Digital Commons Network^™

Enhancing Engagement With Ux/Ui Design: How The Laws Of Ux Inform Information Literacy, Laura A. Palmer, Tyler M. Eckert

Georgia International Conference on Information Literacy

This presentation will draw on a case study in which a recent graduate of a user experience design (UXD) program was able to apply UXD principles and research practices to increase the discoverability of training materials used by a library consortium. The case study presented will demonstrate to educators and students the importance of learning how UX laws can inform best practices for development, assessment, and iteration of digital spaces. Attendees will learn how laws/heuristics drawn from UXD play a critical role in ensuring that resources are accessible, intuitive, and engaging.

Our case study centers on how a library consortium …

Labyrinthine Routes To Meditation: Contemplative Pedagogy And Instructor Self-Care, Natalie Mera Ford

Journal of Contemplative and Holistic Education

In the pandemic- and post-pandemic era, new as well as exacerbated work-life stressors have led academia to recognize the vital role wellness plays in teaching and learning. While most institutional and pedagogical response has understandably focused on students’ holistic health, this essay promotes increased instructor self-care as a necessary complement to supporting learners in higher education. By practicing meditative exercises drawn from contemplative pedagogy, faculty and instructional staff can create synergy between mindfulness strategies that we might invite students to try and our own attention to the whole self outside class. As the essay’s case study shows, labyrinth walking in …

Use Of Simulation In Dietetic Internships: A Qualitative Exploration Of Program Director Attitudes And Motivations, Theresa B. O'Reilly, Amy J. Nwora, Megan Whelan, Mary-Pat Maciolek

Journal of Dietetic Education

The use of simulation holds promise for the future of dietetics education for its use as an alternative for up to 30% of the 1,000 supervised practice hours for the training of Registered Dietitian Nutritionists. Even more so, simulation is a teaching tool. When done well, simulation can challenge students in a safe environment where they can receive constructive feedback from expert guides and meaningfully reflect on their learning. The purpose of this study was to interview dietetic internship (DI) program directors on their attitudes and motivations on the use of simulation in their programs, targeting the heavily program-congested states …

Developing Nigrescence To Resolve The Double Bind Challenges In Community Engagement For Novice Critical Literacy Teacher Educators, Celicia L. Bell

Journal of Research Initiatives

This paper seeks to understand Black racial identity development as defined by Cross's (1991) Nigrescence and how nigrescence aids with solutions to the double bind challenges experienced by novice Black critical literacy teacher educators committed to community engagement during their becoming processes in academia. This paper will explain the double binds of alienating role conflict for novice Black teacher educators between their private identities versus their public roles in community engagement. This paper explores the implications of incorporating the study of nigrescence in the racial literacy experiences of novice Black critical literacy teacher educators.

Toward A Critical Pedagogy Of Assessment Integrating Social Studies Education: The Proposed Socio-Critical Assessment Integration Framework (Scaif), Caroline O. Alordiah, Regina Arisi

Journal of Research Initiatives

The Socio-Critical Assessment Integration Framework (SCAIF) and its consequences for social studies education are examined in this study. The results emphasize the advantages of developing inclusive learning environments, encouraging comprehensive evaluation procedures, encouraging applicability to the real world, and giving students agency by allowing participation in the evaluation process actively. Teachers can promote social justice, question prevailing narratives, and foster critical discourse in the classroom using a critical pedagogy lens. Student learning outcomes are improved by authentic assessment activities that reflect real-world problems and demand that students use their knowledge in meaningful ways. Inclusive learning settings respect student diversity, encourage …

Teacher Retention And The Future Of Learning: Alarming Concerns About Preparing The Next Generation Of Citizens, Dejuanna M. Parker, Barbara D. Holmes

Journal of Research Initiatives

Research is robust in detailing the various reasons teachers leave the profession. There is scant literature on why teachers stay and what should be done to improve teacher retention. Teacher retention is a primary concern nationally and internationally. The inability to retain teachers has resulted in a teacher shortage and significantly affects student learning. Sorenson and Ladd (2020) This study yielded three emergent themes related to integral factors of teacher retention: changing attitudes on administrative support, workplace collegiality, and persistence of passion and purpose. Recommendations offered include encouraging administrators to leverage the passion and commitment of the educators to create …

Factors Influencing Jordanian College Understudies' Impressions Of Learning Through Emergency Distance Learning (Edl), Abdelnaser Sanad Alakayleh

Journal of Research Initiatives

In this study, which used a quantitative and correlational approach, the variables influencing Jordanian university students' perceptions of their education under emergency remote learning scenarios were investigated. An online survey was administered to a sample of 765 male and female education stage students. Jordan offers higher education for both genders and at different levels in different regions. Many criteria connected to perceived learning were taken into consideration when administering the study questionnaire. It was discovered that the economics students had a more positive perception of learning than the education and science students, followed by deep learning, avoiding superficial learning factors, …

Student-Conscious Practice And Pathways For Student Success, Anthony Walker, Sara Mata

Journal of Research Initiatives

This paper shares evidence of how four programs enhanced students' pathways from high school through bachelor's degrees. Each program expanded students' networks, fostered a sense of belonging, and developed critical thinking skills. Ten years after participation, we looked back to gain insights into key elements that impacted students' learning experience. Data from student voices highlighted the importance of inclusiveness in action, institutional responsibility, and culturally relevant pedagogy in student success and program impact.

Chatgpt As A Boundary Object Between In-School And Out-Of-School Mathematical Practices: The Case Of Numeracy Practices, Murad E. Jurdak

Journal of Humanistic Mathematics

This article explores the theoretical basis and practical potential of ChatGPT in bridging the gap between school-based and out-of-school mathematical practices. Drawing on Cultural Historical Activity Theory and the concept of boundary objects, we highlight how ChatGPT can serve as a boundary object to connect these two domains. Our analysis of ChatGPT-generated lesson plans designed to align with out-of-school practices reveals that the model had the greatest impact on the social and institutional relations component of the numeracy practices framework [6], while their impact was weakest in the values and beliefs component.

Exploring The Integration Of Artificial Intelligence In Math Education: Preservice Teachers’ Experiences And Reflections On Problem-Posing Activities With Chatgpt, Young Rae Kim, Mi Sun Park, Eunmi Joung

All Faculty Scholarship (Archived)

This study addresses the need for research that incorporates educational perspectives and theories to understand the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on learning and teaching. Utilizing AI-integrated mathematical problem-posing (AIM) activities and the AI-powered scaffolding (AIS) strategy, the research investigated preservice teachers’ (PTs’) experiences with AI and their capacity for error recognition and correction in problems posed by ChatGPT. The findings reveal that while the PTs excelled at verifying error-free problems, they struggled significantly with identifying and correcting errors, indicating a gap in their instructional preparedness. The study demonstrates that AIM activities are effective tools for assessing and developing PTs’ …

Developing Adolescent Word-Level Knowledge: Challenges And Opportunities In Professional Learning With Secondary Educators, Jenelle Williams

Michigan Reading Journal

This article aims to highlight the research base for disciplinary literacy approaches, emphasize foundational literacy components that apply to the majority of adolescent learners, and propose tangible approaches to attend to morphological development in multiple academic disciplines. The article will conclude with a call for additional research into the role of morphological awareness in strengthening adolescent reading comprehension, as well as further study of the implications for systemic approaches across all disciplines in secondary educational settings.

Self-Regulation: Skill Development Framework, Claire Scoular, Ian Teo, Jonathan Heard, Adam Wardell

Assessment and Reporting

This self-regulation skill development framework was developed to address the challenges associated with teaching and assessing self-regulation. It provides a general definition of self-regulation and describes this construct as it applies in classroom-based learning. This framework synthesises and harmonises existing theory and research on self-regulation. It outlines self-regulation processes along prescribed strands and aspects that are informed by evidence. The strands contained within the framework are 1. Cognitive regulating; 2. Behavioural regulating; and 3. Emotional regulating. The strands are further broken down into aspects to inform teaching and assessment.

Communication: Skill Development Framework, Claire Scoular, Jonathan Heard, Adam Wardell

Assessment and Reporting

This communication skill development framework was developed to address the challenges associated with teaching and assessing communication. It provides a general definition of communication and describes this construct as it applies in classroom-based learning. This framework synthesises and harmonises existing theory and research on communication. It outlines communication processes along prescribed strands and aspects that are informed by evidence. The strands contained within the framework are 1. Strategising an approach; 2. Conveying information; and 3. Receiving communication. The strands are further broken down into aspects to inform teaching and assessment.

Field Note, January 2025, Bob Gallagher

Journal of Inquiry and Action in Education

Bob Gallagher's reflections on educational beliefs, inspired by the book The Teacher You Want to Be, offer a profound critique and vision for what schools could be. Here's a detailed breakdown based on the themes and beliefs discussed

Wild Magic Farms: Increasing Student Engagement And Decreasing Academic Regression In Middle School Extended School Year Through Use Of A Role-Playing Game, Maryanne Cullinan

Educational Studies Dissertations

The Extended School Year (ESY) is a federal program that falls under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Law (2004) as part of Special Education in public schools in the United States. It is intended to help reduce regression in student progress towards Individualized Education Program goals. However, in New Hampshire, ESY struggles with a lack of clear goals, student buy-in and quality engagement. This study examined how a researcher designed role-playing game (RPG) could impact both summer academic regression and student engagement in a middle school ESY. Utilizing i-Ready testing (n=13) data and attendance data (n=9), this study compared …

Mindfulness 101: Integrating Mindfulness Into The First-Year College Curriculum, Shelley Linso

Mindfulness Studies Theses

The college experience offers young people unique opportunities for personal growth and academic development. However, it is widely recognized that college and university students suffer from unprecedented rates of anxiety and depression. Mindfulness, often defined as paying attention on purpose, moment-to-moment, without judgment, has the potential to not only reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression but also to promote flourishing. By integrating mindfulness into the first-year college curriculum, educators facilitate students’ abilities to a) better understand their emotional responses so that they might navigate stress, relationships, and challenges with greater ease, b) better recognize their strengths and weaknesses, and make …

Mindful Art Curriculum: Teaching Towards Transformational Change, Ashley Riemann

Mindfulness Studies Theses

With the recent influx of American public school diversity, art educators must establish an art curriculum that nurtures students' cultural awareness and creates a more equitable and inclusive learning environment. This paper responds to the increasingly diverse classroom and proposes the need for the implimentation of a mindful, culturally responsive art curriculum. Mindfulness paired with culturally responsive teaching is a transformative tool for art educators. These teaching techniques unite and create an inclusive and inquisitive learning environment. Through mindful exploration students learn to cultivate awareness and focus, forming a deeper connection with art and one another. As Jon Kabat-Zinn expressed, …

Teacher Candidates’ Perspectives On The Integration Of Digital Tools In Teacher Training Programs: A Case Study Of Using Seesaw, Gui Ying Annie Yang-Heim, Xi Lin

Faculty Publications - College of Education

Digital tools are crucial in modern education for improving teaching practices and student engagement. While technology enhances learning, many teacher candidates still struggle to effectively integrate it into their teaching (Habibi et al., 2023). For instance, Seesaw is a widely used digital platform in K-12 classrooms but seldom explored in higher education. This study explores teacher candidates' views on integrating Seesaw into their learning processes, revealing benefits and challenges. The study is guided by Puentedura's (2010, 2014) SAMR model as a framework to evaluate and discuss the findings of integrating Seesaw in a literacy methods course. The study's insights aim …

Autoethnographic Action Research As A Contemplative Practice: Awareness And Transformation Of Inner And Outer Selves, Jiju Varghese, Bal Chandra Luitel, Niroj Dahal

The Qualitative Report

Contemplation as a spiritual practice has taken various forms across different religious traditions and regions worldwide. Over the years, various contemplative practices have evolved and become popular even outside religious traditions to promote the well-being of all for inner and outer selves’ transformation. In education, many scholars worldwide have expounded on the benefits of contemplative practices in the classroom for students and teachers. Contemplative practices have penetrated research practices in the form of contemplative inquiry considering performative, philosophical, and artistic transformations, where researchers enter into a deep, thoughtful, and reflective introspective journey to see the connection between what is seen …

The Laughing Buddha: The Education Of Compassionate Leaders Through Improvisational Play, Belinda Chiu

Journal of Contemplative and Holistic Education

With an urgency to build a generative future, educational systems do not have a choice but to pay attention to how and what we train our future leaders. Yet there is still a gap as leadership studies are often relegated as a “soft” skill, rather than integrated as technical knowledge critical to the holistic effectiveness of a tertiary education. As a result, there is often a disconnect between students immersed in the idealistic bubble of the academy and graduates navigating life outside. Inquiry- and reflective-based methods of contemplative practices may be critical for leaders to avoid short-term, short-sighted decisions that …

The Postpartum Wellness Survey: Exploring The Role Of Social Determinants In The Diet–Depression Link, Ashley G. Brown

Department of Nutrition Student Projects

Postpartum mental health is a critical, yet both clinically and socially underrecognized, component of maternal care. Postpartum depression (PPD) affects up to 1 in 7 mothers and significantly impacts both maternal and family well-being. The Postpartum Wellness Survey (PWS) was developed to assess the interconnected relationships among dietary quality and nutrition knowledge, postpartum mood and emotional health, and social determinants of health (SDOH). Twenty-four participants within 12 months of delivery completed the survey, which integrated validated psychological and dietary assessment tools to capture community-level patterns in postpartum wellness. Composite scores across three PWS domains – Postpartum Mood and Emotional Health, …

Lessons In Low-Tech: A Handbook For Sustainable Education, Ceri Almrott, Loann Astorino, Sébastien Bette, Benoit Delinchant, Philippe Fortemps, Ulysse Girard, Paul Hendrick, Sacha Hodencq, Fabian Lecron, Julie Lhuissier, Kévin Loesle, Luis Miguel Lopez Santiago, Santiago Perez Rodriguez, Gauthier Renard, Tatiana Reyes, Virginie Vandenbulcke, John Walsh

Other resources

LT4SUSTAIN, an Erasmus+ funded transnational project, is at the forefront of responding to the increasing awareness of environmental and climate challenges. This awareness, particularly among youth, has led to a demand for social justice. With the coordinated work among six institutions, ranging from higher education institutions to private companies and associations, LT4SUSTAIN aims to raise awareness of Lowtech across society.

LT4SUSTAIN is pioneering a unique approach to technology design. By developing “hackathons” and other “hands-on” events, we are engaging students and industry in a way that improves inclusiveness. Our objective is to equip individuals with the skills to embark on …

An Investigation: How Long-Term Meditation Practices Serve As Change Agents For Positive Parenting, Diana Serras

Selected Full Text Dissertations, 2011-

This research study investigated, analyzed, and compared stress, depression, and anxiety levels between parents who are long-term meditation practitioners and those who are not. By exploring questions related to the impact of mindfulness on parental stress levels, parent-child interactions, emotional awareness, self-regulation, and nonjudgmental acceptance, the research sheds light on the transformative potential of long-term meditation practices for mindful parenting. The study adopted a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative survey data with qualitative insights to provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. The research included quantitative data from three self-report instruments and qualitative data from five case studies to explore …

Right Choice For Me: An Executive Function (Ef) Focused Intervention Program For Teachers, Brisa E. Kress

Education | Graduate Culminating Projects

In every classroom, students face choices. These choices can look like how to approach a non-fiction text, how to plan a narrative, how to pick the right spot in the room for reading, or how to reflect on their experience during a group project.

Right Choice For Me is an Executive Function (EF) focused toolkit. It follows a flexible 10-week timeline and offers educators of any grade customizable tools and strategies to teach essential EF skills in ways that honor each student's voice, choice, and unique learning style. Right Choice For Me focuses on three core EF strategies:

• Planning/Goal-Setting

• Self-Monitoring …

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An Ounce Of Prevention: Counselor And Health Teacher Perception On Substance-Abuse Prevention Curricular Effectiveness, Amanda Jill Knight

Theses, Dissertations and Capstones

This study examined middle and high school health teachers’ and counselors’ perceptions of the effectiveness of skills-based substance use prevention curricula as a means of reducing the prevalence of student substance use/abuse. A mixed-methods, nonexperimental research design was incorporated to discern these teachers’ and counselors’ views on the extent to which students were able to acquire specific alcohol and other drug (AOD) refusal skills after their participation in a skills-based drug prevention education curriculum. These skills were identified and approved by the Ohio Association for Health and Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance.

Analysis of the collected data using SPSS v29 …

Covid-19 Taking Aim At The Heart Of Public Education, Jeremy James Pyle

Theses, Dissertations and Capstones

The COVID-19 pandemic, distinguished by both its duration and widespread impact, stands apart from other crises typically faced by schools, such as natural disasters, school violence, or isolated traumatic incidents. Unlike these shorter-term events, the pandemic fundamentally altered the educational landscape, reshaping both school climate and instructional practices. This non-experimental, descriptive study employed a phenomenological research approach to examine the lived experiences of teachers during and after the pandemic. The central aim was to explore how pandemic-related stressors influenced teachers’ decisions to remain in or leave the profession, as well as to identify the supports educators perceived as necessary for …

Invisible Barriers: Investigating The Impact Of Teacher Bias On Black Students’ Opportunities In Science, Mary Redden

Selected Full Text Dissertations, 2011-

This study investigates the role of implicit racial bias in limiting Black students’ access to advanced science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) opportunities in secondary public schools across Long Island (LI), New York. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study triangulates data from Harvard’s Implicit Association Test (IAT), a custom-designed Likert-style self-perception survey, and open-ended participant reflections. A custom-coded, anonymous online platform was used to assess all instruments. After completing the survey and IAT, participants reviewed both sets of results and responded to reflection prompts about the alignment or misalignment between the two. Although 78% of participants rated themselves as highly …

From Adversity To Achievement: The Resilience Of Black Students Raised In Single-Parent Households, Kim Loren Johnson

Selected Full Text Dissertations, 2011-

There is limited literature on the resilience strategies of Black students raised in single-parent households and their academic success. Black children are often portrayed as facing negative outcomes educationally. Yet, despite there being challenges they graduate from high school, go to college and are successful. This qualitative phenomenology study explores the lives of 12 Black college students raised in a single-parent household, aged 21-65 years and older, that persevered through adversity and the strategies they utilized to achieve academic success. It examines the internal and external motivational factors that contributed to their achievements as well as the role of support …

Perceptions Of Fidelity, Urgency, And Challenges In Dei Implementation: Insights From Long Island Teacher Union Presidents, Shirley M. Pincay

Selected Full Text Dissertations, 2011-

This study examines the fidelity, urgency, and challenges of implementing the Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Education (CR-SE) Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Framework as the NYSED DEI policy in Long Island public school districts. The New York State Board of Regents developed the CR-SE and DEI Framework to promote inclusivity and cultural awareness in educational settings, encouraging districts to adopt practices that affirm and support students from diverse backgrounds. Using a qualitative approach, incorporating a survey and a virtual semi-structured interview, data was collected from Teacher Union Presidents across various Long Island school districts. Key variables included levels of urgency and fidelity …

Southern Adventist University Undergraduate Handbook 2024-2025, Southern Adventist University

Student Handbooks, Undergraduate

No abstract provided.