Digital Commons Network^™

Cultivating Workplace Creativity: A Qualitative Case Study Of Leader Perceptions And Practices, Karen Davis Platt

Doctorate in Education

Creativity is vital to corporate success in a global economy and contributes to employee work satisfaction. Grounded in constructivism, this dissertation advances arguments regarding how organizational policies and leader practices can support workplace creativity. The purpose of this qualitative case study was to gather insights into leaders’ perceptions of how creativity is fostered in the workplace and develop recommendations to support knowledge industry leaders in cultivating creativity. Findings are based on 10 semi-structured interviews from leaders in one large, knowledge industry corporation headquartered in the United States' mid-Atlantic region. Leaders shared their beliefs and experiences related to creativity in the …

Strategies To Enhance Effectiveness Of School Boards In Governance, Brian Gersich

Doctorate in Education

School boards and superintendents play an important role, providing oversight of the educational services for students in a community. This study sought to understand how public school boards govern a district with their respective superintendents, including if and how this may be evolving. Through this research, I wanted to contribute to the discussion around effective school district governance and management with modernized challenges including an increased focus on social and community cultural issues and the post-pandemic era.

This qualitative study involved interviews with ten school board members currently serving in districts from the Southwest Twin Cities area. Findings indicate the …

Recovery Perceptions And Techniques Of Ultramarathon Runners, Denise Howard

Doctorate in Kinesiology

Ultramarathons have become increasingly popular over the last few decades. Ultramarathons are run on various terrains in different climates and are extremely distressing physiologically and psychologically. Recovery is crucial to restore physiological and psychological functioning yet is underappreciated. Compared to other sports, research related to ultra-endurance is limited, and a gap in research exists on effective recovery modalities and duration for ultrarunners. This study aimed to examine ultrarunners' practice and perceptions regarding recovery techniques and duration. An electronic survey designed for this study collected participants' perceptions about recovery and included physiological and psychological recovery factors. A total of 159 ultrarunners …

Educator Preparedness To Leverage Assistive Technologies In The Classroom, Sean Masterman

Doctorate in Education

The fourth industrial revolution (4IR) is driving a compelling need for pedagogical change, yet there is disjuncture between the capacity of emerging technologies to address this need and their actual use in the American classroom. These technologies can enable personalization to meet each student’s individualized learning needs. Educator preparedness is the first step toward embracing and integrating the broad capabilities of emerging technologies to help build the future workforce. This qualitative, phenomenological case study assessed the preparedness of middle school general educators in two Minnesota school districts to leverage assistive technologies (ATs) to improve student learning from the perspective of …

Math Vocabulary & Number Sense: Instructional Strategies For Upper Elementary English Learning Students In The Math Classroom, Matt J. Cavanaugh

Doctorate in Education

Recent studies show that English learning students are a growing population within the United States school system. Language barriers have been shown to negatively influence reading scores as well as math scores, and math scores are a predictor of future academic success in many subject areas. This qualitative action research study demonstrates the difficulties many upper-elementary English learning students have understanding number sense (numeracy) in a math classroom setting in Minnesota, United States. The purpose of this study was to explore whether intentional teaching of math vocabulary could alleviate the difficulties upper-elementary English learning students have in understanding, applying, and …

Minnesota Twins Professional Sport Experience, Tiffany Challoner

Master of Arts in Sport Management

I completed an eight-week professional sport experience with the Minnesota Twins in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The sport experience consisted of both weekly sessions where our cohort was introduced to 19 guest speakers who hold different roles within the Twins organization and shadowing experience in different departments. My shadowing experiences consisted of guest services, ballpark operations, and ballpark tours. I was able to see first-hand how guest services respond to different situations that occur, such as re-seating guests who were unable to sit in their ticketed seats. I was hopeful to build confidence in myself to find a role within sports and …

Recruitment And Retention Of Millennials And Generation Z In The Criminal Justice Field: How Do We Replenish The Ranks?, Chris Vierling

Master of Arts in Criminal Justice Leadership

The Criminal Justice field is, and has been, experiencing a drastic decrease in the number of individuals willing to take on this unique calling. This decline can be attributed to several factors, primarily concerns about safety, the current political and social environment, work schedules, and personal life influences. The purpose of this paper and research is to examine the causes of the ongoing hiring crisis in the field of Criminal Justice and propose potential solutions. Through research, several contributing factors have been identified that can help agencies at various levels recruit and retain Criminal Justice candidates. This is an ongoing …

Gender-Responsive Supervision Six Guiding Principles, Barriers, And Benefits Of Implementation, Tessa Matousek

Master of Arts in Criminal Justice Leadership

Over the years, the goals of probation have remained the same: to increase community safety and reduce recidivism; however, as the world changes, the needs of offenders have changed. Evidence-based practices are used in probation to determine risk levels and create targeted case plans. The criminal justice system has seen an increase in female offenders, which has brought up valid questions of evaluation tools and supervision practices. The quest to provide the most effective services to all offenders brings innovation, research, and change. Gender-responsive supervision is the answer to how to best serve female offenders. Change is a natural evolution, …

Understanding And Minimizing School Shootings, Taylor Hammond

Master of Arts in Criminal Justice Leadership

The unfortunate trend of school shootings is on the rise within the United States. The purpose of this paper is to describe a leadership communication plan for a school shooting situation, along with identifying the three phases of a crisis: pre-crisis, crisis response, and post-crisis. It also describes the role a probation officer plays within this topic and the importance of this person in a juvenile’s life. An unforeseen issue with school shootings is how it relates to social media. Social media can be used to bully, harass, and contact others unsolicited. It can also be used for a student …

Dna Analysis: The Answer For Unsolved Cases?, Sarah Hetchler

Master of Arts in Criminal Justice Leadership

DNA analysis has become a crucial part of solving cases. It has developed significantly since its creation in the mid-1980s. The longing for answers within unsolved cases is historically lengthy, leaving traces of distrust and injustice. Criminologists offer a potential solution to the mess created by connecting DNA analysis to protect victims and communities. DNA evidence and analysis can assist in solving cases and provide answers for exonerees. Like public genealogy websites, law enforcement agencies must acknowledge new methods to solve issues. Not only could law enforcement agencies solve and arrest suspects through DNA analysis, but DNA could also provide …

Restrictive Pursuit Policies And Rising Violent Crime, Ryan Kelly

Master of Arts in Criminal Justice Leadership

Consequences can be a driving factor for why citizens follow laws in the United States. Financial and physical freedom is valued. Citizen’s behavior may change if police officers threaten to take these things away for breaking laws. Policymakers today are working to restrict when law enforcement officers can chase criminals for breaking the law. Suppose the ability of law enforcement to hold criminals accountable is restricted. Would this not lead a reasonable person to believe that criminals may think they are free to commit crimes? This paper will cover current trends in violent crime in both the United States and …

Incorporating A Peer Support Program In A Criminal Justice Department, Joshua Gerving, Joshua J. Gerving

Master of Arts in Criminal Justice Leadership

This research aims to provide police agencies with a step-by-step guide for developing a Peer Support Program. It will address how to design the program, overcome complex changes in an agency, create a crisis communication strategy, and budget for the new specialty department. This research will address ethical and moral dilemmas a peer support member may face as they perform their duties. Furthermore, the author will present a code of conduct that will serve as the foundation of the program. The researcher will also explain how training, ethical accountability, and stewardship are crucial in making an ethical program for first …

Where Do We Go From Here? Reconsidering Crowd Management And Control In The Wake Of The George Floyd Era Of Protests., Nicholas Steiger

Master of Arts in Criminal Justice Leadership

This research evaluated police response to protests and considered crowd management and control in the wake of the George Floyd era of protests. The research reviewed the history of crowd management and control and evaluated new methods to increase police legitimacy. It proposed the adoption of the Elaborated Social Identity Model of crowd control and provided agencies with additional recommendations that may increase ethical decision-making. It proposed that forming multi-jurisdictional mobile field force teams for crowd management and control will increase the professionalism of the police and help ensure the rights and safety of those participating in First Amendment activities. …

Title: The Truth Behind A Guardian Ad Litem, Klarissa Stovall

Master of Arts in Criminal Justice Leadership

The role of a guardian ad litem is at the forefront when acknowledging the significance of the role in its entirety when considering the safety and wellbeing of a child who is a victim of abuse or neglect. Also focusing on the supportive topics including adequate training, effective communication, and safety is equally important when discussing the role of a guardian ad litem. Furthermore, being able to acknowledge the role of a guardian ad litem is extremely helpful when remembering how vital they are to the future of a child, specifically when involved in child protective services or family law. …

The Effect Of Long Covid Syndrome On Physical Activity, Patrisha Hanna Villarmea

Master of Science in Kinesiology

Long covid syndrome is a condition where individuals experience persistent symptoms and functional limitations that can last about three months to two years after the initial Covid-19 infection. While long-term health consequences of Covid-19 have garnered significant attention,the impact of long covid syndrome symptoms is poorly understood. The purpose of the study is to explore the effect of long covid syndrome symptoms to an individual’s physical activity. Furthermore, this research aims to provide an overview of the existing literature on the effect of long covid syndrome symptoms on physical activity. The research would invite participants to answer two surveys that …

Digital Game-Based Learning Activities In Primary Grade Mathematics Achievement, Chris Anderson

Graduate Teacher Education

The research paper has gathered and analyzed research from online databases to find how digital game-based learning activities were used in mathematics and how it influences the affective domains of academic engagement, motivation, and academic self-perception. The paper aims to inform primary educators of the benefits and limitations of digital game-based activities in primary mathematics. Digital game-based learning has positively influenced students' academic engagement through interaction, play, and effort, which had a positive effect on their mathematical achievement. Increased motivation felt by students when doing digital game-based activities resulted in higher mathematical achievement and an increase in learning more mathematics …

Fostering Self-Efficacy And Autonomous Motivation To Aid In Mastering High-Order Writing Skills, Jessica Nowacki Van Denheuvel

Graduate Teacher Education

Students need to be able to write to be successful in school, personal life, and professional settings. In upper elementary, fourth- through fifth-grades, students shift from basic to high-order writing skills. The increased cognitive load can overwhelm students and even lead to task avoidance. Self-efficacy and autonomous motivation assist students in engaging and sustaining complex tasks. This literature evaluated fifteen primary research studies on how teachers may foster these constructs to aid in students’ development of high-order writing skills. Three strands were revealed. The first strand explored the state of writing instruction - the influence of standards-based educational systems and …

Game-Based Learning In Elementary Mathematics, Sophia Greenfield

Graduate Teacher Education

This paper analyzed 15 primary, peer-reviewed research articles about how to integrate game-based learning in elementary mathematics to increase conceptual understanding. The purpose of this paper was to inform teachers about how to integrate digital and traditional games, including factors to enhance effective implementation, in a way that increased conceptual understanding. Key factors were gleaned from the articles that had a significant impact on the effectiveness of game-based learning. In Chapter Two, traditional and digital games were divided into two sections to analyze the benefits and drawbacks of each method. These benefits and drawbacks were compared in the Appendices to …

Gender Impact On Trauma-Exposed Populations, Melissa Flannigan

Graduate Teacher Education

Gender differences in trauma exposure have been well-established in published research. This paper explored the relationship between gender and its impact on exposure to traumatic events and the outcomes within trauma-exposed populations. Trauma can have profound and lasting effects on physical, mental, social, and behavioral well-being. The literature review identified gender differences in exposure to trauma types, PTSD prevalence and symptomatology, other mental health disorders, behavioral outcomes, and differences in physical health. Additionally, it explored the role of support systems, coping mechanisms, and risk factors for particular trauma-related outcomes. Furthermore, this paper examined the implications of the findings for professional …

Mindfulness As A Means Of Reducing Teacher Burnout, Chantelle O'Dell

Graduate Teacher Education

Educators are asked to do more tasks every school year. It can be difficult to maintain boundaries and continue feeling like an effective educator, with the demands of everyday teaching. This paper examined how the use of mindfulness, as an individual, assists educators in avoiding burnout. The resources used were a mix of qualitative, quantitative, quasi-experimental, meta-analyses, and mixed methods focusing on strategies and reasons educators should use stress-reducing techniques in their personal lives to help with occupational stress. The conclusion of the research gathered showed the use of mindfulness benefited educators and school systems by reducing absenteeism, reducing healthcare …

Functional Outcomes Of The Graduated Length Prosthetic Protocol For Bilateral Transfemoral Amputee Prosthetic Rehabilitation, Mackenzie Pipes

Master of Science in Kinesiology

The aim of this paper was to evaluate the functional outcomes of the Graduated Length Prosthetic Protocol (GLPP) in individuals with bilateral transfemoral amputations. The GLPP is a rehabilitation program designed to facilitate a successful transition to full-length prostheses, enhance independence, and improve functional outcomes for bilateral transfemoral amputees. This study utilized a prospective design to assess the effectiveness of the GLPP compared to traditional rehabilitation strategies.

Literature was reviewed to determine the current limitations in research regarding bilateral transfemoral amputee prosthetic rehabilitation. The Concordia University St. Paul online library was utilized to obtain access to current published research. Studies …

Music As An Ergogenic Aid During Resistance Training In An Adult Population: A Pilot Study, David R. Boulais

Master of Science in Kinesiology

Music has been found to produce feelings and emotions of power, reduce physical pain, and manage mood and affect. Ergogenic aids are regularly used in the resistance training (RT) setting to help improve performance. While the ergogenic effects of music are widely documented in aerobic exercise, research is lacking in the RT setting. The aim of this study was to examine the possible ergogenic benefits of music during RT workouts. Twelve individuals (mean age in years 49.8 ± 17.5 years) participated in the present online study, with nine female participants (mean age in years 48.2 ± 17.7) and three male …

Personality Profile Analysis Of Elite Powerlifting And Strongman/Woman Athletes, Anthony Ankley, Erin Kasmarik-Mallett

Master of Science in Kinesiology

PURPOSE: Personality profiling with athletes has been used to identify ideal candidates for high-level performance, program more effectively, and develop personality traits that might prove beneficial. A significant amount of research has been targeted using the Big Five Personality traits which are neuroticism, agreeableness, conscientiousness, openness, and extraversion. Self-efficacy has also been studied heavily within elite athletes. However, the personality profiles of elite Powerlifters and Strongman/woman have not been developed or studied. The purpose of this investigation is to identify a general personality profile of elite Powerlifting and Strongman/woman athletes. The secondary aim is to compare the personality profile of …

Intervention Types And Frequency In Animal Prosthetics And Orthotics, Ray Jeffrey Lee, Ray Jeffrey Lee

Master of Science in Kinesiology

Orthotic and prosthetic interventions in veterinary medicine have been performed on a wide range of animal species, aiding in rehabilitation and healing for various pathologies. Contrary to popular belief, veterinary orthotics and prosthetics are not a recent development but have a long history. This study aimed to assess the frequency, cause, and nature of veterinary interventions that could have benefited from orthotic and prosthetic interventions across different species. Data were collected through a survey administered to veterinarians and veterinary orthotic and prosthetic professionals. The outcomes of the investigation contribute to enhancing the knowledge surrounding veterinary amputations, arthrodesis, and the use …

What Is The Role Of An Athletic Director At The High School And College Levels?, Richard O'Donnell

Master of Science in Kinesiology

What is the role of an athletic director? Athletic directors work in both high school and college level settings. Not all athletic directors run their programs the same way. This proposed study involves a survey of high school athletic directors and college athletic directors. The survey would gather data on leadership style, delegation tactics, daily tasks, annual planning, and fundraising. If conducted, this study will provide information on how high school and college athletic directors are similar, as well as how they are different. This study would benefit those already in the profession and those who are aspiring to become …

Investigation Of Permanent Tattoos To Increase Myoelectric Signal Connectivity In Prosthetics, Guy Pugh

Master of Science in Kinesiology

Myoelectric prosthetics offer users increased functionality in many facits of their lives. However, maintaining reliable connectivity between sEMG sensors and targeted muscle locations can be problematic. Volume fluctuation of the residual limb, dirt, sweat, and movement of the socket and sensor over the limb can all because of signal disruption leading some users to find the myoelectric prostheses, costing thousands of dollars, to be unreliable, and stop using it. To increase connectivity between the optimal myoelectric sites and sEMG sensors, this paper proposes the use of permanent ink tattoos to create a stable location which a sensor can move over …

Understanding Wellness In Law Enforcement: A Crisis, Phil Baebenroth

Doctorate in Education

This study investigates the perceptions of current licensed peace officers in Minnesota regarding reforming their profession. From 2017 to 2020, more police officers in the United States died by suicide than officers killed by gunfire, assaults, crashes, or accidents in the line of duty (Officer Down Memorial Page, 2023 & Blue H.E.L.P, 2023). These statistics present a wellness crisis in the policing profession that deserves immediate attention. There have been worldwide calls for changes in policing from people outside of law enforcement, but few incorporate the practical insights of police officers and even fewer are concerned with officer wellness aspects. …

An Outcome Comparison Of Osseointegrated And Traditional Socket-Fit Prostheses, Alexander Hennes

Master of Science in Kinesiology

This is one of the first studies to report on the comparison of walking ability between socket-based and osseointegrated bone-anchored prostheses of the trans-femoral amputee. Each participant's hip active and passive range of motion was assessed. The Timed Up-and-Go test (TUG), 10-meter walk test (10MWT), and 6-minute walk test (6MWT) were administered to all participants with the addition of the Amputee Mobility Predictor with a Prosthesis (AMPPro). The study consists of unilateral transfemoral amputees with an activity level of K3-4. The current prosthetic users were divided into two groups based on their current intervention, socket prosthesis (S) and osseointegrated prosthesis …

Effective Interventions For Transition-Age Students With Autism Spectrum Disorders, Allyson Rock

Graduate Teacher Education

This paper examined best practices for interventions supporting transition education for students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Recent research suggested that post-secondary outcomes, such as employment rates or post-secondary education and training program participation rates, for students with disabilities are significantly below those of the general population. For students with disabilities, transition services are integrated into each student’s individualized education program (IEP). However, although transition services address employment, post-secondary education and training, and independent living skills, young adults with disabilities are not experiencing long-term success in their post-secondary endeavors. This paper strives to identify best practices for interventions supporting transition …

Literacy Instruction For Students With Autism Spectrum Disorder, Sonja Hall

Graduate Teacher Education

This paper reviewed current literature on instructional strategies for providing literacy instruction to students with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Literacy is made up of many strands, literacy was broken into three subsections for the purpose of this review: phonics instruction, reading comprehension, and writing. According to experts, reading comprehension and writing are two main areas in which students who have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can be challenged by. The studies in this review revealed that direct, systematic, and explicit instruction in the area of literacy is essential for student success in the targeted areas. Different teaching strategies involved …