Karen Baker Books

Focusing on the integration of technology in education, this study explores the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) initiative in New Zealand secondary schools. It emphasizes the need for a personalized, student-centered approach and highlights the challenges educators face in implementing effective change that aligns with institutional goals. Key implications include the necessity for a clear plan and vision, adequate infrastructure, and data management systems to track behaviors and inform decisions about the effectiveness of BYOD policies and interventions.

Exploring the lives of various indigenous and marginalized communities around the globe, this book uncovers the rich cultures, traditions, and histories of hidden peoples. It delves into their unique ways of life, challenges they face in modern society, and the efforts to preserve their identities. Through vivid storytelling and insightful analysis, readers gain a deeper understanding of these often-overlooked groups and the importance of cultural diversity in our interconnected world.

The study investigates how cognitive coaching impacts Initially Licensed Teachers (ILT), focusing on self-efficacy and retention in education. Utilizing Bandura's Teacher Self Efficacy Scale and a Teacher Intentions Survey, the research finds a correlation between ILTs' self-efficacy and their mentors' coaching knowledge, despite challenges in data validity. A follow-up focus group highlights ILTs' appreciation for cognitive coaching while expressing concerns about the demands of mandated meetings and paperwork, revealing a complex relationship between support and administrative burdens.

The book explores the intricate belief system of the Mandaeans, a Gnostic sect native to Iraq and Iran, highlighting their centuries-old traditions that are now facing significant challenges. It sheds light on their unique practices and the cultural heritage that has largely remained hidden from the world, revealing the struggles they face in preserving their identity amidst modern pressures.