Digital Commons Network^™

Developing Inclusive Practices Through Peer Coaching In College Science Teaching, Briana Miller

Theses and Dissertations

Historically underrepresented students pursuing STEM majors encounter systemic barriers. Students are more likely to experience success when faculty implement inclusive practices. Faculty often lack the pedagogical training necessary to adopt inclusive practices, further perpetuating inequities. To eliminate barriers and offer equitable opportunities for success in STEM majors, this case study explores the implementation of peer coaching and Culturally Relevant Science Teaching (CRST) in college level science teaching, focusing on the experiences of three participating faculty. Through a year-long professional development (PD) cycle, three science faculty members from a small liberal arts college engaged in reflective practices aimed at improving their …

Techno-Economic Analysis Of Biogas Utilization In Refuse Power Plants, Marco Hernandez

Theses and Dissertations

As the energy industry shifts towards a heavier priority on decreasing the environmental impact caused by power plants, an innovation that repurposes existing coal processing facilities has been in high demand. A Techno-Economic Analysis (TEA) that focuses on transporting and co-firing biogas, a renewable fuel obtainable from landfills or through anaerobic digestion, with waste coal, which is a source of pollution in need of remediation, has been conducted to evaluate the benefits of net-negative carbon emissions. ASPEN Plus V14 simulations were constructed and utilized to aid the process estimation for the proposed power plant designs. The Levelized Cost of Electricity …

Exploring The Potential Of Hybrid Wind-Solar Energy Systems For Residential Applications In North Dakota, Toluwase Testimony Omojiba

Theses and Dissertations

North Dakota's high residential energy consumption, driven by extreme weather, is largely met by fossil fuels, contributing significantly to CO₂ emissions. This study evaluates the technical performance, environmental benefits, and economic viability of hybrid wind-solar-energy systems for residential applications in the state.

Using HOMER modeling, two scenarios were analyzed: homes using a combination of utility gas and electricity, and homes relying solely on electricity. Simulations for Grand Forks, Bismarck, and Dickinson showed that hybrid systems reliably met residential energy demand, covering 100% of the annual load in the gas-electric scenario across all locations. In the all-electric scenario, systems achieved at …

Risk Factor Patterns For Elder Abuse Among United States Indigenous Peoples: Native Elder Maltreatment Survey Secondary Data Analysis, Maylynn Riding In

Theses and Dissertations

Elder abuse is a significant public health issue, with findings indicating that 9% to 10% of older adults in the United States experience abuse. This figure is likely mirrored among Indigenous Peoples residing within tribal boundaries, although specific data is scarce. This study aims to fill the gap in understanding the prevalence and risk factors associated with elder abuse among United States Indigenous Peoples (USIP) through a secondary data analysis of the Native Elder Maltreatment Survey (NEMS). The NEMS employs two key instruments: the Hwalek-Sengstock Elder Abuse Screening Test (HS EAST), which is validated for community use, and the Native …

Handheld Multimodal Point Spectroscopy, Rgb Imaging, And Fusion Artificial Intelligence To Determine The Species And Freshness Of Fish Fillets, Mitchell Sueker

Theses and Dissertations

When fish species are mislabeled and the fish’s freshness is inaccurately represented, health, environmental, and economic problems can arise for both consumers and the fish industry. Fish are some of the easier foods to mislabel, as the processing of whole fish to fillets makes the visual identification of the species and freshness assessment more challenging. Due to the shortcomings of the current industry standards, confirmed by our interviews with over 20 professionals in all fish supply chain nodes, developing a system that can provide accurate and rapid on-site fraud detection is of necessity. In an attempt to meet these needs, …

Barriers To Faculty Adoption Of Assessment: A Case Study In Engineering, Melodie A. R. Williams

Theses and Dissertations

This case study at an undergraduate teaching-focused engineering program in a small faith-based liberal arts university is designed to evaluate tools for assessing the engineering accreditor ABET’s Student Outcome Five – teamwork skills of engineering students. This evaluation would set the foundation for developing an assessment program that meets the needs of faculty, administrators, and accreditors. Activity theory is used as the theoretical framework for the study. A literature review lays the foundation for a novel conceptual framework asserting “faculty resistance” is actually “systemic friction.” The methodology is described, including data collection procedures, data analysis methods, and the approaches to …

Petrophysical And Geomechanical Alterations During Supercritical Co2 Submerge: Laboratory Testing On Samples From The Middle Bakken, Ruichong Ni

Theses and Dissertations

The promising strategy of CO2 capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) aims to reduce CO2 emissions and tackle the pressing problem of global warming. Previous studies have demonstrated the importance of changes in petrophysical and geomechanical characteristics in assessing target formations' capacity to sequester CO2. Permeability is one of these characteristics that is essential to the movement of CO2 inside rock formations and has a direct effect on how well CO2 is sequestered. Existing methods calculate permeability by using effective stress, but they have made unpractical assumptions that the effective stress coefficient could be stable or gradually increase after CO2 exposure. …

Using High-Impact Practices To Support Online Students In Two-Year And Four-Year Institutions, Sarah Kallock

Theses and Dissertations

Online students face challenges that on-campus students often do not. “Online students can feel isolated since they are not in synchronous courses where they get to see peers and instructors and interact face-to-face” (Garivaldis et al., 2022). The online learning community lacks support for students who choose to learn online. Teachers who teach online have had little to no training on how to support and offer similar experiences compared to what on-campus students receive. High-Impact Practices (HIPs) are widely researched educational practices that, when implemented well, enhance student learning and engagement, as well as improve retention, and are associated with …

Directivity Improvement Of A Broad-Beam Patch Antenna By Means Of A Flat Metamaterial Lens, Tyler Midas

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis demonstrates the development of a flat metamaterial lens intended to enhance antenna directivity in RF applications. Development and evaluation was performed with ANSYS HFSS, where a theoretical convex lens model was developed and used as a basis for unit cell refractive indices of the metamaterial lens. The unit cell demonstrated in this study leverages the properties of a nested split-ring resonator merged with a center column. Adjusting the rings allow for refractive index optimization and effective beam focusing. The work presented also provides a 2x2 antenna array with a feed network, which enables the future work of bench …

“How Can I Teach When I Was Not Taught How?”: Teacher Education For Mother Tongue Instruction For Stem In Southwest Nigeria, Motunrayo Adeosun

Theses and Dissertations

In this qualitative study, the experiences, training, and challenges of teachers in primary schools in a community in southwest Nigeria were explored. The purpose of this study was to identify the experiences of teachers about their training for mother tongue instruction and how they teach pupils with the mother tongue or local language of the community, the challenges faced by teachers in teaching with the mother tongue, and the strategies used by teachers to overcome the challenges. This study found that teachers received no training and there is no curriculum for the training of teachers to teach in the mother …

The Impact Of Land Use And Land Cover Change On Vegetation, Ecosystem Dynamics, And Conservation In The Northern Great Plains, Seth R. Fore

Theses and Dissertations

Land use and land cover change (LULCC) is one of the primary contributors to global biodiversity and habitat loss. Identifying sustainable development strategies requires understanding the social drivers of land use and conservation decisions as well as their impacts on ecological processes. These socio-ecological interconnections were explored in Northern Great Plains region. Results showed that common responses to socio-economic drivers have resulted in widespread loss of grassland areas throughout the region and that shifts in the functional characteristics of plant communities caused by LULCC have significantly altered key ecosystem functions linked to primary production, carbon/nutrient turnover, and water cycling. Expanding …

The Reservoir Geomechanics And Production Effects On Permafrost Stability During Polymer Eor, Shane S. Namie

Theses and Dissertations

The North Slope of Alaska (ANS) contains an estimated 40 billion barrels of heavy oil in relatively shallow formations (984 to 1,969 ft / 304 to 600 m) within the Prudhoe Bay Unit (PBU), Milne Point Unit (MPU) and Kuparuk River Unit (KRU). Extracting this resource presents unique challenges, especially when hydrocarbon-bearing zones are near the permafrost. Research on tertiary recovery processes in these shallow zones is limited, with prior studies indicating minor permafrost thawing and subsidence over 30 to 40 years but lacking a numerical simulation model supported by laboratory data.This study investigates the feasibility of an enhanced oil …

Targeting World Language Learning In The Target Language: A Qualitative Inquiry Of The K–12 Foreign Language Teacher Experience, Igor Ljevaja

Theses and Dissertations

This qualitative study explores the current practices of K–12 foreign language teachers (FLTs) in using the target language (TL) within an urban school district in the Midwest United States. Focusing on how FLTs engage in professional development (PD) to optimize their TL use in the classroom, the study investigates the strategies and knowledge FLTs employ to foster TL proficiency among students. Purposeful sampling was employed to recruit participants (n = 5) who represented full-time FLTs, taught between sixth and 12th grade, and had at least four years of teaching experience and valid state licenses. Semi-structured interviews with current FLTs provide …

Nanoparticles: Applications For Energy Innovation, Wen Sun

Theses and Dissertations

The work described in this dissertation will have three primary goals that are all essential for improving the energy demand using nanotechnology. The first goal is to comprehensively understand the application of SiO2-based nanoparticles (SiO2-based-NPs) in enhanced oil recovery (EOR) and the challenges associated with their use. The second goal is to investigate the application of ruthenium-based nanoparticles using reduced graphene oxide as the matrix (Runano-based/rGO) for the electrochemical synthesis of ammonia under ambient conditions. The third goal is to develop binder-free 3D nanomaterials and assess their electrochemical properties for supercapacitor applications. To fulfill this goal, two different nanomaterials have …

Evaluation Of Hydrogen Storage Potential In Depelted Hydrocarbon Formations: A Case Study Of The Middle Bakken Member In The Antelope Field, Williston Basin, North Dakota, Grace Oluwakemisola Taiwo

Theses and Dissertations

Hydrogen, as a low-emission fuel and energy carrier, plays a crucial role in stabilizing renewable energy variability amid global decarbonization efforts. Subsurface storage, uniquely secure against threats such as severe weather, military conflicts, fires, and acts of terrorism, is critical for large-scale hydrogen applications and addressing the intermittency of renewable resources. North Dakota, represents a classic example of a state where reliance on fossil fuels drives significant greenhouse gas emissions. The state also hosts the Bakken Formation, an important hydrocarbon formation where depleted or nearly depleted wells exacerbate environmental challenges through potential fugitive emissions. This study therefore investigates the feasibility …

Investigation Of The Existence Of Vertically Oriented Ice Crystals In Winter Storms, Kendra R. Sand

Theses and Dissertations

The existence of vertically oriented ice crystals is investigated in winter storms, as observed through remote sensing and analyzed during the NASA Earth Venture Investigation of Microphysics and Precipitation for Atlantic Coast-Threatening Snowstorms (IMPACTS) field campaign field campaign. The primary objective was to determine if a preferred angle of ice crystal orientation could be identified in situ using contemporary airborne sampling instruments. Additionally, the study sought to explore potential correlations between the vertical orientation of ice crystals and electric field anomalies at cloud top, as well as the relationship between crystal orientation and particle concentration. To achieve these objectives, Two-Dimensional …

Impact Of Delphi-Developed Rubrics On Rater Consistency In 14 Cfr 141 Flight Training Assessment Environments, Lewis Robert James Archer

Theses and Dissertations

Pilot schools operating in accordance with 14 CFR 141 provide a substantial supply of pilots to the aviation industry. Recent high industry demand for pilots has created turnover among the flight instructor workforce, often considered an entry-level position used by aspiring aviators to build flight experience. This in turn means that check instructors, evaluators who are often selected from the more senior flight instructor population at a pilot school, are generally less experienced than in the past. Anecdotal evidence suggests that there is low consistency among these check instructors when conducting performance-based assessments. This study sought to determine the existing …

Go Vote Usa Poster, Alex Midgarden

Get Out The Vote Poster Exhibit

This is a typographic rendition of the United States of America. The poster uses the Constitution to create the outline of the USA.

September 11, 2024, The Dakota Student

The Dakota Student

No abstract provided.

Interrogating A Chatgpt-Generated Literary Analysis, Christie Cole

AI Assignment Library

For this assignment, students will work in groups to read through and critique a literary analysis generated by ChatGPT.

Introduction To Robotics Systems Assignment 2, Tarek Elderini

AI Assignment Library

An assignment was reformatted with respect to TILT using both Claude 3 and ChatGPT. One of the problems is that whatever pics in the file will not be added to the reformatted file. Also, I asked ChatGPT and Claude 3 to make a comparison between the two created assignments showing the pros and cons for each at the end. It was funny that both agreed that ChatGPT was more professional from the aspect of an engineering assignment. This document contains the original file, the 2 formatted assignments, and the comparison at the end.

Corinthian Countrysides: Linked Open Data And Analysis From The Eastern Korinthia Archaeological Survey, David K. Pettegrew

Digital Press Books

Corinthian Countrysides presents the datasets, analysis, and results of a large-scale intensive survey in the eastern territory of Corinth between 1997 and 2003. Carried out under a permit of the Greek Ministry of Culture granted through the American School of Classical Studies at Athens, the Eastern Korinthia Archaeological Survey investigated the Isthmus west of the Corinth Canal, a highly-connected transport corridor and densely settled area from prehistory to the present day, and sampled parts of the mountainous and coastal districts of the southeast Corinthia. Researchers recorded a rich body of evidence for habitation and land use covering all periods of …

Saudi Acceptance Of Digital Communication And Satisfaction With Mobile Government Services (M-Government), Samah Alotaibi

Theses and Dissertations

Governments throughout the world are using developments in mobile technology to enhance electronic governance (e-government) by digitally providing government information and services. This is often known as mobile government (M-government), which caters to the needs of individuals, corporations, and governmental institutions. The main objective of this dissertation is to examine the integration of mobile government services into the government's digital communication revolution. It specifically aims to investigate the level of satisfaction and acceptance among Saudi citizens regarding the mobile applications developed by the government. The dissertation delves into their perspectives and assessments of the digital communication channels offered by the …

Uas Teaming For Search And Rescue Applications, Conner Carriere

Theses and Dissertations

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) in Search and Rescue (SAR) operations,combined with teaming configurations and optimized path planning algorithms, enhance efficiency in locating and assisting disaster victims. Flooding accounts for 90% of natural disasters in the USA, necessitating rapid scouting and supply drops in affected areas. Current UAS path planning lacks proper start and end point selection and does not use multiple aircraft collaboratively.

This study introduces a UAS teaming strategy with high-altitude leader drones for area coverage and lower-altitude follower drones for detailed data collection and supply drops. The focus is optimizing follower drone path plan- ning using the Open-Loop …

Mitigation Of Alkali-Induced Ash Aerosol Particles Impacts On Solid Fuel Combustion Systems, Temitope Folusho Bankefa

Theses and Dissertations

Low-rank solid fuels impact heat transfer efficiency and energy conversion in steam generation, with adverse operational and environmental consequences. Despite the attention coal-biomass co-combustion has garnered as a climate-aware power generation alternative, inorganic species in low-rank fuel types can lead to counterproductive outcomes in combustion systems. However, improved combustion technology and fuel quality enhancement can facilitate the safe utilization of these fuels. A review of scientific literature underscores the need for research in fuel quality improvement as a climate change mitigation strategy during the global transition to renewable energy sources. Identifying problematic species in solid fuels and understanding ash formation …

The Healing Of Stories: International Teachers’ Lived Experiences Of School Culture Using The Hourglass Model For Mindful Reflections, Vesna Radivojevic

Theses and Dissertations

School culture affects all facets of teaching and learning. Starting from individual international teachers’ perspectives and their accounts relating to school culture, new insights and perspectives on the problem of practice were gained. The research focused on answering the questions: What are teachers’ experiences of school culture in international schools? What are teachers’ perspectives on critical components in developing a positive school culture? What was helpful to teachers when experiencing the positive and negative aspects of a school culture? A qualitative narrative research methodology involved interviewing ten international teachers who taught in K-12 grade schools in Australia, Asia, the Middle …

A Document Analysis On The Role Of Innovation In The Strategic Plans Of Small Private Liberal Arts Institutions, Jillain Kaye Veil-Ehnert

Theses and Dissertations

This qualitative study provides interpretations of the nature of strategic plans at small private liberal arts institutions. The study explored the concepts of innovation, entrepreneurship, and transformation detailed in the plans. This study included a specific cohort of eight United States small private liberal arts colleges with similar characteristics regarding academic programs, enrollment, and fiscal stability. The research was conducted through document analysis of the institutions’ publicly available strategic plans. The data collected illustrates what the documents indicates about innovation, entrepreneurship, and transformation at small private liberal arts colleges. Key findings on innovations in the plans included a focus on …

Historical & Contemporary Practices Of Seal Harvesting: Policy Implications For Revitalization Among The Taa-Laa-Wa Dee-Ni’, Paula Lynne Aubrey

Theses and Dissertations

This dissertation explores the contemporary practices of seal harvesting among Indigenous Peoples, with a special focus on policies that inform the revitalization of seal harvesting within the Taa-laa-waa Dee-ni’ (Tolowa) community of Northern California and Southern Oregon. The research is conducted by an Indigenous researcher seeking to further connect to traditional practices of her tribe, and this research places a strong emphasis on cultural sensitivity and ethical integrity. The study involves a dual methodology including a comprehensive literature review to understand the cultural and ecological significance of seal harvesting, and a policy artifact review to identify wise practices and policy …

Transforming Construction? Evaluation Of The State Of Structural 3d Concrete Printing In Research And Practice, Alireza Hasani, Sattar Dorafshan

Civil Engineering Faculty Publications

Additive manufacturing in construction has witnessed exponential growth over the recent years. In this paper, advancements in 3D Concrete Printing (3DCP) in additive construction are explored. The authors synthesize the states of research and practice of 3DCP technology for construction through an extensive examination of 137 projects and various publications. Insights are provided into the key factors influencing 3DCP structural performance. The technology is shown to be advantageous, although with varying benefits observed in different cases, including but not limited to reduced cost, labor requirements, material, and construction time. Nevertheless, challenges, such as limited control over the quality, unexplored long-term …

Pl 93-638: Utilizing The Indian Self Determination And Education Assistance Act (Isdeaa) To Enhance And Improve Oral Health Outcomes In A Tribal Community, Adriann Darlene Ricker

Theses and Dissertations

American Indians and Alaskan Natives experience the worst oral health outcomes. However, we are transitioning to a new era where Indigenous communities are reclaiming the narrative and health. This dissertation in practice was inspired by tribal self-determination and reclamation of health found through the newly established Fort Peck Tribal Health Dental Department utilizing the Indian Self Determination and Education Assistance Act (PL 93-638). The guiding framework for the Fort Peck Tribal Health Dental Department and this dissertation is the Indigenous Primary Health Care Delivery Model which illuminates elements of community, empowerment, and self-determination with culture as center to all healthcare …