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Articles 1 - 30 of 32
Full-Text Articles in Education
Laap: A Centralized Advising Program For The School Of Liberal Arts At Sunnyside College, Stephanie Sartori
Laap: A Centralized Advising Program For The School Of Liberal Arts At Sunnyside College, Stephanie Sartori
Higher Education Student Work
No abstract provided.
Improving Access: An Academic Support Program For First-Year Stem Students Working Toward Calculus, Emily Giantonio
Improving Access: An Academic Support Program For First-Year Stem Students Working Toward Calculus, Emily Giantonio
Higher Education Student Work
No abstract provided.
The Mighty Warriors: A Managing Mental Health Group To Support Students With Disabilities And Mental Health Symptoms, Katlyn Carr
The Mighty Warriors: A Managing Mental Health Group To Support Students With Disabilities And Mental Health Symptoms, Katlyn Carr
Higher Education Student Work
No abstract provided.
Leading Transformational Change: Enhancing The Adjunct Faculty Experience Through Narrative And Relationship, Greta I. Shepard
Leading Transformational Change: Enhancing The Adjunct Faculty Experience Through Narrative And Relationship, Greta I. Shepard
Higher Education Student Work
No abstract provided.
Extension Of A Commuter Advisor And Engagement Program, Michael Secreti
Extension Of A Commuter Advisor And Engagement Program, Michael Secreti
Higher Education Student Work
Commuter students continue to face a number of challenges when it comes to building social connections with their peers (Krause, 2007). Despite the number of programs targeted towards first-year college students, few programs are adequately prepared to address the needs and concerns of the commuter student population. In an effort to produce greater learning and development outcomes among Commuter Advisors (CAs) and their protégés (first-year commuter students), the Commuter Advisor Program at Merrimack College will provide seasoned commuter students with the opportunity to receive the training and guidance necessary to become strong mentors to the first-year commuter student population. According …
Developing A Centralized Tutoring System: A Comprehensive Resource Available For Students, Catherine Johnson
Developing A Centralized Tutoring System: A Comprehensive Resource Available For Students, Catherine Johnson
Higher Education Student Work
Peer tutoring at colleges and universities has become an essential resource in helping to enhance undergraduate students’ academic performance and persistence (Arco-Tirado, Fernández-Martin, & Fernández-Balboa, 2011), institutional retention rates (Grillo & Leist, 2013), and the academic abilities of students with learning disabilities (Troiano, Liefeld, & Trachtenberg, 2010). The Tutoring Center at Merrimack College, designed for this project, will house all peer tutors specializing in a variety of subjects, including, but not limited to: business, engineering, foreign languages, computer science, biology, and chemistry. According to Vygtosky’s (1978) learning theory, students learn most effectively and more thoroughly when working with more knowledgeable …
Enabling Student Moral Development In The Conduct Process, Evelyn Dina
Enabling Student Moral Development In The Conduct Process, Evelyn Dina
Higher Education Student Work
College is not only an opportunity for students to develop various aspects of their identity, but also a time to develop their moral maturity (Mathieson, 2003). In order to further increase student moral development and the learning that takes place for students in the conduct process, institutions should strive to implement educational sanctions and restorative approaches. This project will outline the components to establishing a civic learning sanction, as well as a model for restorative-oriented administrative hearings to be utilized throughout the student conduct process at Merrimack College. Kohlberg’s (1976) Theory of Moral Development provides an understanding of the stages …
Making The Case For Faculty And Staff Diversity And Inclusion Training At Merrimack College, Nicole Williams
Making The Case For Faculty And Staff Diversity And Inclusion Training At Merrimack College, Nicole Williams
Higher Education Student Work
Diversity and inclusion training is essential for long-term success and sustainability of an organization, especially institutions of higher education (Cocchiara, Connerley, & Bell, 2010; Cunningham, 2012). This capstone investigates the necessity and benefits of diversity and inclusion training, as well as effective training structures to contextualize the resulting curriculum model. This curriculum addresses an underlying institutional leadership gap at Merrimack College where faculty and staff are not adequately trained or provided with sufficient opportunities to engage in diversity and inclusion training. Feminist Standpoint Theory (Collins, 1997) and Transformational Learning Theory (Mezirow, 2000) provide the theoretical grounding to establish this foundational …
Stem Center For Student Retention And Success: A Proposal, Madhu Dhar Ph.D
Stem Center For Student Retention And Success: A Proposal, Madhu Dhar Ph.D
Higher Education Student Work
The STEM pipeline, a commonly used analogy (Kuh, 2006; Tierney, 2000), has been shrinking. Furthermore, degree attainment for women and underrepresented minority students in STEM are even lower than for undergraduates as a-whole (National Science Foundation, 2007). With low numbers of students enrolling in STEM fields and even smaller numbers of women and minorities in the STEM pipeline, colleges and universities need to pay particular-attention to retaining the students they have. This capstone proposes a STEM Center that provides an infrastructural support for undergraduate students in the School of Science and Engineering at Merrimack College. The Center will consolidate programs …
Factors Supporting The Leadership Of Women Of Color In Higher Education, Local Politics, And The Nonprofit Sector, Kayla J. Bynum, Paula Gomez Stordy
Factors Supporting The Leadership Of Women Of Color In Higher Education, Local Politics, And The Nonprofit Sector, Kayla J. Bynum, Paula Gomez Stordy
Higher Education Student Work
Women of color (WOC) are underrepresented in leadership roles within the fields of higher education and the nonprofit sector. The purpose of this study is to learn about the experiences of WOC who have achieved leadership roles in their professional fields. The collective experiences of women of color leaders will inform best practices for WOC who are pursuing professional leadership roles or professional mobility. These best practices will be beneficial for WOC, as well as employers who have the power to create a culture which supports the leadership of diverse WOC. It is essential for their leadership to inform best …
Assessing The Impact Of Mentoring Underserved Youth Through Service Learning, Breanna Walukevich
Assessing The Impact Of Mentoring Underserved Youth Through Service Learning, Breanna Walukevich
Higher Education Student Work
Mentoring underserved youth through service learning can provide various positive impacts for both mentors and mentees (Banks, 2010; Hughes et al., 2012; Rhodes, Grossman & Resch, 2000; Thompson & Kelly-Vance, 2001; Washburn-Moses, Fry & Sanders, 2014; Weiler et al., 2013). This qualitative interview study assessed the perceived impact that a mentoring program had on mentees, who were underserved youth at an elementary school in a low-income community, and mentors, who were college students participating through a service learning course. The findings revealed overall positive outcomes for both the mentors and mentees. The mentees benefited academically and looked up to their …
Evaluating The State Of Departmental Student-Employee Training And Employment, Brandon E. Clinton
Evaluating The State Of Departmental Student-Employee Training And Employment, Brandon E. Clinton
Higher Education Student Work
Student-employment is an important aspect of a college student’s experience. According to Kathman and Kathman (2000), students benefit from an on-campus job, as they are able to develop strong interpersonal skills, and develop experience for their resumes (p 176). In this study, I examined the dynamics of a campus center-based student employment program, and the related training program that is administered by a campus operations department. Using a focus group, a 13 item protocol was administered to nine undergraduate student-employees of this department, and an additional two alumni student-employees were interviewed individually. The focus of this research was rooted in …
Development Of A Graduate Level Faculty Led Study Abroad Course, Chelsea Levine
Development Of A Graduate Level Faculty Led Study Abroad Course, Chelsea Levine
Higher Education Student Work
As the world becomes more globalized, society must create ways to adapt to these changes. One result is more internationalization at the higher education level (Mckenzie, Lopez & Bowers, 2010). Internationalization includes recent efforts to increase study abroad participation for graduate students. This exploratory study sought to understand best practices for the creation of a faculty led study abroad course in a higher education Master’s degree program. Topics of research included preparatory travel logistics, coursework to maintain academic rigor, and outcomes as it relates to personal and professional growth. Faculty leaders from across the U.S. who lead their own courses …
Assessing The Power Of College Culture In Educational Transformation, Kenneth Eze
Assessing The Power Of College Culture In Educational Transformation, Kenneth Eze
Higher Education Student Work
The fundamental purpose for the existence of every educational institution is to provide knowledge and value through the teaching and learning exercise. Positive culture is an invisible yet significant element of success that inspires excellence in colleges and universities that enjoy good reputation. This qualitative study investigated the power of college culture in improving the quality and performance of a low performing college to become a high performing college through the college’s day to day operations and services. Six faculty and senior administrators were interviewed to determine how positive culture delivery is perceived to function, impacts students’ academic success, students’ …
Persistence Factors For Nontraditional Undergraduate Students At A Northeast Catholic College, Heather Macneil Pfordresher
Persistence Factors For Nontraditional Undergraduate Students At A Northeast Catholic College, Heather Macneil Pfordresher
Higher Education Student Work
Nontraditional students are an extremely diverse group with very unique backgrounds and needs, and their motivations to enroll, persist, and graduate vary depending on factors internal and external to the college and are often dissimilar to their traditional aged counterparts (Pelletier, 2010). Given this difference and increasing enrollment numbers of nontraditional students, understanding the lived experiences of these students is critical for institutions of higher education. This study examined persistence factors for nontraditional students at a Northeast Catholic college, including academic and social engagement, the role of support systems in their lives, and their sense of belonging. It also sought …
Assessment Of Chinese International Graduate Students’ Experience Working With Agents, Haozhe Yu
Assessment Of Chinese International Graduate Students’ Experience Working With Agents, Haozhe Yu
Higher Education Student Work
In the past fifteen years, the numbers of Chinese international students have increased rapidly across the United States in all types of institutions of higher education (Farrugia & Bhandari, 2015). This study explores the experience of Chinese international graduate students working with study abroad agents in China. In this qualitative semistructured interview study, seven Chinese international students were interviewed. Students were asked x, y and z about their experience working with agents; several challenges of Chinese international students, including finding college information, Internet limitations, language barriers and limited time, and lack of knowledge of the application process. Based on the …
Tutor, Guide, Lead: Examining The Experiences Of Peer Tutors, Kait Bouthillette
Tutor, Guide, Lead: Examining The Experiences Of Peer Tutors, Kait Bouthillette
Higher Education Student Work
Peer tutoring is a form of academic support in which students who have mastered a particular subject assist peers who may be struggling in that course. While relatively little research has focused on the impact of tutoring on peer tutors, existing literature highlights the interpersonal, social, and academic skills peer tutors can gain from their experiences (Gaffney-Varma-Nelson, 2007; Loke & Chow, 2007). It is important to understand the most meaningful factors in the peer tutoring experience and the conditions that best support skills development in order to better structure programs to maximize the potential outcomes for peer tutors. The purpose …
The Will To Write: An Assessment Of The Perceptions Of Writing Readiness And Success Of First-Generation Students, Samantha C. Bruno
The Will To Write: An Assessment Of The Perceptions Of Writing Readiness And Success Of First-Generation Students, Samantha C. Bruno
Higher Education Student Work
Writing is one of the most influential means of communication utilized in all disciplines across the world. This pragmatic, qualitative study sought to explore students’ perceptions of writing preparedness and success, as well as first-generation students’ transition into college writing. Seven first-generation college students at a small, private, four-year institution located in Massachusetts were interviewed. The findings of this study indicated that for this sample, the transition into college writing was marked by a drastic change in expectations at the postsecondary level. Moreover, students faced challenges regarding writing style, frequency, and research. In order to successfully master college writing, students …
Assessment Of First-Generation Students Success Strategies At Long River College, Dana Almazrua
Assessment Of First-Generation Students Success Strategies At Long River College, Dana Almazrua
Higher Education Student Work
Educational establishments have long been working on the development of educational programs for students to enhance their performance and motivation. However, colleges often fail to consider the specific needs and concerns of first-generation students who are often less motivated to enter higher education (Davis, 2010). The purpose of this study was to explore the major challenges of these students in order to enhance their motivation to continue their education. Additionally, the program director of a recently transformed first generation initiative was interviewed for insights about the process. The research was based on a qualitative methodology. It included interviews with first-generation …
Identifying Best Practices To Increase Latino Student Enrollment And Retention At Non-Hispanic Serving Institutions, Katherine Lopez
Identifying Best Practices To Increase Latino Student Enrollment And Retention At Non-Hispanic Serving Institutions, Katherine Lopez
Higher Education Student Work
Latino college students are the fastest growing population in the United States, yet their educational attainment falls significantly behind compared to Asians, Whites, and Blacks (Santiago & Soliz, 2012). This study sought out to identify best practices to recruit and retain Latino students at US four year colleges and universities. Interviews with seven knowledgeable stakeholders at non-Hispanic Serving Institutions across the country were conducted. Participants were asked about specific programming and strategies used at their institutions to meet the needs of the Latino population. The findings suggested that this special population needs additional financial, cultural and academic support in order …
Identifying Best Practices For A College Admission Counselor Fly-In Event, Alexander G. Zotos
Identifying Best Practices For A College Admission Counselor Fly-In Event, Alexander G. Zotos
Higher Education Student Work
As demographic shifts and economic factors have increased the potential pool of college students in the United States, thoughtful, comprehensive admissions strategies matter to the advancement of higher education (Miller, Valle & Engle, 2014). The focus of this study was to examine the best practices for college admission recruitment strategies, which specifically focused on a national counselor college fly-in event at a medium sized comprehensive institution in New England. The impact that secondary school counselors have on college enrollment is not well documented in the literature. In this project, a survey was distributed to XX secondary school counselors who attended …
Assessing The Role Of Academic Advisors In Retention Of International Students, Shreelekha Girish
Assessing The Role Of Academic Advisors In Retention Of International Students, Shreelekha Girish
Higher Education Student Work
The retention of international students should not be viewed as the responsibility of only international student advisors on the college campus. Instead, as suggested by Mamiseishvili (2012), it should become a joint responsibility of a broader campus community, including faculty, academic advisors, English language program staff, and student affairs professionals. Inspired by these ideas, this qualitative research study focused on international students' experiences during their advising sessions with their academic advisors at a four-year, post-secondary private institution in Massachusetts. The study was conducted by interviewing ten international students from different majors. This research explored the necessary information and resources international …
Assessing Adult Learner Experience At Northern Stark University: An Exploratory Study, Kathleen Burke
Assessing Adult Learner Experience At Northern Stark University: An Exploratory Study, Kathleen Burke
Higher Education Student Work
Close to 40% of students currently enrolled in U.S. colleges and universities are adult undergraduate learners, many of whom attend school on a part-time basis (Day et.al., 2011). The rate of college enrollment by adult students, age 25 and older, can be expected to rise even further due to the current economic recession, as adults find themselves in need of new skills and knowledge to pursue continued employment (Day et. al., 2011). This capstone project was conducted through a transformative paradigm with the intention of making a positive change for the adult population at Northern Stark University. I conducted eight …
The Influence Of Mentorship: A Study On How Academic Advising Can Facilitate A Positive College Student Experience, Timothy Lebel
The Influence Of Mentorship: A Study On How Academic Advising Can Facilitate A Positive College Student Experience, Timothy Lebel
Higher Education Student Work
At American colleges and universities, academic advising has been traditionally utilized as a tool to aid students in course registration and making sure they are on track towards graduation. However, as the student population continues to diversify, their needs and concerns need continual adaptation to be met as well. Students need an outlet to not only discuss their academic progress, but also to converse about how to tie in their interests and passions, extracurricular involvement, social life, and career and future aspirations with their academics. This opportunity for positive mentorship can go hand in hand with academic advising. Through this …
Exploring Transition Through The Senior Year Experience, Devon B. Corbett
Exploring Transition Through The Senior Year Experience, Devon B. Corbett
Higher Education Student Work
Senior year is a busy time for most college students as they are preparing for their upcoming transition into adulthood. They are constantly answering the question “What are you doing after graduation?” This results in many college seniors pulling away from their community in order to focus strictly on their major field of study and less on their upcoming transition (Henscheid, 2008). Senior Year Experience programs are a way colleges can provide intentional programming to support college students throughout this transition into adulthood. The purpose of this study was to explore existing Senior Year Experience programs at other institutions with …
Assessing Strategies For Success For First Generation College Students At Merrimack College, Sarah Duke
Assessing Strategies For Success For First Generation College Students At Merrimack College, Sarah Duke
Higher Education Student Work
First generation college students, who are increasing in number in higher education, often lack support and face barriers in their educational pursuit ultimately affecting retention (Gofen, 2009). This qualitative study investigated the experiences of students involved in Generation Merrimack, a program designed for first generation college students as a career and professional support initiative. The study sought to explore how to improve Generation Merrimack from students’ experiences and perspectives. Interviews were conducted to collect data from current students, who were asked questions about challenges, supports, and involvement in Generation Merrimack. The findings, which will be used to aid in the …
Logged In And Engaged: Examining How Social Media Can Develop, Maintain, And Increase College Student Engagement, Matthew Moquin
Logged In And Engaged: Examining How Social Media Can Develop, Maintain, And Increase College Student Engagement, Matthew Moquin
Higher Education Student Work
The purpose of this study was to examine how student affairs professionals, primarily those working in student involvement, utilized various social media technologies to increase their engagement with undergraduate college students. This study utilized Astin’s (1984) theory of student involvement, as well as a collection of literature surrounding the impact of social media on college students and their engagement in order to understand the influence social media can have when engaging with students. Since there is a limited amount of literature and research surrounding the subject of social media and its role in student engagement, a study was done that …
The Incorporation Of Sustainability In Higher Education: A Research Synthesis, Catherine M. Bartolini
The Incorporation Of Sustainability In Higher Education: A Research Synthesis, Catherine M. Bartolini
Higher Education Student Work
In the past decade, sustainability efforts in higher education have become more prevalent across the nation and the world. However, some institutions lack the resources and information on how to successfully create a campus-wide culture that is dedicated to environmentally friendly practices. This study was designed to help direct institutions on the actions they can take to create a sustainably focused campus. Six participants from the offices of sustainability at Babson College and Bryant University were interviewed for this qualitative study. Findings included the significance of incorporating sustainability into the foundation of the institution through signing specific documents that outline …
Study Of The Design Of A First Generation Community College Stem Learning Community, Susan M. St. Pierre
Study Of The Design Of A First Generation Community College Stem Learning Community, Susan M. St. Pierre
Higher Education Student Work
First generation students attending college have difficulties achieving academic success, engaging with their peers and persisting (Jehangir, 2010); are growing in number on college campuses; and are significantly underrepresented in STEM programs of study. This research examined the role that a STEM focused Learning Community (STEM LC) and student participation in Early College programs with STEM exposure have on first generation student achievement engagement and retention. The purpose of the project was to research and design a framework for a community college STEM LC for first generation students as a means to increase academic achievement and student retention for this …
Postsecondary Writing: First-Year Students’ Perceptions Of College Writing Preparedness, Kerri E. Hoppe
Postsecondary Writing: First-Year Students’ Perceptions Of College Writing Preparedness, Kerri E. Hoppe
Higher Education Student Work
As access to higher education continues to grow it is important to consider the way students are prepared for college level work. This is especially true in the area of writing, which is considered to be the academic skill most linked to success at the college level (Conley, 2008). This qualitative study investigates college writing preparedness through the perspectives of ten first-year students at a small, liberal arts institution in Massachusetts. The study sought to explore how K-12 institutions and postsecondary schools can work to better prepare students for college writing. Participants described the differences between secondary and postsecondary writing …