Digital Commons Network^™

Power Of Meaningful Learning Moments: Relationships In Academia, Jillian Bollinger, Ots, Rebecca Loughran, Ots, Alexandria Krasin, Otd, Otr/L, Madison Via, Bs, Audrey L. Zapletal, Otd, Otr/L, Cla, Chse

Department of Occupational Therapy Posters and Presentations

Background

• The demanding nature of graduate-level coursework creates rigorous academic environments that can strain student-faculty relationships.¹⁻⁶
• Graduate students often come from diverse backgrounds, which shape their approaches to coursework, classroom engagement, comfort in accessing resources, and relationship-building with faculty.⁴
• In such settings, faculty may question students' academic integrity, potentially undermining mutual trust and camaraderie.¹
• However, fostering a culture of expressed gratitude in academia can help students acknowledge the meaningful contributions faculty make to their education while enhancing their learning and behavior. This, in turn, enhances faculty motivation and may reduce burnout.2,³,⁶
• By encouraging gratitude in academic environments, institutions can strengthen …

Navigating The Transition: A Study Of Faculty Experiences With Institutional And Collegial Support, Lorri S. Mcmeel, Felicia Murray

Social Work Department Faculty Conferences

Faculty in higher education, especially in applied disciplines like social work, are expected to excel in teaching, research, service, and collegiality. Despite these demands, formal preparation for new faculty is often limited. This qualitative study explored the experiences of 36 full-time faculty members in social work and related disciplines regarding their preparedness for academic roles. Using an exploratory approach and thematic analysis, four themes emerged: (1) Mentorship and Professional Support, (2) Institutional Training and Resources, (3) Self-Directed Learning and Adaptation, and (4) Challenges and Barriers to Preparation. Findings revealed inconsistent onboarding, limited mentorship, and a reliance on self-navigation, with disparities …

Professional Development Program: Sexual And Gender Minorities Education And Training, Aiden Echols, Bs, Madison Via, Bs, Audrey L. Zapletal, Otd, Ms, Otr/L, Cla, Chse, Karla A. Bell, Pt, Dpt, Phd, Fnap

Department of Occupational Therapy Posters and Presentations

Background

LGBTQ+ communities experience health care and health disparities; some reasons include:

• barriers in care
• negative attitudes
• lack of awareness by healthcare providers.

Studies have found healthcare professionals are not adequately trained in LGBTQ+ care

Educators benefit from professional development related to LGBTQ+ inclusivity in higher education.

Holistic Support For Online Learners: A Framework For Mental Health Integration, Charlotte A. Jones-Roberts

FDLA Journal

The mental health crisis among college students has been well-documented, with increasing rates of anxiety, depression, and other psychological distress. Online learners, in particular, face unique challenges related to social isolation, self-regulation, and access to mental health resources. Understanding mental health in the context of online education is critical due to the unique challenges posed by virtual learning environments (Saade et al., 2017; Kumari et al., 2021). This paper explores the importance of mental health support in higher education and proposes a three-level framework for integration: university-level, LMS-level, and course-level support. By addressing common concerns and utilizing a Universal Design …

Holistic Support For Online Learners: A Framework For Mental Health Integration, Charlotte A. Jones-Roberts

FDLA Journal

The mental health crisis among college students has been well-documented, with increasing rates of anxiety, depression, and other psychological distress. Online learners, in particular, face unique challenges related to social isolation, self-regulation, and access to mental health resources. Understanding mental health in the context of online education is critical due to the unique challenges posed by virtual learning environments (Saade et al., 2017; Kumari et al., 2021). This paper explores the importance of mental health support in higher education and proposes a three-level framework for integration: university-level, LMS-level, and course-level support. By addressing common concerns and utilizing a Universal Design …

Decision-Making During A Crisis: A Case Study Of How A University Responded To The Covid-19 Pandemic, Ryan Joseph Iocco

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Scant research is available on how university leaders make decisions and communicate those decisions to their stakeholders during times of crisis. The purpose of this case study was to better understand the decision-making process used by administrative leaders at a higher education institution during a time of organizational crisis. This study examined decision-making by higher education leaders within and across different functional areas at a single higher education institution between February 2020 and September 2020, following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Data was collected through interviews and document analysis. Although research exists on decision-making during crises, there is limited …

A Discussion Of Community: An Ethnography Of Designing Asynchronous Video Discussions To Reveal Student Perceptions Of Digital Presence In Online Learning, Chad S. Garcia

USF Tampa Graduate Theses and Dissertations

This mixed-methods digital ethnography investigates how video-based discussions (VBD) influence community building in asynchronous graduate education. Using the Community of Inquiry (COI) framework, this study looks at student experiences in a History of Higher Education class where traditional text-based discussions were replaced with video presentations and peer responses. The research explores how video discussions affect students' sense of presence, how video presence impacts engagement patterns, and which multimedia elements contribute to community development.

Data collection included semi-structured interviews with students and instructors, LMS analytics, video content analysis, and ethnographic observation throughout Spring 2024. Analysis revealed a notable disconnect between traditional …

Positive Education And Student Success In College: An Overview And Practical Implications, Lin L. Agler, Saurabh Gupta

Journal of Educational Research and Practice

Institutions of higher education are facing a historically challenging time as student graduation and retention rates continue to be less than ideal, especially since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. This is a critical time of transition for the competitive structure of higher learning, as finances, technology, student success, and institutional rankings all have a joint leading position in this structure. Applying concepts of positive psychology to higher education has been shown to be advantageous for student success and retention. This strengths-based approach helps institutions remain innovative and competitive. However, instructors face a great challenge in effectively applying positive psychology …

Promising The First Amendment: (De)Regulating Speech In Higher Education, Max M. Schanzenbach, Kimberly A. Yuracko

Northwestern University Law Review

The war between Hamas and Israel has caused havoc in higher education. Amid student unrest, alumni pressure, congressional hearings, civil rights investigations, and student lawsuits, universities stand at a crossroads. The current situation, in which most private universities unevenly regulate student speech under ambiguous student codes, is not sustainable politically or legally. A tsunami of litigation and regulatory actions has already begun. One increasingly favored response is for private universities to more vigorously enforce existing codes or expand their scope. An alternative is for private universities to deregulate student expression and commit by contract to the First Amendment. This Article …

Comparing Massed And Distributed Course Formats: Effects On Outcomes In A Graduate Augmentative And Alternative Communication Course, Brandon Scott Eddy, Alli Sauerwein, Leah Meloy, Eric Sanders

Teaching and Learning in Communication Sciences & Disorders

The effects of massed versus distributed learning have been well studied in the verbal and motor learning literature, with findings suggesting enhanced outcomes from distributing learning over time. However, some studies have found limited evidence to support enhanced outcomes from distributed learning when applied to an entire academic course. The effects of course scheduling on student learning in speech-language pathology graduate coursework have received limited attention. This study compared learning outcomes between a one-week massed format and an eight-week distributed format in an online two-credit augmentative and alternative communication graduate-level course. Learning outcomes were assessed before students enrolled, immediately after …

Clark Magazine, Fall/Winter 2025, Clark University

Clark Magazine

The Fall/Winter 2025 edition of Clark Magazine. Clark Magazine is a twice-yearly publication primarily geared towards Clark University Alumni.

The cover story is 'Our Planet. Our Clark. A Special Issue', celebrating the new School of Climate, Environment, and Society.

Nsu Kpcom Link - Fall 2025 - Volume 4.3, Nova Southeastern University

NSU Florida Link Newsletter

No abstract provided.

Exploring Student Thriving: A Comparative Analysis Of First-Generation And Continuing-Generation Undergraduate College Students At A Private, Faith-Based University, Melissa A. Maisenbacher

Doctor of Education (Ed.D)

This quantitative study explored the thriving of first-generation undergraduate students enrolled full-time at a mid-sized, private, faith-based, open-enrollment university in the southeastern United States. Using the validated Thriving Quotient™ instrument, this research measured thriving across five domains: engaged learning, academic determination, positive perspective, social connectedness, and diverse citizenship, along with three subscales: spirituality, sense of community, and institutional integrity. The study compared thriving perceptions of first-generation college students (FGCSs) and continuing-generation college students (CGCSs) to determine if generational status influenced students’ experiences of thriving. Despite documented challenges faced by FGCSs—including financial stress, limited familial guidance, and lower academic preparedness—this study …

Fundamentals Of A Sustainability Profile Of Students Based On Quantitative Community Building Analyses, Cormac Mcmahon, Julie Dunne, Catherine Barry Ryan, María J. Cantalejo, Carlos Vilches, Isabel Navarlaz, Maite Aldaya, Annapia Ferrara, Sabrina Tomasi, Chiara Mignani, Alessio Cavicchi, Sami Sami Ghnimi, Sghaier Chriki, Michael Murkovic, Barbara Siegmund, Lena Pfeiffer

Research Outputs: 2025-Present

In the context of a growing awareness of environmental challenges and the importance of sustainability values, practices, and choices, this article presents the key findings of the European co-funded NEMOS research project (A New Educational Model of Sustainability Competences through Service-learning) focused on defining the sustainability profile and competencies of students through service-learning in Higher Education. A community-building bottom-up methodology was innovatively applied to identify the competencies needed to define a sustainability profile of students in food-related degrees of five European Higher Education Institutions.The research findings highlight the need for a holistic understanding of students´sustainability, including economic, social, and environmental …

Predictive Model Of School Dropout In Higher Education Through Learning Analytics With Neutrosophic Plithogenic Hypotheses, David Núñez, Purificación Galindo-Villardón

Neutrosophic Sets and Systems

Higher education dropout rates are an international problem, as many people abandon their studies, especially in the early years. This problem affects institutions, causing significant losses. In this context, it is essential to consider methods that allow for predicting dropout rates and taking rapid and effective measures. Objective: The main objective is to analyze prediction models using Learning Analytics, integrating neutrosophic plithogenic hypotheses, to identify early the risk of dropout in higher education. This provides institutions with useful tools to implement actions that help retain more students, considering uncertainty and complex interactions between academic and non-academic factors. Methodology: The method …

Exploring Undergraduate Experiences In Physical Education And Health: A Photovoice Study Of Indonesian Students, Sunarno Basuki, Perdinanto Perdinanto, Akhmad Amirudin

Indonesian Journal of Research in Physical Education, Sport, and Health

Background: Research on undergraduate students in Physical Education (PE) and Health particularly in Indonesia and the Global South has predominantly relied on quantitative indicators, often neglecting students’ lived, embodied, and emotional experiences within demanding academic and physical environments. Objective: This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of Indonesian undergraduate students enrolled in PE and Health programs and to examine how these experiences can inform more responsive and inclusive educational practices. Methods: A qualitative participatory design was employed using photovoice. Eight undergraduate students documented their academic and personal experiences through photography over a two-week period, followed by reflective writing and …

Closing The Graduation Gap: Factors That Impact The Graduation And Enrollment Rates Of First Generation African American Male Students At Predominantly White Christian Universities, Byron C. Johnson Jr

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

First-generation African American male students encounter unique challenges on their journey through higher education. These challenges include inadequate academic preparation, limited family support, financial hardships, and difficulties in finding a sense of belonging. Additionally, factors such as race and religion present significant barriers that hinder their ability to persist in and graduate from colleges and universities without institutional support. Strategic initiatives, programs, and services that address the specific needs of these students are crucial for promoting their academic and social integration, ultimately influencing their success in higher education. This study focused on the experiences of successful first-generation African American students …

Music And The Journey Of Black Male Phd Graduates In Counseling, Vincent Sears

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

This transcendental phenomenological qualitative study explored the lived experiences of Black male PhD graduates from CACREP- accredited counseling education programs who are now professors within the academy. It examined the integration of music as a coping mechanism to address the psychological impact of isolation, tokenism, and hypervisibility connected to attending predominantly white institutions (PWIs/ HWIs). Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and participants shared bespoke musical playlists. The results of this study revealed three overarching themes and associated sub-themes: the impact of racism and systemic barriers (structural barriers and racial inequities); navigating predominantly or historically white institutions; and music as …

Effective Engagement In Online Asynchronous Graduate Courses: How Students Perceive Engagement In Their Graduate Programs, Matthew A. Galeota, Robert M. Mangione, Stephanie M. Foote

New York Journal of Student Affairs

An increase in online learning has created a set of new challenges for higher education institutions. Institutions seek to retain students and ensure they are engaged in their courses. This paper examines forms of engagement that traditional and nontraditional students perceive in their online asynchronous graduate courses at a public flagship university. The authors examined relevant literature and surveyed students across several online graduate education programs. The survey shows that collaborative engagement, specifically the indicator of connecting to institutional opportunities, is the lowest tallied. This suggests that online graduate programs should seek to implement more collaborative engagement indicators. The survey …

Structurally Framing Service Learning As Teaching Excellence: An Examination Of Collaborative Efforts Between Community Engagement And Faculty Development Centers, James Morgan Lewing, Lisa Bunkowski

Journal of Community Engagement and Higher Education

This study explores collaborations between faculty development centers and service learning and community engagement structures at public institutions awarded the Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement. Utilizing semi-structured interviews with five chief academic officers, none of the respondents stated intentional collaborations were present at their respective institutions. The study underscores the need for strategic alignment to institutionalize community engagement, avoiding siloing and enhancing sustainability through faculty development initiatives that promote teaching excellence.

Carry On: A Multi-Campus Faculty Perspective On The Barriers And Facilitators To Implementing Service Learning Curriculum During A Global Pandemic, Adrianne Widaman, Kirsten Leisses Tuck

Journal of Community Engagement and Higher Education

Service learning (SL) faculty faced substantial and unique challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of this study was to explore SL faculty perspectives during the crisis. Higher education faculty who taught SL designated courses during 2020/2021 identified and prioritized challenges and strategies to teaching SL courses without direct person contact. A total of 144 unique responses were collected from 16 faculty from 5 universities using the nominal group technique, a qualitative and quantitative method. Highly ranked themes included the emotional burden felt by the faculty, decreased student learning, a lack of faculty time, the need for alternative assignments, and …

Promoting Healthy Aging Through An Intergenerational Service-Learning Course, Tricia Pierce, Eric Hubbard, Shalini Persaud

Journal of Community Engagement and Higher Education

This case study examines combining service-learning (SL) with an intergenerational exercise program using undergraduate kinesiology students. The purpose was to explore how SL increases confidence, social responsibility, and leadership growth while addressing community needs. Students led biweekly exercise sessions for older adults over six weeks. Reflections demonstrated mutual benefits, including improved activity levels, reduced social isolation, and strengthened community connections.

Case Managers As A Compass: A Strategy For Influencing First-Generation College Student Success, James Riley

Student Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological study was to explore the lived experiences of case managers who use case management as a strategy for improving first-generation student retention at higher education institutions in the United States. Case managers are college or university staff members who provide non-clinical one-on-one student support, including interventions, advocacy, referrals and follow-up services for students who are experiencing significant difficulties. Guided by Tinto’s Theory of Student Departure (1975) and Pascarella’s Model for Assessing Student Change (1980), this study involved interviews with 11 case managers from institutions across the United States and a subsequent review of 24 …

Exploring Students' Perceptions Of Genai Tools In Higher Education: A Case Study, Dina Mansour Tbaishat, Maha Waleed Elfadel

All Works

As artificial intelligence transforms the educational landscape, generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools have become influential in enhancing learning experiences. Despite their growing presence in higher education, limited research explores how university students, especially learners in non-Western contexts, perceive these tools. This study investigates students' perceptions at a university in the UAE, focusing on five dimensions: perceived benefits, institutional support, technological self-efficacy, ethical considerations and user satisfaction. The findings reveal that students generally expressed strong agreement regarding the benefits of GenAI, demonstrated a clear sense of ethical awareness and felt confident in their technological abilities. While satisfaction levels were generally high, …

Introduction, Rosalind Latiner Raby

Journal of Comparative & International Higher Education

No abstract provided.

Do Micro-Level Support Areas Impact International Students’ Perceived Academic Success?, Taiwo O. Soetan

Journal of Comparative & International Higher Education

This study examined the micro-level support areas for international students at a higher education institution (polytechnic) in Canada to determine their perceived academic success using the Bronfenbrenner theory of human development at the micro-level. A quantitative study was conducted to measure the impact of micro-level support areas on international student’s perceived academic success. A target sample of 399 international students was recruited to participate in a hard copy, one on one survey in the 2019 winter semester. The results of this study show that international students’ support areas at the micro-level were strongly related to their perceived academic success. The …

Full Pdf Issue 17(4) 2025

Journal of Comparative & International Higher Education

No abstract provided.

Educational Reforms In West Africa: Push And Pull Factors Analysis Of Student Mobility In Ghana, Nigeria, And The Ivory Coast, Aya Kouao

Journal of Comparative & International Higher Education

The interconnectivity of global capitals has led to the increasing movements of people across borders for political, social, and economic reasons. However, there has been an increased interest in countries located in the West. This paper focuses on the context of student mobility in West Africa, especially in the countries of the Ivory Coast, Ghana, and Nigeria for a better understanding of students’ attitudes toward pursuing their higher education in Western countries. Drawing from the push and pull theory, the purpose of this study is to explore the drivers of migration intentions among West African students while looking at the …

Barriers Beyond Bars: Examining Experiences Of Students With Criminal Records, Anakin Rivera Ramirez

Dissertations and Theses

As educational opportunities, particularly prison education programs, continue to expand for incarcerated individuals, this study, which included two participants, one formerly incarcerated and one who pleaded guilty to avoid incarceration, suggests that those who plead guilty to avoid prison may enter college without the structured reintegration resources available to their incarcerated peers. While substantial research has explored the school-to-prison pipeline phenomenon in K-12 settings, fewer studies have examined its impact on students with criminal records navigating higher education. Grounded in Critical Race Theory (CRT) in education, this study seeks to understand the experiences of carceral system-impacted students of color in …

Career Advising Utilization: A Quantitative Archival Analysis Of Student Engagement Across Academic Levels And Colleges At A Southeast University, Edward Raimundi Iii

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This quantitative ex-post facto study examined patterns of career advising utilization at a large, R1 public university in the southeastern region of the United States. Institutional advising data from the 2023–24 advising year was utilized to identify usage patterns across different demographics such as college affiliation and academic level. The descriptive stats from the archival data were used to measure topic distributions, undergraduate–graduate usage by college, and contact engagement. The sample size included over 35,000 students with 10 different college affiliation labels. Significant differences across advising usage in the different colleges were found during the study. Undergraduate students had higher …