Digital Commons Network^™

Fostering Engineering Identities And Attitudes Through Place-Conscious Learning Introduction, Rebekah Hammack, Miracle Moonga, Nicholas Lux, Paul Gannon

Journal of Pre-College Engineering Education Research (J-PEER)

Limited research focuses on how participating in place-conscious engineering affects students’ engineering identities and attitudes toward engineering. This explanatory sequential mixed methods study investigated the effect of engaging elementary school students in place-conscious engineering activities on their engineering identities and attitudes toward engineering. Twenty fourth grade students enrolled in a rural elementary school in the northwestern United States completed two place-conscious engineering activities: (1) after a local wildfire polluted the air with smoke and made it unhealthy for breathing, students designed and built air filters to prevent smoke from entering the homes of affected families residing in a nearby community, …

Equipping Beyond Campus: A Look At Dordt Faculty As Public Scholars, Sarah Moss

The Voice

No abstract provided.

Momentum, With A Mission, Sarah Moss

The Voice

No abstract provided.

Cultivating Partnerships, Growing Stewardship, Sarah Moss

The Voice

No abstract provided.

Implementing An Interprofessional Virtual Journal Club For Health-Focused Students, Hillary L. Roberts, Cynthia Aurentz, Mccall E. Christian, Jessica K. Willis, Caitlin J. Masterson

Journal of Dietetic Education

Students (N = 135) pursuing degrees in health-focused programs participated in an interprofessional virtual journal club during the spring semesters of 2022 and 2023. The journal club was integrated into multiple courses and facilitated through the university’s learning management system and a web conferencing platform. Students applied the 2016 Interprofessional Education Collaborative (IPEC) Core Competencies throughout the activity. The journal club included four pre-selected articles on ethics in healthcare, and students developed one discussion question per article to guide synchronous virtual discussions. The IPEC Competency Self-Assessment Tool was administered before and after participation. Paired samples t-tests showed statistically significant change …

Changing Lanes, Crossing Industry Lines From Higher Education To Business Leaders: A Narrative Inquiry To Understanding The Challenges Faced By Residence Life Professionals Who Had To Change Career Paths Due To The Covid-19 Pandemic, Tatianna Geneva Ingram

Dissertations

This narrative inquiry examined how higher education residence life and housing professionals navigated career transitions into business leadership roles following the COVID-19 pandemic. Using human capital theory as a framework, the study explored the transferable skills cultivated in residence life positions and how these skills supported adaptation across industries. Participants’ narratives illuminated motivations for transition, including job market volatility, compensation concerns, and work-life balance, while also highlighting challenges encountered in reskilling and navigating identity shifts outside of higher education. The findings reveal the enduring value of competencies such as leadership, crisis management, diversity and inclusion expertise, and operational strategy in …

Improving The Retention Rate In The Introductory Programming Courses At Georgia Southwestern State University, Karen S. Cook, Sai K. Mukkavilli, Satyaki Nan

Perspectives In Learning

Post COVID, the incoming students in CS and IT programs have seen a significant increase in the fail, withdrawal rate. Though some of it is associated with the lack of classes and changes in modalities during COVID and the initial years that followed, most of it is due to the lack of proper foundation after high school and before introducing the programming courses. In this paper we identify the major reasons for the low retention rate and how it can be mitigated by introducing a logic course in the curriculum.

Beyond The Bathroom: Systemic Barriers To Trans Student Success, Andrew Leclair

Journal of Queer and Trans Studies in Education

At the intersection of educational inequity and systemic marginalization, transgender youth face some of their greatest obstacles upon walking through the schoolhouse door—ranging from legislative attacks and gender negation to denied facility access and pervasive bullying. In rural K-12 public schools—where populations are often smaller, more demographically homogenous, and vie for more socially conservative policies—trans youth are particularly vulnerable. Within this context, this piece centers the experiences of transgender students in rural K-12 public schools—highlighting the sociocultural dynamics and systemic barriers that continue to marginalize them within the United States education system today. Through a blend of literature synthesis and …

"What Are They Going To Do? Fire Me?" The Paradoxical Empowerment Of Nonbinary Teachers In Rural South Carolina, Chris Cyan Divens, Jonathan M. Coker

Journal of Queer and Trans Studies in Education

Nonbinary teachers are seldom the focus of teacher studies, particularly in challenging places such as the rural Southeastern United States. Through a critical ethnographic case study, we explored the stories of two nonbinary teachers who grew up and worked in rural South Carolina. We examined their cultural contexts, including legislative factors, school policies, and school cultures, and we highlighted how these systems created a hostile environment for queer and trans* individuals. Our participants shared how their lived experiences as queer and gender-diverse individuals provided them with an insider perspective about rural South Carolina culture and its limitations. We also found …

Sissies At The Cafeteria Table: Toward A Queer Black-Town Sense Of Place, Education And Life, Ezekiel Joubert Iii

Journal of Queer and Trans Studies in Education

Contemporary research has shown rural communities to be places with diverse identities and ideologies, disrupting much of the mainstream images of rural spaces as isolated, White, monocultural, and conservative. However, the persistent tendency to imagine racial inequality and queer life as urban contributes to the invisibility of intersectional struggle. Drawing from Critical Pedagogy, Black geographies, Black Queer Studies, and Mobility Studies, this study examines the collective educational experience and storytelling of Black rural queers in a Metro-Rural community in the Upper Midwest. Using an autogeographic approach, building from auto-ethnography and archival praxis reveal how the spatial structures that reproduce educational …

Queer Kids In The Country: Challenges, Resources, And Queer Cultural Capital Of Rural Lgbtqia+ Youth, Michelle L. Page

Journal of Queer and Trans Studies in Education

This qualitative study investigates the experiences of rural youth who identify as LGBTQIA+. Both rural young people and LGBTQIA+ youth are less likely to pursue higher education and more likely to report negative experiences in their schools and communities. Rural LGBTQIA+ youth face different challenges than do urban and suburban queer youth; therefore, different resources and strategies must be unveiled, developed, and employed in an effort to support rural LGBTQIA+ young people. This study explicates the challenges and assets of rural queer youth, finding that such young people continue to experience challenges in their schools and communities, particularly around identity …

“I’Ve Already Invested So Much Time, Effort, And Money Into This, So I Stay For Me”: A Case Study Of Paulina A First-Generation Trans Latina Rural Community College Student, Ángel De Jesus Gonzalez

Journal of Queer and Trans Studies in Education

While research continues to emerge on queer and/or trans (QT) experiences in higher-education, a paucity remains on the nuanced realities of those who exist at the intersections of identities, institutional, and regional contexts. Guided by jotería identity-and-consciousness, this intrinsic case study focuses on Paulina, a first-generation trans Latina rural community college student via queer pláticas. She informs ways that trans Latina students in rural community colleges exists and resists hostile ecological educational environments and in doing so generate queer futurities of rurality. Paulina’s jota-historia disrupts notions of QTs communities presence in rural spaces, rural spaces as synonymous with white, …

Diet: Another Piece Of The Crime Puzzle?, Jerrod Brown, Jeremiah Schimp, Leanne Skehan, Amanda Fenrich, Janina Cich

Nutritional Neurocriminology Today

An expanding body of research suggests that diet and nutrition may play an influential yet underrecognized role in problematic and criminal behaviors. This article synthesizes research linking excessive consumption of sugar and ultra-processed foods to adverse neurobehavioral outcomes, impaired impulse control, aggression, mood dysregulation, and sleep problems. Integrating research suggests that metabolic disruption, neuroinflammation, and gut–brain axis dysfunction may influence cognitive and emotional regulation. While criminal behavior is complex and multifactorial, this article emphasizes nutrition as a modifiable factor to inform forensic mental health practice, correctional policy, and rehabilitative strategies.

2026 Mlk Celebration, Dr.Adrienne Coleman

MLK Celebration

One Dream, Many Voices:

Uplifting Black and Brown Excellence Presented by the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Brotherhood-Sister Circle (BHSC), and Featuring Poetic Justice.

Black National Anthem  “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by James Weldon Johnson, Performed by IMSA Chamber Choir

Doctoral Students’ Perceived Academic Research Reading Ability: A Mixed-Methods Study, Ryan Glaman

International Journal of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education

Empirical research is useful for informing educational policy and practice. However, doctoral students often struggle with reading and evaluating empirical research papers. The present study examined doctoral students’ perceptions of their ability to read and evaluate empirical research articles, both before and after an educational research methods course, as well as which course components students perceived as most impacting their ability to read and evaluate research articles. The study used a convergent mixed methods design, involving pre- and post-course survey data. Results indicated students felt they improved in their experience levels, comfort levels, interpretation ability, and evaluation ability regarding reading …

Engaging Asl-English Interpreting Undergraduates In Research: A Model For Student Engagement And Faculty Productivity, Kimberly J. Hale, Valerie Freeman

Journal of Interpretation

Engaging undergraduate ASL-English interpreting students in research yields multiple benefits beyond enhancing faculty scholarly productivity. In this innovative practices article, we first summarize scholarly literature showing that including undergraduates in research experiences supports development of career-readiness skills while simultaneously building the pipeline of future faculty. We then discuss the benefits of undergraduate research experiences and argue that research activities can be integrated throughout an interpreter education program curriculum. Using a detailed description of a course-based undergraduate research experience (CURE) and course-embedded project examples, we demonstrate how structured research experiences can be integrated into programs without creating additional burden for faculty …

Emergent Methodologies: Quantum Qualitative Research, Nicole Weinberg, Gabriel Huddleston, Garrison Daly, Molly Weinburgh

The Qualitative Report

This methodology paper considers the prospects for quantizing qualitative inquiry in the context of equity and program evaluation. This paper first examines how quantum logics have been applied to the social sciences. Quantum logics refers to a set of generalizations, or rules, that embrace uncertainty and relationality, challenging the linear causality of traditional social science. Then, it reflects upon the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in the local community as a site to reframe findings and methods through the lens of quantum logic. For example, schools may be understood as quantum systems, co-constituted and rhizomatic communities shaped by entanglement and …

Implementation Of Sustainable Development Goals Into Technical And Vocational Education And Training Curricula: Regional Differences In Southeast Asia And South Asia, G.L.D. Wickramasinghe, Vathsala Wickramasinghe

Jurnal Vokasi Indonesia

The implementation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into curricula is within the current discourse of education for sustainable development to maintain a curriculum relevant to SDGs. We present findings of a research study that investigated the implementation of SDGs into Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) curricula in the Global South - Southeast Asia and South Asia. The objectives of the paper are to present findings on 1) the implementation of nine (9) SDGs into TVET curricula, namely, 1 – ‘No Poverty’, 2 – ‘Zero Hunger’, 3 – ‘Good Health and Well-being’, 10 – ‘Reduced Inequalities’, 11 – ‘Sustainable …

Multimedia-Based Interventions To Improve Science Learning Outcomes For Deaf Students At Wangsel Institute For The Deaf., Cheten Tshering Mr., Tshering Wangchuk

Journal of Science Education for Students with Disabilities

Efforts have been made to ensure inclusive learning opportunities for all students, including those from diverse backgrounds. One key strategy to enhance children’s learning and academic performance involves the thoughtful selection and application of instructional tools tailored to meet learners' specific needs. This study examines the impact of multimedia-based instruction on science achievement among deaf students at Wangsel Institute for the Deaf in Bhutan. Using a quasi-experimental design, the research compared pretest and post-test results between a control group and an experimental group. Data analysis included descriptive statistics (t-test) and ANCOVA. The findings indicated a statistically significant differences (p = …

Volume Cxlv, Number 9, January 16, 2026, Lawrence University

The Lawrentian

No abstract provided.

Empowerment Pedagogy: A Mixed Methods Grounded Theory Approach To Developing A Pedagogical Framework For Empowering Middle School Aged Students, Henry James Bryant

Educational Studies Dissertations

The current state of adolescent well-being in “post-COVID” America demonstrates a need for widespread intervention to aid students in coping with trauma and mental health issues. In a review of the literature, feelings of empowerment have been found to be antithetical to feelings of trauma. Moreover, the benefits of empowerment in terms of adolescent mental health, academic achievement, and behaviors are well documented. However, strategies designed to impact students’ feelings of empowerment have not been well established, and programs that are presently offered are often inaccessible due to cost, public opinion, and a need for whole school adoption. In this …

The Role Music Plays In Facilitating Transformation And Self-Actualization In Israeli Music Students Impacted By Trauma, Adina Feldman

Educational Studies Dissertations

Abstract

This qualitative study explores the role music plays in facilitating transformation and self-actualization among Israeli undergraduate and alumni music students who have experienced trauma or post-traumatic stress disorder. Guided by social constructivist and humanistic-existential frameworks, this research employs a narrative methodology to examine how music operates as a medium for meaning-making, resilience, and growth in non-clinical contexts. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participant observations, and the analysis of musical compositions and artifacts from two singer-songwriters who transformed personal adversity into creative expression. The findings reveal that although trauma leaves lasting psychological and emotional effects, engagement with music enables …

Volume 34, Number 3, Winter 2025/26, Office Of Communications, Illinois Wesleyan University

Illinois Wesleyan University Magazine, 2018-present

VOLUME 34 | NUMBER 3 | Winter 2025/2026

ON OUR COVER:

Elliot Notrica '26 is developing micro-organisms that create new food products from food waste like cocoa husks and leftover bread dough.

18 Found Families. Celebrate one of the best-attended IWU Homecoming Weekends with stories of alumni friendships across the decades.

22 The Future of Food. Elliott Notrica '26 is the founder and CEO of Symbio Bioculinary where he is creating the future of food with cutting-edge genetic engineering.

26 Hope in Crisis. EmPath units, invented by Scott Zeller '82, are revolutionizing emergency care around the world.

Complexity Mindsets, Complex Flow, And More: A Qualitative Grounded Theory Study On The Phenomenon Of Practitioners Working Within Complex Social Systems, Emma D. Stellman

Educational Studies Dissertations

This qualitative grounded theory study addressed gaps in the literature regarding the application of complexity theory to complex social phenomena (CSP), for which no straightforward solutions or simple interventions exist. While complexity theory has played an important role in groundbreaking innovations in quantitative fields such as medicine, engineering, and finance, its application remains limited in human-centered developmental domains including education, social work, and healthcare. Using a grounded theory design informed by phenomenological approaches, this study examined the lived experiences of a group of six CSP practitioners, each of whom participated in two individual, semi-structured video interviews. Interview data were analyzed …

Shedding The Chrysalis: Black Women Leading In Higher Education, Olga M. Welch, Carolyn R. Hodges

Navigating Careers in Higher Education Series

Shedding the Chrysalis: Black Women Leading in Higher Education features the voices of six experienced and emerging Black females in a variety of academic leadership roles. This book provides a Black feminist perspective, highlighting the need to address racial realism within higher education administration. These personal testimonies focus on a variety of levels in the academic hierarchy to emphasize the continuum across the lived experiences of these women, some of whom have served in multiple upper-level administrative roles. The contributors’ positions range from postdoctoral research fellows to positions reporting to central administration at predominantly white institutions. Shedding the Chrysalis underscores …

A187: The Comprehensive Impact Of Competitive Liondance On Bio-Psycho-Social Health: Cohort Tracking Study Of Elite Athletes, Yong Zhu

International Journal of Physical Activity and Health

Competitive lion dance, a traditional sport that integrates artistic performance, cultural heritage, and high-intensity physical training, has not yet been systematically studied for its multidimensional health benefits. Method: This study investigates the comprehensive impact of competitive lion dance on the bio-psycho-social health of elite athletes through a 12-month longitudinal cohort tracking. Thirty-two national-level competitive lion dance athletes (18 males and 14 females, aged 22.5 ± 3.1 years) were recruited and assessed at three time points: baseline, 6 months, and 12 months. Biological health indicators included cardiorespiratory fitness (maximal oxygen uptake, VO₂max), muscle strength (isokinetic strength test), and body composition analysis. …

A223: Does The Induced Pap Effect Have An Impact On The Squatting Start Of Swimming, Jiayi Lyu, Jie Gao, Xinyi Li

International Journal of Physical Activity and Health

Post activation potential (PAP) is one of the hot topics in warm-up preparation and physical training. This article explores the effect of inducing PAP on swimming start by using an 85% RM barbell squat in the lower limbs and investigates the impact of PAP 9 minutes after the squat start. Method: This article adopts an experimental method. The study selected 8 university swimming specialized student athletes and used the testing equipment Kistler to shoot videos and obtain data on their exercise biological force and time. The paired sample t-test was used to process the pre-test and post-test related data. After …

A263: Exploring Cadd-Based Binding Modes Of Androstenedione And Its Metabolites With Potential In Vivo Targets, Yuhong Ding, Wei Dong

International Journal of Physical Activity and Health

The abuse of androstenedione, an endogenous steroid hormone, among athletes to enhance performance is a significant concern in sports. Current anti-doping detection methods are limited by short detection windows and high false-positive rates, largely due to the transient nature of primary metabolites. To address these challenges, this study employs computer-aided drug design (CADD) to identify stable, long-acting metabolites of androstenedione that can extend the detection window and improve anti-doping efficacy. The integration of CADD with sports physiology principles allows for a more comprehensive understanding of how exercise-induced metabolic fluctuations can influence the detection of these metabolites. Method: Molecular docking simulations …

A094: Dose-Response Effects Of Tennis Participation On Cardiorespiratory Fitness In College Students, Xianyue Li

International Journal of Physical Activity and Health

Based on the FITT-VP principle, this study investigated the dose-response relationship between tennis participation and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) in college students. Addressing the current reliance on expert consensus for exercise prescription and the lack of dose-regulation mechanisms, this study focused on high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and sprint interval training (SIT). It aimed to analyze the dynamic relationship and biological mechanisms between exercise intensity (SIT: 80-100% HRmax vs. HIIT: 75-90% HRmax), duration (8 weeks, frequency 2-3 sessions/week), and key CRF indicators (VO2max, anaerobic threshold, and exercise efficiency). Forty healthy college students with similar tennis experience were randomly assigned to HIIT (n=10), …

A097: Intelligent Exercise Prescription Facilitates The Development Path Of Sports For Obese Populations, Qiqi Huang

International Journal of Physical Activity and Health

The global population of individuals is expanding rapidly. By 2024, the obesity rate among adults in China is expected to surge to 16.4%, while globally, over 4 billion people are facing issues of overweight or obesity. Traditional exercise prescriptions suffer from the limitations of "generalized guidance" and "static prescriptions." Studies have shown that due to the neglect of individual metabolic differences, only 20% of individuals can maintain clinically significant weight loss for more than 12 months, and merely 10-25% patients can sustain a weight loss of ≥10% in the long term. The intelligent technology-driven exercise intervention system is reshaping the …