Digital Commons Network^™

Understanding Dyslexia As A Neurological Learning Disability: A Plan For An Instructive Website For Parents And Early Elementary Teachers, Rasma M. Gertners

Culminating Experience Projects

The learning disability known as “dyslexia” is often misunderstood by parents and educators. Dyslexia is a life-long, neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by a deficit in phonological awareness and processing. Its likely causes are genetic as well as environmental. Other conditions known to co-occur with dyslexia are Speech and Language Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, memory problems, and others. In order for children with dyslexia to reach their highest reading potential, the disorder must be remediated before age seven or eight using intensive, explicit reading interventions. Teachers and other education professionals, using prescribed screening instruments, can identify phonological awareness …

Creating Best Practices To Enhance Comprehension With Intensive Reading Intervention And Extended Vocabulary, Jillian Bremer

Culminating Experience Projects

Securing success for our struggling readers and our ELLs needs to be a priority for teachers. In this project I have gathered evidence and research on ways to improve reading comprehension by implementing whole group vocabulary instruction along with reading intervention for those who still are struggling with reading comprehension. The research gathered supports the use of extended vocabulary as well as intensive reading intervention for struggling readers. The research supplied in this project not only indicates what possible outcomes are for students who continue to struggle with reading comprehension, but it also includes theoretical framework that strengthens the research …

The Negative Impacts Of Social Media Use On Adolescent Social-Emotional Development, Jill E. Funk

Culminating Experience Projects

The topic of this project is to inform all caregivers- educators, administration, parents/guardians- including students themselves of the negative impacts social media use can have on the social-emotional development of adolescents. This project involves teenagers also known as “iGen”, their social-emotional development, appropriate use of social media, and digital citizenship. In developed countries where teenagers frequently use social media, there is a great need to be aware of the risks that can result from this usage such as poor body image, self-esteem issues, depressive symptoms, cyberbullying, and sometimes suicidal thoughts. Parents/guardians, teachers, librarians, school counselors, and school administrators who are …

Utilizing Software Engineering And Cloud Computing Principles To Develop The Revised Self-Report Assessment Of Functional Visual Performance (R-Srafvp) Application, Kirk Hedlich

Culminating Experience Projects

Can principles from software engineering and concepts from cloud computing be applied to and aid in the development of a small project, specifically improving the use of the Revised Self-Report Assessment of Functional Visual Performance (R-SRAFVP)? The target for this project is to create a new application and improve on existing attempts to move the R-SRAFVP assessment from an electronic document format to a web-based application. The new application should provide better ease of use, simplicity in design and understanding for use, and hopefully increased access and adoption by Occupation Therapists who specialize in low vision rehabilitation. The benefits of …

Combating Underachievement In Gifted Elementary Students Through Differentiation, Samantha Kluz

Culminating Experience Projects

Research within the field of gifted education has shown that underachievement is a pertinent problem that has affected gifted students for decades. While various factors have been suggested to lead to underachievement, this project focuses on the educator’s role to support the learning needs of gifted students to combat underachievement. Research has shown that differentiation is an effective solution to ensure gifted students’ needs are being met and they are able to reach their full achievement potential. Utilizing a five-part series on differentiation, teachers will participate in professional development focused on a background of differentiation for gifted students and three …

Peer Mentoring Programs For Students With Disabilities Attending Center-Based Schools, Andrea L. Vargo

Culminating Experience Projects

Due to the level of support needed to become successful, students with moderate to severe disabilities may be placed in a center-based program separate from their typically developed peers. In this placement, students with disabilities, who often have deficits in the areas of communication and social interaction, have little to no access to their peers without disabilities. Therefore, developing and implementing a program that encourages both access to same-age peers and opportunities to improve social interaction skills would be ideal. One of the best ways to provide strategies for these opportunities is through peer-mediated instruction, specifically peer mentorship. The goals …

Teachers Leading Teachers: An Approach To Content-Area Literacy Instruction To Address Inequitable Education, Leah Metivier-Kearney

Culminating Experience Projects

The current state of education establishes the norm of consistent literacy intervention in elementary education and through specialized accommodations thereafter; unfortunately, many students reach secondary levels without the literacy skills necessary to be successful in their classes and beyond into adulthood. The task of managing this gap is overwhelming, and it stems from various economic, racial, and situational variables that schools cannot address entirely. Instead, teachers may make the choice to improve the equity within their immediate environments by prioritizing equity through direct literacy instruction, consequently providing opportunities for these students to attain those necessary skills for lifelong success.

The …

Effects Of Nature Play In Early Childhood Education, Alicia Joy Chaney

Culminating Experience Projects

There has been much research conducted recently on outdoor education as it gains popularity. Nature play and the construction of playscapes instead of playgrounds has become focal at the early childhood level. This project examines the research on the benefits that nature-based outdoor play provides to children and the outcomes of play space makeovers. The research also examines the role that teachers have in providing children with nature play. Western Michigan is lacking in nature-based early childhood education programs. This project focuses on providing professional development to licensed childcare programs in Michigan, specifically family and group home daycares. The professional …

Virtual Reality In Healthcare: An Occupational Therapy Perspective, Wyatt Mead, Alexandra Harnica, Marion Marxer, Trent Paveglio

Culminating Experience Projects

Abstract

Object: There is limited research about how virtual reality is used in therapeutic settings and how specifically occupational therapy finds it valuable, when in the OT process to use VR, and across what setting and diagnosis it is utilized in. This descriptive study design is intended to determine when practitioners utilize VR during the OT process, what their aims are for using it, the types of VR systems being utilized, as well as anecdotal comparison of outcomes using VR versus other therapy modalities. To further explore this, qualitative one on one interviews will be conducted with practicing Occupational Therapists …

A Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy Retrospective Planning Study Of Left Sided Chest Wall Treatments With And Without Bolus, Telly J. Armstrong

Culminating Experience Projects

Introduction

VMAT planning techniques have been used more to treat difficult‐to‐plan post‐mastectomy cases. The primary advantage of VMAT is the better performance at intermediate-high dose sparing and mean heart dose, without sacrificing target coverage. The location of the chest wall leads to clinical target volumes (CTV) adjoined to the skin which would generate a planning target volume (PTV) located outside the body. To overcome these limitations a virtual bolus is used during optimization. The purpose of the study is to evaluate if a VMAT technique without a bolus, with 5 mm virtual bolus, or 1 cm virtual bolus provides better …

A Qualitative Dosimetric Comparison Of Helical Tomotherapy, Coplanar Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy, And Non-Coplanar Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy For Radiotherapy Of Centrally Located Brain Tumors, Robert Hayward

Culminating Experience Projects

Abstract Introduction The purpose of the work is to see if there is a dosimetric benefit to using one treatment modality over another when treating centrally located brain tumors. These modalities include helical tomotherapy, non-coplanar VMAT, and coplanar VMAT. Methods Thirty plans were created from ten previously treated patient’s datasets. All patients were planned using a simultaneously integrated boost with a PTV54 and PTV 60. The conformity index and homogeneity index were compared for targets. Dose maximums and means were compared for critical structures between the plans and modalities. Results A significant difference was found for the conformity index for …

A Dosimetric Study On Photon Beam Energies With And Without A Flattening Filter In Sbrt Treatments For Prostate Cancer, Alexis F. Puruleski

Culminating Experience Projects

Purpose: The role of radiation therapy in managing prostate cancer has developed and improved greatly throughout the years. The purpose of this study was to analyze a newly developing method of treatment practices with two different therapy energies.

Methods: This retrospective study pulled patient data from the facility’s treatment planning system database who had primary prostate cancer treated to the prostate bed. Each patient was planned for the same treatment technique with two different beam energies, 6X and 6FFF (flattening filter free).

Results: A two-sample t-test was done to compare means of the max doses to the bladder, rectum, and …

A Quantitative Study Of Correlations Between Patient Load With The Usage Of Artificial Intelligence Treatment Planning Tools (Auto Planning, Adaptive Rt, Clear Check, Deformable Dose, Auto-Contouring, Ezfluence, Etc.) A United States Context, Casey Joy Ervick

Culminating Experience Projects

Abstract

Introduction:

Artificial intelligence (AI) is the process of automating tasks that were traditionally done manually. AI can be used throughout the dosimetry treatment planning process for external beam radiation treatments. Artificial intelligence has the opportunity to help reduce treatment planning time and help to increase the quality of treatment plans. The workload of cancer treatment facilities across the United States varies greatly. This study aims to determine if the workload of a treatment facility has an impact upon the usage of artificial intelligence during treatment planning.

Methods:

This study is a qualitative study of 96 survey participants. The survey …

The Influence Of Faith-Based Interest Groups On The Development Of The Trafficking Victims Protection Act Of 2000, Samantha K. Lynn

Culminating Experience Projects

In the nearly 21 years since the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 (TVPA) was passed, there has been an increase in research analyzing the influences that led to the development of the legislation and their impact on anti-trafficking efforts. A review of the literature revealed the most influential groups were faith-based interest groups who lobbied for a sex trafficking focus that would enforce an anti-prostitution agenda. The impact of faith-based interest groups on the 2000 TVPA and subsequent anti-trafficking policies has been significant and deserves critical analysis given the failures of the TVPA to effectively address trafficking crimes, in …

Trauma-Informed Care: An Elementary Perspective, Alexandria Hutchison

Culminating Experience Projects

Trauma affects a significant portion of the elementary student population and hinders students' academic achievement, social wellbeing, and emotional health. In fact, almost forty percent of students in the United States have been exposed to a traumatic stressor in their lives (Brunzell et al., 2016). There are numerous effects associated with trauma. Teachers serve as the first line of mental health professionals to support these children; therefore, it is essential that they receive proper preparation in trauma-informed care and classroom sup- ports. This project includes an in-service training program for elementary teachers and a set of classroom lessons that support …

A Quantitative Investigation Of The Impact Roll Has On The Percent Change In Position Of Breast Phantoms Of Various Volumes, Clayton N. Young

Culminating Experience Projects

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of phantom size and level of roll on the percent change in position and percent of planned treatment volume (PTV) receiving prescription dose of breast phantoms. Due to their non-rigid physical properties, breasts being treated for radiation therapy are vulnerable to positional variability following a roll adjustment. Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scans are commonly used to verify anatomical breast position, but they are not always reacquired after a roll correction is made. Treating a volume at a different position has the potential to compromise the intended dose distribution. Factors …

Dosimetric Evaluation Of Fixed Jaw And Jaw Tracking Vmat Treatment Plans For Prostate Cancer With Involved Pelvic Nodes, William Rios

Culminating Experience Projects

Intro

A mechanical limitation of modern linacs affecting the quality of radiotherapy treatments of large tumor volumes is the travel length of multicollimator leaves. Considering this limitation, research was carried out to evaluate the dosimetric differences between a split-field fixed-jaw volumetric arc radiotherapy (SF-FJ VMAT) technique and a jaw tracking VMAT (JT VMAT) technique for the treatment of prostate cancer with involved lymph nodes.

Methods

Plans for 16 patients treated with the same dose regimen were created using both techniques. Initial JT-VMAT plans were planned with two arcs to encompass the entire tumor volume without jaw restrictions and jaw tracking …

Gender Bias In The Classroom: An In-Service To Create Change, David Schmidt

Culminating Experience Projects

Female students are not often treated the same way as male students in the elementary classroom. Teachers bring their gender bias into their daily practices and unknowingly encourage male student towards STEM subjects and female students away from STEM subjects. This results in a gender gap in STEM careers. This project aims to combat gender bias by holding an in-service. Research supports the idea that once bias has been addressed in individuals, they are less likely to hold on to their bias. Participants will take a test to discover their bias, be presented with relevant research, read an article on …

The Effects Of Bullying And Solutions To Bullying Of Lgbtq+ Students In Schools, Mandy K. Wallstead

Culminating Experience Projects

Research has revealed the effects that peer bullying has on LGBTQ+ students in public schools. This project focuses on the prevention of LGBTQ+ student bullying. This is done by teaching school policy makers and educators in understanding LGBTQ+ issues for the development of a positive school climate where everyone should thrive. The incorporation of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs and Minority Stress theory created a method for understanding and interpreting the research compiled. The research has shown that professional developments for educators, adding curriculum into classrooms, and utilizing LGBTQ+ anti-bullying policies can diminish the effects of bullying against LGBTQ+ students. To …

Bladder And Rectal Dosimetric Doses Upon Magnetic Resonance Imaging Integrated Into Tandem And Ovoid Brachytherapy Treatment Planning, Courtney Raney

Culminating Experience Projects

Abstract

Introduction

Brachytherapy is a common treatment for women that have cervical cancer. Patients can experience many side effects when receiving intracavitary treatment. Using more advanced imaging techniques such as MRI in the treatment planning process may be able to help reduce some of these side effects to the organs at risk and give patients an overall better quality of life during treatment and after treatment is complete. This study was performed to see if MRI has an impact in reducing these side effects to women undergoing these treatments.

Methods

This study is a retrospective chart review of 20 patients …

Comparison Of Hybrid, Imrt And Vmat Techniques For Treating Right Lung Cancer- A Scientific Review, Ana V. Cash

Culminating Experience Projects

Abstract

Introduction

Lung cancer is considered one of the most common cancers in the United States, with the second most common type of lung cancer located in the right lung²⁴. Providing a more aggressive approach to treatments while meeting the needs of the patients would positively impact outcomes. Working in Radiation Oncology since 2013 as a radiation therapist and now a Medical Dosimetrist I seek to compare the efficacy of IMRT, VMAT and hybrid IMRT/VMAT techniques in the treatment of right lung cancer. The purpose of this study was to evaluate if the hybrid plan would be superior …

Implementation Of Positive Behavior Interventions And Supports Model: Impacting Perceptions Of School Climate, Olivia L. Johnson

Culminating Experience Projects

The perceptions of the individuals involved in a school organization shape the overarching view of school climate. School climate shapes the way in which the organization functions, specifically analyzing the attitudes and behaviors of those involved. The opinions of stakeholders are shaped on experiences had, relationships formed, visions portrayed by the organization, and the feeling of safety the school provides. Studies have revealed the need for a program that focuses upon the listed areas, creating a framework for all stakeholders to follow, in order to enhance school climate. This project examines evidence-based strategies surrounding Positive School Interventions and Supports (PBIS) …

Negative Impacts Of Mandatory Standardized Testing On Teachers And Students, Nicole Stefanko

Culminating Experience Projects

Mandatory standardized testing was implemented in the United States to hold schools and teachers accountable for students’ growth; however, testing has negatively impacted both teachers and students in the classroom. There is currently not enough research on the benefits to testing and whether there are more effective ways to hold schools and teachers accountable. It is important to further research the effects of heavy test preparation that is done in classrooms as well as how students’ test results can be an inaccurate representation of their abilities. This project explores the negative impacts of standardized testing as well as providing a …

Culturally Responsive Classroom Libraries In Middle School And High School English Language Arts Classrooms, Brandy Coleman

Culminating Experience Projects

Research shows that the cultural makeup of students in classrooms today in the United States has changed from classrooms of the past. These changes demand teachers to create classroom libraries that are culturally responsive. Culturally responsive classroom libraries can increase student engagement, shape students’ reading identities, and provide opportunities for students to create meaning with a text. This project examines what research literature has studied regarding how culturally responsive pedagogy impacts student identities, engagement through choice, books as window, mirrors, and sliding glass doors (Bishop, 1990), and instructional practices. Using reader response theory, the project focuses on tools to identify …

Home Literacy As A Way To Improve Students’ Academic Achievement And Motivation, Foster Strong Familial Relationships, And Bridge The Gap Between Home And School: A Framework For Custom Family Literacy Programs, Julia Marie Brown

Culminating Experience Projects

A child’s home environment is one of the greatest contributors to their social and cultural background, as it innately impacts their educational experiences and attitudes towards learning. Similarly, language development and literacy are deeply rooted in social, cultural, and historical experiences. Thus, the integration of literacy within home environments can strengthen families, contribute to overall academic success, and increase motivation and engagement amongst learners. While researchers and educators alike agree that fostering strong home literacy environments is beneficial for families as a whole and children as learners, many family literacy programs fail to bridge the gap between home and school …

Creating A Safe And Supportive School Climate For Transgender Students, Taylor Dewilde

Culminating Experience Projects

Research has shown that transgender students do not feel safe at school and as a result experience negative outcomes. An effective teacher training program on transgender students will help these students feel a greater sense of safety at school. Additionally, this project will explore inclusive curricular resources for educators. The research reviewed for this project includes the key findings for why transgender students feel unsafe that included bullying & harassment, untrained and unprepared staff, and unsafe spaces in school. It is imperative for transgender students to feel safe at school so they may have the same opportunities for success in …

Standardized Testing And The Call For Alternative Assessment Methods, Rebekah Weiss

Culminating Experience Projects

Standardized testing has become the primary means of measuring success of students, educational stakeholders, and educational entities themselves, in turn permeating a practice of subsidiarity while further segregating educational opportunities for the American public. The research suggests this gap in practice is due to federal mandates enforcing standardized testing policies that hinder educational leaders from assessing students in more reliable ways. The experimental qualities of the research also contribute to this gap because the educational research holds a lack of generalizability and weak external validity due to subject and researcher bias’. This practice in subsidiarity could be addressed by taking …

Differentiating Instruction Through One-On-One Literacy Conferences, Rebecca Sue Klenk

Culminating Experience Projects

Today's classroom has a wide range of diversity. To meet these needs, students need individualized instruction. Many classrooms today still present instruction through whole-group. However, research has found this does not benefit students the way differentiated instruction can. Differentiated instruction has two significant misunderstandings. One, teachers see it as they must provide different lessons plans for each student's needs. Secondly, teachers think differentiated instruction is only needed for students working below proficiency. However, with the use of one-on-one reading conferences, teachers can meet all their students' diverse needs and provide differentiated instruction.

Conferring is tailoring instruction to meet students' strengths …

Improving Literacy Homework In The Primary Grades Through Interactive Family Reading, Lisa Mulder

Culminating Experience Projects

Homework is common practice in most elementary school classrooms as teachers try to reinforce material learned in class through the help of parents and families at home. However, research has shown homework to have little impact on students’ academic achievement in the elementary grades. Homework can even cause an increased stress level in young students, a negative impact on motivation, and friction with family members. Elementary parents and teachers need to reevaluate homework’s effectiveness and its impact on today’s busy families.

This project proposes reframing traditional paper-pencil review homework in favor of family-centered reading time. When students are given too …

Providing High-Quality, Diverse Literature For Kindergarten Classrooms, Tamara Powell

Culminating Experience Projects

There is a need to utilize more high-quality, diverse literature in kindergarten classrooms across the United States to ensure that students are being exposed to culturally relevant texts. The purpose of the Diverse Story Kinder Kit is to provide educators with access to authentic, culturally relevant literature that can be shared with kindergarten students to help develop identity, awareness of other cultures, and appreciation of other cultures. The project is framed under the Reader Response Theory and the Critical Literacy Theory to examine how high-quality literature has a positive impact on student response to literature that reflects students own experiences. …