An Examination Of Middle School Enrollment And Participation In The National Ffa Organization, Melanie Dorminey

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

Middle school agricultural education programs and opportunities for middle school students to be members of the National FFA Organization were first made available in 1988. The Perkins V Act of 2018 provided the first federal funding to support middle school career and technical education programs. In conjunction with the federal funding provided by the Perkins V Act of 2018, the National FFA Organization adopted a national middle school membership affiliation program where middle school FFA chapters could pay a flat fee for all students enrolled in middle school agricultural education courses over the traditional membership of paying per individual student. …

The Link Between Poor Student Reading Proficiency And College And Career Readiness, James D. Kirkland Iii

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

The ability to read proficiently is a skill often considered necessary for the success of an individual while in school and after graduating from high school. Although reading proficiency plays a large role in an individual's success, many students in our nation’s schools struggle to read and comprehend the texts they are presented with in their academic courses. The purpose of this research study was to determine whether a link existed between the reading proficiency and college and career readiness of high school agriculture students. The study used a mixed methods approach that collected both qualitative and quantitative data to …

Identifying The Agricultural Mechanics Knowledge And Skills Needed By Kentucky Agriculture Teachers, Thomas Poole Jr

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

The agricultural industry increasingly relies on complex machinery and technology, creating a need for skilled workers that are proficient in agricultural mechanics. School-based Agricultural Education (SBAE) programs play a crucial role in preparing students for careers in this field. However, many agriculture teachers feel unprepared to teach agricultural mechanics due to gaps in technical skills, self-efficacy concerns, and safety considerations. This study sought to determine the agricultural mechanics knowledge and skills that Kentucky agriculture teachers need to successfully teach agricultural mechanics in SBAE programs across the state. Using Wells et al.'s (2021) Agricultural Teacher Education and Agricultural Industry Partnership Model …

Strong Neighborhood-Prime Labelings Under Ordinary & Gaussian Integers, Micheal Arnal-Brown

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

This thesis introduces and studies the notion of a strong neighborhood-prime labeling, a strengthening of the neighborhood-prime labeling where the label 1 can be assigned to any vertex in a graph. We prove that several graph families—including paths, cycles (excluding those congruent to 2 modulo 4), caterpillars, helm graphs, closed helm graphs, gear graphs, and graphs with universal vertices—admit such labelings, and also provide results to more general classes of graphs. We extend this new labeling concept to the Gaussian integers using a spiral order- ing on Z[i] and define a Gaussian analogue of strongly neighborhood-primeness. To support this extension, …

Examining Kentucky Agriculture Teachers’ Use Of Student Credentialing In Agricultural Education Programming, Kaycee J. Palmeri, Kevin T. Wells

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore Kentucky agriculture teachers’ perceptions regarding current industry credential offerings, how they operationalize the curricula, knowledge, and skills necessary to prepare for industry credential offerings, and the perceived benefits for students who earn such credentials. The current study was undergirded by human capital theory. Using random sampling across the 12 Kentucky FFA service regions, the researcher collected data from nine current Kentucky agriculture teachers via semi-structured interviews. Further, the researcher used a Qualtrics-based instrument to collect participant demographics data. The analysis of the interview data revealed eight distinct emerging themes. The researcher …

How Did The Covid-19 Pandemic Affect The Educational Level Of Students, Measured By The Act?, Davey A. Reed, Davey A. Reed

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

This study examined the relationship between socioeconomic status (SES), chronic absenteeism, and ACT performance among Alabama’s 4A public high schools, with a particular focus on how these factors evolved before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Utilizing a longitudinal design, the research examined data from four academic years: 2019 (pre-COVID) and 2022, 2023, and 2024 (post-COVID). Data were obtained from the Alabama State Department of Education’s public report card portal and included ACT composite scores, school-level SES data, and chronic absenteeism rates. Schools were anonymized to ensure confidentiality and grouped into SES categories (Low, Mid, High) for comparative analysis. A combination …

Alabama Agriculture Teachers’ Perceptions Toward Compensation And Extended Contracts, Allison Kincer

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

Abstract

The purpose of the current study was to explore Alabama agriculture teachers’ perceptions toward compensation and extended contract grants that the state offers annually. The current study was a microreplication of Still and Solomonson’s (2024) prior study and was conceptually framed by their agriculture teacher compensation model. Using a Qualtrics-based data collection instrument, the researcher used multiple points of contact as recommended by Dillman et al. (2014) and collected usable data from 95 Alabama agriculture teachers. The researcher used descriptive statistics to analyze all data collected as part of the current study. The researcher found that respondents felt they …

Bridging Classroom And Competition: How Students With Intellectual Disabilities Learn And Apply Ffa-Related Skills, Skyler Lempert

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

Though people often hear about inclusion and differentiation in education and their classroom settings there are questions about the capability and effectiveness of students with moderate to severe disabilities to participate in intra-curricular activities such as the National FFA Organization. Often teachers are tasked with trying to find ways for students to be a part of these experiences with little education on this aspect. This research begins by examining the historical progress of special education, particularly in relation to students with moderate to severe disabilities. It then explores the complex educational needs of this population and how schools have worked …

Relationship Between School Climate And Effectiveness, Michele D. Franklin Mrs

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

Abstract

The purpose of this quasi-experimental study was to explore the relationship between school climate and school effectiveness in six rural elementary schools. School effectiveness was defined by state reading, math, and index achievement scores. The districts’ Studer Education Survey and the KSA’s Quality of School Climate and Safety survey assessment data were combined to determine each school’s climate score. The Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) framework guided the study. The study examined a rural school district’s focus on providing a system of support for reading, math, social emotional learning (SEL), and behavior (SEB) that influenced school climate and ultimately …

Elementary School Mathematics Teacher Perspectives Of Blended Learning, Elizabeth H. Forrester

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

This qualitative case study explored the experiences and perceptions of teachers who utilize technology for instructional purposes, blended learning in elementary school instruction, and the impact of professional development (PD) on blended learning instruction. Guided by the Technological, Pedagogical, and Content Knowledge theory (TPACK), research aims to understand teachers' motivation and use of blended learning during instruction and the impact PD has had on teachers’ implementation of blended learning. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews of seven elementary school teachers in grades two through five in the state of Kentucky. Findings revealed that teachers experienced technology integration instruction during their …

Zika Virus Encephalitis Causes Transient Reduction Of Functional Cortical Connectivity, Shannon C Agner, Lindsey M Brier, Jeremy D Hill, Ethan Y Liu, Annie Bice, Rachel M Rahn, Shengxuan Chen, Joseph P Culver, Robyn S Klein

2020-Current year OA Pubs

SIGNIFICANCE: Determining the long-term cognitive impact of infections is clinically challenging. Using functional cortical connectivity, we demonstrate that interhemispheric cortical connectivity is decreased in individuals with acute Zika virus (ZIKV) encephalitis. This correlates with decreased presynaptic terminals in the somatosensory cortex. During recovery from ZIKV infection, presynaptic terminals recover, which is associated with recovered interhemispheric connectivity. This supports the contribution of synapses in the cortex to functional networks in the brain, which can be detected by widefield optical imaging. Although myeloid cell and astrocyte numbers are still increased during recovery, RNA transcription of multiple proinflammatory cytokines that increase during acute …

Schistosomiasis Interventions In Africa: Assessment And Systematic Review, Christopher Yaw Dumevi, George Boateng Kyei, Patience B Tetteh-Quarcoo, James-Paul Kretchy, Irene Ayi, Patrick F Ayeh-Kumi

2020-Current year OA Pubs

No abstract provided.

Qualitative And Quantitative Analysis Of A Novel Dental Health Education Program To Improve Dental Care Utilization By Bhutanese-, Burmese-, And Swahili-Speaking Refugees In A Midwestern United States City, Chandra Swanson, Katherine Gordon, Kelly Kreisler, Elizabeth Montgomery Collins

2020-Current year OA Pubs

No abstract provided.

Taiwanese Elementary School Teachers’ Mindset Of Content And Language Integrated Learning (Clil) Instruction, Chin-Wen Chien

Journal of English Learner Education

Teachers need to undergo a mindset shift in language learning and teaching. This study used both qualitative and quantitative data to explore seven Taiwanese Content and language integrated learning (CLIL) teachers’ mindsets and led to the following major findings. First, the CLIL teachers had a stronger mindset regarding their instructional strategies, lesson preparations, and efficacy, compared to their more moderate mindset regarding their CLIL training and preparation. Secondly, the CLIL teachers had a different mindset regarding language use in their CLIL instruction due to their learners’ English proficiency levels. Finally, their lesson designs were lacking a 4Cs culture. Based on …

Digital Stories Of Resilience: A Case Study Of Urban Community College English Learners, Patricia George Hunter

Journal of English Learner Education

This study utilizes a qualitative case study approach to learn how project-based, digital storytelling (DST) voices the resilience of post-secondary English language learners (ELLs) attending a minority-serving, open-access, community college in New York City. Along with many studies that have examined the usefulness of DST in oral production, this research investigates whether project-based digital storytelling enhances students’ understanding of academic content related to resilience and conventional composition. Narrative inquiry (NI) research technique is the basis of the digital story project in an English as a Second Language (ESL) course. In this case, the study relies on observations and artifacts to …

Now I See: Video Supports For English Language Learners, Joanna C. Zimmerle, Hanrui He, Tara Hill

Journal of English Learner Education

General education teachers are often unprepared by teacher preparation programs and limited professional development opportunities to support English Language Learners (ELLs), despite the increasing number of ELLs entering US schools and the trend towards placing them in mainstream classrooms. Video resources offer one viable approach to supporting the language learning of ELLs, drawing upon theoretical frameworks such as dual-coding, constructivist theory, and sociocultural perspectives. This paper describes the use of video resources to assist general education teachers in effectively leveraging videos to support the language learning of ELLs in mainstream classrooms.

Survey: A Study On Image Encryption Using Dna In Bioinformatics, Rana M. Zaki, Zaed S. Mahdi, Matheel E. Abdulmunim

Journal of Soft Computing and Computer Applications

One area of study between computer science and biology is bioinformatics, which deals with methods for collecting, processing, storing, and evaluating biological data. Sequences of RiboNucleic Acid (RNA), DeoxyriboNucleic Acid (DNA), and proteins make up biological data, which has a wide range of uses in domains such as feature extraction, data segmentation, data security, and more. In cryptography, DNA sequences are used as data carriers, enhancing the unique properties of biomolecules. This approach involves using DNA sequences to enhance the security of confidential data that must be transmitted over networks or stored securely. Several DNA-based security techniques have been developed, …

New Feature Selection Using Principal Component Analysis, Zaid Mundher Radeef, Soukaena Hassan Hashem, Ekhlas Khalaf Gbashi

Journal of Soft Computing and Computer Applications

Dimensionality reduction techniques streamline machine learning by reducing data complexity, improving model accuracy, and cutting computational costs. They remove noise and irrelevant features, making models faster and more efficient. These techniques also enhance data visualization and interpretation by condensing data into manageable, insightful dimensions. Ultimately, dimensionality reduction leads to simpler, more interpretable models without sacrificing critical information, making it a cornerstone of efficient data analysis and machine learning applications. Theoretically, feature extraction tends to create new features that encapsulate more information by combining multiple existing features, resulting in more concentrated and informative features. In contrast, feature selection involves choosing a …

Development Of A Hybrid Methodology Of Deep Learning And Machine Learning For Lung Nodule Detection In Medical Computed Tomography Images, Zaed S. Mahdi, Rana M. Zaki, Alaa Kadhim Farhan, Negar Majma

Journal of Soft Computing and Computer Applications

Deep learning and machine learning play an important role in the medical field, helping doctors make accurate, fast and effective diagnosis. Despite the progress achieved in the use of modern technologies in detecting cancerous nodes, current studies still suffer from some challenges and limitations that must be addressed to obtain high efficiency in identifying cancerous nodes. These challenges include using image pre-processing, combining deep learning and machine learning techniques, and constantly adapting to clinical changes, in order to address this. A hybrid methodology has been proposed for detecting cancerous nodules in the lung in medical Computed Tomography (CT) images. It …

Enhancing Image Classification Using A Convolutional Neural Network Model, Zena M. Saadi, Ahmed T. Sadiq, Omar Z. Akif, Marwa M. Eid

Journal of Soft Computing and Computer Applications

In recent years, with the rapid development of the current classification system in digital content identification, automatic classification of images has become the most challenging task in the field of computer vision. As can be seen, vision is quite challenging for a system to automatically understand and analyze images, as compared to the vision of humans. Some research papers have been done to address the issue in the low-level current classification system, but the output was restricted only to basic image features. However, similarly, the approaches fail to accurately classify images. For the results expected in this field, such as …

Improved Rapidly-Exploring Random Tree Using Firefly Algorithm For Robot Path Planning, Dena Kadhim Muhsen, Firas Abdulrazzaq Raheem, Yuhanis Yusof, Ahmed T. Sadiq, Faiz Al Alawy

Journal of Soft Computing and Computer Applications

In robotics, efficient path planning makes robots work independently and move through changing environments over time. This study combines the Rapidly-exploring Random Tree (RRT) architecture with the Firefly Algorithm (FA) to make robot’s path-planning better. The proposed ERRT-FA, which stands for "Enhanced RRT with Firefly Algorithm", generates better routes using Firefly social habits. Plan routes using Firefly social habits can effectively aid in exploring configuration space. The role of the FA is to enhance the RRT algorithm by providing an optimized exploration of the search space, ultimately leading to optimizing the path found by the RRT algorithm and better paths …

Foreword From Editor - 16th Edition: Toward An Inclusive Community Engagement, Yandi Andri Yatmo

ASEAN Journal of Community Engagement

This edition of AJCE defines and elaborates on the idea of inclusive community engagement as a means to involve the community in a meaningful process. ‘Inclusive’ refers to the principles of encompassing everyone, all individuals and groups alike, regardless of their identity, background, characteristics, needs, and perspectives, thereby ensuring that all voices are represented (Hodkinson, 2011). This practice extends beyond individuals with disabilities and embodies broader ideas of equality. Inclusive engagement plays a crucial part in fostering a constructive dialog that incorporates diverse perspectives within a community. Such engagements prioritize community participation in the decision-making process that affects their well-being …

Learning Paradigms For Rhythm Detection And Generation Using Mathematical Models, Biophysical And Artificial Neural Networks, Prianka Bose

Dissertations

Humans possess an inherent ability to recognize evenly-spaced rhythms, known as isochronous rhythms, owing to the brain's predisposition to entrain to external auditory stimuli with regular temporal intervals. The central focus of this research is to understand how the brain learns and retains rhythmic time intervals in the context of music. This dissertation studies rhythm detection and generation through mathematical models, biophysical networks, and artificial neural networks, addressing both isochronous and non-isochronous patterns.

A primary focus of the thesis is on isochronous rhythms. In particular, given a perturbation to an isochronous rhythm such as a tempo change or phase shift …

Pushing The Boundaries Of Large Language Models: Innovations And Limitations In Nlp, Finance, And Mathematics, A M Muntasir Rahman

Dissertations

Large Language Models (LLMs) have emerged as transformative tools across a spectrum of domains, yet their practical deployment reveals a blend of remarkable potential and notable limitations. This research explores innovative methodologies to extend the capabilities of LLMs while addressing critical challenges in their evaluation and application. By leveraging rule-based approaches, the in-context learning capabilities of LLMs, and human-in-the-loop validation across three focused studies, this research introduces robust strategies for dataset synthesis, model enhancement, and model assessment in three distinct domains: natural language processing, financial sentiment analysis, and mathematical reasoning

The first study proposes an efficient data augmentation framework, EASE, …

Game-Based Learning With Augmented Reality, Kantida Nanon

Dissertations

Augmented Reality (AR) technology provides an effective and controllable learning environment, especially for complicated, potentially dangerous, or critical content. Effective implementation of interaction and platforms for educational tools can maximize learner engagement and optimize the learning experience. This dissertation explores the potential of AR technology to enhance learning experiences across multiple platforms and subject areas, particularly within chemistry and mathematics. The dissertation is grounded in the field of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and explores the potential of AR to increase learner engagement, improve learning outcomes, and transform traditional pedagogical practices.

The dissertation is divided into two parts. The first part examines …

First-Principles Study Of Ferroelectric Properties And Co2 Reduction Reaction Capabilities In Two-Dimensional Monolayers And Heterostructures, Mo Li

Dissertations

Two-dimensional (2D) materials hold significant potential for CO₂ reduction reactions (CO₂RR) due to their high surface-to-volume ratio. However, achieving high selectivity for desired products and overcoming limitations posed by scaling relationships remain challenging. Recent studies suggest that ferroelectric (FE) materials with switchable out-of-plane polarization (OOP) can effectively tune the adsorption behavior, thermodynamics, and kinetics of CO₂RR, offering promising solutions to these challenges. Using density functional theory (DFT) and the Berry phase approach, this work expands the family of 2D ferroelectrics by theoretically identifying Y₂CO₂, Y₂CS₂, and Sc …

Determination Of Electrochemical Parameters For Predicting Reaction Mechanism And Algorithmic Approaches To Pain Assessment, Huize Xue

Dissertations

This dissertation introduces novel advancements in electrochemical kinetics and pain assessment, structured into two main parts. The first part focuses on the comprehensive analysis of the kinetic and mechanistic aspects of electrochemical reactions, utilizing a combination of experimental techniques and simulation methods. A new software tool, Envismetrics, was developed using Python to facilitate the analysis of complex electrochemical data, including cyclic voltammetry (CV), chronoamperometry (CA), and hydrodynamic voltammetry (HDV). The software was rigorously tested and validated with well-characterized redox systems such as the ferricyanide/ferrocyanide couple, dimethylamine borane (DMAB), and Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS). It was successfully used to determine …

Differential Item Functioning Of The Region-Based National Examinationequipment, Adi Setiawan, Gulzhaina Kuralbaevna Kassymova, Vianney Mbazumutima, Anggit Reviana Dewi Agustyani

REID (Research and Evaluation in Education)

This research aims to detect Differential Item Functioning (DIF) in the 2014/2015 National Examination Questions in mathematics of junior high schools and equivalent- level schools in the Yogyakarta region as a reference group and the South Kalimantan region as a focus group using the Likelihood Ratio Test (LRT) method, Area Measure Raju, and Lord. A sensitivity analysis was conducted to determine the most sensitive method. The data consisted of 5,465 National Examination papers of the students from the two regions who worked on type A questions. A sample of 1,000 exam papers for each region was established using the simple …

2024 Scholarly Productivity Report, Missouri University Of Science And Technology

Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering Scholarly Productivity Reports

No abstract provided.

Advanced Worker's Compensation, Indiana Continuing Legal Education Forum (Iclef)

Indiana Continuing Legal Education Forum 2024

Meeting proceedings of a seminar by the same name, held July 25-26, 2024.