Digital Commons Network^™

Io’S Role In Making Universities Better Places To Work: A Panel-Led Workshop, Christa Kiersch, Nicole Gullekson, Thomas M. Cavanagh, Kurt Kraiger

Barowsky School of Business | Conference Presenations

This session will engage participants in an interactive workshop designed to inspire and support positive change within university-based work environments. Our core proposition is that IOtrained faculty are uniquely positioned to impact our universities and lead them to becoming better places to work. Four panelists will share their experiences in positively impacting their own higher education workplaces through employee engagement strategic initiatives, work-life balance and caregiver support, organizing a union, and IO-informed university leadership. These experiences will serve as a spark for attendees to consider specific ways in which they can influence their own universities. The second half of the …

Psychological And Psychosocial Effects Of Contemplative Practices In The Athletic Population: A Systematic Review, Victoria Baker

West Chester University Master’s Theses

Mental health concerns in athletes are becoming a primary focus for institutions, companies, coaches, and more. An athlete carries an abundant load of stressors due to their lifestyle. The stressors can negatively impact an athlete by producing anxiety, depression, insomnia, and other mental health issues. Previous studies have found a connection between the use of contemplative practices on psychological and psychosocial effects in athletes, creating an opportunity to evaluate the research of contemplative practices in the athletic population. A systematic review was conducted using nine electronic databases. Seven studies were included in this review, each assessing how contemplative practices affect …

The Finnish Line: An International Teacher Exchange Program, Anthony Marano

West Chester University Master’s Theses

This delve into the educational landscape of the United States and Finland uncovers areas of potential growth in the United States with the incorporation of the Finnish Model. By examining first hand experiences inside the Finnish education system, this study proposes a program that could bring international developments in academics, and overall happiness into our domestic education system. First will be presented the position and philosophy from which this thesis will be approached. This will help to prove relevance when viewed through this specific and critical lens. Next, will be a brief historical overview of the systems in question and …

Neuroticism And Rumination As Mechanisms By Which Adverse Childhood Experiences Increase Vulnerability To Depression In College Students, Christopher Popielarz

West Chester University Master’s Theses

There is a high prevalence of depression among college students, and the consequences of untreated depression negatively impact those students’ academic and life outcomes. The following study analyzes the relationship between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and the development of depression in college years as potentially mediated by neuroticism and rumination factors. The purpose of this research is to fill a gap in the current literature to determine whether neuroticism and rumination act together as mechanisms in conferring depression in college students following ACEs. Data from four questionnaires administered to undergraduate students at West Chester University (n = 127, 55.5% female, …

Reducing Out-Of-School Suspension In Urban Districts: The Utilization Of Alternative Interventions For Disruptive And Risky Behaviors, Jennifer Dixon, Jennifer Dixon

West Chester University Master’s Theses

In this thesis, the goal will be to reflect on the use of schools’ current disciplinary models which includes in-school and out-of-school suspensions and are often an immediate response to mitigating disruptive and risky behaviors displayed by our students, particularly, in urban school districts. While most schools in urban settings have utilized out-of-school suspensions as an end all solution to extinguishing disruptive behaviors. Significant research on this topic reveals that in low-income school settings, out-of-school suspension has resulted in more harmful outcomes on a particular population of students. Where out-of-school suspensions as a solution has failed, as it often does, …

The Phenomenological Meaning Of Activities Outside The Home: A Qualitative Solicited Diary Study Of Undergraduate College Students Experiences During The Covid-19 Pandemic, Thomas Nagle

West Chester University Master’s Theses

Dramatic changes to everyday life during the COVID-19 pandemic created a “frame shift” (Goffman, 1974), as mundane activities took on new significance among evolving norms. Our qualitative study explores the phenomenological meaning of engaging in activities outside the home during the first two years of the pandemic, through solicited unstructured diaries kept by college students. We selected n=33 diarists who met our inclusion criteria. Across the selected entries from each diary, emic coding revealed four types of activities discussed: taking care of necessities, navigating from A-to-B, socializing, and spending time in nature. While etic coding …

Fair Notice And Criminalizing Abortions, Brian G. Slocum, Nadia Banteka

Scholarly Publications

The principle of legality requires that individuals receive 'fair notice" of conduct that is criminal. Courts enforce this fair notice requirement through various interpretive principles and practices, including the void-for-vagueness doctrine. The void-for-vagueness doctrine remains undertheorized, however, despite its centrality to the interpretation of criminal statutes. We offer a new theory of the void-for-vagueness doctrine that accounts for recent Supreme Court decisions. Specifically, we propose a scalar theory that fair notice is a matter of degree, dependent on various factors. We explore the implications of this theory for anti-abortion statutes post-Dobbs and explain why many of these statutes do not …

Dying Is The Easiest Part: Implications Of Palliative Care In America, Sophia Jordan

Undergraduate Honors Theses

The purpose of this paper is to uncover why Americans fear death. What are the foundational principles that cause most individuals of the American society to prolong the dying process? The topics discussed will include physician bias, disease mongering by pharmaceutical companies, consequences of aggressive treatment, the barriers to palliative care and the specific effects of pediatric palliative care. There is a small amount of research on this specific topic, therefore, this paper also seeks to bring awareness to the benefits of palliative care. It is the overall aim of this paper for society to shift their beliefs towards the …

The Medici Effect: Multidisciplinary Insights For Entrepreneurship Research, Younggeun Lee, Andres Felipe Cortes, Anthony Di Benedetto, Pol Herrmann, Mathew Hughes, Phillip H. Kim, Haemin Dennis Park, Sai Lan

New England Journal of Entrepreneurship

No abstract provided.

The Paradox Of Resource Access: Influence On Location Decision Comprehensiveness And New Venture Performance, Nastaran Simarasl, Pooya Tabesh, Younggeun Lee

New England Journal of Entrepreneurship

Purpose–This research aims to theorize how a critical factor, resource access, can paradoxically impact the comprehensiveness of venture location decision processes and the relationship between decision comprehensiveness and new venture performance. To do so, the authors focus on nascent entrepreneurs’ venture location decision processes and introduce resource access as a double-edged sword.

Design/methodology/approach– In this conceptual article, the authors draw from the strategic decisionmaking and resource mobilization literature to theorize about the new venture location decision-making process and its performance implications.

Findings– By uncovering the paradox of resource access, the authors propose that high levels of resource access create a …

Effects Of Gender Equality And Social Costs Of Failure On Earlystage Entrepreneurship Activity, Sharon A. Simmons, Chong K. Lee, Susan Young, Lois Shelton, Maqueba Massey

New England Journal of Entrepreneurship

Purpose The purpose of this study is to explore how the personal traits of the informal entrepreneurs influence their formalization decisions.

Design/methodology/approach This study adopted a qualitative approach using a multicase design in which 28 informal entrepreneurs situated in Kampala district, Uganda, were engaged. An interview guide, recorders and note books were used in data collection.

Findings The results indicate that the traits of informal and semiformal entrepreneurs are distinct. Informal entrepreneurs have been noted to be more courageous and resilient, while their semiformal counterparts have greater passion for their businesses. It is thus observed that the formalization prospects are …

Unfolding Entrepreneurial Resourcefulness: A Systematic Literature Review, Francie Lange, Lukas Hesse, Dominik K. Kanbach, Sascha Kraus

New England Journal of Entrepreneurship

Purpose– Literature on entrepreneurial resourcefulness (ER) has grown constantly in the last two decades. ER is a construct that describes the specific behavior of entrepreneurs, focusing on the generation and deployment of resources to pursue an opportunity. Since the ER literature has expanded and diversified, the purpose of this study is to integrate its findings with existing knowledge about the construct.

Design/methodology/approach–Thestudyappliesasystematicliteraturereview approach, following the methodology of Tranfield et al. (2003). The authors identify and synthesize 31 studies focusing on ER.

Findings– The literature on ER can function on four different levels: (1) individual, (2) organizational, (3) contextual, and(4) effectual …

Fp-24-22 Multiple Gray Divorces: Demographic Trends & Comparisons, Trey Williams, Francesca Marino

National Center for Family and Marriage Research Family Profiles

No abstract provided.

Afro-Latin Americans Living In Spain And Social Death: Moving From The Empirical To The Ontological, Ethan Johnson, Joy González-Güeto, Vanessa Cadena

Black Studies Faculty Publications and Presentations

This paper has three objectives. First, we establish that although Spain has attempted to distance itself from its role in the sub-saharan African slave trade and the significance blackness plays within its borders, there exists a significant population of people of African descent from Latin America living in Spain. Second, we show Black people are living what Sadiyah Hartmann refers to as the afterlife of slavery in Latin America. We claim it is worthwhile to take into account that Afro-Latin Americans are fleeing to the country that is largely responsible for them being in Latin America and the conditions of …

Editorial: The Unlearning Of School Attendance: Ideas For Change, Carolyn Gentle-Genitty, Arya Ansari, Michael Gottfried, Ineke Marshall

Founder’s College - Scholarship and Professional Work

No abstract provided.

Embracing Change: From Recalibration To Radical Overhaul For The Field Of School Attendance, David Heyne, Carolyn Gentle-Genitty, Glenn A. Melvin, Gil Keppens, Catriona O’Toole, Lisa Mckay-Brown

Founder’s College - Scholarship and Professional Work

In a world characterized by dynamic demographic shifts, rapid technological transformations, and evolving pedagogical practices, the need for reimagining school attendance and a relationship with education has become paramount. This Research Topic, boldly titled “The Unlearning of School Attendance: Ideas for Change,” compels us to challenge conventional thinking and working in this domain. The collection of 12 articles offers compelling opportunities for change, ranging from subtle recalibrations to radical overhauls, depending on the extent to which our current ideas and methods have grown outdated. This opening article serves as a thematic guide, curating the diverse prospects for transformation found within …

Perception Of School Social Bonding (Pssb) Instrument: Structural And Concurrent Validity, Carolyn Gentle-Genitty, Gil Keppens, Christopher A. Kearney

Founder’s College - Scholarship and Professional Work

School bonding refers to the connections that students have with their schools and with various aspects of their academic environments, with an emphasis on close affective relationships and investment in doing well at school. The Perception of School Social Bonding (PSSB) instrument is a 10-item, self-report instrument with 3 subscales measuring different aspects of student school bonding: attachment; involvement; and belief. The instrument is grounded in Hirschi’s theory of social control and was evaluated for structural and concurrent validity in a sample of 3,507 students from mixed ethnicity, gender, and age groups. The 3-factor structure of the scale was supported; …

Exploring The Impact Of Swimming On Asthma Management In Asian Americans, Trishtine Tran

Nursing | Senior Theses

Asthma is a respiratory disease that leads to narrowing of the airways in the lungs due to inflammation and mucus. Common symptoms include cough, wheezing, asthma attacks, excess mucus production, and decreased exercise tolerance. Pharmacological treatment methods for asthma include bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and allergy medications. Nonpharmaceutical treatments include monitoring of exposure to allergens and breathing exercises, however swimming is not as commonly suggested. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether implementation of a swimming education class will influence the effectiveness of swimming on asthma management in Asian Americans. This study aims to examine quality of life, changes in …

Swosu Research And Scholarly Activity Fair 2024, Swosu Office Of Sponsored Programs

SWOSU Research and Scholarly Activity Fair Programs

On behalf of the members of the University Research and Scholarly Activity Committee (USRAC) and the Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP) at Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) - Welcome to the Thirty-Second SWOSU Research and Scholarly Activity Fair! There are 61 poster presentations and 10 oral presentations involving over 100 student and faculty researchers, writers, presenters, artists, collaborators, and faculty sponsors encompassing activities from the SWOSU Departments of Biological Sciences, Chemistry & Physics, Engineering Technology, Kinesiology, Language & Literature, Mathematics, Music, Parks and Recreation Management, Pharmacy, Psychology, and Social Sciences.

Pk-12 Faculty And Staff Capacity To Support Student Mental Health, Chin-Chih Chen, David B. Naff, Xun Liu, Jennifer Murphy, Margaret Wallace, Sunny Shin, Kade Goldin, Shenita Williams, Caleb Armwood, Riley Jenkins, Marlene Gooding

MERC Publications

This report from the Metropolitan Educational Research Consortium (MERC) depicts findings from a regional survey of PK-12 faculty and staff exploring their professional capacity to meet the mental health needs of their students. Based on responses from approximately 1,000 educators in the MERC region, there were six dimensions of capacity: mental health knowledge, mental health training and confidence, multi-tiered systems of support, positive mental health culture, supportive policies and practices, and responsibility and impact. Findings in the report include position comparisons along these six dimensions as well as an exploration of how capacity varies by school size and demographic composition. …

Exploring The Influence Of Self-Efficacy On Competency-Based Teaching And Learning Outcomes In Grade Seven Junior Secondary School In Trans-Nzoia County, Kenya., Shitemi Khakhuli Consolata

Master of Education

Based on Bandura's social cognitive theory, this study dives into the connections between self-belief, motivation, and how well students perform academically in the Competency-Based Education (CBC) framework. The researcher explores where students get their confidence, how getting encouragement affects their motivation, and how their belief in themselves influences how actively they engage in learning. The researcher investigated all these aspects in a complete educational environment with 112 seventh-grade students and 2 Junior Secondary School (JSS) teachers participating.

The literature review establishes the critical importance of self-efficacy in influencing students' attitudes, behaviors, and academic outcomes. Using a comprehensive mixed-methods approach, the …

Exploring The Integration Of Neuroeducation Principles In Teaching Mathematics In Selected Secondary Schools In Iringa Municipality, Tanzania., Emmanuel Jonathan Kahise

Master of Education

This research explored the integration of neuroeducation principles in the mathematics curriculum of secondary educational institutions in Iringa Municipality, Tanzania, driven by the goal of enhancing learning outcomes and refining instructional strategies. Employing a qualitative case study methodology, the study examined teachers' perspectives, the actual implementation of neuroeducation concepts in classrooms, and the challenges encountered during integration. Through observations of form one and form three classes and interviews with three mathematics teachers, inconsistencies between claimed understanding and actual practices were identified. To address issues such as a lack of instructional resources, restricted technology access, and limited professional growth opportunities, specific …

Exploring Factors Influencing Students’ Decision To Pursue Science Specializations: A Study At One Of Public Mixed Secondary Schools In Temeke Municipality-Dar Es Salaam., Samson Masawa

Master of Education

This research investigates the factors influencing students' decisions to pursue science specializations, addressing the pressing issue of declining interest in sciencerelated careers. There is a world-worrying trend in students’ declining interest in sciencerelated occupations, hence the need to understand the factors influencing students' motivations to pursue science. The research employed a quantitative approach with a survey design, utilizing structured questionnaires administered to science teachers, Form Three students choosing science and non-science specializations, and Form Five students committed to study science, and the study was guided by Goal Oriented Theory. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social …

Exploring Tutors’ Readiness To Incorporate Artificial Intelligence In Teaching Practice: A Case Study Of Selected Teachers Training College In Tanzania, Prosper Elirehema Akyoo

Master of Education

College tutors' readiness to incorporate AI in teaching practices was explored in this study in selected teacher-training colleges in Tanzania. The study examined tutors' AI knowledge and experience, readiness variables, current use, and attitudes and perceptions. The study showed how ready college tutors were to use AI in education by addressing these issues.

Tanzania aimed to develop a knowledgeable society by 2025 as outlined in Vision 2025. Teacher Training Colleges play a crucial role in preparing future teachers, yet there is minimal research on tutors' preparedness to integrate artificial intelligence in education (AIED). While AIED holds the potential to enhance …

Investigating The Contribution Of Headteachers In Addressing Gender Equality In Primary Schools In Koboko District, (Uganda)., Munduga Mario Aruku

Master of Education

This dissertation investigated the role of headteachers in promoting gender equality within primary schools, focusing on the context of Koboko District, Uganda. The study addressed the background and context of gender inequality significant in education, formulated research questions, and delineated study objectives to explore headteachers' contributions comprehensively.

The study aimed to analyze the structural measures and initiatives implemented by headteachers to address and promote gender equality within primary schools in Koboko District, Uganda, identify and assess the challenges they face in these endeavours, focusing on specific barriers and constraints, and examine the strategies utilized by headteachers to actively promote gender …

Examining The Role Of District Education Officers In Implementing Early Childhood Education: A Case Study Of Bukoba Municipality, Leonard Namala Ndyakowa

Master of Education

This research delves into the pivotal role of education officers in implementing early childhood education within Bukoba Municipality. The comprehensive findings unveil the multifaceted responsibilities of these officers, including the identification of children for enrollment, the establishment of conducive learning environments, and the efficient allocation of human resources. Acknowledging challenges such as inadequate classrooms and teachers, the study emphasizes the complexities associated with delivering quality pre-primary education in the region.

Additionally, the research underscores the significance of in-service training, school visits, data collection, and the integration of science and technology in supporting education officers' roles. It sheds light on challenges …

Enhancing Organizational Capacity In Teachers Training Colleges: Leadership Implications, Erick Katana Karisa

Master of Education

This study investigates how Teachers Training Colleges (TTCs) in Kenya employ Organizational Capacity Assessment (OCA) to enhance leadership capabilities and narrow the divide between existing situations and envisioned goals. Using a mixed-methods approach through interviews, focus groups, and surveys, the study assesses the practical implementation of OCA and its implications for TTC leaders, faculty, and staff.

Previous studies explore OCA frameworks, leadership styles, and potential outcomes, but often depict broad pictures without illuminating practical implementation strategies. The analysis reveals that while TTC leaders primarily focus on leadership structures, human resources, curriculum, and community engagement, neglecting other crucial dimensions of organizational …

Exiled And Separated: Aspects Of Migration For Same-Sex Couples, Ruth Vanita

Global Humanities and Religions Faculty Publications

No abstract provided.

Functional Explanations Link Gender Essentialism And Normativity, Emily Foster-Hanson, T. Lombrozo

Psychology Faculty Works

Why do beliefs that gender differences are innate (i.e., gender essentialism) sometimes lead to normative judgments about how individual people ought to be? In the current study, we propose that a missing premise linking gender essentialism and normativity rests on the common folk-biological assumption that biological features serve a biological function. When participants (N = 289) learned that a novel feature of the gender category "mothers" was common and innate, they overwhelmingly assumed that it must have served some function across human history. When they learned that it served a historical function, they assumed that it must still be beneficial …

The Pseudo-Liberation Of Women And Feminism In American Cinema Of The 1970s, Claudia Smallwood

Undergraduate Honors Thesis Projects

This thesis provides an analysis of how women, feminism, and female liberation is depicted in American film of the 1970s, in context to genre revisionism and the second wave of feminism. The portrayal of women in film is reimagined due to the Hollywood Renaissance taking place in the mid-sixties and throughout the nineteen-seventies. As genre revisionists began re-working and undoing the tools of classical Hollywood cinema, the role of women began to shift as well, creating a form of counter-cinema. Films of this era, rather intentionally or unintentionally, start to address relevant issues of marital status, liberation, sexuality, and the …