Scholarship of Teaching and Learning Commons^™

Navigating Communication Challenges And Adaptive Strategies In Young Women With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Qualitative Study, Aspen Patrick, Addi Campbell, Mallory Tyler, Ran An

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

This study aims to understand the unique communication challenges in

various aspects of life for young women with Autism Spectrum

Disorder (ASD), such as education, career, friendships, romantic

relationships, and everyday activities. Additionally, this research seeks

to uncover the strategies these women use to navigate these challenges

and provide insights or recommendations for speech-language

pathologists (SLPs) based on their lived experiences.

Predicting Battery Efficiency: A Theoretical Approach, Haiti Schafers

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

The Kansas ElectroRally Races continuously demand faster electric vehicles (EV). When designing a vehicle one of the most important components is the battery. This study was designed to find the following; What is the optimal throttle percentage to run a 36V 20Ah (768Wh) LiFePO4 Rechargeable Battery Pack[1].

The optimal throttle percentage was found with methods detailed in a different section. Based on the performance of the older cars this study choose to focus on 50% and 70%, while obtaining other relevant data to further that inference.

Measuring Cosmic Rays With Muon Detectors (Quarknet), Aiden Burton, Jack W. Maseberg

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

We report measurement of atmospheric muon particles originating from cosmic rays. Using four QuarkNet project scintillators in an unstacked geometry, we are counting muons in coincidence with each other. We are currently refurbishing a second detector apparatus and will soon be capable of measuring coincidence events for larger shower surface areas using a total of eight scintillators.

Stride And Succeed: A Pilot Study For Walking Meetings In The College Classroom, Derek Mesa, Jessica Phelan, Rachel Dolechek

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

This pilot study explores the feasibility and enjoyment of incorporating walking meetings into college classrooms to reduce sedentary behavior and enhance learning. College students often experience prolonged periods of inactivity during lectures, which can hinder alertness and concentration. Walking has been linked to improved mental health, creativity, concentration, memory, and executive function. The study involved 31 students from Business Communication and Health and Human Performance courses, who participated in walking meetings facilitated by their instructors. Data were collected via a survey, which included demographic questions, enjoyment ratings, and feasibility assessments. Results indicated high levels of enjoyment and productivity during walking …

The Impact Of Anthropogenic Infrastructure On Avian Reproductive Success: A Study Of House Wrens In Proximity To Highways, Nana-Esi Irie Hanson, Medhavi Ambardar

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Road infrastructure has multifaceted effects on bird populations, influencing various aspects of their ecology and behaviour. I investigated the impact of road infrastructure, particularly highways, on the reproductive success of House Wrens (Troglodytes aedon) in a rural area. I compared the reproductive success of House Wrens in sites close to a major highway (Sternberg Museum Nature Trail) with sites located farther away (along Big Creek) in Hays, KS. I hypothesized that House Wrens near highways would exhibit lower reproductive success. I recorded metrics of reproductive success, traffic volumes, and noise levels. House wrens at the Big Creek site had higher …

Experimenting With Machine Learning Using Diabetes Datasets, Wyatt Mcdonnell, Hongbiao Zeng

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

The purpose of this research is to understand how to implement machine learning in a practical scenario. There were two diabetes datasets[5][6] used for testing the machine learning models. These datasets contain information relevant to a person’s health, as well as whether that subject had diabetes. I used a total of four models, and three of those models were manually programmed. The model which was not manually programmed was used for comparison with a similar model. This research directly compares and shows the factors which affect the efficiency of each machine learning model.

Enhancing Research Ethics And Interview Methodology For Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorder, Ran An, Mallory Tyler, Aspen Patrick, Addi Campbell

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Recent autism research emphasizes the importance of ethical, inclusive, and participatory methodologies that center the voices and lived experiences of autistic individuals. However, traditional qualitative approaches often reflect neurotypical norms, limiting their sensitivity to diverse communication styles and marginalizing participants with high support needs. This methodological proposal outlines an inclusive, neurodiversity-affirming framework adopted in a qualitative study on individuals with autism spectrum disorder. This approach is based on person-centered ethics and participatory principles, and it integrates values from autism self-advocacy communities.

Crispr-Induced Mutagenesis Of Arabidopsis Thaliana Gene Apetala3, Hazel Frans, Tara Phelps-Durr

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

This project aims to create CRISPR-CAS9 mutations in the APETELA3 (AP3) gene of the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana. AP3 is a class B gene critical to the petal and stamen development of Arabidopsis flowers. AP3 is defined in a MADS domain, which binds directly to DNA and may be responsible for the expression of the CaRG-box genes. AP3 works in conjunction with PISTILLATA (PI), AGAMOUS (AG), APETALA1 (AP1), and SEPALLATA (SEP) genes to specify the development in the second and third whorls of the flower. While several alleles of AP3 already exist, these alleles are strong alleles that knockout gene …

Developing Scholarship Of Teaching And Learning (Sotl) On A Regional Campus, Shawn Boyne, Rosemary Erickson Johnsen

eJournal of Public Affairs

How can academic affairs administrators foster robust Scholarship of Teaching and Learning practices on a regional baccalaureate campus? Fulfilling tenure-system faculty requirements for scholarly research at a teaching institution alongside 4-4 teaching loads is a challenge, but supporting faculty in SoTL engagement shows them how it draws on their expertise to yield meaningful benefits for themselves as teacher-scholars and for their students. To lay a solid foundation for a new programmatic emphasis on SoTL, academic leadership at the Crookston campus of the University of Minnesota harnessed system resources available through the Center for Educational Innovation to a supportive cohort model. …

Robotics In Early Childhood Stem Education (Rec-Stemed): The Impact On Preservice Teachers’ Attitudes And Intentions Toward Computational Thinking, Lucus Vasconcelos Ph.D., Ismahan Arslan-Ari, Bridget Miller, Renato Gonzalez-Tapia

Faculty Publications

There is a large disconnect between the increasing need for computer science education in K-12 schools and the preservice teacher training provided. Consequently, preservice teachers may graduate feeling unprepared to infuse computer science concepts such as computational thinking (CT) into their teaching. To address this, we created Robotics in Early Childhood STEM Education (REC-STEMEd), a module that infuses computational thinking, robotics, and science content into an early childhood teacher education methods course. This study investigated changes in early childhood preservice teachers’ (n = 39) attitudes toward learning to teach CT and their intentions to teach CT. Findings revealed a statistically …

Coastal Erosion In Ireland, Brian Nguyen, Jeanne Sumrall

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Ireland's approach to managing its coastlines focuses more on a short-term solution method rather than long-term, eco-friendly solutions. Their coastal defenses are created upon an immediate need without clear policies and sufficient research. As a result, beach ecosystems are frequently damaged, and the erosion is only reduced to a certain extent. To reduce erosion and protect both the environment and Irish culture, this study suggests that Ireland should implement national policies focused on regularly monitoring coastal erosion, researching nature-based solutions, and implementing them to address the problem. Moving forward, it’s important for research to focus on understanding the overall impact …

The Effect Of An Immersive Inclusive Experience On Preservice Music Educators’ Perspectives About Inclusive Education, Emily M. Chapman

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

This mixed methods study explored the effects of an immersive and inclusive choir experience on music education students' attitudes and self-efficacy regarding inclusive education practices. The participants, 35 junior- and senior-level music education majors from a large Midwestern public university, were divided into two groups: 18 seniors enrolled in a required “Music and Special Education” course and 17 juniors who were enrolled in the semester immediately preceding this required course. Participants’ beliefs, feelings, and teaching intentions were collected using a modified version of the Multidimensional Attitudes toward Inclusive Education Scale (MATIES) Mahat (2008). Following the immersive experience, preservice educators reflected …

El Deafo Bibliotherapy, David S. Wolff

OER Materials

The goal of this assignment was for preservice teachers to practice writing a chain of questions that focused on the social and/or emotional needs of young learners. Bibliotherapy is therapeutic in nature to help individuals understand themselves and the world around them through guided reading experiences (American Library Association, 2025; Delisle & Galbraith, 2002). Further, bibliotherapy allow individuals to identify a personal problem mirrored by a character in a book. As the reader connects with the character, the reader experiences the emotions expressed by the character. Finally, the reader applies the character’s experience to their own personal problem (American Library …

Horrible Harry In Room 2b Bibliotherapy, David S. Wolff

OER Materials

The goal of this assignment was for preservice teachers to practice writing a chain of questions that focused on the social and/or emotional needs of young learners. Bibliotherapy is therapeutic in nature to help individuals understand themselves and the world around them through guided reading experiences (American Library Association, 2025; Delisle & Galbraith, 2002). Further, bibliotherapy allow individuals to identify a personal problem mirrored by a character in a book. As the reader connects with the character, the reader experiences the emotions expressed by the character. Finally, the reader applies the character’s experience to their own personal problem (American Library …

Positive Illusions And Their Mental Health Implications, Caleb L. Ashley

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Positive illusions, defined as overly optimistic self-evaluations, exaggerated perceptions of control, and unrealistically favorable outlooks on the future have been the subject of a breadth of research due to their implications in mental health and resilience. Empirical evidence suggests that, in moderate amounts, positive illusions can help support resilience and persistence and are correlated with overall well-being. However, their benefits may become detrimental if they are absent or excessively pronounced. By synthesizing existing research, this presentation seeks to provide a nuanced understanding of positive illusions and to offer insights into how their existence may inform treatment in clinical settings.

British Conduct Is A Major Reason Of Ireland Resist, Churong Wei, Jeanne Sumrall

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

For centuries, Ireland was under Britain's rule, the struggle for Irish people’s independence, driven by a deep desire of self governance, economic justice, and cultural identity , has never stopped.

During the years of Britain domination, Irish people faced political repression, economic exploitation, and religious discrimination, specifically against its Catholic majority. These can be symbolled by The Great Famine (1845–1852) and British neglect further fueled resentment.

In 19th and 20th centuries, nationalism raised in Ireland, along with symbolic events like Easter Rising(1916) and the Irish War of Independence(1919–1921). These event solidified the demand of freedom and independence among Irish people. …

The Distribution And Ecology Of Native Irish Tree Species, Yuchen Hu, Jeanne Sumrall

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Ireland’s native woodlands have greatly declined due to deforestation, farming, and urbanization, with less than 1% of the land now covered by native forests. This study looks at the distribution of native trees like oak, ash, birch, and yew, and their role in biodiversity. Native woodlands are mainly in the western and northern parts of Ireland, while areas with more farming and development have lost most of their native forests.

The study also highlights threats from invasive species and diseases like ash dieback. Forest fragmentation reduces their ecological value and harms wildlife. While restoration efforts have made some progress, the …

Defining Sexual Assault, Consent, And Resources To Empower Students: A Dnp Project, Sarah Powers

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Abstract

Sexual assault (SA) remains a pervasive issue on college campuses in the United States, often compounded by underreporting and a lack of knowledge about available resources. This Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project aims to educate first-year college students about SA, sexual consent, and available resources to empower students in preventing assaults and seeking help when needed. The intervention, which was integrated into mandatory freshman seminars at a four-year university, was guided by Knowles' Adult Learning Theory. A presentation provided critical information, and knowledge gains were assessed through pre- and post-presentation surveys. Initial findings indicated significant increases in understanding …

Exploring Galway Bay And Connemara: Balancing Tourism Growth With Nature’S Protection, Rongtian Feng, Jeanne Sumrall

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

This poster observes how Galway Bay and Connemara manage large tourist numbers while maintaining nature conserved, according to data from Connemara National Park, Galway County Council, two research papers, and a 2017 visitor plan. We researched the ways that tourists affect the land, which rules help, and green ideas to try, learning that too many tourists—over 200,000 to Connemara Park in 2019—hurt the land, Galway Bay lost animals because of trash, and while cleaner water helps, caring about money more hurts nature more. A map, timeline, and graph show the problem. We found out tourism is a source of income …

Wrongful Convictions In The United States, Connor J. Schoenberger

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Wrongful convictions occur too frequently in the united states. A wrongful conviction occurs when a person is found guilty and sentenced for a crime that he or she did not commit. Wrongful convictions occur for a number of reasons including false confessions and prosecutorial misconduct, to name only two. This study considers how wrongful convictions affect society and consequences for those who are wrongfully convicted and then later exonerated. One cannot put a price tag on the harm done as a result of wrongful convictions.