Digital Commons Network^™

The Psychology Of Science Denialism And Lessons For Public Health Authorities, Brenna Moreno, Molly J. Walker Wilson

All Faculty Scholarship

As it wreaked tragedy on the world, the outbreak of COVID-19 helped expose a pandemic of a different kind, one steeped in distrust and contrarianism. This movement, termed science denialism, has been lurking and undermining public health efforts for decades. Specifically, it is “the employment of rhetorical arguments to give the appearance of legitimate debate where there is none, an approach that has the ultimate goal of rejecting a proposition on which a scientific consensus exists.” Unlike skepticism, which is “doubt as to the truth of something” and works to progress both science and society, denialism is characterized by individuals’ …

Anti-Carceral Theory And Immigration: A View From Two Law School Clinics, Sabrina Balgamwalla, Lauren Bartlett

All Faculty Scholarship

This article explores clinical teaching philosophies related to anti-carceral theory and provides examples of how to support student learning in clinics serving immigrant clients. Anti-carceral theory in this context is used to refer to an approach that resists criminalization and incarceration within law, drawing on abolitionism, intersectional and anti-carceral feminism, and decolonization.

The anti-carceral lens provides framing and language to name the dynamics of social exclusion and discrimination inherent in immigration law. It also allows us to unpack immigration regulation as a series of choices made within the larger context of law enforcement and its systems of surveillance, policing, and …

Protecting A Real Or Imagined Past: Justice Samuel Alito And The First Amendment, Derigan Silver, Dan V. Kozlowski

All Faculty Scholarship

This article examines the First Amendment jurisprudence of Justice Samuel Alito. In this article, we argue that the principles behind his decision-making are not always necessarily traditional methods of constitutional analysis, and litigants should understand the frames and lenses Alito uses to make decisions when making their arguments to him. The article concludes with a discussion of Alito’s overall approach to the law and some thoughts on how he is attempting to reshape the First Amendment. We write that, above all, it is clear he is seeking to protect a real or imagined past that, in his mind, is under …

"Love Divine: A Systematic Account Of God’S Love For Humanity" [Review] / Wessling, Jordan."

Andrews University Seminary Studies (AUSS)

This is a book review.

The Role Affiliation Membership Plays In An Ffa Chapter: A Qualitative View From Kentucky, Jacob Falwell, Kristie B. Guffey

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

Research exists to demonstrate the benefits of FFA membership and the three-circle model of agriculture education. FFA membership had shown minimal growth in the 20 years following the rebranding. The innovative approach of affiliation membership has ushered in a steady growth of FFA membership, but not all chapters are participating in affiliation. FFA membership is provided to every student who is enrolled in agriculture education classes with affiliation, and the dues collection process is eliminated. This study investigated the view of affiliation membership in Kentucky High School Agriculture Education programs by researching the enrollment, involvement, and educational outcomes of affiliated …

What Factors Keep Late-Career Agriculture Teachers In Georgia Motivated To Continue In The Profession?, Catherine I. Davis

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

Most agriculture teachers leave the profession by the time they reach their mid-career phase. While there is significant research indicating factors why agriculture teachers choose to leave the career there is a void in the knowledge as to why late career agriculture teachers have persevered and are still choosing to stay in the classroom. This qualitative study identifies factors as to why agriculture teachers have chosen to stay in the profession. The researcher interviewed late career agriculture teachers in Georgia with 20 or more years in the classroom and are currently still teaching today. These interviews lead to common themes …

The Effects Of Inspiratory Muscle Training On Exercise-Induced Laryngeal Obstruction In Young Adults, Allison Lyman

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

Exercise-induced laryngeal obstruction (EILO) is a condition that results from abnormal vocal fold adduction upon inspiration (Abdel-Hamid, 2018). Symptoms of this ailment include dyspnea, choking sensations, an audible stridor, and/or coughing during physical exertion (Marcinow et al., 2014). These symptoms affect an individual’s ability to breathe adequately during exercise. A review of current literature suggests that there are a variety of interventions that can be used to reduce perceived dyspnea in individuals who suffer from EILO. One such intervention is known as inspiratory muscle training (IMT), which works to reduce dyspnea by strengthening the primary muscle of inspiration: the posterior …

Sequencing Of Extended Reality Welder Training, Monica Donohue

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

Abstract

This study used a quasi-experimental design to evaluate the efficacy of integrating XR welding simulations into traditional training programs. The performance outcomes of participants were assessed by an independent American Welding Society (AWS) Certified Welding Instructor (CWI). Participants were evaluated using the NCCER Performance Accreditation Tasks evaluation. After 20 hours of training, the participants used a traditional welder to perform a vertical 3F weld on a steel weld coupon. Three treatment groups were used to evaluate the sequence of extended reality welding simulators in a traditional welding program. Results indicate that sequencing XR practice before live welding did not …

A Phenomenological Study Of K-12 Educators' Perceptions Of Social Emotional Learning For K-12 Students In Southern Illinois., Ruth Cahill

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

The objective of this Phenomenological study was to analyze K-12 educators’ lived experiences, opinions, and perceptions regarding the impact of social emotional learning implementation in a small school district in Southern Illinois. Results revealed four consistent codes: Educator competence – the participants revealed that they did not feel competent enough to correctly implement SEL due to lack of consistent, on-going SEL training; Efficacy – due to school closures, virtual instruction, and inconsistencies caused by the corona-virus pandemic, SEL implementation in the school district was discontinued until further notice; Perception – the participants expressed that when implemented correctly, they believe that …

Effects Of Plasma Sample Handling On Equine Insulin Assays, Lauren Willett

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

Often, the assumption is made that the results of the various laboratory tests being run are accurate, and that abnormal results reflect a physiologic change occurring in the patient. Unfortunately, this assumption is not always true. Inaccurate results, for various reasons, are an inherent part of diagnostic testing. Having inaccurate results is often worse than having no results at all, because they can lead to an incorrect diagnosis or result in unnecessary testing, wasting the client’s financial resources, or potentially expose the patient to unnecessary risks in pursuit of the cause of an abnormality that does not exist. With appropriate …

The Effect Of An Afterschool Makerspace Program On Academic Achievement Of Sixth-Eighth Grade Students, Teresa Lampe

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

This quasi-experimental study investigated the effect of participation in an afterschool makerspace program on middle school students' academic achievement, grades, and school attendance. An experimental group of 237 sixth-eighth grade students participated in an afterschool makerspace program during the 2019-2020, 2020-2021, and 2021-2022 school years. A control group was selected using stratified random sampling of students from the same schools, grades, and special education designation who did not participate. The data included science and math NWEA scores, science and math grades, program attendance, school attendance, and gender. The data were analyzed using an independent t test with a 95% confidence …

An Exploratory Study Of Ergonomics In College Students, Wesley Ryan Tinker

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the relationship between poor ergonomic conditions and student physiological discrepancies. This examination provided great insight into students’ daily experiences and concerns for their futures. The methodology used for this study was quantitative as two source data sets were collected and analyzed. The tool REBA was used to measure the specific body angles while students sat working. A survey yielded great results, giving the students an opportunity to subjectively choose options.

This exploratory study allowed the researcher to use quantitative data to answer this study’s research questions. The research questions asked from this study were …

Self-Diagnosis & Pathologizing Normality During The Information Age, Chelsey Eaton

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

Self-diagnosis has become a concern for medical and mental health diagnoses. More people are engaging in self-diagnosis based on information that was obtained from the internet, including websites, social media platforms, and online forums. There are several reasons one may choose to self-diagnose. Some common reasons outlined in research are the desire to fit in with others who share similar characteristics and having a label to explain one’s experiences. Past research has shown that people frequently search for mental health information online, but they may not understand or may misinterpret the information that is found. This study aimed to address …

The Relationship Between Student Performance In English Language Proficiency And Academic Content Assessments, Rosa Wolford

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

As the number of English Learner (EL) students continue to increase in the United States and accountability increases for their growth and achievement in both English language proficiency and state content assessments, it is essential that educational agencies examine the predictive relationships between the assessments to ensure appropriate supports for English Learners are provided. Subsequently, the purpose of this study was to determine if there is a predictive relationship between the WIDA ACCESS Literacy and Overall Composite scores and the TNReady English Language Arts and Mathematics assessments scores of sampled EL students in fourth through twelfth grades among the subgroups …

Peer Response And Assistance To Suicidal Thoughts And Behavior In University Students, Lindsey Katherine Hunter

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

Suicide represents the second leading cause of death in adolescents and young adults (CDC, 2022). Many interventions employed on college campus focus on peer support which has been previously related to reductions in suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STB, e.g., suicidal ideation, suicidal plan, suicide attempts), but students may not have the experience needed to increase confidence or knowledge in providing support (Hirsch & Barton, 2011; King et al., 2008). Further, previous research has identified factors including exposure to STB, direct engagement in STB, knowledge, and stigma regarding suicide which have had mixed impact on confidence and helping intentions in supporting …

An Analysis Of P-20 Education At San Ildefonso Pueblo In Northern New Mexico, United States, Martin Edward Strones

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

This research study provides an inquiry by conducting a qualitative analysis of the conditions and issues associated with students at the San Ildefonso Pueblo in Northern New Mexico. For decades the education of San Ildefonso and Native Americans who live in the State of New Mexico has been ignored. This has been just the way it was, that is, until Wilhelmina Yazzie, a Native American, saw her son struggling in an unsatisfactory school system and decided to take action. This case was originally filed in McKinley Country, New Mexico, in 2014, home to largely Native American students for the Navajo …

Examining The Moderating Effect Of Online Social Support On The Relationship Between Time Spent Gaming And Well-Being In Mmorpg Players, Amber Clayton

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

The video game industry has had a long-standing effect on players for decades. With the introduction of the Massive Multiplayer Online Role-Play Game (MMORPG) genre, gamers’ social world had changed drastically with the ability to communicate with players around the globe. Many social scientists have begun studying the effects on the MMORPG genre with social functioning and overall well-being in players (Colwell et al., 1995). The purpose of this thesis was to explore players who partook in MMORPGs and see if these online games affected their well-being and social support. The obtained results (N = 113) found that MMORPG gameplay …

Relationship Between Social-Emotional Learning And Post-Secondary Job Satisfaction, Sean Demaree

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

This dissertation aims to respond to two challenges. The first is a gap in literature and research around the impact of social-emotional learning (SEL) beyond graduation from high school. While many studies have been conducted on the impact of SEL in schools, few examine how the use of SEL schools supports students in their post-secondary success. The second challenge centers on the current job market crisis in the Kansas City Metropolitan Area, specifically with job satisfaction and retention of employees. This study invited employees at five large companies in the Kansas City Metropolitan Area to respond to a two-part survey. …

Teacher Perceptions Of The Georgia Agricultural Education Elementary Standards Of Excellence: A Qualitative Study, James Judson

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

This dissertation examines teacher perceptions of the Georgia Standards of Excellence (GSEs) in elementary agricultural education. The study involved a qualitative research design with a sample of 10 elementary agriculture education teachers across multiple schools in Georgia. The research aimed to explore teachers' perceptions of the GSEs, their implementation, and the impact of the standards on their teaching practices and student outcomes. The findings indicate that while teachers generally have positive perceptions of the GSEs, there are also concerns related to the standards' flow from year to year, the use of hard-to-understand vocabulary, and the inclusion of FFA-related content. Additionally, …

The Impact Of Classroom Economies On Teacher Job Satisfaction, Amanda Hutchison

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

The significance of this study lies in its focus on high school teachers' job satisfaction after implementing a classroom economy strategy, with no previous research available on this specific relationship. The study addresses the critical issue of teacher turnover and its financial and educational implications. It also offers valuable insights for teacher preparation programs, colleges and universities, state departments of education, and classroom economy nonprofit companies.

Can Middle School Students Learn Agriculture From Behind A Computer Screen? A Comparative Analysis Case Study Of Online Vs Traditional Middle School Agricultural Courses In Rural Georgia, Roseanna Volz

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

Online education is growing in popularity. Traditional schooling is losing the monopoly of being the only teaching method available to students (Nguyen, 2015). Online learning has evolved throughout the development of online education (Sun & Chen, 2016). Many schools focus on the core content classes for online education like math, science, social studies, and English language arts, but school systems are starting to grow their curricula (Bedard & Knox-Pipes, 2006). This quantitative study was a comparative analysis of an online and traditionally taught agricultural education course. Middle school students completed 12 assignments throughout six weeks. The grades from the assignments …

Health Disparities In Aging: Improving Dementia Care For Black Women, Caleigh A Findley, Makayla F Cox, Adam B Lipson, Ratasha Bradley, Kevin N Hascup, Carla Yuede, Erin R Hascup

2020-Current year OA Pubs

In the United States, 80% of surveyed Black patients report experiencing barriers to healthcare for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD), delaying the time-sensitive treatment of a progressive neurodegenerative disease. According to the National Institute on Aging, Black study participants are 35% less likely to be given a diagnosis of ADRD than white participants, despite being twice as likely to suffer from ADRD than their white counterparts. Prior analysis of prevalence for sex, race, and ethnicity by the Centers for Disease Control indicated the highest incidence of ADRD in Black women. Older (≥65 years) Black women are at a disproportionately …

Interactions Of Pathogenic Escherichia Coli With Ceacams, Alaullah Sheikh, James M Fleckenstein

2020-Current year OA Pubs

The pathogenic

Psychosocial Work Environment Stressors For School Staff During The Covid-19 Pandemic: Barriers And Facilitators For Supporting Wellbeing, Liz R Rolf, Liz Vestal, Ashley C Moore, Nikole Lobb Dougherty, Nancy Mueller, Jason G Newland

2020-Current year OA Pubs

INTRODUCTION: After periods of remote and/or hybrid learning as a result of the COVID-19 global pandemic, the return to in-person learning has been beneficial for both students and teachers, but it has not been without challenges. This study was designed to assess the impact of the return to in-person learning on the school experience, and efforts made to ease the transition in furthering a positive in-person learning environment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a series of listening sessions with 4 stakeholder groups: students (

RESULTS: Three main themes emerged around school staff experiences: (1) increased levels of stress and anxiety …

Scalable Neural Network Algorithms For High Dimensional Data, Mukesh Soni, Marwan Ali Shnan

Mesopotamian Journal of Big Data

The boundary for machine learning engineers lately has moved from the restricted data to the algorithms' failure to involve every one of the data in the time permitted. Due of this, scientists are presently worried about the adaptability of machine learning algorithms notwithstanding their exactness. The key to success for many computer vision and machine learning challenges is having big training sets. A few published systematic reviews were taken into account in this topic. Recent systematic reviews may include both more recent and older research on the subject under study. Thus, the publications we examined were all recent. The review …

Parallel Machine Learning Algorithms, Saba Abdulbaqi Salman, Saad Ahmed Dheyab, Qusay Medhat Salih, Waleed A. Hammood

Mesopotamian Journal of Big Data

To expedite the learning process, a group of algorithms known as parallel machine learning algorithms can be executed simultaneously on several computers or processors. As data grows in both size and complexity, and as businesses seek efficient ways to mine that data for insights, algorithms like these will become increasingly crucial. Data parallelism, model parallelism, and hybrid techniques are just some of the methods described in this article for speeding up machine learning algorithms. We also cover the benefits and threats associated with parallel machine learning, such as data splitting, communication, and scalability. We compare how well various methods perform …

Mobile Big Data Analytics Using Deep Learning And Apache Spark, Muhammad Azeem, Bassam M. Abualsoud, Dimuthu Priyadarshana

Mesopotamian Journal of Big Data

The new mobile big data is the outcome of the widespread use of mobile devices like smartphones and IoT devices. Without employing suitable analytical and learning methodologies to extract crucial facts and hidden designs from the data, collecting MBDs is not economically viable. We drew on the work of other academics who published their findings between 2015 and 2021 for this analysis. This white paper gives an introduction to deep learning in MBD analysis and a straightforward training exercise, and it verifies the viability of customizable learning architectures via Apache Spark. Certain deep learning tasks, in particular, are carried out …

Transfer Learning: A New Promising Techniques, Ahmed Hussein Ali, Mohanad G. Yaseen, Mohammad Aljanabi, Saad Abbas Abed

Mesopotamian Journal of Big Data

No abstract provided.

Chatgpt And Big Data: Enhancing Text-To-Speech Conversion, Hatim Abdelhak Dida, Dsk Chakravarthy, Fazle Rabbi

Mesopotamian Journal of Big Data

Converting text into voice (TTS) has many important uses in fields as diverse as accessibility, instruction, and recreation. As big data continues to expand at a dizzying rate, TTS conversion systems must adapt to new difficulties in terms of data amount and variety. To improve TTS conversion for huge data, we propose here to employ the cutting-edge language model ChatGPT. We begin with a brief history of text-to-speech (TTS) conversion and big data, before discussing the current state of TTS conversion technology and its limitations. We then go on to detail how ChatGPT was built and how it was taught …

Large Scale Data Using K-Means, Raheela Zaib, Ourlis Ourabah

Mesopotamian Journal of Big Data

Because of the exponential growth of high-layered datasets, conventional database querying strategies are inadequate for extracting useful information, and analysts must now devise novel techniques to meet these demands. Such massive articulation data results in a plethora of new computational triggers as a result of both the rise in data protests and the increase of elements/ascribes. Preprocessing the data with a reliable dimensionality reduction method improves the efficacy and precision of mining operations on densely layered data. Therefore, we have compiled the opinions of numerous academics. Cluster analysis is a data analysis tool that has recently acquired prominence in a …