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Full-Text Articles in Education
The Academic Challenges Of First-Generation College Students Within A Four-Year Institution, Maribel Magallanes
The Academic Challenges Of First-Generation College Students Within A Four-Year Institution, Maribel Magallanes
Master of Arts in Higher Education (MAHE) Theses
Existing literature affirms an increase of first-generation college students (FGCS) attending a four-year institution and their lack of academic preparation to graduate on time. The purpose of this study was to better understand the academic challenges FGCS experience in a four-year institution and how those challenges contribute to their overall academic experience. To capture the unique experiences and academic challenges of FGCS, the study engaged in a qualitative narrative research design. The study involved one-on-one interviews with FGCS attending a four-year institution. Written biographies and a number of common themes that contributed to understanding the academic challenges of FGCS are …
Not-So-Silent Night: How A Small-Town Institution Has Developed And Sustained A Nationally Renowned Tradition, Ryan W. Kristofek
Not-So-Silent Night: How A Small-Town Institution Has Developed And Sustained A Nationally Renowned Tradition, Ryan W. Kristofek
Master of Arts in Higher Education (MAHE) Theses
The purpose of this study was to explore the origin and impact of a popular tradition at Taylor University known as Silent Night. Through a phenomenological design, this study investigated traditions, specifically Silent Night, at a small, faith-based, liberal arts institution in the Midwest called Taylor University. The following questions guided this exploratory research: What is the student perception of the value of Silent Night? What is the personnel perception of the value of Silent Night? What are the institutional elements surrounding a successful campus tradition? Key findings from this study include an understanding of traditions defined from student and …
Home Away From Home: The Experience Of First-Generation Students Living On Integrated Floors In Residence Halls, Carey Collins
Home Away From Home: The Experience Of First-Generation Students Living On Integrated Floors In Residence Halls, Carey Collins
Master of Arts in Higher Education (MAHE) Theses
First-generation college students, individuals seeking to earn a bachelor’s degree and whose parents or guardians do not have post-secondary degrees, are attending college at ever-increasing rates. These students regularly encounter obstacles they must overcome in order to persist and graduate. The purpose of this study was to discover if a relationship exists between retention of first-generation students and living on an integrated residence hall floor. The research occurred as a qualitative phenomenological approach with focus groups, and, after coding and theming the data, three themes—finances, involvement with the floor, and relationships—emerged. During the focus groups, mental health surfaced as a …
Durable Discipleship: The Value Of A Strengths-Based Approach To Discipleship, Jacob Gerding
Durable Discipleship: The Value Of A Strengths-Based Approach To Discipleship, Jacob Gerding
Master of Arts in Higher Education (MAHE) Theses
Jesus has commanded His Church to go into the entire world, making disciples, but how do so many different people do something so significant on such a massive scale? God has created each person to reflect His image, and He has given each of us talents and gifts—characteristics that set us apart from everyone else. These unique qualities are what God uses to empower us to accomplish His mission of making disciples. The Clifton StrengthsFinder assessment is a tool designed to provide individuals with a greater understanding of their strengths, those characteristics that make them who they are. How can …
Getting 1% Every Day: An Exploratory Case Study About Growth Mindset In A Collegiate Athletic Setting, Justen Paden
Getting 1% Every Day: An Exploratory Case Study About Growth Mindset In A Collegiate Athletic Setting, Justen Paden
Master of Arts in Higher Education (MAHE) Theses
This study explored the impact of a coach implementing growth mindset at a faith-based, liberal arts institution in the Midwest. The purpose of this study was to determine if there was any impact on student-athletes being under a coaching philosophy rooted in growth mindset. Results from the study indicate the positive impact of implementing growth mindset from the perspective of both the head coach and the student-athletes. Despite the exploratory nature of the study, the head coach’s philosophy is affirmed as a positive influence to help student-athletes improve in skill and ability.
“As A Person, There Is Nothing Else I Would Rather Have Studied”: A Phenomenological Exploration Of The Impact Of The Humanities On Whole-Person Development, Jennifer Cline
Master of Arts in Higher Education (MAHE) Theses
The content covered within humanities courses is intrinsically personal, and the pursuit of a degree from this school of study requires deep contemplation, as well as the ability to convey those thoughts in meaningful text. This study explored the impact that pursuing a degree within the humanities (English, history, philosophy, etc.) has on an undergraduate student’s whole-person development. The areas of development identified include intellectual, emotional, and spiritual development. This study implemented a phenomenological design with an interview-based data collection process. The ten participants in this research were Senior undergraduate students studying English and history; the questions posed in their …
A Qualitative Exploration Of Undergraduate Students’ Experiences Of Psychological Safety In The Classroom, Josh Meredith
A Qualitative Exploration Of Undergraduate Students’ Experiences Of Psychological Safety In The Classroom, Josh Meredith
Master of Arts in Higher Education (MAHE) Theses
Psychological safety is defined as an individual’s perceptions that the space is safe for interpersonal risk-taking, such as asking questions or proposing an idea. The current study explored student experiences of psychological safety in the metaphorical, interpersonal undergraduate classroom learning environment. Twenty-two students were interviewed. Several themes emerged from the study, including students’ internal perceptions and external experiences of the classroom learning environment. Findings offer insight for higher education practitioners.
Creating A Sense Of Belonging For College Students With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Case Study Analysis, Hannah Gumbert
Creating A Sense Of Belonging For College Students With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Case Study Analysis, Hannah Gumbert
Master of Arts in Higher Education (MAHE) Theses
Higher education institutions exist to prepare individuals academically, personally and socially for life after college. However, individuals with special needs, specifically those with “invisible disabilities” like autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are often overlooked or left out in discussions about higher education. The purpose of this study was to develop a greater understanding of how a sense of belonging affects a student’s experience in higher education when they have a diagnosis of autism and how institutions can create a successful environment of belonging for their students with ASD. The study implemented a case study design and interviewed current students and staff …