Qmb 5355 - the Influences on Fcat Score

The Influences on FCAT Scores

By

Carlos Linares

Donald Martin

Alfred Mayer

Cheryl Murray

Angela Pease

Jason Price

Kevin Sanders

Gwen Shaw

For

QMB 5355 Quantitative Methods

Dr. Wallace Ritter

Abstract - Gwen

This paper uses data obtained from various sources to observe the affect that teacher salary, household income, unemployment rate, and minority percentage has on FCAT scores. It was hypothesized that these variables have an effect on the dependent variable: FCAT scores. "Regression analysis (my suggestion group has to decide) was implemented to test for significance among the independent variables. This information was then analyzed and discussed.

Research Questions and Objectives - Cheryl

Many studies have been performed regarding student performances. These studies have included factors such as ethnicity, family background, extra-curricular activity involvement, students of divorced parents, and income, among others. Student performance is calculated in a variety of ways such as: SAT scores, ACT scores, grade point average, AP exams, CLAST tests and CLEP tests. In 1998 the Florida Department of Education required students to pass the FCAT, the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test, before graduating.

The purpose of this paper is to identify a link between teacher salaries in Florida, the socioeconomic status of Florida students and FCAT scores. It has been held that money is a motivating factor. If so, it can be deduced that teachers who are compensated more, provide a better education for their students. This study attempts to bridge the gap between teacher salary and FCAT performance. Research has also been done on the issue of socioeconomic status affecting student performance. This paper also attempts to define a link between socioeconomic status and FCAT score by using unemployment rate, average household income, and minority percentage, as independent variables.

Overview of Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) - Cheryl

The FCAT is a test given to Florida students to measure what they know and are able to accomplish in reading, writing, mathematics, and science. The test is part of Florida's plan to improve student