Digital Commons Network^™

Animal-Assisted Therapy, Stress Regulation, And Mental Awareness, Kimberly Montenegro, Brandy Whitford

Student Publications and Presentations

Mental awareness refers to a person's ability to focus, regulate emotions, and respond to stress. When these capacities weaken, daily functioning can become more difficult. They depend on the body’s stress response system, particularly the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and brain regions such as the amygdala and prefrontal cortex. When chronic stress disrupts these systems, individuals often experience reduced attentional control and emotional instability. Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) has gained attention as a possible approach to reducing stress. Research on human-animal interaction shows that spending time with animals can lower cortisol levels and increase oxytocin, both of which influence stress responses. Studies …

Second Phase Cohort And Principal Component Analysis To Characterize An Adlerian-Drumming Intervention Among College Students, Charles Benayoun, Rebecca Schaffer, Rebecca Mesidort, Jacklyn Markovitz, Megan Ramsey, Jon Sperry, Félix E. Rivera-Mariani

Student Publications and Presentations

Group drumming is a rhythmic intervention with potential to modulate mood states and physiological arousal. Understanding which participant characteristics are associated with differential pre-session mood profiles may inform how individuals engage with such interventions. This study, which is a 2nd phase cohort, employed principal component analysis (PCA) to identify the latent structure underlying mood states, physiological biomarker changes, and demographic characteristics in a sample of college students participating in an Adlerian-based group drumming session. 31 Participants completed a pre-session mood survey and a social interest index. Blood pressure and heart rate were recorded before and after a 45-minute Adlerian-based group …

Stories We Become (April 23, 25, 2026), Lindenwood University

Student Dance Programs & Brochures

Event program for Stories We Become (April 23, 25, 2026), Lindenwood University.

Sensory-Friendly Environments In Schools, Jocelyn A. Ashworth, Rebecca King

Spring 2026 OTD Capstone Symposium

Sensory-Friendly Environments in Schools focuses on strengthening sensory-motor lab use and building educator understanding to support students with sensory processing difficulties. Implemented at Sparta Elementary School within Belton ISD, with the goal to enhance students' regulation, attention, and participation in daily school activities by equipping educators with practical, sustainable sensory strategies.

Stories We Tell (April 22, 24, 2026), Lindenwood University

Student Dance Programs & Brochures

Event program for Stories We Tell (April 22, 24, 2026), Lindenwood University.

Rewilding Teens: A Quartet Beyond Screens, Ian Ramsey

Appalachia

A teacher takes high school students into backcountry environments and remote destinations from New Hampshire to Thailand, where he walks them through “the fire of challenge” without technology.

Influence Of Intrinsic And Extrinsic Learning Motivation In College Students On Choice Of Majors At State Universities, Daud Effendi, Erna Multahada

Jurnal Pendidikan Humaniora

This study aims to discover the influence of intrinsic and extrinsic learning motivation in college students on choices of majors at state universities. Our results showed that extrinsic and intrinsic learning motivation have significant influence on choice of majors at state universities, contributing approximately 10.5%.

Development Of The Veteran & Military Learning Scholars Program (Su-Vmlsp): An Immersive, Experiential Learning Community For Veteran & Military-Connected Students, Emily Rabinowitz, Dezarie Moskal, Ken Marfilius, Dessa Bergen-Cico, Stephen A. Maisto, Joseph W. Ditre

Voices of Service Symposium

Introduction: The Syracuse University Veteran & Military Learning Scholars Program (SU-VMLSP) is an immersive, cohort-based initiative designed to expand access to veteran and military studies through experiential learning, structured mentorship, and community engagement. A collaborative effort of the Center for Health Behavior Research & Innovation and the IVMF Veteran & Military Behavioral Health Collaborative, SU-VMLSP supports and engages student veterans, military-connected students, and students with academic or professional interests in veteran and military populations. Methods: The program is structured around three core pillars: interactive seminars, immersive research engagement, and community-centered cohort development. Scholars participate in discussion-based seminars focused on veteran …

Cross-Gender Teaching Dynamics In Single-Gender Schools: A Case Study On School Leaders’ Perspectives On Gendered Teaching Practices, Support, And School Culture, Kelsie R. Copeman

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The purpose of this comparative case study is to examine the gendered experiences of teachers through the perspective of school leaders at single-gender schools. The theory guiding this study is Tomlinson’s theory on differentiated instruction, as it explains how the recognition and response to student differences allows for effective teaching in order to optimize learning experiences. The central research question is: How do school leaders perceive and navigate cross-gender teaching dynamics in single-gender schools? This study uses semi-structured interviews, focus groups, and journal entries from school leaders. The sample consists of 10 school leaders with current experience in single-gender schools, …

Mental Health Rates Across Ethnic Groups In A Small Midwestern Christian University, Arianna Torres

Honors Theses

This study aims to find if there is a significant difference in depression, anxiety, trauma, and suicidality among students of different ethnic backgrounds at Andrews University. By focusing on ethnic disparities, this research aims to target the mental health issues rising among college students and bring to light the importance of cultural competency in relation to mental health. Results from this study may aid Andrews University in developing more inclusive and culturally responsive mental health services and inform broader discussions about mental health equity in higher education. It can also add insight into how mental health rates may vary by …

Assessing The Impact Of Alumni Relations: Using The Theory Of Planned Behavior To Understand Fsu Students Motivation To Engage, Eldaneka Rolle, Richard Waters Phd, Ciara A. Lewis

AMTP Proceedings 2026

This study aimed to understand Florida State University graduate and upper-division undergraduate students in the College of Communication and Information, attitudes and perception of connection through the specific behavior, engagement with alumni relations. If individuals perceive a connection, is there perceived behavioral control (PBC), does PBC influence their intent to remain connected through one of the four key components, experience, communication, volunteer and philanthropy. Five focus group discussions were conducted using semi-structured interviews. Through thematic analysis, eight common themes were developed, Major, Minor or Certification Interest, Program Experience, Faculty, Advisors and Staff, Event Participation, Communication Preference, Volunteer Opportunities, Small Contributions …

Analyzing The Utilisation Of Chatgpt For Academic Purpose: Exploring Student Motivations, Dr. Sankar P, Nandakumar K

Library Philosophy and Practice (e-journal)

While praising ChatGPT for its ability to produce complex and human-like text, it was hailed as the best AI chatbot ever released to the public. It was also noted that the output was on par with what a competent student could do, suggesting that teachers would have significant challenges down the road. The purpose of this study was to investigate what drives students to use ChatGPT for schoolwork. This study used a descriptive research approach to describe the opinions of Arts and Science College students in the Coimbatore District. The study used a questionnaire to get data from the students' …

Impact Of Nursing Program Structure On Academic Stress Levels And Self-Concept: A Cross-Sectional Study Of Nursing Students' Experiences With 2- And 3-Semester Academic Calendars, Alaa Ayyadhah Alanazi, Amany Anwar Saeed Alabdullah, Hanan Hamdanalshehri, Abrar M. Almutairi

Saudi Medical Journal

Objective: To investigate undergraduate nursing students' perceptions of their transition from a 2-semester to a 3-semester academic calendar and examine its impact on academic stress and self-concept. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between April and December 2023 among 185 undergraduate nursing students in Saudi Arabia who had completed at least their foundational year. Participants completed an online questionnaire containing Likert-type scales measuring academic stress and academic self-concept. Data were analyzed using t-tests and ANOVA to explore associations between perceptions and demographic variables. Results: Most students reported low levels of academic stress and maintained a positive academic self-concept. Perceived …

Disruptive Academic Behaviors: The Dance Between Emotional Intelligence And Academic Incivility, Tracy Ann Hudgins, Diana M. Layne, Celena E. Kusch, Karen Lounsbury

Creating Healthy Work Environments (CHWE)

This presentation aims to share the findings from a recent study that identified student and faculty perceptions of academic incivility, share the adapted Conceptual Model for Fostering Civility in Nursing Education, and discuss identified strategies for improving civility based on our findings (Authors, 2022; Authors, 2023). This study was conducted at a regional four-year university in the southern United States and focused on the diverse, often under-resourced, and/or first-generation students who make up most students in regional universities but are typically a minority in major research institutions. While the study was not planned to occur during a highly stressful academic …

20.01-07 Lesley University Audiovisual Materials, 1932-2013, Lesley University Archive

Finding Aids

The collection includes a series of audio and video recordings in various formats, such as VHS and Betacam tapes, digital video cassette (DV), cassette tapes, CDs, and DVDs. It features media reflecting life at Lesley University, including ceremonies such as inaugurations, commencements, alumni reunions, and student activities; faculty talks and interviews; guest speakers; marketing materials; conferences; fundraising events; media coverage; and personal collections from faculty and administration donated to the university.

Exploring The Efficacy Of Storytelling In Education About Climate Change, Nina Adjanin, Srijana Katuwal, Heidi Sevestre, Gordon Brooks

Mid-Western Educational Researcher

From bedtime tales to digital narratives, stories wield unparalleled influence, shaping perceptions, and fostering empathy. Through mediums like social media and digital platforms, storytelling becomes a tool for advocacy, amplifying voices, and catalyzing social change. In this qualitative study, 107 higher education students from diverse backgrounds participated. The purpose of this study was to uncover salient beliefs about climate change stories on popular social media platforms among full-time college students. The results are based on three key components of the theory of planned behavior (TPB): affective beliefs, normative beliefs, and control beliefs. The respondents expressed both positive and negative attitudes …

Winter Dance Concert (January 29-31, 2026), Lindenwood University

Student Dance Programs & Brochures

Event program for the Winter Dance Concert (January 29-31, 2026), Lindenwood University.

The Impact Of Awareness Of Campus Health Services On Utilization Of Medical Care Among Residential Students At Liberty University, Catherine Pandagade

Masters Theses

College students represent the most prominent group of individuals when considering their lifestyles throughout aging. Therefore, this age group serves as a good opportunity for health education that could build positive health behaviors for life. Existing literature have said that the 18-25 year olds tend to have fewer resources and be often uninsured and have the highest rates of preventable diseases.2 Objective: The aim of this research is to investigate the impact of awareness and its subsequent effect on utilization of available health resources on campus among the student population of Liberty University. Additionally, the purpose of the research through …

Evaluating Motivation In Stem Education: A Positive Self-Talk Intervention, Tiffany L. Copeland

PCOM Psychology Dissertations

This study evaluated a social-emotional learning intervention that taught positive self-talk to high school students from underrepresented minority groups in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). The setting of this study was a place-based program that immersed students in hands-on STEM activities while located in Philadelphia’s life science hub. Before taking a science assessment, students set effort-based goals and learned to say self-talk statements such as “I will give my best effort” and “Even when it's hard, I will give 100%.” This mixed-methods program evaluation compared pre- and post-intervention data using a paired-samples t-test, linear regression, and correlation analyses. Data …

The Effects Of Antidepressant Medications On Sleep Quality In Dominican University Of California Students, Natalie L. Davis, Kenna Wohlford, Stephanie Lee

Physician Assistant Studies | Graduate Research Papers

We spend approximately one third of our life time sleeping or attempting to sleep. The quality of our sleep is equally, if not more important than the amount of sleep we get. This study assesses the effects that medications, specifically antidepressants, can have on sleep quality in Dominican University of California students. 118 participants completed a Qualtrics survey including questions regarding stress, sleep quality, medication lists, and demographics. This study utilized the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) to quantify participants’ sleep quality as the outcome. Participant stress levels were assessed with a Likert scale question asking for stress levels on …

Starting Strong: Improving Mmr Vaccination Rates In Kindergartners, Regina Bryan

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Scholarly Projects - Archive

Abstract

Introduction

During the 2023–2024 academic year, measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination coverage among kindergarten students in this school district did not meet the Healthy People 2030 target, thereby elevating the risk of disease outbreaks. This quality improvement project aimed to improve MMR vaccination initiation and completion through coordinated, school-based interventions.

Methods

Guided by the Plan-Do-Study-Act framework, an eight-week immunization bundle was implemented across 14 elementary schools in South Texas. Interventions included reminder calls, multilingual education, districtwide communication, and a partnership with a nonprofit clinic that provides free or reduced-cost vaccines through on-site and community clinics. Pre- and post-intervention …

The Future Of U.S. Higher Education: Equity Implications Of Shifting Immigration Policies, Research Institute For Social Equity Rise

Research Institute for Social Equity

This report examines the impact of U.S. immigration policies on higher education and international students from 2000 to 2025. It traces five major policy eras, from the post- 9/11 security overhaul and Obama-era expansion to the restrictive turns of 2017–2020 and 2025, and analyzes how shifting regulations have influenced enrollment patterns, economic contributions, and student well-being. Despite hosting more than 1.1 million international students in 2023–2024, the U.S. share of the global student market has fallen from 20% to 16%, underscoring how policy volatility and restrictive measures weaken national competitiveness. Drawing on federal data, scholarly research, and institutional reports, this …

Expert Validation Of A Professional Development Model For K–2 Emotional Regulation, Mark Simpson

PCOM Psychology Dissertations

Emotional regulation (ER) is foundational to student learning, behavior, and long-term educational success and well-being; however, many elementary educators report limited formal preparation in explicitly teaching ER skills. The purpose of this study was to design a professional development (PD) program for K–2 teachers focused on ER and to evaluate its content validity through expert review. The framework was grounded in Gross’s process model of ER, Desimone’s core features of effective PD, and Sims’s dynamic IMTP framework. A researcher-developed rubric was used to evaluate alignment, clarity, theoretical grounding, and feasibility. Five experts in various roles within the field of education …

Predicting Burnout Among Graduate Healthcare Students In Clinical Placements, Meghan E. Visek

PCOM Psychology Dissertations

Healthcare systems increasingly recognized provider burnout as an essential target for improving population health. Burnout, characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and diminished personal accomplishment, has been linked to impaired clinical practice and poorer patient outcomes. Although burnout among healthcare professionals is well-studied, far less attention has been given to understand how burnout develops earlier in training among graduate healthcare students in clinical placements. Research has identified year of graduate study, self-care practice, social problem-solving ability, team resilience, and attitudes toward interprofessional collaborative practice as potential burnout predictors. This study examined these factors among graduate healthcare students in clinical placements. Findings …

Correction: Feasibility Of Conducting A Pilot Randomized Trial Of A Mindfulness-Based Intervention Among Sheltered Young Adults Experiencing Homelessness, Diane Santa Maria, Paula Cuccaro, Erica Sibinga, Kimberly Bender, Ethel Jacko, Widumini Liyanage, Jennifer Jones, Stanley Cron

Faculty, Staff and Student Publications

This corrects the article "Feasibility of conducting a pilot randomized trial of a mindfulness-based intervention among sheltered young adults experiencing homelessness" in volume 16, 1649664.

The Impact Of Culturally Diverse Student Populations On High School Mathematics Teachers’ Preparations And Practices In Southern Union Conference Of Seventh-Day Adventists, Carla Thrower

Dissertations

The Problem

Across the United States and within faith-based schools recent social and political currents have amplified tensions around culture and belonging in classrooms, particularly for students from racially, ethnically, linguistically, and socioeconomically diverse communities. Evidence indicates that when schooling practices overlook students’ cultural identities or normalize a single cultural frame, students can experience marginalization and reduced access to equitable opportunities to learn (Gay, 2018; Ladson-Billings, 1995; Milner, 2010). In mathematics, a subject often perceived as culture-neutral these dynamics may surface through curriculum choices, participation norms, and expectations that do not meaningfully connect to students’ lived experiences (Aguirre, Mayfield-Ingram, & …

Unlocking Students’ Creative Confidence Through Design Thinking Practices: A Parallel Mediation Of Collaboration And Diversity, And Creativity, Faisal Iddris, Agyapong, Emmanuel Mensah Kparl, Philip Opoku Mensah

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Despite the consensus in the literature that design thinking practices spark innovation, research has yet to examine the creative confidence outcomes of design thinking practices. Integrating the Resource-Based Theory and the Componential Theory of Creativity, we hypothesised a parallel mediation model in which design thinking practices are associated with creative confidence via collaboration and diversity, and creativity. Based on a sample of 419 tertiary students in a Ghanaian University, it was found that design thinking facilitates students’ creative confidence. Also, collaboration and diversity partially mediate the relationship between design thinking and creative confidence. The study also found support for the …

Educational Interventions To Prepare Undergraduate Students For Out-Of-Hours Practice As A Newly Qualified Doctor In The United Kingdom: A Scoping Review, Alex Gordon, Molly Parkinson, Rosanna Watts, Kamal El-Badawi, Erin Dawson, Rohan Chiktara, Lorna Burns, Nicola Brennan

Peninsula Dental School

Background: In the United Kingdom (UK), newly qualified doctors are routinely responsible for out-of-hours (OOH) care, often managing acutely unwell patients with limited supervision. Despite national recommendations encouraging OOH experience during medical school training, there is no formal curriculum for OOH practice. Objectives: This scoping review aimed to identify the range of educational interventions designed to prepare UK medical students for OOH clinical responsibilities and assess their reported effects on perceived and actual preparedness. Methods: Following Joanna Briggs Institute methodology, a systematic search of seven databases and grey literature sources was conducted. Eligible studies involved UK-based medical students and reported …

First-Generation Medical School Applicants: A Quantitative Study Designed To Identify Areas Of Educational Support, Bethsabe Romero, Amanda K. Burbage

EVMS School of Health Professions Faculty Publications

First-generation (First Gen) students are unique medical school applicants. Due to their lived experience, they approach patient care by prioritizing trust, comfort and understanding. They have proven ability to overcome obstacles and were found to be more resilient than their continuing generation (Cont Gen) peers. Despite these notable attributes, they face unique challenges in gaining medical school acceptance. There are very few quantitative studies examining this student subpopulation, and our study identifies characteristics of first-generation medical school applicants while highlighting areas of needed support. This cross-sectional study used deidentified Application and Matriculating Student Questionnaire survey data that was obtained from …

Fostering Student Innovation Through Entrepreneurship Education: The Roles Of Alertness, Proactivity, And University Support, Emmanuel Mensah Kparl

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Although widely studied, the way entrepreneurship education drives innovative behavior in resource-limited contexts is still unclear. While prior research has explored its influence on entrepreneurial intention, few studies have examined how individual traits and institutional contexts shape the link between education and innovation. Drawing on Entrepreneurial Alertness Theory and Social Cognitive Theory, this study investigates how entrepreneurship education influences innovative behavior through the cognitive pathway of entrepreneurial alertness and the dispositional factor of proactive personality. It also examines how university support strengthens these relationships. A three-phase survey design was employed among 718 undergraduate students, using structural equation modeling for analysis. …