, the subject has been well received by students. Present scheduling and subject grouping practices for academic and general students in the schools serve to limit student enrolment in Economics, especially for the academically oriented students. However, the high level of interest in Economics relative to other subjects, as expressed by those students surveyed, lends support for an expanded program of economic education for all high school students. -- Analysis of the data concerning teachers and Economics clearly indicated that the pre-service level of preparation of social studies teachers for economic education is inadequate, a situation that is further aggravated by the absence of planned in-service activities designed specifically to assist in the teaching of economics. A very large proportion of the teachers surveyed indicated that Economics was not ideally suited for the non-academic student, yet student enrolment in the subject was found to be higher for these students than for academically oriented students. Also, nearly all of the teachers expressed support for the designation of Economics as a compulsory subject for all high school students at some point in their studies. -- The compiling of data for the whole Province similar to that reported in this study was suggested for further research. It was recommended that a comparison be made between students with Grade XI Economics and those without this course to determine if the subject should be prescribed for a greater number of students. Finally, it was recommended that further research be undertaken in the Province to: (1) test the level of economic understanding of all social studies teachers; (2) explore the possibility of offering separate Economics courses for teacher-trainees; (3) evaluate the number of economic concepts contained in social studies textbooks; and (4) identify effective in-service activities for teachers in the field of economic education.


identifier: Neis, Barbara <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Neis=3ABarbara=3A=3A.html>   (1980) A sociological analysis of the factors responsible for the regional distribution of the Fishermen's Protective Union of Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

type: Thesis NonPeerReviewed

format: application/pdf application/pdf

abstract: The Fishermen's Protective Union (1908-1925) was one of the most successful attempts by Newfoundland fishermen to challenge the status quo in the history of the island. With a membership of 20,000 at its peak, the movement achieved unprecedented economic and political victories. However, despite its strength, the FPU never managed to transcend the regional base of its support--the north-east coast. By employing a theoretically-informed analytical framework, a strong, consistent explanation of some of the factors responsible for the uneven pattern of success and failure of the Union can be constructed. -- The FPU is interpreted as a struggle for power between potential partisans of the movement (fishermen) and those groups in authority who attempted to oppose it (merchants and clergy). Regional variations in the relative power of these groups, determined by differences in their level of organization, go a long way toward explaining not only why the FPU succeeded where it did out also, why it failed elsewhere. Analysis suggests that differing structures of underdevelopment influenced both the organization and degree of solidarity of fishermen as well as the ability of the merchant elite to cooperate in attempting to repress the FPU in different parts of Newfoundland. This, combined with unevenness in the strength of the clerical elite, lends support to the view  that in only one region of the island between 1900-1914 were power relations such as to permit the development of strong, sustained support for the movement. That region was the north-east coast, the stronghold of the FPU.


identifier: Benoit, Cecilia <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Benoit=3ACecilia=3A=3A.html>   (1981) The poverty of mothering : a case study of women in a Newfoundland community.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This study explores the position of labouring women in Stephenville, a southwestern Newfoundland community, from 1900 to 1980. It is a case study concerned with the interaction of mothering and women's oppression. The particular focus of the study has been on the implications of rapid urban and industrial development on the lives of rural women. In essence, by exploring the contradictions of mothering in both a rural and urban context, the study attempts to draw attention to the much-neglected area of reproduction within male oriented studies of Newfoundland society. -- The research was carried out mainly by means of tape recorded, informal interviews with Stephenville women from May to September, 1980. The analysis has focused on the qualitative aspects of the oral history gathered and is, therefore, descriptive rather than conclusive in character. -- Part 1 deals with some of the theoretical and historical problems encountered in conceptualizing Newfoundland labouring women. Chapter One concentrates on some of the limits of the existing theoretical perspectives of women's position in Newfoundland society. Chapter Two attempts to fit the experiences of labouring women into the Island's history. -- The second part of the study, the case study itself, has two chapters. Chapter Three examines the lives of rural Stephenville women, from 1900 to the onset of World War II. Chapter Four describes the particular problems of Stephenville women in the past forty years as their community developed into an industrial growth center. -- The overall theme of the study concerns the conjunction of poverty and mothering in Newfoundland society. It is hoped that this study, as a description of a particular community of Newfoundland women, adds an additional dimension to the existing research on social class.


identifier: Mokry, Joseph Edward <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Mokry=3AJoseph_Edward=3A=3A.html>   (1979) A study of some factors affecting blood-feeding, autogeny and fecundity of Simulium vittatum Zetterstedt and Prosilium mixtum Syme and Davies.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The survival of female Simulium vittatum in vials was greater (85%) when males were present than when females were held alone (67%). A preponderance of males, however, resulted in decreased female survival (46%). Sucrose was found to greatly increase the fecundity of autogenous female S. vittatum (265 oocytes / female). Prosimulium mixtum females were more fecund after feeding on human blood than on either duck or goose bloods, 276 oocytes / female and 253 / female, respectively. Human blood was also digested more rapidly by these flies than was avian blood. A blood-meal significantly increased the number of mature oocytes that S. vittatum females developed during the autogenous gonotrophic cycle. It was shown that this blood-meal compensated females for poor larval nutrition. The effects of larval nutrition were correlated with adult female fecundity. Poorly-fed larvae produced small, less fecund females while larvae fed on richer diets yielded females that were larger and produced a greater number of mature oocytes / female. Larger and younger females of S. vittatum fed more avidly than did other females. The relationship of these results to autogeny and black fly behaviour in the field was discussed. Female S. vittatum and P. Mixtum fed well on human blood (73% and 77%, respectively), pig blood (82% and 63%, respectively) and bovine blood (40% and 53%). In addition, P. mixtum fed readily on duck blood (59%). A discussion of host preference based on field observations and the present results examined some aspects of host-seeking as related to feeding preferences. Preliminary experiments were carried out on the effects of light and possible circadian rhythms on the feeding rates of P. mixtum and S. vittatum.


identifier: Hynes, Leonard J.(Leonard Joseph) <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Hynes=3ALeonard_J=2E=28Leonard_Joseph=29=3A=3A.html>   (1982) A follow-up study of the achievement of adult basic education students in pre employment programs in district vocational schools of Newfoundland and Labrador.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This study was designed to investigate the achievement of former adult basic education (ABE) students who were enrolled in pre-employment training programs in the Province's vocational institutions during the 1980-81 and 1981-82 school years. The vocational achievement of these students was compared to that of three other groups of students who occupied these programs: Basic Training for Skill Development (BTSD), General Educational Development (GED), and Regular High School Program (RHSP). -- Percentage scores in Mathematics, English, Science, Trade Theory and Trade Practical represented the basic data used to compare the achievement of the various student groups within vocational school programs and program clusters. Program clusters consisted of trade programs which were grouped according to similarity of content in the various subject areas. -- The achievement of adult basic education students was found to be significantly lower in comparison to the various groups of non-adult-basic-education students on each of the dependent measures. The greatest number and range of achievement discrepancies was found between the adult basic education and the regular high school student groups. Data analysis by program clusters found that adult basic education students were comparable in achievement to the various groups of non-adult basic education students only in the business Education cluster. Data also showed significant differences in vocational achievement between sexes. -- This study recommended that Adult Education personnel undertake an intensive investigation in an effort to determine why their graduates fail to achieve to the level of their counterparts in vocational school programs.


identifier: Tarrant, Barbara Louise <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Tarrant=3ABarbara_Louise=3A=3A.html>   (1978) A developmental comparison of two types of inferential reasoning problems.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: An experimental paradigm was devised to extend and clarify the current literature on transitive inferential reasoning in children. Two analogous forms of reasoning problems--defined as locative sequences and serial orderings--were compared across the age levels of Kindergarten, Grade 2 and Grade 6. A two-alternative forced-choice test assessed performance on inference questions and on memory for the premises from which the inferences were drawn. There were no differences among the three age groups in inferential performance on the locative sequence problems but a marked age trend in performance on the serial ordering problems. However, a significant developmental interaction was not present in the memory question data nor in a separate memory control condition. The different developmental pattern of findings for the two problem types was explained in terms of the difficulty encountered by young children in representing a serially ordered information sequence in memory.


identifier: Jenkins, Lawrence John <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Jenkins=3ALawrence_John=3A=3A.html>   (1980) A report on the development of an instructional unit entitled 'The Labrador floater fishery in the twentieth century'.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The purpose of this study was to develop a unit of instruction on the Labrador floater fishery. The unit is intended to supplement the existing elementary social studies program in Newfoundland schools. In particular, the materials have been developed as a supplementary to the existing Grade Five history text book, Newfoundland and Labrador: A Brief History, by Leslie Harris (1968). -- The unit consists of a student booklet whose contents include copies of original documents; a photocopied magazine article; and a guidebook for teachers. -- Various stages were involved in the development of the study.  An extensive survey was conducted prior to its development. The survey showed that suitable materials do not exist in an instructional format to meet the needs of students and teachers in their study of the Labrador floater fishery. The developer then set about producing instructional materials from primary and secondary sources that would be suitable for use with a Grade Five history class. -- When the materials were developed, specialists evaluated them for content, structure, and quality; teachers and students assess the materials for their teachability and learnability. The recommendations from this formative evaluation led to final revisions and field testing. -- Field testing of the unit was conducted at A.P. Low Elementary School in Labrador City in October and November of 1979. Three teachers and seventy-five students were exposed to the unit for a period of approximately two weeks. -- In determining the effectiveness of the instructional unit as a teaching tool, the developer used two types of measuring instruments: a pretest-posttest method for evaluating the achievement level of the students, and student and teacher attitude questionnaires to determine how students and teachers felt about the materials. The results of the pretest-posttest analysis proved to be very favourable; the responses to the questionnaires were also very favourable. -- In summary, the materials in the instructional unit have been used and evaluated. The assessment by the participating students and teachers have convinced the developer that the unit can be used very effectively to supplement and update the existing social studies program in Newfoundland elementary schools.


identifier: Adams, David Ross <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Adams=3ADavid_Ross=3A=3A.html>   (1977) A comparative study of urban and rural students attending two urban schools on selected attitudinal variables and academic achievement.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: In Newfoundland, there is a widespread practice of transporting students from small rural communities to larger centers to attend school. Most of the junior high schools and senior high schools in St. John's accommodate both urban students and students who commute daily from rural communities within a radius of twenty-five miles from the city. This researcher and other educators have observed that rural students attending these schools generally perform less well academically than their urban peers. -- A strong relationship between academic achievement and educational attitudes has been demonstrated by many researchers. It was the purpose of this study to determine whether the attitudes of rural students were significantly different from those of urban students in the same schools and whether any differences were accompanied by similar differences in academic achievement. -- In an attempt to control for factors other than those uniquely rural or urban, this study included socio-economic status, intelligence, sex, academic program and grade as controlled variables. -- Intelligence was measured by the Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices and the socio-economic status of students was indicated by their fathers' occupations as categorized by the Blishen Scale. Three instruments were used to measure academic self-concept, attitude toward school, and students' perceptions of how teachers view them. Two individual items on each questionnaire were also selected for analysis. By statistical analysis of the data, no significant difference between the 224 rural students and their matched urban peers on any of the attitudinal variables was detected. Academic achievement was assessed by students' results on teacher-made English and Mathematics tests. Again, no significant difference was detected between the English scores of the rural students and the urban students of the sample. The rural students, however, scored significantly higher in Mathematics (p < .05) than the urban students, a finding in complete contradiction to that which was expected. -- The study does not contradict the observations of this researcher and other educators that rural students generally perform less well academically than their urban peers. In fact, this study shows that as subpopulations in the two urban schools, rural students are disproportionally assigned to low academic programs, representing nearly 50 percent of these programs, while they constitute only 15 to 20 percent of the total student populations. It is also shown that students in the low academic programs generally come from lower socio-economic status families than students in other programs. The results of this study indicate, then, that the factors contributing to lower academic achievement are more socio-economic in nature than the student's place or residence. -- Apparently, rural students, when matched individually with urban students on socio-economic status, intelligence, sex, academic program and grade, possess similar educational attitudes and perform academically as well as their urban peers. However, the whole rural subpopulations in the two schools had not attained as high a level of academic achievement as the total school populations and may have possessed more negative attitudes.


identifier: Chafe, Edward-Vincent <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Chafe=3AEdward-Vincent=3A=3A.html>   (1982) A new life on Uncle Sam's farm : Newfoundlanders in Massachusetts, 1846-1859.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: During the 1840's Newfoundland experienced serious economic distress. The cod fishery which sustained most of the island's population was unable to expand fast enough to support the ever increasing numbers. Newfoundland's position was further undermined by the conflagration in 1846 which nearly destroyed its capital, St. John's, and the advent of a seven-year depression in the fishery the following year. Social and political change accompanied the economic distress. The commercially independent outports declined in importance as trade centralized at St. John's. The lack of productive work fuelled sectarian animosity, which in turn, manifested itself in a drive for political control. -- The unstable situation in Newfoundland compelled many of its inhabitants to migrate. Newfoundlanders took passage to many different locations, but of them, Massachusetts appears to have been the prime destination. The state was attractive to migrants because of its geographic proximity, its placement along established shipping routes, and the low overhead required for a movement. Not only did the Commonwealth extend permanent and temporary employment, but it offered work in maritime-related activities. -- The movement from Newfoundland to Massachusetts occurring during the 1840's and 1850's, consisted largely of young, native-born Newfoundlanders. The migration was selective in that a majority of those that left were Irish-Catholic and residents of St. John's. Occupationally the migrants were skilled and continued in their particular livelihoods upon arrival in the state. The move to Massachusetts was calculated and proceeded in stages. A member of the family, usually the father, went down to seek employment and later other family members came to join him. The settlement of Newfoundlanders in Massachusetts was highly concentrated, with the bulk of them settling at three locations, Boston, Newburyport and Gloucester. The homogeneous origins and the clustered distribution of the migrants fostered the transfer of existing kinship groups, which acted to consolidate the Newfoundlanders into distinct communities.


identifier: Brushett, Benjamin <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Brushett=3ABenjamin=3A=3A.html>   (1979) A report on the development of a teacher handbook for the utilization of various instructional materials in the teaching of secondary mathematics.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This report contains a resources handbook written for teachers of secondary mathematics. The project started with a suggestion to the writer by a university professor that a resources handbook for secondary mathematics was needed. The writer, consequently, made a search of the library and all available reference aids to determine what resources handbooks were available to teachers of secondary mathematics. The search indicated that no suitable resources handbook was available. The writer, therefore, decided to write one. -- The contents of the handbook has been divided into eleven chapters. The chapters discuss films, filmstrips, the overhead projector, games, puzzles and recreational problems, projects and models. One chapter is devoted to miscellaneous items. There is an annotated bibliography of recommended books and other aids and a directory of publishers. -- The handbook aims to provide general background information and specific information for each topic discussed. The handbook was evaluated informally while in the process of preparation. This was followed by a formal evaluation using a questionnaire submitted to experienced secondary mathematics teachers. A few additions were made on the basis of suggestions from the formal evaluation. -- The writer recommends that other handbooks be written for secondary mathematics. Such handbooks should, however, be restricted to one or two topics. These topics could then be considered in considerable detail.


identifier: Matthews, Paul Francis <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Matthews=3APaul_Francis=3A=3A.html>   (1980) A study of the administration and organization of extracurricular programming in an Alberta school jurisdiction.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The purpose of this internship was to study the organization and administration of extracurricular programming in an Alberta school setting, with the view of obtaining insights particularly useful to development of extracurricular programs in Newfoundland schools. To achieve this goal, a school district comparable in several respects to those in many areas of Newfoundland was selected. Administrators, teachers, students' council members, and board personnel comprised the investigative sample. Those techniques of data collection utilized were focused interviews, limited interaction observations, and document analysis. Findings were collated and reported under the major areas of concern to extracurricular programming identified in the literature review. -- Major findings and conclusions drawn from the internship included: -- 1. The principal occupies a crucial position within the organizational framework of each school. -- 2. There is no articulated board philosophy or policy regarding extracurricular programming. -- 3. A large portion of extracurricular programs is comprised of varsity and intramural sports. -- 4. Total teacher and administrator participation in extracurricular programs can be accomplished, and can be effective in improving student participation as well as teacher supervision and evaluation. -- 5. Teacher sponsorship is totally voluntary and sufficient numbers of teacher sponsors can be obtained. -- 6. Accurate records of student participation levels are not generally kept. -- 7. Student busing is a major factor limiting student participation in extracurricular activities in the junior high schools, resulting in overloading of facilities--especially during noon hour. -- 8. Student union fees seem to be an excellent and equitable method of obtaining funds for extracurricular activities. -- The study advanced the following recommendations: -- 1. The divergent approaches to extracurricular programming observed among the schools studied suggest possible advantages of board-level direction. -- 2. Students' councils should play a definite role in all aspects of extracurricular organization. -- 3. Contributions to extracurricular activities should be a consideration when determining teacher workloads. -- 4. Relevant inservice training should be provided to those staff members who feel inadequately qualified to sponsor activities. -- 5. An examination of the varsity programs should be conducted in light of educational returns for funds expended in this area. -- 6. School boards should consider the development of a policy regarding school ownership of buses.


identifier: Lake, Martha <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Lake=3AMartha=3A=3A.html>   (1979) Utilization of language experience as a feature of reading readiness.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The primary purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a supplementary language experience approach on kindergarten performance in reading readiness. -- The two main hypotheses explored were: -- 1. There are no significant differences in the level of reading readiness as measured by the Metropolitan Readiness Test (Form P, Level II) between the control group and the experimental group at the conclusion of the investigation after scores are adjusted for pretest differences by an analysis of covariance. -- 2. There are no significant differences in oral language development between the control group and the experimental group as measured by the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test (Form B) at the conclusion of the investigation after scores are adjusted for pretest differences by an analysis of covariance. -- The sample consisted of forty-two kindergarten students from one elementary school under the jurisdiction of the Roman Catholic School Board for St. John's. The test battery for each child consisted of the Metropolitan Readiness Test (Form P, Levels I and II) and the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test (Forms A and B). The Breakthrough to Literacy program was the specific language experience approach utilized. The study began in early October 1978, following pretesting, and continued for a period of six and one-half months, ending on April 30, 1979. -- Results were analyzed statistically by means of an analysis of covariance. In reading readiness, only total raw scores obtained from the sum of all subtests of each Metropolitan Readiness Test (Form P, Levels I and II) were subjected to statistical analysis as the objective of the investigation was to examine overall performance rather than focus on any individual components. In oral language development, as well, the raw scores on the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test (Forms A and B) were utilized for analysis. -- At the .05 level of confidence, statistical analysis revealed that there were no significant differences between the experimental group and the control group in either reading readiness or oral language development. The statistical results, however, provide somewhat limited information due to the small sample size utilized and to the method employed in pretesting and in the formation of the experimental and control group. The investigator's subjective interpretation, having participated in the study for a period of six and one-half months, was that utilization of the Breakthrough to Literacy program for language experience was more suited to a grade one or an advanced kindergarten class.


identifier: Walsh, Marie Camille <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Walsh=3AMarie_Camille=3A=3A.html>   (1983) A study of the effectiveness and efficiency of the Canadian Tests of Basic Skills, grade point average and teacher judgement in the identification of intellectually gifted children.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This study examined the effectiveness and efficiency of three screening devices for the identification of intellectually gifted children. Effectiveness was defined by the percentage of gifted children a device located and efficiency was defined by the ratio between the total number of children it refers for individual examination and the number of gifted children found among those referred. The study evaluated group achievement test results (Canadian Tests of Basic Skills), grade point averages (G.P.A.) and teacher judgements as identifiers of gifted students. The criterion used to identify the intellectually gifted was a Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children - Revised (WISC-R) IQ score of 115 or higher. The WISC-R was tabulated for all Grade 4 students from two St. John's schools who were identified as gifted by one or more of the above-mentioned measures in accord with the following criteria: 1) C.T.B.S. local percentile rank of 84 or higher; 2) G.P.A. percentage of 84% or higher; 3) teacher judgement of four or more nominations. The results of this investigation indicated there were individual differences in the effectiveness and efficiency of the C.T.B.S., G.P.A. and teacher judgement. If one is looking for both effectiveness and efficiency, the C.T.B.S. was the best identifier of gifted children. If the area of concern is efficiency, teacher judgement should be considered, and if effectiveness is the area of concern, G.P.A. should be considered. All three measures used in this study facilitated the identification process. No one approach was sufficient to identify all intellectually gifted children.


identifier: Curran, Christopher Patrick. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Curran=3AChristopher_Patrick=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1977) The psychological presuppostions of political philosophy : Hegel vs. Hobbes.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The doctrine that political philosophy has as its immediate prerequisite a psychology, or science of man, is as old as the Greeks. This study concentrates upon two philosophers who share this doctrine, viz. Hobbes and Hegel. For both these thinkers, though their doctrines vary in form and content, social and political institutions have their roots in and are the manifestation of principles which govern human nature. This study provides an examination of the psychologies of both philosophers; it is argued that Hegel's psychology obviates difficulties present in Hobbes's psychology of biological self-interest and thus that Hegel's psychology provides the more adequate ground for politics. The argument proceeds as follows: -- In chapter one the metaphysical foundations of Hobbes's doctrine are delineated. The manner in which Hobbes uses the principle of motion to elucidate human nature is presented; further, it is shown how, from his account of human nature, he demonstrates the necessity of the commonwealth. It is argued that the psychology which Hobbes provides is mechanico-naturalistic throughout and that it serves as the basis for a doctrine of prudential obligation. -- In chapter two a critical appraisal of Hobbes's doctrine is presented. It is argued (a) that the metaphysical principle which serves as the foundation of Hobbes's psychology is dogmatically naturalistic, and (b) that the politics which Hobbes derives from his account of man is limited by that account. -- In chapter three an examination of Hegel's psychology and politics is provided. The chapter concentrates upon two principles: (a) man as the transcendence of nature, and (b) man as free personality. An examination of both principles is given; it is argued that these principles enable Hegel to ameliorate and overcome difficulties present in Hobbes's doctrine. Hence, it is argued that Hegel's psychology provides the more adequate ground for political philosophy.


identifier: Drodge, Janice Ann <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Drodge=3AJanice_Ann=3A=3A.html>   (1982) A heritage portrayed: nationalist theatre in Newfoundland, 1972-1982.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This thesis concerns the ethnic and nationalist dimensions of alternate theatre in Newfoundland. More specifically, it deals with the strategies by which elements of nationalism and ethnicity (or ethnic identity) are incorporated and transmitted via the medium of theatre. -- The analysis focuses on three St. John's-based theatre companies, namely; The Mummers Troupe, Codco, and Rising Tide Theatre, and covers the time period from 1972 to the present. These groups have been among the most visible and active "conveyors" of ethnic and nationalist sentiments in Newfoundland, to an audience that frequently includes a mainland in addition to a significant local contingent. -- The development of nationalist theatre is examined within the context of the wider "cultural renaissance" commencing in the 1960's, and which resulted in a renewal of emphasis on indigenous and traditional forms of cultural expression such as music, crafts and literature. The socio-economic and cultural roots of both phenomena are investigated in historic and contemporary terms. It is concluded that nationalist theatre evolved in response and in reaction to the perceived loss of cultural pride and identity, and the erosion of traditional values and forms following Newfoundland's union with Canada in 1949. -- As it is the nature of theatre to not only provide entertainment, but to also reflect a society's face to itself in a very immediate and compelling way, it represents a type of artistic expression particularly suited to the above form of inquiry. This is all the more so when the dramatic works themselves convey perspectives and themes indigenous and often unique to their own society and time. In Newfoundland theatre, this is demonstrated in both the dominant and recurring themes found within the plays of the Mummers Troupe, Codco, and Rising Tide Theatre, and in the stated motivations and philosophies of the actors themselves. -- The identity expressed in nationalist theatre is described as an ethnic one and nationalism is interpreted as a response to threatened identity as well as a means by which to re-assert the "sense of peoplehood" or "uniqueness" that distinguishes Newfoundlanders from other Canadians.


identifier: Lane, Watson Wilfred <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Lane=3AWatson_Wilfred=3A=3A.html>   (1980) The parents' conception of the ideal curriculum.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: A study of the survey, “The Eleventh Annual Gallup Poll of the Public’s Attitudes Toward the Public Schools”, conducted by the Gallup Poll in the United States prompted the author’s interest in conducting a similar study of high schools in Newfoundland. After reading “Public Attitudes Towards Education in Newfoundland and Labrador” by P.J. Warren, the writer was convinced that a need for an investigation existed. Whereas both of these studies cover virtually the entire education system, the present study focuses specifically on the program of studies in the high schools of Newfoundland. -- The study was based on the assumption that the curriculum in use in the province’s high schools was the outcome of the labours of professional educators whose own conception of curriculum might often be vastly different from the parents’ conceptions of instructional programming. The intent of the research, then, was to arrange a method of investigation that would provide parents with an opportunity to make known their feelings regarding the high school curriculum in use in Newfoundland schools -- Two methods for collecting data were considered the questionnaire and/or the interview. A combination of both methods was eventually employed. A questionnaire consisting of thirty-five questions was compiled and used as a basis for discussion throughout the interviews. Most questions required a simple “Yes” or “No” answer; however, some questions were open-ended and the responses from parents, in the case of these questions, were duly recorded, categorized and analyzed. -- Time and finances prohibited extending the survey to cover the whole of the province. It was decided, therefore, to choose three areas for survey purposes. One high school, Prince of Wales Collegiate, was chosen to represent the largest city in the province, St. John’s. This area was designated Area I. Because Gander Academy was considered a middle-sized high school, Gander was designated as Area II. Glovertown, Eastport, Dark Cove and Hare Bay areas, where smaller schools were situated, were considered Area III. -- For sampling purposes each area was divided, with the help of the fire chiefs of the various communities, into sections or sub-divisions; North, South, East, Central for example. (A detailed description of sampling procedure is contained in Chapter II). Parents’ names and addresses, obtained from class lists provided by the school principals, were compiled in accordance with each sub-division of the area and a draw was arranged. Thirty names were chosen in Area I, Sixteen in Area II and fourteen in Area III. Following the draw, arrangements were made by telephone for interviews with the parents. -- Although sampling was small and only two School Board districts were included in this study, certain general conclusions that may well reflect the attitudes of parents throughout the province may be drawn. -- 1. The cooperation of parents that was experienced throughout this investigation and the apparent concern expressed by parents during the interviews reflected, it was felt, a genuine desire on the part of parents to be involved in school affairs. -- 2. Parents were conscious of their “exclusion” with regards to the planning and implementation of educations programs in the schools. No one in sixty parents felt that the curriculum in use in Newfoundland high schools intentionally reflected the “wishes of the parent.” If it did reflect, then, it was quite co-incidental. Yet, 78% of parents interviewed expressed a desire to have an input into curriculum planning. -- 3. Although parents were critical of some aspects of the educational system, the study reflected an over-all satisfaction with the curriculum employed in Newfoundland high schools. -- 4. The study reflected the cognizance of parents concerning the urgent need for continuous revisions of the program of studies. It was sensed that parents welcomed the challenge of necessary change. It was concluded that professional curriculum planners need not fear the need for revisions of school programs of study - parents, it would appear, are fully prepared to support innovations. -- 5. There was little or no significant difference recorded between the general attitudes of parents in Areas I, II or III. Neither was there any significant difference recorded between opinions expressed by the two sexes. However, older parents were more inclined to favour the teaching of religion and sticking to the basics than their younger counterparts. -- Although this investigation attempted to focus on curriculum, “teacher performance” was considered by practically every parent interviewed a topic of grave concern. The writer concluded that important as the program of studies may be, the performance of the person who uses it is equally important.


identifier: Murphy, Marylynn <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Murphy=3AMarylynn=3A=3A.html>   (1983) A report of a counseling internship at the Memorial University Counselling Centre, with a report of an assessment of the vocational choice group counseling plan.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This report contains two parts; the first describes an internship of 13 weeks which was completed in the Counselling Centre of Memorial University. The second is the report on a study completed as a part of the internship. -- Part one includes a detailed description of the internship, including its rationale and a list of the goals the intern set out to realize. Also included is a description of the nature of the supervision offered and a listing of the specific activities of the intern. The setting is also described. A discussion of the degree to which the various goals were met is also included. -- Part two describes a research study aimed at assessing the feasibility and suitability (defined in terms of staffing needs and preparation, materials and time costs, setting compatibility and user acceptance) of the Vocational Choice Group Counselling Plan offered by Sprague and Strong (1970). It also offers an example of a possible model which might be used by similar settings seeking to assess the utility and practicality of adopting this or similar service approaches. Based on the use of the Plan with two groups (total N=14), it was concluded that the Plan was useful, feasible and suitable, and that the approach used to asses it might provide a model useful to other centres considering the adoption of this or other similar approaches.


identifier: Brauner, Cheryl Anne. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Brauner=3ACheryl_Anne=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1983) A study of the Newport Folk Festival and the Newport Folk Foundation.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This work examines the motives and intentions, underlying the creation and production of the Newport Folk Festival from 1959 through 1969. It outlines the reasons why and describes the ways in which the directors of the Newport Folk Foundation used income from the festival to support the preservation, presentation, and perpetuation of the folk arts. -- Materials for this study included Newport Folk Foundation board meeting minutes and correspondence, and program books, recordings, and reviews of the festival. Interviews and conversations with former board members, participants, and spectators supplemented the documentary sources. -- The Newport Folk Festival was an important cultural institution that became a model for the organization and production of other folk festivals and public presentations. Throughout its history, the festival was primarily a showcase for pop folk entertainers. However, its directors continually worked to develop presentational strategies that would stress the relationship between artists and their art, in order to illustrate the idea that folk music "grows out of living." -- The spirit of Newport--the belief in appreciating and helping to perpetuate a myriad of expressive traditions--survives in the many projects initiated or supported by the Newport Folk Foundation. Among the foundation's most noteworthy accomplishments were its contributions toward the preservation of the traditional cultures and cultural expressions of blacks living in the Sea Islands off the coast of Georgia and South Carolina, and of Cajuns in southwestern Louisiana. The foundation also contributed to the appreciation and perpetuation of traditional arts by supporting the initial operations of the John Edwards Memorial Foundation and Foxfire, Inc., and providing critical funding for the development of the Jugtown Pottery. Newport-sponsored field research laid the groundwork for a research and presentation program in American subcultures at the Smithsonian Institution. The Smithsonian program, in turn, has become an important resource and model for local and regional folk arts programs around the world.


identifier: MacKinnon, Robert Alexander <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/MacKinnon=3ARobert_Alexander=3A=3A.html>   (1981) The growth of commercial agriculture around St. John's, 1800-1935 : a study of local trade in response to urban demand.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Since World War Two, and particularly since confederation in 1949, the city of St. John's has witnessed considerable change. From a small urban area of about 8,000 families physically encompassing no more than 1½ by ½ miles in 1935, the city has spread deep into the countryside, especially along the old roads out of town. Prior to this recent expansion, the area had been occupied by small family farms, dispersed unevenly along the roads, sometimes for distances of up to ten miles. The roots of this community extend back to the late eighteenth century when the first commercial farms were formed close to St. John's for the explicit purpose of providing fresh food to its inhabitants. Between roughly 1800 and 1840, close to 400 farms were established largely by poor Irish immigrants with some English and a few Scots. -- The natural endowment was anything but encouraging for large scale commercial agriculture. Soils were thin, highly leached, acidic, rocky and usually poorly drained. Cultivating the land was back breaking; it involved clearing scrub timber, removing countless rock fragments and applying large amounts of natural fertilizers to the land. Cool, wet summers and a relatively short growing season made crop types of the old world such as wheat and barley impossible to grow commercially. These conditions were only amenable to pastoral grasses and cool weather arable crops like potatoes, cabbage and turnips. Yet these settlers and their descendants managed to strike deep roots in the area, raising large families from the meagre profits wrested from the land. In the past two or three decades, this traditional farm community has been bulldozed virtually into oblivion. Suburban streets, a university and C.M.H.C. housing now occupy former fields and farmsteads but here and there along the edge of the city a few farmers continue to work the land. -- This thesis is an attempt to reconstruct the evolution and development of this traditional farm settlement from its inception to its dissolution. It focuses particularly on the commercial farm economy, seeking to understand the kinds of trading links that were established between the country and the town. Research involved both archival and field investigation. An assessment of archival sources is contained in a bibliographic note. Field work involved a series of interviews supplemented by a reading of the relict agricultural landscape. Interviews were conducted among thirty older residents who lived in the study area most of their lives. Since the dissolution of the community, however, most have been dislodged from their farms. This created some difficulty in tracing informants. Yet, twenty large and small scale farms were reconstructed in detail, supplemented by several other farms for certain other aspects of the study. Information on the formation and evolution of the farm, its location, size, number of acres improved, crops under cultivation, types of livestock, the farming system and, most importantly, the methods of marketing surplus produce were obtained. This information was coupled with material of a quantitative and documentary nature available in the archives to build up as accurate a picture as possible of the 400 farms which existed during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Wherever possible, sketches, maps and photographs have been used to illustrate aspects of specific farms, as well as spatially delimit the extent of the agrarian hinterland.


identifier: Boutcher, Sonia Wells <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Boutcher=3ASonia_Wells=3A=3A.html>   (1980) Using children's literature to foster language development and to improve the reading ability of primary grade children in a remedial reading class.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This internship was concerned with developing and implementing a literature program to promote the language development and improve the reading ability of seven primary children in a remedial reading class. The program was carried out over a six-month period, during which time the intern met the students four times a week for thirty-minute sessions. -- The students in grades two and three were recommended for remedial help by their classroom teachers because they were experiencing considerable difficulty with reading and exhibiting little facility in the use of language. Most of the students were retarded by one year or more in reading achievement and were reluctant to read. They had difficulty in expressing their ideas orally, and their listening and writing skills were poor. -- The program consisted of read-aloud sessions, with the intern reading good books to the children and the children actively involved in a variety of language activities. Children's own language experiences were used in the language experience approach. The program also included the students' involvement in selection, sharing, and record keeping of the books they read. -- Changes in the students' reading achievement, listening, oral expression, writing, and attitude toward reading provided evidence that the internship had been effective. In reading comprehension the grade two students made an average gain of 0.9 years and the grade three students, 1.4 years. Observations by both the intern and the classroom teachers indicated that the students had improved in their listening, speaking, and writing ability in the regular and remedial classrooms. Attitudes towards reading became more positive.


identifier: Hollett, Linda Darlene <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Hollett=3ALinda_Darlene=3A=3A.html>   (1974) A comparison of academic, psychiatric, physical, social and family characteristics of children attending special classes with a specified group of children attending regular classes of the St. John's education system.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: THE PROBLEM -- The purpose of this study was to compare the academic, psychiatric, physical, social and family characteristics of children attending special classes with children attending special classes with children attending regular classes. In Newfoundland, the special classes were designed for “mentally handicapped” children with intelligence tests scores between 50 - 80. At most 27 percent of the estimated need was being met. -- PROCEDURE -- All the children from three special classes were compared with an equal number of children attending regular classes within the same schools, but experiencing educational difficulty. The groups were equivalent for age, sex and socioeconomic status. -- Information was gathered from the teachers, parents and the children. The instruments used were of known reliability and validity. The teachers completed questionnaires concerning classroom behaviour and health. The parents and children were seen individually without knowledge of the child’s academic placement. The W.I.S.C. and Wide Rage Achievement Test were administered to each child blind. -- RESULTS -- The special class children were found to have a significantly lower intelligence test score than the regular class children, 80.9 as compared with 94. The regular class received higher grade scores in reading and mathematics, while spelling grades were similar in both groups. The special class children demonstrated more educational backwardness than the regular class children but a similar degree of educational retardation as the regular class. Other significant differences included laterality, visual ability and maternal employment. The special class demonstrated increased abnormality in laterality and poorer vision ability than the regular class. The regular class had increased number of mothers working. -- The groups were similar on prevalence of psychiatric disorder, motor task performance, health contacts, hearing, height and weight, social and family characteristics. -- CONCLUSIONS -- The groups were so similar that they were thought to represent collectively an educationally vulnerable group. The need arising from this seems to be for population statistics. Only one third of the special class children fell within the range of intelligence scores (50 - 80) designated as the range of the special classes. In addition the uncorrected visual difficulties and unreported perceptual difficulties were found. This was thought to reflect a need for more comprehensive individual assessment, if adequate and effective remediable measures are to be undertaken.


identifier: Brown, Janice <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Brown=3AJanice=3A=3A.html>   (1975) A re-evaluation of the poetry of Thomas Traherne.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Although Thomas Traherne has been recognized as a significant writer of the seventeenth century, and although his importance as a thinker and a prose writer has been acknowledged, the magnitude of his achievement as a poet has not been adequately appraised. -- This study attempts to reveal the excellent quality of Traherne's poetry by closely examining his versification, his diction and his use of figurative language, aspects of his work which are generally overlooked by the critics. Preliminary consideration is given to biographical data, trends in Traherne criticism, and problems relating to his manuscripts. -- Traherne's versification is the result of careful planning. In his purposeful use of both traditional verse forms and highly patterned stanzas he achieves poetic excellence. The simplicity and limited scope of Traherne's diction is well suited to his style of poetry, and the frequent use of abstract words is essential to his unique communication of spiritual truth. Perhaps the strongest illustration of Traherne's success as a poet is, however, his masterful use of imagery and symbolism. As his poems are studied in sequence his skilful development of image patterns and comprehensive symbols becomes apparent. -- Traherne's relationship to the other metaphysical poets of the seventeenth century is unmistakable, yet he is one of the most independent and individualistic of the entire group. His work is also a part of the mystical tradition in literature, a fact which in no way diminishes the artistic quality of his poetry. -- Throughout this thesis Traherne's poetry is systematically defended against numerous unfounded attacks, which are clearly the result of critical bias or lack of thorough analysis. If the greatness of Traherne's poetic achievement is to be realized, it is imperative that the body of his poems be viewed as an artistic totality.


identifier: O'Flaherty, Frances O'Neill <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/O=27Flaherty=3AFrances_O=27Neill=3A=3A.html>   (1983) A follow-up study of Bachelor of Social Work graduates at Memorial University of Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This quantitative-descriptive study reports data on BSW graduates of Memorial University of Newfoundland, describing their career development since entering the job market. It also assesses the relationships between education/training, job preparedness and employment opportunities in the social welfare field in the province of Newfoundland. The study sample was composed of 205 persons who graduated between May 1970 and May 1982. Data were collected by means of a mailed, self-administered, structured questionnaire over a six-week period in October and November, 1982. -- The review of literature suggested that external influences, e.g., political, economic and/or social conditions, are more likely to determine employment opportunities in the social welfare field than are the types of education/training obtained by graduates. Analyses of the data indicated that the respondents were proportionately younger and more female than graduates from similar BSW programs. A cohort of mature graduates (22%), aged 25 years or older at graduation, were identified as having more social work experience, present employment in administrative/supervisory positions and a better understanding of the coursework component of the programs. The respondents found social work jobs soon (x=1.4 months) after graduation, 80% continue to live and work in Newfoundland and 70% work in cities the size of Corner Brook or larger. Furthermore, only 32% work for provincial departments of social services but 38% are working in hospitals and an additional 10% work in health-related settings. The majority of respondents (66%) were deployed in direct treatment positions, 25% were administrators or supervisors and only 9% were primarily responsible for community organization, research, planning or teaching. The respondents gave a generally positive global assessment of the BSW programs: only 8% found the preparation inadequate. Twenty-six percent were studying for, or had completed subsequent degrees. The finding that 65% belonged to professional or occupation-related organizations reflects positively on the graduates’ sense of professional socialization.


identifier: Pack, Herbert Philip <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Pack=3AHerbert_Philip=3A=3A.html>   (1979) A study of factors affecting enrollment in French in the Senior high school: a comparison of variables of sex, achievement, attitude and motivation of two groups of grade ten students.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: In light of the current decline in French enrollment in Newfoundland high schools, the purpose of the study was to investigate the relationship between a student’s attitudes and his decision to take French or to drop it when given a choice. The variables of sex, achievement and parental encouragement were also examined in relationship to a student’s decision. -- The study took the form of a survey conducted through a written questionnaire. From the Grade 10 population of 636 students in the Avalon North Integrated School District a random sample of 200 students was selected. One hundred of the students were currently enrolled in a French course and the remaining 100 students had chosen not to take French in Grade 10. -- The responses of the two groups of students on the questionnaire were analyzed and compared to determine whether a significant relationship existed between a student’s decision to take French and the variables of sex, achievement, parental encouragement, motivational orientation, attitude towards French people, attitude toward the French course, and attitude toward learning French as a second language. -- The data collected from the questionnaire were analyzed by means of both descriptive and inferential statistics. The t-test for differences between means and the chi-square test of independence were used to compare the responses of the two groups. -- The major findings of the study revealed that there was not a significant relationship between the variables of attitudes toward the French people or motivational orientation and a student’s decision to take French. However, significant relationships were found to exist between the variables of sex, achievement, parental encouragement and attitudes toward learning French. A descriptive analysis also suggested that a student’s attitude toward the French course and French class may affect his decision as to whether or not he takes French. -- The findings suggested that the problem of declining enrollments in French courses is related more to academic problems rather than to social or political factors. Thus, attempts to curb the decline should be focused on the improvement of student attitudes in the area of the French course, the class, the teacher and toward learning French in general.


identifier: Pinsent, Stephen Michael <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Pinsent=3AStephen_Michael=3A=3A.html>   (1980) A report of a counselling internship undertaken at the Memorial University Counselling Centre, with a report of a research study assessing the effectiveness of an assertion training programme.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This report provides a complete and full description of a three-month, full-time counselling internship completed at the Counselling Centre, Memorial University, September - December 1979. It includes a description of the internship setting, a report of a research study undertaken during the period, and goals that were met during the three-month period and the activities that were undertaken to fulfill the internship objectives. A rationale for choosing the internship and the details of intern supervision are also described. -- The internship setting was the Memorial University Counselling Centre. This setting was deemed appropriate by the intern and supervisors because a) the setting was consistent with the intern's career aspirations, b) supervision could be ongoing and comprehensive, and c) there was the opportunity for involvement in a wide variety of professional counselling services. -- Specific internship goals and activities to meet these goals were established with the approval of the intern's supervisory committee. The details of the accomplished professional activities are provided. -- The research study conducted during the internship investigated the efficacy of a six-week Assertion Training Programme with a group of university and college students. Treatment and control group participants were pre-tested with the Rathus Assertiveness Schedule to establish their level of assertiveness. Participants were posttested with the College Self-Expression Scale to determine their level of assertiveness after the six-week training period. The treatment group showed a significantly higher level of assertiveness (p < .01). -- The report makes recommendations for the appropriateness of the internship as a training option for the counsellor training programme.


identifier: Connolly, Larry M. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Connolly=3ALarry_M=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1981) A study of the effectiveness of a teacher developed unit on proof in secondary school geometry.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The purpose of this study was to design, implement and evaluate a unit on proof in geometry, incorporating a review of fundamental concepts, an organizational scheme called a "Dictionary" and some problem-solving strategies that could be applied to proof. Answers were sought to the following questions: Does the use of the instructional unit result in significantly different achievement on an immediate and delayed posttest of concepts and skills? And, is the effect on achievement different for repeaters than for non-repeaters? -- This study was conducted using 54 Grade 10 matriculation geometry students from an all-male regional high school in urban Newfoundland. These students were assigned to one of two treatment conditions. The experimental group was taught a unit on proof using the instructional unit developed for this study, whereas the control group followed the program outlined in the Grade 10 geometry text used in Newfoundland when this study was carried out. Classes were held once a day for a total of 40 class sessions. -- To determine the students' achievement, two tests were administered. The first, the immediate posttest, was given at the end of eight weeks instruction and a 2-period review session. The second, the delayed posttest was given two months later. -- The data were collected and analyzed using a two-factor analysis of variance procedure. The major findings of the study were: (1) There were no significant differences in achievement on the immediate and delayed posttests between treatment groups; (2) non-repeaters scored significantly higher than repeaters on the immediate posttest but not on the delayed posttest; and (3) there was no significant interaction between treatment received and the grade status of students. -- On the basis of these findings, it was concluded that the experimental treatment was no more effective than the textbook approach in promoting higher achievement in geometry at the Grade 10 level.


identifier: Allen, Patricia Marlene <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Allen=3APatricia_Marlene=3A=3A.html>   (1980) The Oxbow Site : chronology and prehistory in northeastern New Brunswick.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Although a brief outline of events can be offered concerning our earlier prehistoric periods, the limited extent and somewhat biased nature of archaeological research in the Maritime provinces is reflected in the lack of an established chronological framework for our most recent prehistoric past. This scarcity of ordered information concerning the "ceramic period" is of major concern as it would appear that the greater number of our maritime sites from this time have already been completely erased by coastal submergence. Prior to attempting to unravel any specific anthropological problems pertaining to this most recent period, regional cultural chronologies must first be worked out. -- During the summer of 1978 excavations were conducted on a deeply stratified multi-component occupation site located in the Miramichi River district of Northeastern New Brunswick. Analysis of the excavated information from the Oxbow site indicates a near continuous ceramic period occupation. Using the techniques of radiocarbon dating, ceramic seriation and stratigraphic examination, a 2800 year old chronological framework based on projectile point types and ceramic attributes, has been established. Although materials from an additional 1979 excavation season have not yet been studied in detail, important 1979 discoveries have been used to fortify the 1978 findings. -- Using the Oxbow chronological framework as a basis for comparison archaeological collections from both the Maritimes and other adjacent Northeastern areas were examined. This spatial and temporal distribution study of projectile point types and ceramic attributes has offered some explanations for the abrupt changes and the trends that are reflected at the Oxbow site. -- Evidence suggests that "Vinette 1" does not begin the ceramic sequence in this area although a full-fledged ceramic utilization has begun prior to 2600 BP. Further, it can be suggested that New Brunswick received two actual population infiltrations from areas to the south and west at approximately 2600 BP and again at 2100 BP. Additionally it has been proposed that the peoples of the most recent infiltration are directly ancestral to the present day native populations of northeastern New Brunswick.


identifier: Rideout, Wayne A. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Rideout=3AWayne_A=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1983) A study of the effects of the Stott flying start learnng-to-learn program on selected measures of school readiness with pre-kindergarten boys.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: It was the  purpose of this study to examine the effect of the Flying Start Learning-to-Learn program on the readiness of pre-kindergarten children. Differences in developmental standing were determined in four groups of children randomly assigned according to Solomon's design. Two groups were taught the Flying Start Learning-to-Learn program prior to the start of the regular kindergarten curriculum. Measures on five dependent variables were taken and were analysed using Anova and Ancova. The results are discussed and interpreted.


identifier: Edmunds, Michael John <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Edmunds=3AMichael_John=3A=3A.html>   (1982) A study of the explanations used by elementary school students in the interpretation of the fraction concept, and addition and subtraction of fractions.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The purpose of this study was to analyze the explanations given by grade six students in their interpretations of the fraction concept and the addition and subtraction of fractions. -- A series of 52 questions dealing with the fraction concept and the addition and subtraction of fractions were developed, tested, and analyzed. Twenty students were randomly selected and were interviewed and audiotaped. The questions included problems at the physical, pictoral and symbolic levels. Questions were presented using both part of a set interpretation of a fraction and part of a whole interpretation of a fraction. The questions used in the study were of two different types. Type 1 questions were of the form where the number in the set was the same as the denominator. Type 2 questions were of the form where the number in the set was a multiple of the denominator. -- An analysis was carried out to determine the interpretations of the fraction concept and the addition and subtraction of fractions. Where incorrect interpretations were found, they were analyzed to hypothesize their nature and cause. -- There were very few incorrect interpretations of the fraction concept and the addition and subtraction of fractions when the students were given Type 1 questions. The only consistent incorrect interpretation was that three students explained the fraction in terms of a relationship between the parts of a set rather than as a relationship between the parts and the total number in the set. -- There were many incorrect interpretations of the fraction concept and the addition and subtraction of fractions when the students were given the Type 2 questions. The most commonly used incorrect interpretation was an attempt by the students to reduce the Type 2 questions to Type 1 questions. The students explained their procedures as if the questions were Type 1. -- There were very few computational errors made by the students and therefore it was pointless to determine if the errors were systematic. -- The incorrect interpretations were not found to by systematic. Students gave consistent incorrect interpretations to particular questions but they were not consistent in using the same incorrect interpretations for all the questions.


identifier: King, Hedley Winston. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/King=3AHedley_Winston=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1976) A study of some factors affecting normal output rate and percentage yield of filleting cod.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The purpose of this study was to investigate some factors affecting the normal output rate and percentage yield of filleting cod. The man-machine relationships chosen for inclusion in the study included the effect of overall fish length upon the normal output rate and yield of filleting, the effect of the experience of the filleter upon each of the aforementioned factors, the effect of work table layout upon filleting rate and the effect of cutting time upon percentage yield. -- The aforementioned study was carried out at a small fish processing plant utilizing five filleters randomly selected from the work force. These filleters were asked to fillet boxes of gut-in codfish, of various size categories, the performance rating and weight of the fillets produced being recorded. From these results the normal input, output and percentage yield was calculated. -- An analysis of the results of this study showed: -- 1.  A linear relationship between input, as pounds per hour, and length, input rate increased as the length increased. -- 2. A linear relationship between input, as fish per hour, and length, the time required to fillet a fish increased as the length increased. -- 3. A linear relationship between output and length, the quantity of fillet produced increased as the length increased. -- 4. Little or no relationship between percentage yield and length. -- 5. The indication of a correlation between speed and yield for two of the four filleters used in the study. -- 6. A reduction in (a) unproductive activities (33 percent reduction in time taken for the get fish motion, 19 percent for the place fillet motions), and (b) the number of eye fixiations (22 percent reduction in time) by conversion from a group to an individual work place filleting table. However, the aforementioned conversion would introduce certain non- productive miscellaneous activities (get box of fish, get fillet pan, place empty fish box, place pan of fillets) into the filleting cycle, said activities taking up to 30 - 36 seconds between the filleting of each box of fish (4 to 18 percent, depending on the size of the fish, of the total cycle time per box of fish filleted).


identifier: Ford, Augusta Bonita <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Ford=3AAugusta_Bonita=3A=3A.html>   (1981) The Sisters of Mercy in Newfoundland : their contribution to business education.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The purpose of this study was to trace the work of the sisters of Mercy in Newfoundland in the field of business education. The Sisters began their work in the late 1800’s, when they first introduced business education courses into the curriculum of their convent schools. Their work continued until the mid-1900’s, when they began phasing out the formal business education programs which they had developed over the years in their schools. Their activities in this area constitute an important and lasting contribution to the field of business education. There has been no previous in-depth scholarly investigation into this aspect of the Sisters’ work. Therefore, a study of the Sisters’ contribution to this field is long overdue. -- The first part of this study provides historical background of the Sisters of Mercy, the establishment of the early convent schools in Newfoundland, and the introduction of business education subjects into the curriculum of these schools. -- The second part of the study deals with the opening of Commercial Departments at several of the Sisters’ schools and colleges around the Island, the development of comprehensive business education programs in these departments, and the introduction and development of business education programs at convent schools where Commercial Departments  were not established. -- The Sisters of Mercy in Newfoundland started their business training at a time when business education was in its infancy and when the field of employment for women. The foresight, energy, and determination of the early Sisters won the respect of educators and business people across Newfoundland. An, the outstanding achievements of so many of their students won for the institutions they represented a recognized place not only in the educational and business circles of the Island but also in international business education competitions. -- In the late 1950’s and early 1960’s, many schools and colleges in Newfoundland began closing down their Commercial Departments or phasing out their business education classes. The convent schools and colleges operated by the Sisters of Mercy were among this group. New educational institutions such as Holy Heart of Mary Regional High School for girls and The College of Trades and Technology in St. John’s, along with the District Vocational Schools across the Island, now took up the task of preparing the youth of Newfoundland for the world of business. -- By the time the Sisters were ready to concede the responsibility for business training to the new institutions, they had already helped to raise business education from a small cluster of basic skills courses to a highly sophisticated field of learning for young men and women. In addition, the Sisters had trained for the business communities of the Island thousands of qualified typists, stenographers, and bookkeepers. In so doing, they had given well over half a century of dedicated service to the field of business education in Newfoundland.


identifier: Perry, Gary R. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Perry=3AGary_R=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1981) A study of the effects of culturally relevant content on reading comprehension.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The primary purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of content relevancy on reading comprehension scores. Secondary concerns were an examination of the effects of reading difficulty and sex of subjects on comprehension scores. To test the effects of these variables the writer developed an Informal Reading Inventory (IRI) incorporating culturally relevant content and culturally non-relevant content at three readability levels. -- Passages for the IRI were selected from reading material used at the junior high school level in the province of Newfoundland. Passages at readability levels three, five, and seven, as determined by the Fry Readability Graph, were included for each type of content. Each passage was followed by multiple-choice questions designed to measure reading comprehension. -- The sample consisted of 394 seventh grade students enrolled with the Terra Nova Integrated School Board; whole classes, irrespective of ability, were included in the study. Tests were administered by classroom teachers who volunteered to participate. Testing was done within a four-week period during the fall term of the 1980-81 schoolyear. -- Mean scores of subjects were calculated and a number of comparisons were made to assess the effects of the content, readability, and sex variables. The findings indicated that, at readability level three, indigenous materials enhanced the degree to which subjects comprehended the reading material. At other levels the subjects generally read at or near the frustration level. The findings further indicated that readability level of content and sex of subjects do not differentially affect reading comprehension scores.


identifier: Kariel, Nancy Louise <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Kariel=3ANancy_Louise=3A=3A.html>   (1982) Translation of mRNA and synthesis of basic proteins early during rat liver regeneration.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The regenerating rat liver, model for rapid, controlled growth in a mammalian system, was used to investigate molecular events occurring during a transition in growth-rate. This investigation focused on mRNA translation during the early phase of liver regeneration following partial hepatectomy. -- The study included examination of: 1) the translation of polysomal (polyribosomal) mRNA; 2) the possible presence of a polysome-associated factor for stimulating or inhibiting initiation frequency or translation rate; and 3) the synthesis of basic proteins (primarily histones and some ribosomal proteins) during the first 10 h of regeneration. Intact polysomes were isolated, an in vitro translation assay for use with rat liver polysomes (instead of purified mRNA) as template was developed, and a criterion for operationally defining basic proteins was determined. Polysome-associated mRNA, isolated by centrifugation through a discontinuous sucrose gradient, was translated in a wheat germ in vitro translation system; and the translation products were fractionated on a carboxymethyl-cellulose column to quantitate basic proteins. -- It was shown that: 1) the A₂₆₀ polysomes/g liver, an estimate of the quantity of mRNA/g liver, is maximal between 7 and 8 h after partial hepatectomy; 2) an active, polysome-associated factor which influences initiation frequency or translation rate is undetectable; and 3) the peak rate of basic protein systhesis does not occur within the first 10 h postoperatively and thus does not coincide with the peak of polysome content. The peak rate of basic protein synthesis appeared to be much less than that reported in uncontrolled, rapidly growing Ehrlich ascites tumor cells. The results are compatible with the findings of others concerning a) DNA transcription; b) mRNA synthesis, transport, and translation; c) ribosomal protein and histone synthesis early during rat liver regeneration; and d) the absence of a detectable, endogenous, initiation frequency or translation rate-stimulating or inhibiting factor. -- A review of the literature on DNA template activity and on ribosomal proteins and histones and their synthesis following partial hepatectomy in the rat is also included.


identifier: Howard, Phyllis Rosemary. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Howard=3APhyllis_Rosemary=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1976) A study of vocational guidance services in selected high schools in St. John's, Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Because little documented information was available to Newfoundland educators on the nature of the career guidance services offered in high schools throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, this study was undertaken to determine the types of career guidance services offered in senior high schools within the St. John's Roman Catholic School District and the Avalon Consolidated School District in St. John's, the response of the grade eleven students enrolled in schools in these districts to the career guidance services available in their respective high schools, and the impact these services had on the students' career decision-making. -- Data were collected by means of a "Counselor's Check List" designed to obtain information on the types of career guidance services offered in the senior high schools and a "Student's Questionnaire" designed to determine grade eleven students' response to the career guidance services available in their respective high schools. Approximately sixteen percent of the male and female grade eleven population in each of the schools studied completed this questionnaire. -- Analysis of this data indicated that all of the schools studied, with the exception of one, offered a fairly large variety of opportunities designed to facilitate vocational development. Grade eleven students made, during high school, fairly extensive use of the career guidance services available in their schools. The results of this study suggest that the career guidance programs operating in high schools in St. John's had an impact on students' career decision-making.


identifier: Calcutt, Helen Colleen <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Calcutt=3AHelen_Colleen=3A=3A.html>   (1979) A report on the development of a suggested activities program to teach library skills to students in grades four, five and six.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The major purpose of this project was to develop a viable activities program to successfully teach library skills. Specifically, these activities would be so designed as to give students of Grades four, five and six a chance to participate in the learning process. -- To determine the extent of need for the program, letters and questionnaires were sent to Consultants and Librarians presently working within the Newfoundland school system. The answers received exhibited a positive response to the development of a handbook of activities. -- To ascertain what activities would be developed, the continuum of skills issued by the Department of Education for the Province of Newfoundland was employed. The listing of skills was studied and applicable activities found and/or devised using professional resources. These resources included published handbooks, journals and manuals relating to the activities approach to teaching skills. -- An Informal Evaluation was undertaken to obtain constructive criticism and comments on the format, content and organization of the handbook. This was completed by four evaluators and corrections were made. -- A formal Evaluation was done by ten librarians on the finished handbook. Minor revision and corrections were made on the basis of their responses. -- Finally, the overall response to the handbook revealed a definite need for a program which would give trained and untrained teachers and/or librarians a successful method for library instruction.


identifier: Selig, Peter George <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Selig=3APeter_George=3A=3A.html>   (1978) A comparison of the effects of interval and continuous training programs on the proportion of red, white and intermediate muscle fibers of the medial gastrocnemius of rats.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Previous studies have shown that the proportions of red and white fibers in a muscle can be altered following continuous and interval training. Succinic dehydrogenase and reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide diaphorase activity was studied histochemically to analyse the changes taking place in the fiber proportions. -- Male albino rats were subjected to interval and continuous training programs at 60% and 50% levels of minimal activity over a seven week period. The intervals were 110 seconds in length. The number of intervals swum and the  length of continuous swim periods was determined every sixth training day by swimming the animals to exhaustion and then taking 60% and 50% of the maximum swim times to exhaustion. This gave the number of intervals and the length of the continuous swim periods to be used during the next five training days. -- After seven weeks of training the medial gastrocnemius of the left leg was excised and stained to sow succinic dehydrogenase and reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide diaphorase activity. Microphotographs were taken of cross-sections of the medial red and peripheral white regions of the gastrocnemius. The proportion of red, white and intermediate fibers in each region was determined. -- It was found that a significant increase in red fibers and a significant decrease in white fibers occurred in both regions when the exercise groups were compared to the control group. No significant difference was found in the fiber proportions when the 60% and 50% interval groups were compared. -- In comparing the combined interval and the combined continuous groups it was found that interval training caused a significantly greater increase in red fibers and decrease in white fibers than the continuous training. This would indicate that interval training was the better method of training for developing the aerobic capacity of the muscle at the cellular level.


identifier: Harnett, A. John. <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Harnett=3AA=2E_John=2E=3A=3A.html>   (1977) A study of adjustment problems of first year students at Memorial University of Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: The purpose of this investigation was to discover whether there were differences in the adjustment of freshmen to Memorial University of Newfoundland during the first semester of studies in terms of overall adjustment, specific problem areas and differences in adjustment between rural and urban students. -- One hundred and thirty-six urban, and 137 rural students were tested in this investigation. These students were randomly enrolled in an Introductory Psychology course during the 1973-74 academic year at Memorial University. Once a week for each of the twelve weeks of the first semester, a different class was administered the Mooney Problem Check List (MPCL) in order to discover the problems which the freshmen experienced throughout the semester. -- The results of the MPCL were then analyzed in an attempt to answer each research question. To determine whether there were differences in adjustment over the semester, the total number of problems indicated was plotted on a graph and discussed. In order to discover whether there were some specific areas giving more problems than most, the scores for each area were plotted and those which appeared higher than the majority were discussed. Finally, to determine whether there were differences in adjustment between urban and rural students, a T-test was performed on the scores for each subscale of the MPCL for each week. -- The results obtained indicated there were differences in adjustment over the semester with weeks 1 through 4 showing an increasing number of problems, weeks 5 through 8 a relatively stable number of problems, week 9 showing a drop, and weeks 10 through 12 showing an increase, with week 12 showing the largest number of problems. At different times throughout the semester a number of problem areas were more predominant than others, the most notable being (1) Social and Recreational Activities, and (2) Adjustment to College Work. When urban and rural students were compared, a relatively large number of significant differences were found; however, the only consistent finding which appeared was that urban students almost always indicated more problems than rural students. -- The conclusion was that there were differences in adjustment throughout the semester generally and in specific areas; and, where significant differences existed, urban students scored higher.


identifier: Hollohan, Brendan Thomas <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Hollohan=3ABrendan_Thomas=3A=3A.html>   (1982) A numerical taxonomic study of cold ocean marine bacteria from the northwest Atlantic near Newfoundland.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: One hundred and forty bacterial strains were isolated from two sources, giant scallop (Placopecten magellanicus) and seaweed (Alaria esculenta). The isolations from the seaweed were made on three successive occasions during the natural degradation of the fronds. Nine type strains from the genera Vibrio, Pseudomonas, Alteromonas, and Photobacterium were also included. Approximately 150 characterization tests were scored for each strain. All of the cold ocean strains were gram-negative, motile rods and required Na⁺ for growth. Approximately 60% were fermentative. The results of 112 tests were explored using cluster analysis and a variety of methods yielded six robust clusters. These clusters conformed largely to source of strains. The strains from A. esculenta clustered separately from those isolated from P. magellanicus. To some extent the clusters could be further distinguished as containing either oxidative or fermentative strains and, in the case of the seaweed isolates, by time of isolation, i.e., early or later in the degradation process. Tests which discriminated each cluster were identified. The predominant bacteria isolated were from the genera Vibrio, Pseudomonas and Alteromonas. Although some of the strains could be identified at the species level other could not. The latter strains may represent new species of marine bacteria.


identifier: Furlong-Bass, Marie <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Furlong-Bass=3AMarie=3A=3A.html>   (1982) A study of a group of illiterate adults in rural Newfoundland and their participation in adult literacy programs.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: This study was designed to investigate a number of selected personal, familial, educational, socio-economic and attitudinal attributes of 78 adult illiterates from 14 rural communities in the Northern Peninsula of Newfoundland and Labrador. Another purpose was to compare those adult illiterates in the study who verbally indicated a willingness to participate in a literacy training program with those who indicated no willingness to participate in the 14 independent variables. These are listed below: -- age - source of income -- sex - source of spouse's income -- marital status - mother's education -- size of family - father's education -- number of dependents - self-concept -- educational level - ideal self-concept -- grade equivalent to TABE score - locus of control -- The data were collected by using a structured interview protocol which consisted of 107 questions. These questions were administered in face-to-face interviews following the structured format and each interview was tape recorded to insure maximum accuracy in recording the date. The information thus gathered was treated as quantitative and qualitative measures, each composing a different section of this study. -- Analysis revealed significant correlations between age and locus of control variables with willingness to participate in a literacy training program. It was discovered that most of the adult illiterates in this study are internally oriented, are more likely to feel that they can control their own destinies, and are relatively self-confident. It was also found that the more internally oriented adult illiterates are, the more inclined they are to participate in a literacy training program. The analysis further revealed that the younger the adult illiterates are, the more inclined they would be to participate in a literacy training program. It was discovered, however, that no significant correlation exists between the remaining 13 independent variables and the independent variable--willingness to participate in a Literacy Training Program (LTP). These variables provided substantial data as descriptors in providing a general profile of adult illiterates in rural Newfoundland and Labrador. -- The qualitative analysis disclosed in Chapter 5 reveals that even though some diversity of opinions exist, most adult illiterates perceived having literacy skills as one of their felt needs for the future. This need for greater literacy skills was almost always coupled with more hope for the future in terms of: -- 1. more economic security, resulting from more job opportunities and better money; -- 2. a more challenging addition to their already experienced field of work; for example, a fisherman may be working as a Steward on a boat while he desires to be more knowledgeable about navigation; -- 3. a more interesting life style; some adult illiterates felt that their freedom to travel, to meet and maintain friendships outside their homes and communities are stifled because of illiteracy. They felt that literacy would eliminate such problems. -- 4. no penalties as a result of illiteracy; the data revealed that there are penalties associated with illiteracy. One such penalty, for example, is expressed by one person who felt that relationships with peer groups, spouse, children, siblings, and/or grandparents are not as healthy as they could be because of not being able to read and write. -- 5. no stigma because of illiteracy; the descriptive analysis revealed that adult illiterates are aware of the stigma commonly associated with illiteracy. Their happiness and peace of mind is hampered somewhat because of this stigma even though some of them may have achieved as much or more in the work world, for example, as their more educated neighbour. -- This study concludes with recommendations regarding future research and the possible implications of the findings for the planning of adult literacy programs.


identifier: Gillespie, Bill <https://research.library.mun.ca/view/creator_az/Gillespie=3ABill=3A=3A.html>   (1980) A history of the Newfoundland Federation of Labour, 1936-1963.  Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

abstract: Throughout its history the Newfoundland Federation of Labour has pursued two primary goals - to spread trade union organization and to lobby government to adopt legislation favourable to the interests of working people. The degree to which the Federation has been successful has depended upon the quality and dedication of its leadership, economic conditions and the willingness of government to be influenced. An unstable, rural economy delayed the emergence of a Newfoundland Labour Movement until the mid-1930s. Once it did emerge, however, Newfoundland workers responded enthusiastically. The NFL's founding meeting in 1937 at Grand Falls was followed by a country-wide organizing drive. Despite a six year lull caused by World War II, by the late 1940s the Newfoundland labour force was the most highly operated in North America. Unlike their counterparts in Britain, however, Newfoundland trade unionists were unable to translate their numerical strength into political power. The explanation lies in a combination of the NFL's relationship to sections of the North American Labour Movement opposed to direct political action, divisions within the Newfoundland Labour Movement, and a set of political circumstances unique to Newfoundland. -- Although the NFL was a national labour central until Confederation with Canada in 1949, it was dominated by unions affiliated to the American Federation of Labour. The AFL's opposition to direct political action is well documented. However, in a country with strong ties to Great Britain the success of the British Labour Party provided an alternate model. Even so, there were only two serious attempts between 1937 and 1963 to emulate British practice. For the most part the NFL was less "political" than even the AFL. Initially this was because from 1933 to 1949 Newfoundland was governed by a commission of civil servants appointed by Britain. In a country without a system of electoral politics, direct political action did not seem a pressing concern. When electoral politics were restored and J.R. Smallwood became premier of Canada's tenth province, Smallwood granted the NFL almost every request it made for legislative reform. As a result the NFL saw no need to develop an independent political base in order to guarantee its influence with government. The fault with this approach was demonstrated during the IWA Strike of 1959. Smallwood suddenly turned against the Federation and without a political base of its own the NFL was powerless to protect the interests of Labour. Smallwood's subsequent attacks on the NFL sent it into a ten year period of decline; however, it is the thesis of this dissertation that the NFL's failure to give sufficient weight to the changed environment brought about by the return to electoral politics was as much the cause of its decline as any external factor.