Digital Commons Network^™

Beyond The Pipeline: First-Generation College Students’ Community Cultural Wealth And Stem Degree Pathways, Douglas Havard, Zahra Gholami, Jue Wu, Danette Y. Martinez, A. J. Balatico, Lara Perez-Felkner

Education Faculty Articles and Research

This study examines how first-generation college students (FGCS) and continuing-generation college students navigate STEM pathways by modeling four sequential milestones in the High School Longitudinal Study of 2009 (HSLS:09): high school graduation, college enrollment, STEM major selection, and STEM degree completion. Guided by Yosso’s Community Cultural Wealth framework, we use survey-weighted sequential logistic regression to estimate stage-specific associations between academic preparation, psychosocial resources, and institutional context, conditional on prior attainment. Results reveal distinct generational patterns of STEM progression. For FGCS, rigorous high school mathematics preparation exerts a powerful influence on high school completion, while later-developing math self-efficacy and science identity …

Empowering The Karen Community: Using Education To Improve Cervical Cancer Health Literacy, Grace Berentson, Michaela Bartels, Monica Angeletti, Jennifer Liu

Interprofessional Academy of Educators Spotlight on Scholarship

Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of death among Karen women, a predominant ethnic group in Myanmar. One of the largest and fastest growing Karen populations in the United States is located in Omaha, Nebraska. This two-part project had the following objectives: 1) evaluate cervical cancer health literacy among Karen women in Omaha and 2) address knowledge gaps with educational intervention. A survey was given to Karen women of the Karen Student Association at the University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO) and members of the Karen Christian Revival Church in Omaha, NE. The survey evaluated participants’ health knowledge pertaining …

Uab Libraries Q1 2026 Employee Updates, Uab Libraries

UAB Libraries News

No abstract provided.

Nevada Science Olympiad, Christian Ison

Community Engagement Expo Research Posters

Since 2022, the UNLV School of Integrated Health Sciences has partnered with the Clark County School District to engage and inspire Nevada students through innovative STEM education initiatives. This ongoing collaboration supports the development and hosting of competitive STEM tournaments at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, providing students with opportunities to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics while fostering critical thinking, academic achievement, and future workforce development.

National Durc Capacity Building Program: A Novel Ipe Model For Responsible Life Science Research Education, Wael Elrayes, Ali Asy, Maha Farid

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

This is an abstract from the Spotlight on Scholarship event in 2026.

Implementing Holographic Instruction In Multi-Campus Dpt Education, Stacie M.L. Christensen, Brad Dexter, Michael Hollins, Elisabeth Barrett

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

Poster presented at the 2026 Spotlight on Scholarship at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska.

Outstanding Project: Second Place Winner

Bridging The Language Gap: A Simulated Experience To Teach Communication Using Virtual Interpreters - Encore Presentation, Jessica Downes, Jessica Witt, Kristen Cook

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

Poster presented at the 2026 Spotlight on Scholarship at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska.

Food For Health: Nourishing Transitions, Kamryn Pfenning, Grace Beauchamp, Shauntel Nutile, Morgan Brummels, Melanie Menning

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

This is an abstract from the Spotlight on Scholarship event in 2026.

Empowering The Karen Community: Using Education To Improve Cervical Cancer Health Literacy, Grace E. Berentson, Michaela Bartels, Monica Angeletti, Jennifer Liu

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

This is an abstract from the Spotlight on Scholarship event in 2026.

Exploring The Role Of Artificial Intelligence (Ai) In Immersive Virtual Reality (Ivr) Simulation In Nursing Students, Krystal Davis, Sue A. Schuelke

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

Poster presented at the 2026 Spotlight on Scholarship at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska

Outcomes Of A Learning Needs Assessment Survey In The Development Of The Extension For Community Health Outcomes Model For Hiv Training In Midwestern Non-Metropolitan Areas, Duncan Works, Daniel Cramer, Elizabeth Lyden, Yue Zhan, Emmanuel Nazaire Essam Nkodo, Renae Furl, Jennifer O'Neill, Maureen Kubat, Heather Saarela, Nada Fadul, Jennifer M. Davis

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

This is an abstract from the Spotlight on Scholarship event in 2026.

Stress In Medical Laboratory Science (Mls) Students: Sources, Patterns, And Implications, Marnie Imhoff

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

Poster presented at the 2026 Spotlight on Scholarship at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska.

Outstanding Project: First Place Winner

Enhancing Course Development With Generative Ai: Practical Tools For Educators, Nishank Varshney, Casey Solsrud

Interprofessional Academy of Educators Spotlight on Scholarship

The rapid rise of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools presents new opportunities for higher education, particularly in designing courses that are rigorous, engaging, and adaptable. This poster demonstrates how generative AI tools can improve teaching and learning through a case study of developing an online course: Fundamentals of Program Evaluation. In this poster, we illustrate how generative AI can be utilized to support brainstorming, content generation, visual design, assessments, and inclusive adaptations. We also discuss risks, ethical considerations, and practical strategies for thoughtful integration. The case offers a replicable model for educators seeking to incorporate AI meaningfully into curriculum development.

Voices Of Learning: Exploring The Impact Of Human And Artificial Intelligence Voice In Health Professions Education, Megan Frazee, Olivia Sattlefield, Elizabeth Lyden, Peggy Moore, Betsy J. Becker

Interprofessional Academy of Educators Spotlight on Scholarship

Introduction While early research indicated students preferred human narration over artificial intelligence (AI) voices, more recent studies have yielded mixed results, with some finding no significant difference in learner preferences for module narration. The purpose of this study was to determine whether professional level health science students exhibit a significant preference between human and AI generated narration in educational e-modules.   Methods Our study used a noninferiority design to assess whether AI voices are comparably effective to human voice. Study participants completed an e-module narrated by a human or AI voice then completed a 21-item survey of perception and cognitive load. …

The Value Of Establishing Connections Between Clinical And Research Settings For The Next Generation Of Neuropsychologists And Neuropsychology Consumers, Pamela May-Weeks

Interprofessional Academy of Educators Spotlight on Scholarship

Objective: The objective of this discussion is to highlight the value of networks and connections across institutions for students, early researchers, and clinicians to support their careers in neuropsychology and the neurosciences. Participants and Methods: Since 2020, two independent institutions, University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC; academic medical center) and the Institute for Human Neuroscience (IHN) at Boys Town National Research Hospital (research facility), in Nebraska have partnered to support UNMC graduate students' (pursuing PhD and MD/PhD in various disciplines) master's and doctoral level work. More specifically, a clinical neuropsychologist from UNMC collaborated with researchers at IHN to support student-led …

Stress In Medical Laboratory Science (Mls) Students: Sources, Patterns, And Implications, Marnie Imhoff

Interprofessional Academy of Educators Spotlight on Scholarship

Students in accelerated, year-long Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) programs experience different stressors that can affect their well-being and ability to persist in the program. This study aimed to identify the main sources of stress among MLS students and to examine how stress levels vary by demographic factors. MLS students in a university program completed a stress survey each semester from May 2022 to May 2024. The survey asked about demographics and included questions about stress in academic, professional, and personal areas. The results showed that the main stressors were lack of free time, the program's pace, and worries about falling …

National Durc Capacity Building Program: A Novel Ipe Model For Responsible Life Science Research Education, Wael Elrayes, Ali Asy, Maha Farid

Interprofessional Academy of Educators Spotlight on Scholarship

Background: Educating scientists on Dual-Use Research of Concern (DURC) and Responsible Use of Life Science Research (RULSR) requires innovative approaches that overcome geographic and expertise barriers while maintaining engagement and educational rigor. This project utilized a novel IPE approach engaging scientists and researchers across multiple health professions disciplines within a One Health framework. We developed and implemented the world's first national-level DURC capacity-building program using a hybrid educational model. Methods: The program employed a two-phase hybrid design combining virtual and in-person modalities. Phase I delivered 13 virtual sessions over three months by international faculty from four countries, engaging 140 scientists …

Bridging The Language Gap: A Simulated Experience To Teach Communication Using Virtual Interpreters - Encore Presentation, Jessica Downes, Jessica Witt, Kristen Cook

Interprofessional Academy of Educators Spotlight on Scholarship

Introduction: Patients with Non-English Language Preference (NELP) are at risk for communication barriers and health disparities. Studies have shown that clinicians who receive training on language barriers and interpreter use are more likely to utilize professional interpretation services.   Research question or hypothesis: Providing pharmacy students with an opportunity to practice working with an interpreter in a simulation will improve their confidence in this skill.   Study design: The objective of the study is to create an innovative simulation lab and describe its impact in the didactic curriculum for pharmacy students to practice communicating with an interpreter. Students participated in a survey …

Implementing Holographic Instruction In Multi-Campus Dpt Education, Stacie Christensen, Brad Dexter, Michael Hollins, Elisabeth Barrett

Interprofessional Academy of Educators Spotlight on Scholarship

Providing engaging and equitable learning experiences across geographically separated campuses remains an ongoing challenge in health professions education. This educational innovation describes the implementation of holographic (“holobox”) instruction across pre-recorded and live delivery formats within a multi-campus Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) curriculum, with preliminary evaluation of learner engagement and feasibility.   Through collaboration with UNMC's Interprofessional Experiential Center for Enduring Learning (iEXCEL), holobox-supported instruction was integrated into learning activities for 63 second-year DPT learners across two campuses. A pre-recorded holographic lecture addressed outcome measure selection, psychometric properties, and database use, delivered simultaneously with faculty facilitators in each location. A separate …

Outcomes Of A Learning Needs Assessment Survey In The Development Of The Extension For Community Health Outcomes Model For Hiv Training In Midwestern Non-Metropolitan Areas, Duncan Works, Daniel Cramer, Elizabeth Lyden, Yue Zhan, Emmanuel Nazaire Essam Nkodo, Renae Furl, Jennifer O'Neill, Maureen Kubat, Heather Saarela, Nada A. Fadul, Jennifer Davis

Interprofessional Academy of Educators Spotlight on Scholarship

Background: In 2020, Nebraska’s HIV prevalence was 146 per 100,000 individuals, with 107 new diagnoses in 2021. Of the 2,497 people living with HIV (PWH) statewide, 23% resided in rural areas. Rural diagnoses nearly doubled in 2021, accounting for 35% of new cases. At presentation, rural PWH had significantly lower mean CD4 counts compared to their urban counterparts (378 vs. 953 cells/mm³), suggesting delays in diagnosis and care. In response, the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) Specialty Care Clinic implemented the Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) model to enhance rural provider support through virtual lectures and case-based learning. …

Food For Health: Nourishing Transitions, Kamryn Pfenning, Grace Beauchamp, Shauntel Nutile, Morgan Brummels, Melanie Menning

Interprofessional Academy of Educators Spotlight on Scholarship

In 2023, 13.5% of U.S. households and 12.9% of Nebraska households experienced food insecurity. The negative effect of food insecurity on the health of patients is well known and includes decreased intake of nutritious foods, increased intake of carbohydrate‑dense foods, and having to choose between paying for food versus other health needs. Food insecurity has also been associated with multiple chronic conditions (asthma, bronchitis, COPD, chronic pain, diabetes, kidney disease, sleep disorders) and lower overall health status. While food insecurity is a major problem faced by many in our community and has been highly associated with poor health outcomes. Despite …

A Weeklong Academic Preparedness Program Boosts Student Confidence, Community, And Readiness For Medical School, Grace Beauchamp, Samantha Simet, Sias Scherger, Kathy Schall, Yamna Channa, G. Talmon, Kirstie Bash, Aleisha Nabower

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

This is an abstract from the Spotlight on Scholarship event in 2026.

The Value Of Establishing Connections Between Clinical And Research Settings For The Next Generation Of Neuropsychologists And Neuropsychology Consumers, Pamela May-Weeks

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

Poster presented at the 2026 Spotlight on Scholarship at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska.

No Escape Without Evidence: Is A Digital Escape Room An Effective Strategy To Teach The Use Of Clinical Practice Guidelines (Cpgs)?, Chelsea A. Ludwig

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

Poster presented at the 2026 Spotlight on Scholarship at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska.

Enhancing Course Development With Generative Ai: Practical Tools For Educators, Nishank Varshney, Casey Solsrud

Innovations in Health Sciences Education Journal

This is an abstract from the Spotlight on Scholarship event in 2026.

Outstanding Project: Third Place Winner

Improving Pre-Nursing Retention Through Structured Readiness Modules: Development Of The Pre-Nursing Information Hub, Amber M. Carter

Morehead State Theses and Dissertations

A capstone submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Education in the Ernst and Sara Lane Volgenau College of Education at Morehead State University by Amber M. Carter on March 30, 2026.

Adverse Childhood Experiences And Proactive Coping: Impacts On College Adjustment And Risky Behavior, Saige A. Imm, Jisook Park, Will Stutterheim

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Numerous studies have examined the enduring impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) on individuals’ capacity to manage stress and effectively navigate challenges in the rigors of the university environment. Exposure to negative life events has shown to interfere with individuals’ psychological maturation, heightening an inclination to engage in risky behaviors, especially during pivotal developmental transitions like the start of college. Thus, investigating the impact of ACEs on college students is crucial as it could impair their societal well-being and increase mental health concerns and maladaptive behaviors in college (Schafer, 2021; King et al., 2024). The current research examines the role …

Seen, Unseen, And Navigating Between: The Lived Experiences Of Black First-Generation Graduate Students In Higher Education And Student Affairs Master’S Level Programs, Danielle E. Lee

Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Capstones

Black first-generation graduate students remain underrepresented in higher education programs and often navigate academic environments shaped by racialized expectations and limited access to institutional resources. The purpose of this interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) was to explore the lived experiences of Black first-generation graduate students and recent graduates enrolled in Higher Education and Student Affairs (HESA) master’s programs at predominantly White institutions (PWIs). Guided by two research questions and grounded in Lin’s Social Capital Theory (2001, 2010), this study examined how participants described their graduate school experiences and the challenges and barriers they encountered while navigating predominantly White academic environments. Ten …

Cervical Dilation Assessment Simulation For Development Of Student Nurse Competency, Ashley Romans

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Assessment of cervical dilation is an important component in care for the pregnant and laboring patient. However, nursing students frequently encounter barriers to acquiring this assessment skill in the clinical setting. Through application of the ACE Star model, a simulation-based teaching trainer is utilized to promote achievement of student competence while respecting the limitations of the hospital clinical experience. Varied opportunities for purchasing or constructing these simulation tools allows for beneficial learning experiences at different price points, promoting the implementation of this important tool in the most appropriate method for an individual setting. Implementation of the cervical dilation simulator allows …

Adding Clinical Meaning To Hybrid Prelicensure Nursing Skills Education: Simulated Patients And Demo Medications To Reduce Modality-Based Learning Gaps, Amanda L. Rudman

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Hybrid nursing students often practice psychomotor skills in home environments that lack an authentic clinical context. This may contribute to gaps in clinical reasoning and application when compared with students who practice in on-campus settings. This difference may limit students’ ability to connect their skills to patient care situations and safely apply their knowledge in practice. The purpose of this evidence-based curriculum project is to reduce these learning gaps by using diagnosis-based simulated patient scenarios, medication administration records (MARs), and specific intravenous (IV) medications in hybrid nursing skills education. This project follows the ACE Star Model of Knowledge Transformation, which …