Digital Commons Network^™

Assessing University Students’ Self-Reported Vocabulary Learning Strategy Use, Yirgalem Girma

Jurnal Pendidikan: Teori, Penelitian, dan Pengembangan

Learning vocabulary is certainly a vital component of language learning and without this integral component of language communication becomes hardly meaningful. Thus, students are expected to have rich vocabulary power that enables them to communicate successfully via listening, speaking, reading, and writing; it assists students in expressing a range of meanings in various communicative situations for various purposes. This demands students to learn vocabulary using diverse vocabulary learning strategies that assist them in learning (internalizing, storing, recalling, and using) words properly. However, several students barely manage vocabulary learning tasks and/or use appropriate and diverse vocabulary in English classes. Consequently, this …

Teachers' Difficulty Factors In Implementing Differentiated Learning In Geography Subjects, Aulia Nindy Fadila Gastama

Jurnal Pendidikan: Teori, Penelitian, dan Pengembangan

The implementation of differentiated learning in geography subjects provides benefits for teachers and students. On the other hand, teachers still have difficulty implementing differentiated learning elements. This research aims to analyze the factors related to teacher difficulties in implementing differentiated learning in geography subjects. The research method used descriptive qualitative research with semi-structured interviews. The informants used were geography teachers of SMAN Malang City. Data analysis was conducted by 1) data reduction, 2) data presentation, and 3) conclusion drawing. The results showed that geography teachers in Malang City State Senior High School faced difficulties in implementing differentiated learning. In content …

Targeted Depression Screening For At-Risk High School Students: An Integrated Review, Joseph Calub

DNP Qualifying Manuscripts

Depression in high school students is underrecognized because symptoms can present not only as mood issues but also behavioral or academic problems. This integrated review examined literature from 2010-2015 using PsycInfo, ERIC, CINAHL, and PubMed to evaluate the effectiveness of targeted depression screening for students referred for behavioral, academic, or social concerns. Studies meeting inclusion criteria assessed targeted or clinically referred screening methods, with a focus on validated tools such as the Patient Health Questionnaire modified for Adolescents (PHQ-A). Findings indicate that targeted screening effectively identifies depressive symptoms in at-risk students and is more feasible in resource-limited schools than universal …

An Exploration Of Factors That Influence A Clinical Supervisor's Decision To Address The Personal Development And Dispositions Of Supervisees, Kirsten K. Hagen

Psychology

Research suggests that addressing a supervisee’s personal factors in clinical supervision is critical to developing their therapeutic capacities (Aponte, 1994; Krug and Schneider, 2016; Southern, 2007; Zorga et al., 2001). However, little is known about the factors contributing to clinical supervisors’ decisions to address supervisees’ personal development and dispositions in clinical supervision, despite their importance in supervisees’ professional development. The purpose of this grounded theory study was to discern the nuanced narratives of clinical supervisors and construct a theory of factors related to their decisions regarding whether to address or not address the personal development and dispositions of supervisees in …

An Analysis Of Vulnerable Road User Crashes In Alaska Using Spatio-Temporal Methods, Santosh Adhikari

Engineering

This study presents a two-part investigation into the spatial patterns of crashes and safety of vulnerable road users (VRUs). VRUs, cyclists and pedestrians in this context, represent approximately 18% of traffic fatalities in Alaska annually. However, existing studies on VRU safety in Alaska are limited and causal factors and effects of safety projects are not well understood making it difficult to implement targeted and strategic approaches to improve VRU safety. To that end, the objectives of this research are two-fold: 1) analyze spatial interactions of VRU crashes involving risk tolerant behaviors; and 2) evaluate the effectiveness of Highway Safety Improvement …

The Wnba And Activism: A Case Study Of Power Of The Dream, Jakki Padilla

Communication

This thesis looks at how WNBA players used their platform to stand up for social and political change during the 2020-2021 season. This research focuses on the documentary Power of the Dream (Porter, 2024), which follows the Atlanta Dream and other WNBA players during a time of a global pandemic, racial injustice, and an election year. Guided by public relations scholars Bernays (1961), Curtain and Gaither (2007), Ciszek (2015) for my methodology. By using the Cultural-Economic Model (CEM) (Ciszek, 2015) and understanding their five interconnected components to guide understanding of activism in sports. By using thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, …

The Transformational Learning By Web-Conferencing Circuit Board: A Conceptual Model Outlining The Conditions That Facilitate Transformation In Synchronous Spaces, Rachel L. Reilly

Communication

As synchronous technologies and high-speed internet have become more accessible, opportunities for learning in web-conferencing settings have also increased. Despite the ubiquity of learning experiences taking place over web-conferencing, there is a lack of research on what makes for effective adult learning in synchronous settings from learners’ perspectives. Moreover, there are few studies examining how transformational learning—learning that changes an adult’s mindset, beliefs, or perceptions—occurs in web-conferencing settings. This qualitative study explores the conditions through which transformational learning occurs in web-conferencing settings. It includes the perspectives of adult learners (all at least eighteen years old) who have participated in a …

Spatial And Temporal Epidemiology Of Suicides Among Alaska Native People, Deborah Hull-Jilly

Counseling

Alaska has one of the highest suicide rates among Indigenous populations in the United States. This study used data from the Alaska Violent Death Reporting System (AKVDRS) and applied spatial, temporal, and space-time analyses to identify unusual concentrations—or clusters—of suicide among Alaska Native people. This research identified one low-risk rural cluster and ten high-risk spatial clusters: six in urban boroughs and census areas (BCAs) and four in rural BCAs. Space-time analysis revealed eight clusters, most lasting an average of five years, with one emerging during the final three years of the study period. The study identified notable differences in mental …

Factors Influencing The Performance Of Farmer-Producer Organizations (Fpos) And Their Societal Impact In Tamil Nadu, Arjune S

Theses and Dissertations

Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) are formed mainly for the farmers to have better institutional access to acquire them. They are also under the inspiration of the director's abstinence and the incentive of getting more money. These are socio-psychological individual differences and thus of importance to markets, the perception of markets, and market relevance of group interaction. Self-esteem, attitude to participation in group activities, and willingness to participate in these types of activities are of some significance for his/her performance because they have an effect on their performance afterward.

Farmer social empowerment increased but not farmer economic empowerment did so much …

In Silico Investigations Of Class Ii Trans Activator (Ciita): Its Plausible Implications In Neuroinflammation And Neurological Disorders, Kishore N

Theses and Dissertations

Inflammation plays a significant role in maintaining homeostasis. Neuroinflammation is a chronic inflammatory response in the central nervous system (CNS), leading to brain or spinal cord dysfunction. To promote mental health, it is crucial to understand the regulation of neuroinflammation. Class II transactivator (CIITA) is a master-regulator of the major histocompatibility complex II (MHCII).

Modulation of CIITA has been suggested as a promising intervention for inflammatory conditions, including neurological disorders. However, there is limited knowledge about the role of CIITA and its interactors in inflammation. This study aimed to understand the role of CIITA in neuroinflammation and neurological disorders using …

Hindcasting The Occurrence Time Of Major Earthquakes Using Machine Learning And Time Series Analysis, Rubidha Devi D

Theses and Dissertations

An earthquake is an intense shaking of the ground that typically occurs when tectonic plates move beneath the surface of the Earth. Scientists analyze historical seismic records and geophysical and atmospheric signs to build models estimating the probability of major earthquakes by detecting patterns and anomalies in data such as ground deformation and seismic waves. This study would help in predicting earthquakes to minimize risks of people and buildings.

The present study investigates the devastating earthquakes along the Chilean subduction zone in South America, linking non-seismic data to machine learning predictions of Outgoing Longwave Radiation (OLR) and Relative Humidity (RH) …

Hindcasting The Occurrence Time Of Major Earthquakes Using Machine Learning And Time Series Analysis, Rubidha Devi D

Theses and Dissertations

An earthquake is an intense shaking of the ground that typically occurs when tectonic plates move beneath the surface of the Earth. Scientists analyze historical seismic records and geophysical and atmospheric signs to build models estimating the probability of major earthquakes by detecting patterns and anomalies in data such as ground deformation and seismic waves. This study would help in predicting earthquakes to minimize risks of people and buildings. The present study investigates the devastating earthquakes along the Chilean subduction zone in South America, linking non-seismic data to machine learning predictions of Outgoing Longwave Radiation (OLR) and Relative Humidity (RH) …

Hazard Identification And Analysis For Equipment-Related Fatal Incidents In The Us Underground Coal Mining, Ebenezer Kofi Anthony

Engineering

This study investigates equipment-related fatal incidents in U.S. underground coal mining from 1993 to 2023, analyzing trends, causes, and the effectiveness of safety measures. Using data from the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), this study examined 205 fatalities linked to continuous miners, shuttle cars, roof bolters, load-haul-dump (LHD) vehicles, longwall systems, and hoisting equipment. A mixed-methods approach combines the quantitative analysis of accident trends with qualitative models, such as Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and Bowtie Analysis. The findings revealed that powered haulage and machinery accidents were the leading causes of fatalities, with mechanical failures (40%), human errors …

Educational Opportunities Of Participatory Gis For Accessibility On A College Campus, Shiya Cao, Heather Rosenfeld, Sarah Susnea

Statistical and Data Sciences: Faculty Publications

The educational benefits of Participatory GIS (PGIS) in geographic higher education have received limited direct attention, often because of the complexities of integrating PGIS into university curricula. While a few exceptions found important educational benefits of PGIS, extant studies focused primarily on the educational benefits for students who worked in the research teams, instead of participants who contributed their local knowledge and perspectives to mapping. Our research aims to understand the educational benefits of PGIS for participants in a campus accessibility mapping project using the modes of experiential learning, positionality, and service learning. Through this, we also provide strategies for …

Exploring The Intersection Of Race And Native Speakerism In English Language Teaching: Experiences Of Black African Teachers In Turkey, John Ayodeji Odudele

Linguistics

Research on race and native speaker status in language teaching provides little insight into the experiences of Black African English teachers (BAETs) in the diaspora. To address this gap, this study examines how aspects of BAETs' positionalities - such as race and native speaker status create challenges in their professional and societal lives in Turkey. Data from twelve semi­ structured interviews of BAETs were analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings suggest that race­ related challenges trump language-related ones and that Blackness fundamentally shapes outsiders’ perception and value of BAETs’ linguistic expertise. Even when BAETs possess the same or superior qualifications as …

Impact Of Exchange Traded Funds (Etf) Holdings On Retail Investors’ Mutual Fund Portfolios Performance, Arunachalam R Mr

Theses and Dissertations

As evidenced by the practices passed down through generations the importance of savings and investments is well established in Indian culture. Indian investors consider investment as an essential commitment to financial sustainability and safeguarding dependents. Indians implement investment strategies during their working years to ensure long term financial security and support for future generations.

These cultural practices support the foundation of personal finance in India and well established financial theories (MPT, CAPM and EMH) guide optimising investment outcomes (SEBI, 2020). The effects of inflation and increased life expectancy made Indian investors aware of the need for a substantial financial corpus …

Bridging Scales In Epidemic Modeling From Individuals To Networks And Ecosystems, Saiprasasd Vr

Theses and Dissertations

Epidemics have shaped the trajectory of human history, repeatedly exposing vulnerabilities in healthcare systems and influencing socio-economic dynamics on a global scale. The COVID-19 pandemic, in particular, underscored the pressing need for flexible and responsive modeling framework capable of adapting to dynamic and evolving epidemic scenarios. Motivated by these challenges, this thesis explores the development of innovative epidemic models that integrate classical mathematical modeling techniques, network-based frameworks, and modern data-driven approaches. Each chapter addresses a distinct dimension of epidemic spread, from vaccination dynamics and community coupling to ecological complexity and adaptive human behavior, culminating in a model-free paradigm suitable for …

Navigating The Psychosocial Landscape Of Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome: An Autobiographic Case Study, Jessica D. Locke, Jason T. Eastman

Sociology

Living with a rare disorder, such as Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome (EDS), presents unique psychosocial challenges. This autobiographical case study explores the psychological, social, and professional impacts of navigating life with hypermobile EDS (hEDS), a condition marked by chronic pain, joint instability, and diagnostic uncertainty. Placing personal experiences into the context of clinical findings and research, this study highlights both the physical and emotional toll of the syndrome, including stigma, isolation, and medical gaslighting often accompanying rare conditions. The first-person case study of the first author extracted by the second author experienced in qualitative interviewing provides a first-hand account of the importance …

Differences In Fitness Between Cadet And General Population Firefighter Academy Recruits, Scott D. Brau, David Cornell, Benjamin J. Mendelson, Rudi A. Marciniak, Kyle Ebersole

International Journal of Exercise Science

International Journal of Exercise Science 18(8): 774-793, 2025. This longitudinal study explored entry route- and age-related fitness differences between cadet (CR) and general population (GR) firefighter recruits. Fitness data were collected from eight separate firefighter recruit academy cohorts (N = 317; 122 CR, 195 GR; 27.17 ± 7.58 yrs, 177.30 ± 8.72 cm, 88.65 ± 17.78 kg). In the first week of the academy, recruits completed an assessment battery including: body composition via skinfold measures to estimate body fat (BF, %) and fat-free mass (FFM, kg); aerobic fitness (VO_2peak, mL· kg^-1· min^-1) and …

An Integrated Literature Review Examining Nurse Burnout Interventions, Wislande Joseph

DNP Qualifying Manuscripts

Nurse burnout has detrimental consequences for patients, nurses, and organizations and can negatively impact patient outcomes, nurse quality of life, and organizational costs. This integrated literature review aimed to examine interventions for nurse burnout in order to identify what characterizes effective interventions, whether evidence supports implementing such interventions, and how the most commonly-implemented intervention type (mindfulness-based) in particular impacts signs and symptoms of nurse burnout. A two-part search was conducted of CINAHL, PubMed, Google Scholar, and APA PsychInfo. Part one investigated burnout interventions broadly using the primary search terms nurse burnout and interventions; part two focused specifically on mindfulness-based interventions …

Racially And Ethnically Minoritized Students’ Experiences In Virginia School Psychology Graduate Programs, Fatima Z. Rahman-Yu

Educational Specialist, 2020-current

This study explored the lived experiences of racially and ethnically minoritized (REM) students in Virginia-based school psychology graduate programs. This study was created to provide Virginia school psychology programs, and beyond, recommendations created by REM students for REM students. Data were collected using virtual focus groups through Zoom in order to allow REM students to disclose deep and honest experiences in a safe space. Data were coded, analyzed, and interpreted using thematic analysis to reveal underlying patterns and similarities. Results from this study showed that factors that support REM student experiences in Virginia school psychology graduate programs include diverse cohorts, …

Group Social Skills Training Intervention For Students With Autism Spectrum Disorder, Kayla Hearl

Educational Specialist, 2020-current

Some of the challenges for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) include social engagement as well as building and establishing relationships with peers. Social skills training programs have been used to improve social skill development in children with ASD. The current study sought to examine the use of a group social skills training intervention to develop the perspective taking skills of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The Social Thinking curriculum, “You Are a Social Detective” was implemented with a small group of two students with ASD over the course of 10 weekly sessions. The students’ teachers completed the Social …

Uncovering The Hidden High School Experiences Of Asian American Young Adults: A Mixed Methods Approach, Julia Shin

Educational Specialist, 2020-current

Most research regarding Asian American adolescents’ high school experiences have been quantitative in nature, leaving out the nuances of their lived experiences. While quantitative data is important to gather measurable, objective data from a larger sample of people, qualitative data is also important to add depth and humanness to participant responses. Thirty-two Asian American young adults participated in a mixed methods study that consisted of a survey and optional focus group, aiming to explore the impact of the internalization of the model minority stereotype (MMS), ethnic identity, and representation of racially and ethnically minoritized teachers on their high school experiences. …

Considering Climate Contexts: Examining Promotive And Punitive School Characteristics Among Diverse High School Students, Ashley Bazin, Maryse Richards, Akila Raoul, Allison Lloyd, Elizabeth Rovegno, Yael Granot

Psychology: Faculty Publications

Schools are a critical developmental context for adolescents that can, depending on certain characteristics, do a better or worse job at promoting student resilience and well- being. In working to meet student needs and respond to student behaviors, schools can exhibit more punitive characteristics, like exclusionary discipline practices, or more promotive characteristics, including restorative practices and marshaling of mental health resources. While punitive factors have been associated with more negative outcomes, especially for marginalized students, and promotive factors have been associated with more positive outcomes for students, these factors have rarely been considered together. We conducted an online survey of …

Prior Adolescent Oxycodone Exposure Enhances Pain Sensitivity Following Chronic Intermittent Ethanol In Adult Female Mice, Lisa L. Wilson, Lucas Albrechet-Souza, Linh Ha, Nicholas W. Gilpin, Tiffany A. Wills

School of Graduate Studies Faculty Publications

The opioid crisis remains a critical public health concern, with rising rates of overdose and opioid use disorder. While opioids are effective for managing pain, both chronic use and withdrawal are associated with increased pain sensitivity. Although most prior research has focused on adults, opioid use during adolescence is common and linked to a heightened risk for developing alcohol use disorder and other forms of substance misuse. Like opioids, acute alcohol use can be analgesic, but chronic alcohol exposure and withdrawal lead to increased pain sensitivity. However, the interactive effects of adolescent opioid and adult alcohol exposure on pain remain …

Toward A Consensus Model Of Cognitive–Reading Achievement Relations Using Meta-Structural Equation Modeling, Daniel B. Hajovsky, Christopher R. Niileksela, Dawn P. Flanagan, Vincent C. Alfonso, William Joel Schneider, Jacob Robbins

Department of Psychology Faculty Scholarship and Creative Works

Cognitive tests measure psychological constructs that predict the development of academic skills. Research on cognitive–reading achievement relations has primarily been completed with single-test batteries and samples, resulting in inconsistencies across studies. The current study developed a consensus model of cognitive–reading achievement relations using meta-structural equation modeling (meta-SEM) through a cross-sectional analysis of subtest correlations from English-language norm-referenced tests. The full dataset used for this study included 49,959 correlations across 599 distinct correlation matrices. These included correlations among 1112 subtests extracted from 137 different cognitive and achievement test batteries. The meta-SEM approach allowed for increased sampling of cognitive and academic reading …

Master Of Social Work Portfolio, Kyla Wright

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

Identifying all learned ten competencies of social work incorporated into educational settings. Utilizing theoretical practices and an integrated, justified intervention for mental health success.

Master Of Social Work Professional Portfolio, Allison H. Deaver

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

This MSW Portfolio encapsulates my learning journey throughout my MSW program, and includes selected projects which demonstrate critical steps in this journey.

Turning On The Light: Learned Experiences From Practicum As A Youth Mentor And Private Practice Counselor, Jackson Tate Nichols Mr.

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

The following is a reflection on the two years I spent completing practicum work for my MSW program at the University of Montana. In this assignment, I will cover areas of multiple competencies and tie them to my experiences. I have included an Appendix to make referencing easier for the reader. My experiences included a year working for Volunteers of America Northern Rockies (VOANR) in an emergency youth home and a year in a private practice counseling environment. I will demonstrate how I have woven program competencies into my fieldwork.

A Reflection Of An Msw Student, Dylan Vogel

Graduate Student Portfolios, Professional Papers, and Capstone Projects

No abstract provided.