Conceptualizing character from a relational developmental systems metatheory, this study utilizes a person- oriented approach to examine profiles of character strengths in children and adolescents. Using Q sort methodology, 90 youth (Mage = 13.0, 51% female) sorted 12 character strengths based on how much each strength represented them. Using Q…

The development of civically engaged citizens is vital for democratic societies. Although several studies have explored children and adolescents' conceptualizations of civic engagement, less is known about youths' understanding of the individual skills and attributes best suited for civic action. The current study utilized a Q-sort methodology to…

California allocates $550 million to expanded learning through After School Education and Safety (ASES) state grants, and $140 million of federal money in 21st Century Community Learning Center grants each year; more than all other states combined. Much variability exists in program quality, and research has identified mixed results as to the…

California secondary agriculture teachers (n=23) participated in a Q-method study. Three predominant beliefs about their work emerged from factor analysis: a view of teachers as Activity Coaches (emphasizing Future Farmers of America/supervised agricultural experience), Academic Teachers (meeting student needs through classroom instruction), or…

To assess the junior college role in electronic data processing (EDP) programs, under current training conditions in computer-related jobs, this study examined (1) job classifications in business data processing, the importance of math, accounting, and statistics to the job, the educational level of EDP employees, and the ideal programmer; (2) EDP…

The purpose of this qualitative study done in 2003 was to determine which factors motivated the adult learners who were employed full time to pursue and complete a college degree at a Southern California university complex. Using a structured survey which included Q-Sort and Likert Scale methodologies followed by in-depth interviews, the study's…

AFFECTIVE BEHAVIOR TESTING INSTRUMENTS KNOWN AS Q-SORTS WERE DEMONSTRATED IN A COMPUTER-ORIENTED APPROACH TO THE ASSESSMENT OF PERSONAL TRAITS, VALVE SYSTEMS, AND SELF-CONCEPTS OF THE ROLE OF A TEACHER. DURING TWO SEMESTERS, Q-SORTS WERE ADMINISTERED TO 351 STUDENT TEACHERS, BEGINNING ELEMENTARY TEACHERS, AND MASTER TEACHERS IN EIGHT GROUPS.…