Digital Commons Network^™

Spring Commencement, 2026, Marshall University

Marshall University Commencement

Program for the Commencement of Marshall University, Saturday, May 9, 2026 held at the Mountain Health Arena in Huntington, West Virginia.

2026 Spring - Commencement Program, Office Of The Registar, East Tennessee State University

ETSU Commencement Ceremonies and Programs

No abstract provided.

Evaluating Sources In The Age Of Ai And Misinformation: Practical Routines For Social Studies Classrooms, Viloshinee Murugan Ph.D

The Great Lakes Social Studies Journal

As students encounter information through search engines, social media, and AI-generated content, evaluating sources has become more complex and essential in social studies classrooms. Research shows that students struggle to judge credibility, trace claims to evidence, and recognize how context, authorship, and purpose shape information. This article argues that these challenges are not the result of student apathy or inability, but of limited opportunities to practice evaluative reasoning as a routine disciplinary habit. Drawing on scholarship in disciplinary literacy and civic reasoning, as well as nearly three decades of practitioner experience, the article presents practical instructional routines, sample mini-lessons, and …

Building Ai Literacy Through Assessment Practices In Physical Education Teacher Education, Rebekah A. Johnson

Educational Practices in Kinesiology

The classroom resource presented provides an instructional approach designed to enhance both course outcomes and artificial intelligence (AI) literacy in undergraduate physical education preservice teachers. Implemented in a full-semester, in-person Assessment in Physical Education course, the project engaged students in learning to develop effective AI prompts, critically analyze AI-generated outputs, and apply these tools to design a standards-based assessment plan. Designed for undergraduate students with foundational knowledge of assessment and pedagogy, the project incorporated scaffolded tasks, guided discussions, and structured reflections to support AI integration through experiential learning. In approximately 30 minutes per week throughout the semester, students explored how …

Exploring The Impact Of Ungrading On Student Engagement And Motivation In A First-Year Composition Class, Mary B. Gruis

Dissertations, Theses, and Projects

This study investigated the association between student engagement, motivation, and self-efficacy in college-level writing-intensive courses using an ungraded approach. Motivated by disillusionment with traditional grading methods and inspired by texts on equitable grading and culturally responsive teaching, the researcher explored how ungrading could foster deeper learning and equitable educational practices. Grounded in Bandura’s (1997) self-efficacy framework, this qualitative case study examined the lived experiences of first-year composition students at a two-year institution. Data collection included student interviews, student reflections, and an instructor interview. The analysis revealed themes aligned with self-efficacy, engagement, and motivation, suggesting that ungrading positively impacted students' perceptions …

Visual Cues In Online Education: How Emojis In Asynchronous Instructor Communication Strengthen Emotional And Behavioral Outcomes, Minseong Kim, Tami L. Knotts, Nancy D. Albers, Karen E. James

Faculty Publications

Online learning environments often lack nonverbal cues that support relational communication between instructors and students, making it difficult to establish emotional connection and trust. This study examines how emojis, as affective visual cues, influence instructor credibility, emotional attachment, trust, and responsible behavior in asynchronous online education. A scenario-based experiment was conducted with 297 undergraduate students who were randomly assigned to view an instructor email either with or without emojis. Participants subsequently evaluated the instructor’s credibility (expertise, trustworthiness, and likeability), as well as their emotional attachment, trust, and anticipated responsible behavior. The results indicate that emojis significantly enhance perceived likeability, which …

Socioeconomic Status, Motivations And Barriers To Higher Education, And The Academic Achievements Of Women Attending Postsecondary Institutions In The Freely Associated States, Laura Ann Mccormick

Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies

No abstract provided.

An Exploration Of The Application Of Threshold Concepts In Sport Management, Debra Burke, Kadie Otto, Aj Grube, Charlie Parrish, Dan Grube

Global Sport Business Journal

Jan Meyer and Ray Land introduced the theory of threshold concepts to identify learning outcomes that represent a fundamental shift in the understanding of a subject which distinguishes how experts in the discipline internalize the discipline (Meyer & Land, 2006). They described the mastery of threshold concepts as being “akin to passing through a portal, opening up a new and previously inaccessible way of thinking about something” (Meyer & Land, 2006, p. 3). Threshold concepts as defined by Meyer and Land (2006) are characterized by these features:

• Transformative: Once understood, a threshold concept changes the way in which the student …

The Brain And Becoming: Integrating Play And Performance-Based Learning In The Community College Classroom, Hannah M. Green

English

Instruction in the community college classroom is in need of a shift, according to neuroscientific, pedagogical, and demographic data. Primarily, students in today’s community college classrooms are instructed in the form of lectures (Nilson 106), but research has shown that game-based learning would be the way to enhance learning experiences for these adult learners. Game-based learning specifically takes form in student learning through games, interactive reading activities such as performance pedagogy, discussions, and small group work. While research shows that play-based learning at the community college level is neurologically beneficial for students, there is a gap in implementing play-based learning …

Leading While Black: An Examination Of The Black Supervisor Experience Overseeing White Subordinates In Higher Education, Colette Marie Tobias

Dissertations and Doctoral Documents, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 2023–

This study examines how systemic racism and social capital hierarchies shape the supervisory experiences of Black supervisors. While existing literature has explored leadership and race, it has not fully examined how systemic racism shape Black supervisors’ experiences or how social capital hierarchies play into the behavioral responses of white subordinates. This study addresses that gap by centering the lived experiences of Black supervisors within higher education.

Grounded in narrative inquiry, this research focuses on how participants make meaning of their experiences through their stories. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and reflective journals with 19 Black supervisors who had at …

A Retrospective Look At Self-Reported Mental Health Prevalence In Division Iii Student-Athletes, Jacob F. Neri

Masters Theses/Capstone Projects

Mental health concerns among collegiate athletes have gained increased attention, but there has been limited research focus on Division III student-athletes. This study aimed to examine the self-reported prevalence of anxiety, depression, anger, stalking/harassment, abuse/assault, alcohol/substance abuse, self-harm, suicide ideation, and suicide attempt to identify contributing factors amongst this population. A retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted looking at data collected from the student-athlete mental health history & well-being questionnaire that was administered as part of their pre-participation exam (PPE) prior to the beginning of each academic year. A total of 554 Division III student-athletes were included in the study. Results …

Assessing The Risk Of Low Energy Availability In Ncaa Division Iii Female Soccer Players, Emma C. Sturts

Masters Theses/Capstone Projects

Low Energy Availability (LEA) can occur when an athlete’s energy intake is insufficient to meet the physiological demands of training as well as normal physiological functions. Female soccer players may be at an increased risk of developing LEA due to the high exercise energy expenditure paired with decreased energy intake. The purpose of this study is to assess the prevalence of LEA among Division III female soccer players. Division III female soccer players (n = 11) completed the Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire (LEAF-Q). 45.5% (n = 5) of the participants were classified as “At Risk” for LEA. Of …

Investigating The Prevalence Of Eating Disorder Risk And Body Image Dissatisfaction Among Division Iii Track And Field Athletes, Ravyn S. Goodson

Masters Theses/Capstone Projects

Context: Eating disorder (ED) risk, and body image dissatisfaction (BID) are increasingly recognized concerns in collegiate athletes due to sport-specific and sociocultural pressures. However, limited research has looked at these factors within NCAA Division III track and field athletes.

Objective: To examine the prevalence of eating disorder risk and body image dissatisfaction among division III track and field athletes and explore differences based on gender and event group Design A quantitative, cross-sectional survey design

Setting: NCAA division III athletic program within the Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC), during the 2025-2026 competitive season.

Participants: A total of 32 NCAA Division III track …

Commencement 2026 (Program And Video), Illinois Wesleyan University

Commencement Ceremonies

No abstract provided.

From Confidence To Competence: Embedding Critical Genai Literacy In Physician Associate Education, Chanceeth Chandrakanthan, Amy H. Donaldson-Perrott Mrs, Jane Secker, Julie Voce, Tamara S. Ritsema

Journal Of Indian Physician Associates

Background: Generative artificial intelligence is now embedded in how many healthcare students learn. Tools provide rapid explanations, summaries and practice questions, but use does not equal AI literacy, particularly where accuracy, medicines safety and guideline alignment matter.

Objective: To describe current use of generative AI by Physician Associate students and outline a practical approach to teaching critical AI literacy.

Methods: Educational evaluation using three activities: (1) baseline survey of students about use and attitudes, (2) an embedded compare and critique session in applied pharmacology where small groups assessed AI answers against trusted UK sources, including BNF and NICE guidance, followed …

Developing Self-Determination Through Physical Activity Courses In Inclusive Post-Secondary Education Programs, Shannon P. Zimmerman, Samantha Ross-Cypcar, Peter R. Giacobbi, Lesley Cottrell, Emily Murphy, Andrea Taliaferro, Jeanette Garcia

Developmental Disabilities Network Journal

Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) often experience low physical activity levels, with only 23% meeting recommended guidelines, increasing their risk for secondary health conditions. Inclusive Post-Secondary Education (IPSE) programs in the U.S. present an opportunity for physical activity promotion. This study examined physical activity strategies across a national sample of IPSE programs (n = 27) using a sequential mixed-method approach, including surveys and follow-up interviews, focusing on alignment with Self-Determination Theory (SDT). While 70.37% of programs offered formalized physical activity courses, all promoted physical activity informally. Common practices included peer mentorship (96.3% of programs), goal setting (100%), and …

Can A Different Research Poster Format Increase Attendee Engagement? A Case Report., Elizabeth M. Ardolino, Kelli Nielsen, Mike Morrison, Jane E. Sullivan

Journal of Innovation in Health Sciences Education

Introduction: Poster sessions are a widely used method of knowledge dissemination at professional conferences, yet their effectiveness in promoting engagement and knowledge transfer is uncertain. Traditional poster formats often follow a dense, text-heavy structure that may contribute to cognitive overload. Billboard-style posters, grounded in Cognitive Load Theory, offer an alternative design intended to enhance clarity and engagement.

Methods: This case report describes a three-year implementation (2022–2024) of billboard-style posters at the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy Annual Conference. Attendees were invited to complete a brief survey after viewing either traditional or billboard-style posters. The survey assessed engagement (time spent reading …

Innovative Framework And Checklist For Enhancing Interprofessional Education: A Literature Review Of Program Design, Delivery, And Outcome Measurement, Stacy Castronova, Lori Rainchuso

Journal of Innovation in Health Sciences Education

Introduction: This dual-focused study aimed (1) to conduct a comprehensive literature review of interprofessional education (IPE) initiatives across health disciplines to examine collaboration patterns, delivery methods, validated assessment tools, and outcome measures and (2) to develop an evidence-informed framework and checklist, based on the findings and identified gaps, to improve the standardization and reporting of IPE programs.

Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across three professional databases, targeting peer-reviewed publications from 2012 to 2024. Inclusion criteria prioritized studies that provided detailed descriptions of IPE intervention delivery, utilized validated measurement tools, and demonstrated participant engagement to ensure the selection …

Generative Ai In Higher Education: A Survey Analysis Of Ethics And Adoption Patterns Across University Faculty, Staff, And Students, Michele Gibney, Sinky Zheng, Cory Davia, Lindsay Gietzen, Karen M. Sarafian, Jennifer Helgren, Rajvinder Bains, Jonas Bianchi, Andrew Lloyd, Bhavana Raja

University Libraries Librarian and Staff Articles and Papers

As generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) emerges as a provocative new innovation in higher education, institutions require practical, evidence-based strategies for its integration. This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of GenAI adoption, usage patterns, and attitudes by surveying the complete range of campus constituents – students, faculty, and staff – at one United States university (N=355). Moving beyond prior research that has focused predominantly on student or faculty perspectives, this multi-constituent approach reveals a more holistic view of institutional AI dynamics and uncovers a notable "ethics asymmetry," where individuals trust their own AI use more than others'. The findings offer actionable …

Elle Eckert Honors Portfolio, Elle Eckert

Honors Capstone Portfolios

Ellle Eckert's honors capstone portfolio captured in May 2026.

Unl Emeriti And Retirees Association Newsletter, May 2026

UNL Emeriti and Retirees Association: Newsletters and Other Materials

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Emeriti and Retirees Association Newsletter, May 2026

Message from the ERA President, Vicki Highstreet

Welcome to new members

Recipe

Volunteer service

Funding opportunity

Wake up your well-being

Programming recaps

Celebration of life: Larry Dlugosh

Memory moments

Sense Of Belonging And Self-Efficacy Of Women In Stemm At The University Of South Alabama, Emilie Dedeaux

Honors Theses

Despite decades of calls and initiatives to diversify science, technology, engineering, math, and medicine (STEMM) disciplines, females are still more likely to leave STEMM career paths compared to their male peers, which is often depicted as a 'leaky pipeline'. Females in STEMM often report greater social alienation, greater selfdoubt, lower sense of belonging and academic satisfaction due to a mismatch in values in STEMM disciplines. STEMM values have traditionally been normed by cisheteronormative, white, male ideologies . While extensive research has focused on the barriers females experience in STEMM that reduce sense of belonging , less research has focused on …

Disrupting The Norm: Exploring A New Grading Policy Through The Lens Of Institutional Theory In Higher Education, Kara Bisceglie

LSU New Orleans Theses and Dissertations

Abstract

Each year, colleges across the United States admit new students, initiating them into their academic journeys. Yet, according to recent data from the National Student Clearinghouse, fewer than 70% of these students are retained by the institution that admitted them (National Student Clearinghouse, Persistence & Retention, 2023). In response to this phenomenon, institutions of higher education have instituted various intervention efforts in the hopes of mitigating student attrition. Many of these initiatives are based on an extensive body of literature exploring the most effective ways to impact student retention. One disparity in this scholarly collection is the examination of …

Future Ready Young Adults: Building Creative And Adaptive Thinkers, Robell Yeung

Creativity and Change Leadership Graduate Student Master's Projects

Abstract of Project

Future Ready Young Adults: Building Creative and Adaptive Thinkers addresses a developmental gap in educational practices that prioritize technical proficiency over the psychological frameworks necessary for navigating systemic ambiguity. This project introduces an interdisciplinary, modular curriculum specifically designed for the challenges of emerging adulthood. By synthesizing Creative Problem Solving (CPS), James Clear’s habit architecture, and Martin Seligman’s PERMA model, the curriculum provides a structured pathway for cultivating creative self-efficacy and financial capability. Moving beyond traditional views of innate creativity, this model employs asset-based frameworks to treat cognitive agility and ambiguity tolerance as developable competencies. The project culminates …

You Have Come Too Close To Give Up: The Use Of Social Media By Black Men During Their Doctoral Process, Lamarcus Jermaine Hall

All-Inclusive List of Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of the dissertation is to determine how and to what extent social media contributes to and supports the success of Black men as they obtain their terminal degrees. A qualitative study collected and analyzed data from the research question, “What are the experiences of Black men who used social media during their doctoral degree process?” Eleven participants from various U.S. regions were interviewed. This research is based on Critical Race Theory (CRT) and Social Network Theory (SNT), which offer frameworks to understand how social media helps participants achieve their terminal degrees. Using a narrative inquiry approach, I highlight …

The Experience Of South Asian International Students In Online Classes, Ashima Sitaula

All-Inclusive List of Electronic Theses and Dissertations

The COVID-19 pandemic prompted a widespread shift to online education, compelling higher education institutions to reassess their delivery methods. South Asian international students, a significant global demographic, were particularly affected. This qualitative study examines how South Asian international graduate students experience online learning at U.S. universities and the strategies they use to succeed. Guided by the Community of Inquiry (CoI) framework, the research addresses two questions: (1) What are the experiences faced by South Asian international students in online classes? and (2) What tools and strategies do they use to enhance their online learning experience? Participants were ten graduate students …

More Than A Destination: The Transformative Power Of A Place-Based Study Abroad Experience For First-Year College Students, Steph N. Dean, Augustine Owusu Achiaw

Publications

Background: Traditional study abroad programs often overlook the importance of place, missing opportunities for deeper, context-driven learning. Despite the transformative potential of place-based education, existing research has not consistently examined or explicitly conceptualized its integration into global learning experiences.

Purpose: This study explores the impact of a place-based study abroad program on first-year college students at a U.S. university.

Method: Using a qualitative design, researchers analyzed reflective learning journals from nine students who participated in a short-term, place-based study abroad program in Scotland. The study was grounded in Experiential Learning Theory and utilized open coding and dyadic analysis to identify …

You Are Me, And I Am You: Bias, Ai, And The Academic Self, Frances E. Anderson

Journal of Educational Leadership in Action

Being black, brown, caramel, immigrant, French speaking, divorced, mother of six, economically disadvantaged, neurodivergent, foster care graduate, survivor of abuse, child of divorce, and health-impacted person, I’ve often examined the wheel of power and privilege with sadness and dismay. In contrast, being white, catholic, intellectually advantaged, athletic, American, Canadian, middle-class, mathematics mastermind, and Doctor of Education, I’ve needed to examine this wheel fiercely as I come face-to-face with my privilege. Through reflection and self-interrogation, I carefully and imperfectly consider how my bias informs me of my disposition towards others, my educational privileges, and my experience in the world of academia. …

Ai-Assisted Case Conceptualization: Enhancing Ethical Decision-Making In Graduate Counseling Education, Thang S. Tran, Praveen K. Rudra, Justin Jacques

Journal of Educational Leadership in Action

As artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly integrated into counselor education, a significant gap exists between the rapid adoption of technology and the development of structured pedagogical frameworks for ethical decision-making. This article introduces a multi-component framework to support ethical AI integration in graduate counseling education, comprising three key elements: (1) a case conceptualization model with AI assistance, (2) Morgan (SC), an intentionally imperfect AI school counseling thought partner trained on ethical standards and decision-making models, and (3) structured protocols for ethical decision-making aligned with American Counseling Association and National Board for Certified Counselors guidance. The framework is designed to center …

Assessing The Effectiveness Of Ai-Based Adaptive Learning Systems In Higher Education, Ibrahim Olasunkanmi Yusuf, Suleiman Yusuf

Journal of Educational Leadership in Action

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in education is transforming teaching and learning by enhancing outcomes and personalizing learning experiences. This study investigates the effectiveness of AI-based adaptive learning systems in higher education using a quantitative research design involving 500 students from five institutions. The primary goal is to assess the impact of these systems on academic performance, student engagement, and retention rates. Data were collected through surveys and academic records, comparing students using adaptive learning systems to those in traditional classroom environments. Academic performance of students utilizing AI systems demonstrated significant improvement in grades compared to peers in conventional …