Digital Commons Network^™

Thomas And Samuel: A Tragedy Of Power: A Case Study, Julius Gunser Karnwie

Masters Theses

This thesis is a major requirement for completing the Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing program through Liberty University's Online Programs. In order to accomplish this enterprise, the student was required to conduct extensive research on relevant subjects in order to compile an Artist Statement, a Critical Paper, and the Annotated Bibliography, which appears at the end of this paper. This play is based on the student's personal experiences in a land torn by war and anarchy. Those experiences helped shape his understanding that people and nations can glean valuable lessons from the annals of history for carving better …

Redesigning Responsibility: Closing The Knowledge Gap In Sustainable Design, Kaitlyn Faith Funk

Masters Theses

This thesis investigates the gap between awareness and application of sustainable practices in the graphic design industry. While sustainability has become a widely discussed topic, designers often lack accessible, practical tools to integrate it into their work. Through a combination of research, case studies, and design thinking methodologies, this project develops a comprehensive educational toolkit and accompanying campaign, ReDesigning Responsibility, that equips designers, educators, and students to make informed, environmentally responsible choices in both print and digital media. The deliverables include a printed reference guide, an interactive microsite, and a branded campaign, all aimed at fostering sustainability as a core …

Spiritual Dialogue Alchemy: Renewing The Mind Through Screenwriting, Cynthia Elaine Jeffress

Masters Theses

Emotional Entanglement is a romance drama adaptation that delves into the craft element of emotional dialogue alchemy in film adaptation. This approach, grounded in a rigorous, qualitative research-based methodology, aims to transform a novella into a cinematic language that is suitable for the visual and auditory experience of film, while preserving the essence of the original author's voice and intent. The screenplay explores themes of friendship, divorce, forgiveness, second chances, and redemption, inviting the audience to reflect on their spiritual journey. This thesis compiles an artistic statement that clarifies the writer's nature, purpose, process, and the vision of specific works …

The Path Of Preparation: Engaging The Spirit’S Work In Your Soul To Be Ready For The Life God Has For You, Janelle Koontz

Masters Theses

Spiritual preparation is the ongoing act of engaging faith and life in a way that helps a follower of Jesus become more aware of what God is doing in his or her life. With a developed sense of how God is moving, followers of Jesus are able to engage surprises, both positive and negative, in a grounded way. This grounding is rooted in the knowledge that God is with them and that He has been working from before time and through their lives to get them ready for these moments. A biblical understanding of preparation based on word studies and …

Celebrating Their Voices: The Recognition Of African American Female Songwriters In Worship Music, Robin D. Henderson

Masters Theses

The worship community has been profoundly shaped by the contributions of numerous songwriters, many of whom remain largely unknown despite the widespread impact of their music. While enjoyed by the congregation, songs performed during corporate worship services are very rarely credited to/known by the songwriter(s). Songs heard on the radio are known by and often credited to the artist and not the songwriter. This research study, “Celebrating Their Voices: The Recognition of African American Female Songwriters in Worship Music,” explores the influence of 20th-century African American female Gospel songwriters whose compositions have become integral to African American worship experiences yet …

Awake And Alive: An Investigation Into Content For A Music Course Incorporating The Sciences, Harrison Boraas

Masters Theses

The purpose of this qualitative, instrumental case study was to identify the content for an interdisciplinary course about music and the brain that educates collegiate students about the benefits of lifelong music engagement. Despite increasing awareness of musical relevance to the human brain, many institutions of higher learning continue to teach music as its isolated area of study without connecting it to other fields that could benefit from incorporating it or vice versa. The sample size consisted of four to seven experts that were either community experts or Liberty University faculty in the fields of science, medicine, or music within …

Differentiation In Artistic Expressions Of Worship: A Study Of The Front Royal Church Of The Nazarene, Stephanie L. Blakely

Masters Theses

While music is globally recognized as a common tool for expressing worship in both academia and the evangelical church, it is not the only art form mentioned in the Bible regarding acts of worship. The Council of Arts Accrediting Associations recognizes four main disciplines of fine and performing arts, including Music, Art and Design, Theatre, and Dance; however, in the twenty-first century evangelical church, music takes precedence as the main expression of worship. This qualitative study will gain insight into the pursuit and understanding of utilizing various art forms as expressions of biblical worship in modern-day worship settings within the …

Don't Say You Love Me, Breanna Dunwell

Masters Theses

Teen dating violence is a silent epidemic that is not talked about enough or taken seriously. This shows that age does not matter when it comes to any type of abuse or harassment – physical, emotional, sexual, stalking, etc. The household that the victim lives in, race, parents marital status, and financial situation do not play a role into who is a victim versus someone who is not. The perpetrator does not care about those kinds of details. They only care about needing to be in control of the other person. Even though this is a snippet, the story shows …

Pigs For The Dispossessed Goat Demon: Jesus’ Exorcism In Mark 5 And Animal Interest, Michael Joseph Gossett

Masters Theses

This thesis explores how a historical-literal reading of Mark 5:1-20 can be defended against objections that claim Jesus caused or allowed unnecessary animal suffering. Contextual insights gleaned from 2nd Temple Watchers Traditions and Greco-Roman polytheism illuminate plausible symbolic value present in the deaths of the Gerasene swine. The context of Mark 5:1-20 presents a supernatural conflict compatible with Christian theology and rebel angel theodicies. Jesus’ actions concerning the Gerasene pigs are not necessarily unjustifiable examples of animal mistreatment.

A Diversity Dilemma: A Qualitative Research Study On The Past And Present Racial And Cultural Demographics Of Formal Music Education Students, Destiny Deberry Stone-King

Masters Theses

This thesis study examined the relationship between the preference for popular music, racial identity, and the decision to participate in school music courses and ensembles, aiming to understand how the interaction of these factors influences the demographics of music students. The researcher analyzed previous research on music preference, the history of music education in the United States, commentary on the music education system, and personal accounts of music educators and former music students. The researcher used a historical qualitative research design and meta-analysis to answer three research questions: 1) How does a musician’s racial identity, musical preference, and musical training …

An Exegesis Of Matthew 18:15-17 And The Hermeneutical Challenges Of Unrepentant Sexual Immorality, Jennifer Morris

Masters Theses

Sexual immorality (πορνεία) is mentioned twenty-five times in the New Testament. In one of the earliest cases of church discipline, Paul addresses a particular example of sexual immorality, namely incest, where a member of the Corinthian church is engaging in consensual sexual relations with his father’s wife (1 Cor. 5, New International Version).¹ Church discipline can be viewed with a negative connotation; however, disciples of Christ understand He rebukes and disciplines those He loves (Heb. 12:6; Rev. 3:19) through His Word (“rebuking” and “correcting” in 2 Tim 3:16).² Thus, the scriptural basis for church discipline practices are the …

Producing A Map Of Political Advocacy – Locational Difference And Interconnectedness In West Michigan Lgbt Advocacy, Samuel J. Darnell

Masters Theses

This study examines, through a qualitative lens, the influence of a local environment upon the operations, messaging, and perspectives of individuals within LGBT advocacy organizations and broader LGBT advocacy efforts. This was achieved via analysis of in-person and verbal interviews with individuals involved in the operation of these advocacy organizations. Interviews were analyzed with a focus on political perception, organization structure and history, funding sources, and challenges faced in operation such as political conflicts or harassment. Initially focusing on a comparison of the advocacy environment of Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids, the study expanded to several neighboring towns that hosted advocacy …

Brexit And The Devolution Of Uk Settlements: A Qualitative Case Study Of The Socio-Political Factors And Consequences Of Brexit On Scotland, Deborah Erioluwa Adeniji

Masters Theses

This paper takes a real in-depth look at the United Kingdom’s position in the geopolitical landscape before and after one of the most crucial votes in the nation’s history, namely the Brexit vote of 2016. To bring clarity to those who may be new to UK politics, it is important to note that Brexit is an abbreviated term for Britain’s exit, or departure, from the European Union (EU). This paper explores the position of the United Kingdom, or Britain, in the world before and after its departure from the European Union. Throughout the course of this paper, the following questions …

In A Flash: A Study Of Flash Fiction’S Ability To Create Complete And Meaningful Stories, Morgan A. Lomax

Masters Theses

In In a Flash: A Study of Flash Fiction’s Ability to Create Complete and Meaningful Stories, I seek to prove that despite flash fiction’s extreme brevity, this relatively new sub-genre of fiction is capable of producing fully delineated stories with powerful messages, especially messages that align with a Christian worldview. To do this, I first examine the various definitions and complex history of flash fiction. Then, through the critical literary lenses of formalism, structuralism, and reader response theory, I analyze the different ways flash fiction uses the following eight narrative elements to create stories within specific examples of flash fiction: …

Border Crisis Impacts On United States National Security, Victoria Halyne Smith

Masters Theses

This thesis addresses how the United States (U.S.) currently faces various homeland and national security threats. A specific and substantial threat to the U.S. is the border crisis that began to escalate in later 2020 but has been an ongoing issue for decades. Several elements encompass the border crisis such as the political circumstances, policy passed by Congress and endorsed or drafted by the President, resources at borders, and law enforcement or security implementation. However, two vital elements to analyze within the current border crisis are the border security and immigration policies of the Trump and Biden administrations as well …

The Discipling Worship Leader: How Perceptions Impact The Role Of The Worship Leader, Justin Smith

Masters Theses

Although worship and discipleship are often envisioned as two distinct practices, they share fundamental aspects of spiritual formation. Worship is often restricted to music, emotional expression, and outward performance, while discipleship tends to be associated with intellectual study, biblical knowledge, and structured learning. However, both disciplines encompass holistic contributions to a believer’s spiritual growth. Discipleship extends beyond epistemology; it involves personal transformation. Worship is not merely an experience or the expression of emotions but rather transformative in nature. Both worship and discipleship, however, encompass more than the contemporary church culture often acknowledges. The two-fold research plan combined findings from a …

Recess: Utilizing Gamification To Encourage Lifelong Creativity In Emerging Adults, Julia Schneider

Masters Theses

While creative outlets are prioritized in childhood, adults in the United States are increasingly less likely to engage their creativity during leisure time, which ultimately impacts overall well-being. This project aims to explore: (1) What is creativity, and why is it beneficial? (2) What factors contribute to the decline of creative engagement? (3) How does engaging with creative outlets impact overall well-being? (4) How can play be used as a catalyst to foster creativity? Through a literature review, case studies, and visual analyses, this thesis examined and integrated existing research on creativity and play in order to effectively create a …

Curating Christmas: A Simplified Approach To Christmas Celebrations, Jillian L. Ramsey

Masters Theses

This thesis project titled Curating Christmas: A simplified approach to Christmas celebrations originated from a personal observation of rampant consumerism during the Christmas season, both in retail stores and through online haul videos. This project aims to redefine the holiday experience by shifting the focus from mass consumerism to a more intentional and meaningful celebration. Targeting elder Generation Z, particularly those with young children, the project emphasizes the curation of unique, handmade, thrifted, and sustainable items. Research for the project included a literature review, case studies, and visual analyses. The visual solution includes creating a cohesive brand identity, marketing materials …

Halcyon: Creating New Authentic Connections With Nostalgic Marketing In Small Businesses, Claire Elise Stough

Masters Theses

In an over saturated market, there are many brands that fall into the trap of uniform and formulaic marketing strategies that fail to resonate deeply with consumers. This research explores how a brand can break away from these repetitive tactics by evoking a sense of nostalgia to create emotional connections that lead to long-term loyalty with their intended audience. The importance of this topic is found in addressing a gap in contemporary marketing. The challenge is fostering genuine consumer relationships in a world that is dominated by fleeting trends and consumer engagement that is surface level. Leveraging nostalgia, which is …

The Colors Of Good And Evil: A Quantitative Study On The Effect Of Disney Animated Feature Films On Audience Color Association, Grace Mallory Hayes

Masters Theses

The purpose of this quantitative research study was to determine what impact Disney animated feature films have on audience color association. The problem is that Disney assigns colors to certain movie roles that are in contrast to what color theory posits or would assume. This study sought to determine if audiences that are highly saturated in Disney animated feature films receive a different message from colors than someone who does not regularly consume Disney films. This research examines the impact of Disney habitually assigning colors to characters in contrast to their traditional meaning on the emotional association of viewers through …

Diamonds In The Shadow: Hidden Treasures From The 1930s-1970s-African American Female Guitarists In The Blues, Jamisha-Antarae Harris

Masters Theses

Culturally, African American females are recognized as vocalists in American music but are routinely overlooked as guitarists. Writers and scholars of the blues generally ignore African American female guitarists’ creative and innovative contributions to this genre of music. This thesis documents the exploration of African American females playing guitar to define their musical roles in American society. Racial and gender identity, as well as the limitations imposed by the larger society, will be explored through this instrument as an essential element of creative expression. Racism and sexism are two sides of the same coin, rendering their musicianship identities nearly invisible. …

Using Computerized Instruction To Increase Professional Competence With Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Cbt) Modifications, Paige Lee Sherlund-Pelfrey

Masters Theses

One in thirty-six children receive an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis, and an estimated 5.4 million adults in the United States have previously received an ASD diagnosis (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2022). At least seventy percent of individuals with ASD have one comorbid disorder (Valderas et al., 2009). Some common comorbid disorders for individuals with ASD include depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorders. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is an evidence-based therapy that can support depressive, anxiety and OCD symptoms, and has empirically supported modifications that can be used with the ASD population. However, research reports that clinicians are not …

Learning What Makes Craft Schools Successful, Christopher J. Beaudoin, Christopher James Beaudoin

Masters Theses

This thesis explores the potential of founding a craft and farming school on my family’s land in Rhode Island, grounded in the principles of experiential learning, sustainability, and inclusive community engagement. Drawing from a case study methodology and informed by autoethnographic reflection, the research investigates how traditional crafts and sustainable agriculture can be integrated into a hands-on educational model for youth and adults. Through interviews with directors at four leading craft and folk schools across the United States, the project gathers insights on curriculum design, accessibility, funding challenges, and inclusive programming. The literature review connects experiential learning theories with sustainable …

Mfa Confidential, Julius Cavira, Julius Cavira

Masters Theses

What happens when the studio meets the classroom? This thrilling deep-dive uncovers the untold story of artists-turned-educators, balancing creation with instruction in the high-stakes world of higher education. Packed with real voices and raw insight, it reveals how teaching isn't just a job—it's the next evolution of artistic practice.

This study offers key insights for graduate-level visual artists considering careers in higher education as art educators. It examines the dual roles of artist and faculty by outlining the foundations of an art practice and exploring the varied experiences within academic environments. Drawing on a wide range of testimonies, articles, and …

Resonance, Jess D. Skyleson

Masters Theses

Resonance is a digital media installation intended to facilitate a deeper understanding of inter-connection within and between ourselves and others, and to depict how our voices live both within and beyond us. The exhibit is divided into two intertwining halves:

Externally, the piece involves creative communication between people, art mediums, and life experiences. This aspect includes the contributions of thirty patients, doctors, and caregivers who responded to one another’s artwork in a series of workshops led by the artist. Starting with the creative writing of patients, this was provided to a group of unrelated medical providers, who responded with visual …

The Ruminating Shell : A Reparative Experiment In Dialogic Writing And Sensory Resonance, Crystal Jiayin Ren

Masters Theses

This thesis unfolds as a first-person memoir, an incomplete record of remembered dialogues, and a structural experiment that aims to get closer to what I perceive as emotional and philosophical truth. Prompted by a conversation with my father-in-law, writer and thinker Shen Hao, I began to reflect on how informal, everyday exchanges with mentors, family, and friends have continually shaped how I translate internal echoes—ruminations, confusions, emotional residues—into writing, spatial, material, and experience.

Rather than adhering to the conventions of academic analysis or formal documentation, I adopt a dialogic form—one rooted in memory, shaped by subjectivity, and open to contradiction. …

Hunting, Feiyang Zhuang

Masters Theses

This writing is about fragility and revelation of technological systems. It considers how brokenness, delay, and opacity are not flaws but openings—opportunities to reimagine our relationship to technology as something grounded, sensory, and continuous with the natural and material world.

,, Yujia Gong

Masters Theses

I am still learning how to understand the world.

As I moved through different countries, cultures, and communities, I often found myself unlearning and rebuilding what I thought I knew. At times I felt unanchored, floating without a sense of safety or belonging. So I began to walk.

Walking became my way of reconnecting. With each step, I used my senses to notice the details around me: shadows cast by sunlight; life growing from soil; the presence of buildings and objects as quiet evidence of human existence. These elements — scent, light, sound, size, temperature — shape our perception of …

Returning Into The Deep Forest--A Methodological Practice Around Memory, Asianness, And Speech, Yu Ye

Masters Theses

">">The title of this thesis is borrowed from the Tang dynasty poem Deer Enclosure by Wang Wei: “Empty mountain, no one in sight—only the echo of voices. Returning sunlight slips into the deep forest, shining once more on moss.” I feel like my essay is responding to this kind of sensation: light does not shine head-on, but folds back, glancing sideways through dense branches, illuminating what is often overlooked. In that gesture of return—quiet, angled, persistent. This thesis unfolds in three chapters, each following a distinct path—image (Camera Lucida by Roland Barthes), movement (The Rings of Saturn by …

Swing Landscape, Yingwen Lin

Masters Theses

The text will consist of my self-introduction and short articles. Roughly speaking, the narrative is built upon my background and personal transformation. Geographically, I was born in Shenzhen (largest migrant city in China), lived in Shanghai (China’s largest economic center and a major international financial hub), and now reside on the East Coast of the United States, as a particle moving between different cultures, global commodities, and online media. I engage subjectively in these objective changes, with objects and events shaping who I am. I consider myself an outsider, an observer, an economic enthusiast, and a newspaper reader, participating in …