Digital Commons Network^™

Recording Employability Skills Development Using The Student Transformative Learning Record (Stlr) Dashboard, Amanda Dixon

Case studies: Digital Education

Academic transcripts demonstrate the academic achievement of graduates. However, they do not demonstrate the skills, abilities, and attributes such as critical thinking and teamwork that are identified as essential for the workplace or for society (Miller et al, 2020 p. 12). Catalano (2022) argues that the traditional academic transcript is not providing the information employers need. The solution to this is that universities support students to communicate their skills in a better way through a skills-based transcript. The Student Transformative Learning Record (STLR) dashboard is a Brightspace enabled LTI integration platform that allows students to gain recognition for their transformative …

Interactive Worksheets For Self-Study, Alice Luby

Case studies: Digital Education

Students can be intimated when attempting exam style questions in modules that require computations and numeric content. The large volume of numbers and the need for computations in Accounting can be very challenging for students, especially for those who don’t intend on becoming an accountant when they graduate. Some don’t have the confidence to get started or fear that if they get the first part wrong that they are wasting their time. It can be very difficult for students to get started on a question and to develop the skills they need to pass the end of year examination.

The Anonymous Voice, Alice Luby

Case studies: Digital Education

A student may not answer in front of peers because they lack confidence, are afraid to get it wrong and feel silly or don’t want to be seen as a ‘nerd’. Polling software reduces barriers by allowing students to post questions anonymously as well as responding anonymously to polls posed by the lecturer. Our aim should be to empower student to speak up and engage, however for first year students this can be daunting. Polling software can foster engagement providing an anonymous voice that can create a more dynamic and active learning space. According to one student ‘It is very …

Strategy & Leadership In Accounting & Finance Module Redesign, Lucy Bowe, Ruth O'Leary

Case studies: Digital Education

This year, we have been redesigning the "Strategy & Leadership in Accounting & Finance” module. This finalyear undergraduate module aim is to develop students' judgment, critical thinking, and ability to integrate knowledge to solve real-world business challenges. The module is delivered by a team of lecturers and employs multi-disciplinary case-studies to provide authentic learning and assessment. It is offered across three programs in the Faculty of Business resulting in high student numbers, which presents several challenges including time-tabling, room availability and attendance issues. We also wanted to encourage active student engagement, debate and the sharing of diverse perspectives.

Vr For Tourism (Assessment), Nevan Bermingham

Case studies: Digital Education

1st Year marketing and tourism modules typically employ assessments that are written or presentation-based, and due to the complexities of timetable delivery, rarely are able to share common assessments. Technology is of growing importance to both marketing and tourism businesses due to ability to connect with potential customers through various online channels such as websites, social media, email, and search engines, making it easier to build brand awareness and drive sales with new or existing audiences. Technology also plays a significant role in tourism marketing, enhancing the reach and effectiveness of marketing efforts. I introduced a new joint assessment shared …

Athlete Decision-Making Process In The Liminality After Career-Ending Injuries, Grace Davie

Theses and Dissertations

This qualitative study explored the decision-making process of athletes in the liminal period immediately following career-ending injuries. While existing research has examined transition challenges and coping strategies, there remains a critical gap in understanding how athletes actively make decisions that shape their post-sport trajectories during this crucial period. Using Crisis Decision Theory (CDT) as a theoretical framework, this study investigated athletes' overall experience, support systems, injury severity assessment, and response option determination and evaluation during the immediate post-injury decision-making process. Key findings demonstrated that athletes' decision-making processes closely aligned with CDT's three-stage framework: assessing injury severity, determining response options, and …

Does Name, Image, And Likeness Increase Gender Inequality In College Athletics?, Aimee Christenson

Political Science Theses and Capstones

In June of 2021, the National Collegiate Athletic Association adopted its first interim policy regarding Name, Image, and Likeness. From here, college athletes have been able to benefit from opportunities regarding their brand as an athlete. While this development has been historic in its expansion of rights to athletes, it highlights the inequities between male and female athletes. Title IX requires equal opportunity for male and female students. This research raises questions about whether NIL is increasing the disparity between male and female athletes. To answer this question, I looked at NIL data collected by Kyle Ems on the NIL …

Economic Impact Analysis For The Ut Tyler - Longview Small Business Development Center, Manuel Reyes-Loya, Cecilia Cuellar, Marilyn Young, Sara Maldonado, Pedro Gallardo-Toledo

Whitepapers and Technical Reports

This report analyzes the economic impact of the University of Texas at Tyler–Longview Small Business Development Center (SBDC) on the East Texas region. It examines both the center's operational contributions and the effects of the services it provides to local businesses. Between 2020 and 2024, SBDC-supported businesses generated approximately $49.8 million in economic output, with projections of $34.9 million more through 2027. The center's own operations contributed about $3.5 million, with additional expected output of $2.6 million. Using an input-output model, the study highlights the SBDC's role in fostering regional entrepreneurship and economic growth, demonstrating its importance as both a …

Enhancing Metacognitive Competencies Through Human-Centered Ai: The Role Of Custom-Trained Intelligent Agents In Workforce Upskilling, James Hutson

Faculty Scholarship

This editorial examines the integration of human-computer intelligent interaction (HCII), specifically through human-centered artificial intelligence (AI) and custom-trained intelligent agents, to foster metacognitive competencies critical for workforce upskilling. With 59% of the workforce projected to require substantial upskilling by 2030, developing personalized AI models tailored to individual cognitive and learning profiles presents an innovative pathway. These custom-trained agents leverage human-computer interaction (HCI) technologies and machine learning methodologies to enhance understanding of one’s own learning processes-metacognition-thus empowering individuals to optimize their future learning and adaptability. This approach not only enhances the individual’s ability to engage effectively with complex tasks in the …

Tillamook: Ethical Values Or Misleading Marketing?, Victoria Chin, Ealynn Hsu, Kyana Le, B Littman, Natalia Trejo Andalon

B-Corp Case Studies by UNL Raikes Seniors

Tillamook began as a humble cooperative for the local dairy farmers of Tillamook County, Oregon, to ensure that high-quality cheese was the local standard. As time passed, Tillamook evolved to establish an internal Farm Services Team to help support each farmer and pay above market value for members’ milk–in return, receiving a stable supply of dairy to manufacture its dairy-based products. Additionally, the farmers are still the ones who call the important shots for Tillamook rather than other corporate shareholders. Tillamook County Creamery Association (TCCA) has since expanded nationally, but the foundation remains the same: high-quality dairy to create high-quality …

Gojo & Company, Inc.: Collaborate To Elevate - Microfinancing Through Strategic Partnerships, Ellenna Divingnzzo, Joshua Feng, Charles Moloney, Brendan Shanks, Emma Wagner

B-Corp Case Studies by UNL Raikes Seniors

Gojo’s mission is to “extend financial inclusion across the globe” with the goal “to enable the provision of high-quality affordable financial services in 50 countries” (Impact Report, Gojo, pg. 4). They are a microfinance institution (MFI) that provides financial assistance mainly to individuals in five countries: Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, India, and Tajikistan (Impact Report, Gojo, pg. 10). They also have partnerships that extend into many other countries to a lesser extent. Gojo’s group companies provide services such as group loans, business loans, microenterprise loans, emergency loans, voluntary savings, affordable housing, microcredit depositing, and more to over 2.4 million clients. …

From Poolside To Profit Margins: A Deep Dive Into Playa Hotels & Resorts, Elisabeth Zygmunt, Hai Tran

Honors Thesis

From a consumer perspective, all-inclusive leisure travel requires few worries coupled with plenty of enjoyment and relaxation. However, from a managerial perspective, there are countless operations to run to ensure a positive guest experience. Playa Hotels & Resorts (NASDAQ: PLYA) is a leader in all-inclusive resorts in vacation destinations worldwide. Compared to some of the biggest names and players in the industry, Playa has a relatively small market cap of $1.49B. To maintain its growth trajectory, Playa must capitalize on the increasing popularity of all-inclusive models and consumer health concerns, along with continuing to expand its portfolio through collaborations with …

"Data Science For Digital Privacy: A Practical Guide For Non-Technical Audiences", Kayla Ahrndt

SPARK Symposium Presentations

As companies increasingly rely on consumer data for personalization and profit, the need for stronger user protections, security measures, and transparency in data practices grows. Legal frameworks must be continuously re-evaluated and updated to ensure accountability, while individuals must be equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their digital presence. However, personal data privacy education remains widely inaccessible due to the technical language and the effort required to navigate complex policies. This project, presented in both zine and blog formats, addresses this gap by providing clear, actionable, and accessible recommendations for data privacy and personal cybersecurity. As an …

Understanding The California Consumer Privacy Act: Empowering Individuals And Businesses, Kelley G. Palladino, Leah Hetherington, Brennan Zentmeyer

SPARK Symposium Presentations

Dive into the world of data privacy with our presentation on the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA). This legislation grants Californians unprecedented control over their personal data. We'll explore the key rights it provides, such as the ability to know what data is collected, to request its deletion, and to opt-out of the sale of data --- meaning consumers can direct businesses to stop selling their personal information, protecting their privacy from unwanted commercial use

We'll also discuss the CCPA's impact on businesses. The CCPA applies to for-profit businesses that collect personal data from California residents, do business in California, …

Capital Formation, The Sec, And Accredited Investors, Neal F. Newman, Lawrence J. Trautman, Brian Elzweig

Faculty Scholarship

Protecting the investing public, while simultaneously facilitating the efficient flow of capital needed by all new and growing businesses continues as a primary responsibility of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Enhancing the capital formation process is a necessary step in the creation of jobs and growth of any economy. Central to the SEC’s regulatory schematic is the proposition that some particularly sophisticated and wealthy investors require less protection than those with less knowledge, experience, and resources. During December 2023, for just the third time, the SEC staff issued a report examining the status of the natural person accredited …

An Analysis Of New Technologies In Last-Mile Logistics Examined Through The Triple Bottom Line (Tbl), Owen M. Appel

Honors Projects

Last-mile delivery is responsible for nearly half of delivery related costs and emissions. Increasing the efficiency in this segment of the supply chain is vital for companies looking to reduce waste and increase productivity to meet rising e-commerce and package delivery demand. This paper explores new technologies within last-mile delivery through the lens of the Triple Bottom Line (TBL), analyzing economic, environmental, and social implications. Technologies discussed include fleet modernization & electrification, autonomous vehicles, parcel lockers, drones, and crowdshipping. The paper primarily builds its case around the United States Postal Service (USPS), as it has been unprofitable for an extended …

Effective Lab Management Using Netsupport School, Rodger Faherty

Case studies: Digital Education

NetSupport School is a comprehensive computer lab management software system designed to enhance the teaching and learning experiences. It offers a range of features including screen monitoring, screen sharing, web filtering, real-time instruction, and assessment tools. Lecturers can monitor student activity, control access to websites and applications, and provide remote assistance. Prior to implementation and use of NetSupport School students could be distracted and not pay full attention during software demonstrations that were delivered via lecture podium and projector. With NetSupport lecturers can effectively control and communicate with connected student desktops. This allows for a high degree of collaboration, feedback …

Michigan Can Be Proud Of Dentistry's Volunteers, Michelle C. Dziurgot

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This editorial celebrates National Volunteer Week (April 20-26, 2025) by highlighting Michigan Dental Association members' volunteer contributions. The article emphasizes dentists' participation in MDA Foundation's Missions of Mercy programs providing free dental care, involvement in organized dentistry through committees and events, and recognition through various MDA awards. The author acknowledges members' non-dental community service and expresses gratitude for volunteers whose dedication strengthens the MDA and provides essential dental care to underserved populations across Michigan.

The New Professional: Owner Dentist Or Associate? How To Make The Decision, Amrita Patel Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article compares the career paths of owner dentists and associate dentists, examining autonomy, income potential, work-life balance, and tax advantages. It offers insights into the benefits and challenges of each role, empowering dentists to make informed decisions based on their long-term goals, financial aspirations, and comfort with business management.

J Mich Dent Assoc April 2025

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

Each month, The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association provides news, information, and features about Michigan dentistry to our state's oral health community and the MDA's 6,200+ members. It stands as the primary publication reaching Michigan dentists. The April issue marks the end of an era, as the MDA announced it would discontinue providing a print issue and focus on digital distribution.

This month’s issue includes a cover feature on going non-par, a feature article on pterygoid implant placement and restoration, candidate’s biographical statements, and information on a new membership benefit for health and well-being. Regular departments include the New …

A New Member Benefit: The Talk Space Go App, Lisa Knowles Dds

The Journal of the Michigan Dental Association

This article introduces TalkSpace Go, a new ADA member benefit providing mental health support for dentists. Dr. Lisa Knowles explains how the app offers private access to therapists, courses, and workshops to help manage professional stress and prevent burnout. The piece highlights that 82% of dentists experience clinical burnout symptoms and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing mental well-being. Knowles describes her personal experience with burnout and using the app alongside the ADA's Well-Being Index assessment tool. The article includes instructions for accessing both resources, which are free for ADA/MDA members.

Teacher Mindset: An Investigation On The Influence Of Teachers’ Transformational Leadership On Growth Mindset, Rodolfo Reyes

Doctor of Education (Ed.D)

Identifying transformational leadership as a predictor of a growth mindset can be useful in developing teachers’ growth mindset. This nonexperimental quantitative study examined the relationship between teachers’ growth mindset and transformational leadership, and how the dimensions of teacher transformational leadership styles predict teachers’ growth mindset. The current study examined 63 participants in a school district in Florida. Using Dweck’s growth mindset survey (2006) and a researcher-created instrument to assess teachers’ perceptions of growth mindset and transformational leadership, the study resulted in a statistically significant finding of the association and prediction of transformational leadership on growth mindset. Demographics, such as teachers’ …

Forecasting Supply Chain Disruptions And Reducing Costs Through Data Science, Kayla Ahrndt

SPARK Symposium Presentations

The timely and cost-effective distribution of antiretroviral (ARV) and HIV laboratory commodities, particularly in over-exploited and low-resource settings, is imperative through effective Supply Chain Management.This project uses a comprehensive supply chain dataset to analyze pricing trends, predict lead times, forecast demand, and optimize costs for ARV and HIV lab shipments across multiple countries. Through data science, we can predict future demand, detect unusual pricing patterns, assess risks of supply chain disruptions, examine how commodity prices fluctuate over time and across regions, identify key factors influencing shipment lead times, and develop predictive models for future demand. Through anomaly detection techniques, we …

Mobile Hyflex & Lessons Learned, Irene Neville

Case studies: Digital Education

My first Mobile HyFlex lecture was an insightful endeavour with 15 enthusiastic postgrad students on board, engagement was high, and their willingness to participate made for an energising experience. The high-spec hardware kit provided a solid foundation but an unstable Wi-Fi connection led to intermittent signal drops. If there is to be more widespread adoption of video camera over Wi-Fi going forward, the bandwidth requirements of the Wi-Fi network would need to be addressed and validated to ensure it can support multiple lecturers using the technology simultaneously, as this could be a bottleneck. Additionally, the camera, while impressive, seemed more …

Combating Forced Labor In Global Supply Chains Through Modern Technology: A Case Study Of Uyghurs In Xinjiang, Samuel Donohue

Senior Theses

This thesis examines how modern traceability technologies can help combat forced labor in global supply chains, focusing on the case of Uyghur workers in Xinjiang, China. The research addresses the pressing challenge of verifying ethical labor practices in complex, multi-tiered supply networks, using the case study alongside an extensive literature review. It evaluates advanced technological solutions, including blockchain ledgers, isotope analysis, radio-frequency identification (RFID) tagging, and microbiome tracing as tools to improve supply chain transparency. Through qualitative case analysis and analysis of current research, the thesis assesses each technology’s capability to trace product origins and authenticate labor conditions. The findings …

Exploring The Web And Language Accessibility Of Medical Tourism Providers’ Websites: Implications For Online Marketing And Patient Recruitment Practices, Alicia Mason, Elizabeth Spencer, Kristen Livingston, Treyton Meyers

Faculty Submissions

Background: Web accessibility as an attribute of the digital presence of organizations has been studied across domains and contexts. Our study aims to add to existing lines of research inquiry by examining the web and language accessibility of medical tourism provider (MTP) websites commonly used to market and promote international medical tourism treatments and services globally.

Objective: This study aims to (1) systematically analyze the web and language accessibility of MTP online health messages and (2) discuss challenges and implications for medical tourists’ user experiences when seeking health information online.

Method: We conducted an exploratory quantitative content analysis of web …

The Board Committee Chair Effect: How Much Does It Contribute To Firm Performance?, Kalin Kolev, Donald J. Schepker, David B. Wangrow, Vincent L. Barker Iii

Management Faculty Research and Publications

Boards of directors rely on committees to perform important specialized monitoring and advising tasks. While there is general consensus that committees and their chairs influence board outcomes and, thus, firm performance, we know little about the magnitude of these effects on firm performance. Using variance decomposition, we show that audit, compensation, and nominating committee chairs explain a significant portion of variance in firm financial performance. Some of the performance variance attributed to committee chairs comes from the increased explanatory power of adding an important level of strategic leaders. However, most of the committee chair effect seems to stem from performance …

Behind The Curtain: The Influence Of Tourism And Production Costs On Broadway Success, João Branco Chaves, Alice M. Brawley Newlin

Management Faculty Publications

This study explores the relationship between Broadway's financial success, NYC tourism, and production costs. By analyzing data from 1980 to 2023, the study finds that tourism plays a crucial role in Broadway's performance, while cost management, particularly cotton prices, also influences its financial outcomes.

Estimating Climate Risk In Financial Markets, Olanrewaju Oluwadamilare Olaniyan

Masters Theses

The growing impact of climate change on financial markets necessitates a rigorous approach to climate risk assessment. This thesis examines methods for quantifying climate-related financial risks, with a focus on distinguishing climate risk from broader market movements (represented by S&P 500). Using a factor model, we isolate climate risk factors to better understand sector-specific volatility. The insurance sector is used as a proxy for climate risk exposure, given its sensitivity to climate-related losses and regulatory changes. We apply Extreme Value Theory (EVT); the Block Maxima Method and the Peaks Over Threshold Method, to identify excess risk patterns in financial portfolios. …

Comparative Performance Analysis Of Cryptographic Workloads Across Cloud Providers: A Multi-Language Study On Faas And Iaas Platforms Dataset, Jeremiah Webb

Doctoral Dissertations and Master's Theses

Cloud computing has become a relatively new paradigm for the delivery of compute resources, with key management services (KMS) playing a crucial role in securely handling cryptographic operations in the cloud. This paper presents the microbenchmark of cloud cryptographic workloads, including SHA HMAC generation, AES encryption/decryption, ECC signature/verification, and RSA encryption/decryption, across Function-as-a-Service (FaaS) and Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) in conjunction with KMS offerings from Ama- zon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure to conduct a comparative performance analysis. The methodology involves the AWS Cloud Development Kit (CDK) and the Bicep language to deploy AWS Lambda Functions and Azure Functions, respectively, to …