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Rowan University

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2024

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Full-Text Articles in Education

School Administrators Making Sense Of Wellness Issues And Technology Policy: A Qualitative Instrumental Case Study, Allyson Michelle Rose Sep 2024

School Administrators Making Sense Of Wellness Issues And Technology Policy: A Qualitative Instrumental Case Study, Allyson Michelle Rose

Theses and Dissertations

Technology use has been identified as a key contributor to the decrease in youth mental health (Children’s Bureau, 2019; Lebrun-Harris et al., 2022; Dwyer, 2022; Mojtabai et al., 2016; Yasakci, 2019; Odgers & Jensen, 2020). The purpose of this qualitative instrumental case study was to investigate how school district administrators are addressing wellness issues that are developing in elementary aged students due to technology use. The intent of this study was to use the theory of sensemaking (Weick, 1995) to investigate how administrators create policies that respond to the current wellness crisis arising from technology usage in public elementary school …


Identifying School-Wide Inequities: Action Research Conducted Using An Equity Audit To Inform Annual School Planning For A Pre-K–8 School, Janine Casella Sep 2024

Identifying School-Wide Inequities: Action Research Conducted Using An Equity Audit To Inform Annual School Planning For A Pre-K–8 School, Janine Casella

Theses and Dissertations

This action research study aims to identify and address equity gaps within a PK-8 New Jersey school by leading a professional learning community (PLC). The study will use action research methods to conduct an educational equity audit, which will inform the annual school plan and create a leadership action plan to stimulate organizational change. Traditionally, teachers at the research site have used Data-Driven Decision Making (DDDM) cycles, but this study will integrate Critical Data-Driven Decision Making (CDDDM) cycles, including an equity audit analyzed in PLCs. The audit will identify patterns of inequity and identify strategies to address them. The study …


Incorporating Culturally Relevant Practices To Improve Self-Efficacy And Engagement For Students With Disability Labels, Jennifer Chestnut Zingaro Sep 2024

Incorporating Culturally Relevant Practices To Improve Self-Efficacy And Engagement For Students With Disability Labels, Jennifer Chestnut Zingaro

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to explore the lived experience of middle school students with disability labels in the pull-out resource ELA setting when their teacher included culturally relevant practices. This study utilized qualitative teacher research inquiry methods, and data collection methods included student surveys, teacher journaling of class discussions and observations, and examination of student work samples. This study came about through the lack of culturally relevant pedagogy in the segregated, special education middle school ELA program. Students with disability labels who test below grade level on standardized assessments are placed in a small group, homogeneous classroom with …


The Impact Of Social Emotional Learning And Trauma Informed Care On Teacher Well-Being And Capacity In The Classroom., Kathleen Kelley Michalowski Aug 2024

The Impact Of Social Emotional Learning And Trauma Informed Care On Teacher Well-Being And Capacity In The Classroom., Kathleen Kelley Michalowski

Theses and Dissertations

Educators and students have encountered significant challenges, including illness and loss within their families due to events such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Traumatic events, like disasters, can greatly disrupt a community's functioning, resulting in widespread losses that surpass the community's ability to cope. Trauma-informed care (TIC) acknowledges that individuals are likely to have a history of trauma and aims to respond appropriately to minimize the likelihood of further trauma. By implementing trauma-sensitive routines and promoting social-emotional learning (SEL) for both students and educators, we can offer them more opportunities for success and emotional growth. It's important to recognize that educators' …


Incorporating Diverse Multimodal Texts Within A Seventh Grade Language Arts Classroom To Increase Comprehension Accessibility And Improve Engagement, Kaitlin Maher Aug 2024

Incorporating Diverse Multimodal Texts Within A Seventh Grade Language Arts Classroom To Increase Comprehension Accessibility And Improve Engagement, Kaitlin Maher

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis examines if diverse, multimodal texts have an effect upon student engagement while increasing comprehension for students with varied learning styles. Applicable theories that gave direction to this research study were Multiliteracies Pedagogy, Culturally Responsive Teaching, Funds of Knowledge, and Constructivism. Throughout the unit’s duration, students were instructed with various types of multimodal texts that included song, video, graphic novels, and performance while also working with modern authentic, diverse traditional texts. Students were also given a choice of mode in how to respond and demonstrate understanding. The qualitative research study analyzed data sources such as student surveys; my teacher …


Students Speak: A Qualitative Examination Of The Intersection Of Identity And Sexual Violence In A University Setting, Danika M. Charles Jul 2024

Students Speak: A Qualitative Examination Of The Intersection Of Identity And Sexual Violence In A University Setting, Danika M. Charles

Theses and Dissertations

Sexual violence remains a public health concern in the United States. Much of the research has focused on gender-binary individuals, despite the heightened vulnerability of Black, transgender, and nonbinary (BTN) individuals due to societal stigma and discrimination. Campus climate surveys have been recommended by the Obama Administration to address sexual violence, though they often underrepresent BTN students, failing to capture their unique experiences. This study aims to bridge this gap by focusing on the intersection of gender and racial identities, using an intersectional stigma framework to explore the prevalence and impact of sexual violence on BTN students and advocate for …


Black Men Who Participate In An Urban Community College Men Of Color Initiative: A Phenomenological Study, Steven Hardy Jun 2024

Black Men Who Participate In An Urban Community College Men Of Color Initiative: A Phenomenological Study, Steven Hardy

Theses and Dissertations

This phenomenological study explored the perceptions and experiences of Black men who participated in the MOCI. The study uncovered insights into what aspects of the program were effective and where improvements could be made according to the student participants. Employing a phenomenological design, the research identified commonalities among the participants' experiences (Creswell & Creswell, 2018; Moustakas, 1994; Rubin & Rubin, 2012). The structure of understanding surrounding participants in the MOCI program was meticulously facilitated using phenomenology (Creswell & Creswell, 2018). The interviews were not just semi-structured but also empathetic, with prepared open-ended questions followed by probing inquiries, all aimed at …


Redefining Culture And Climate In The Alternative Setting: Dumping Grounds Or Where Students Are Found?, Joan Louise Barbagiovanni Jun 2024

Redefining Culture And Climate In The Alternative Setting: Dumping Grounds Or Where Students Are Found?, Joan Louise Barbagiovanni

Theses and Dissertations

This autoethnographic study aims to answer the following questions: How can a school leader design a culturally sensitive, inclusive alternative education program? What type of systemic change does an alternative school leader believe to be most effective in supporting students in attaining a high school diploma and a solid postsecondary plan to become productive members of society? What characteristics of culture and climate are most critical in an alternative school setting? The study focused on 4 years and tells how a school leader successfully changed the school culture and climate to best serve students and staff in the alternative school …


Unlocking Understanding: Enhancing Scientific Literacy Through Interdisciplinary Reading Strategies In High School Science Classes, Nancy C. Hollenweger Jun 2024

Unlocking Understanding: Enhancing Scientific Literacy Through Interdisciplinary Reading Strategies In High School Science Classes, Nancy C. Hollenweger

Theses and Dissertations

This study investigated the intersection of literacy instruction and high school science teaching in response to low proficiency levels in these areas and interest in pursuing STEM careers among U.S. high school students. Participants reported using close reading practices combined with inquiry-based science instruction to enhance students’ science literacy and reading proficiency. Data were from document analysis, one-on-one interviews, and focus group discussions. Five significant themes showed teachers' journeys from recognizing a problem to implementing new instructional strategies while pursuing knowledge about how to continue growing their craft. The five themes included teacher awareness of students’ literacy struggles, the apprehension …


Utilizing Funds Of Knowledge In An Early Childhood Classroom To Enhance And Create Read-Aloud Experiences, Grace Katharine O'Malley Jun 2024

Utilizing Funds Of Knowledge In An Early Childhood Classroom To Enhance And Create Read-Aloud Experiences, Grace Katharine O'Malley

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study is to investigate the read-aloud experiences in an early childhood classroom that embed students Funds of Knowledge (FoK). The specific aim is the explore what happens when I utilize my students' funds of knowledge when planning and implementing read-aloud experiences. what happens when I utilize my students' funds of knowledge when planning and implementing read-aloud experiences. The students demonstrated making connections to peers in response to text, engaging with text that highlights funds of knowledge and conversing about others culture through play. The implications for utilizing Funds of Knowledge in an early childhood classroom is …


Perceptions Of Primary Grade Teachers About Reading Curriculum And Early Literacy Intervention, Melody Carr Jun 2024

Perceptions Of Primary Grade Teachers About Reading Curriculum And Early Literacy Intervention, Melody Carr

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis examines the perceptions of reading curriculum and early literacy intervention of primary grade teachers. The purpose of this study was to answer the following research questions: How do primary grade teachers view early literacy intervention? How do teachers perceive the basal reading program, Reading Wonders? While there are studies that focus on teacher perceptions, research is limited in the area of teachers’ perceptions of reading curriculum and early literacy intervention. Data was collected using a qualitative approach using a survey, interviews, and a focus group discussion. Findings reveal that teachers feel that they need to be prepared when …


Voices From The Marginalized: The Experiences Black Employees Have On Search Committees And The Role Of Institutional Racism, Jacqueline Drummer Jun 2024

Voices From The Marginalized: The Experiences Black Employees Have On Search Committees And The Role Of Institutional Racism, Jacqueline Drummer

Theses and Dissertations

The history of Black people across the globe is marred by structural racism created by colonialism. Structural racism is deeply embedded in the American culture and academia is not excluded from this phenomenon. The research demonstrates that the problem of racism is not only prevalent in four-year academic institutions but also exists in two-year colleges. Our academic institutions are a microcosm of the broader society whereby we bring our worldviews, biases, and beliefs with us into the workplace. When these views are negative towards marginalized groups, actions can be adverse and impact the experiences of these demographics. My qualitative single …


Woosah! Minoritized Student Affairs Professionals: Navigating Racial Battle Fatigue At A Predominately White Institution, Julius J. Grayson Jun 2024

Woosah! Minoritized Student Affairs Professionals: Navigating Racial Battle Fatigue At A Predominately White Institution, Julius J. Grayson

Theses and Dissertations

Using an interpretative phenomenological analysis this study explored the rich experiences of seven racially minoritized student affairs professionals (RMSAPs) who experienced racial battle fatigue (RBF) and the impact it had on their health at a predominantly white institution (PWI). Social psychological research has identified both blatant and subtle forms of racial discrimination have adverse which lead to deleterious mental health outcomes for racially minoritized individuals. The findings indicated that these racially minoritized student affairs professionals were experiencing racial microaggressions and racial battle fatigue at their predominately white institution. In order to reclaim their wellness, participants shared the strategies they used …


Reading Interventionists Using Individualized Learning Plans And Instruction: A District Leader’S Response To Address Unfinished Teaching Opportunities In Reading, Nicole Almanzar Jun 2024

Reading Interventionists Using Individualized Learning Plans And Instruction: A District Leader’S Response To Address Unfinished Teaching Opportunities In Reading, Nicole Almanzar

Theses and Dissertations

This action-research study explores a district leader’s experience implementing district-wide individualized learning plans (ILPs) and individualized instruction to enhance student outcomes in reading. The study utilizes collective leadership practices by collaborating with reading interventionists throughout. In addition, this study provides an alternative to the technology-based personalized learning and high-dosage tutoring models.


Literacy Instruction In Nature And The Development Of Kindergarten Literacy Skills, Lauren Angelozzi Jun 2024

Literacy Instruction In Nature And The Development Of Kindergarten Literacy Skills, Lauren Angelozzi

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis examines what happens when literacy instruction is implemented while students are outside in nature. Relevant theories that guided this research included the Attention Restoration Theory (ART), Stress Reduction Theory (SRT), and Culturally Relevant teaching (CRT). Throughout the four week study students participated in literacy lessons outdoors that focused on journal writing outdoors, outdoor teacher read alouds, and writing outdoors using tools found in nature. The final week of the study focused on how students incorporate these literacy skills into their own outdoor free play. This qualitative research focused on data collection from various sources such as: student artifacts, …


Stress And Coping Mechanisms Of Non-Traditional International Doctoral Students, Ndidi Patience Iwuagwu May 2024

Stress And Coping Mechanisms Of Non-Traditional International Doctoral Students, Ndidi Patience Iwuagwu

Theses and Dissertations

Higher education institutions are battling with the shrinking enrollment rate of students and the various college alternatives (Drozdowski, 2022); however, it has been evidenced in the literature that these issues can be augmented with international student enrollments and adult learners (Donaldson, 2022). Pursuing a doctoral degree is a tedious move (Devonport & Lane, 2014), and leaving one’s comfort zone to study in a different land for non-traditional international students can be exhausting due to the responsibilities at hand. Thus, this qualitative study examines the stressors experienced by non-traditional international doctoral students, the coping mechanisms utilized in the cause of these …


Utilizing Students’ Technological Knowledge To Develop Critical Reading Skills And Digital Literacy Identities, Rosemarie Mcgraw May 2024

Utilizing Students’ Technological Knowledge To Develop Critical Reading Skills And Digital Literacy Identities, Rosemarie Mcgraw

Theses and Dissertations

This study aims to explore how teachers can purposefully integrate and connect students’ digital literacy funds of knowledge into in-school digital literacy meaning making to enhance critical reading and thinking, and how it supports students’ development of their digital literacy identity. The theories that guided this thesis were from New London Group, Freire, Gee, Knobel, and Lankshear. This was a qualitative research study that collected data from surveys, interviews, observations, and student work samples. Over the course of the study, students participated in a controlled choice research unit. Throughout the study, students received specific instruction on how to use multiliteracies …


Perceived And Preferred Methods To Adult Language Learning, Suzie Tse May 2024

Perceived And Preferred Methods To Adult Language Learning, Suzie Tse

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this research study is to understand the adult language learners in formal learning setting and know what do they perceive as the main methods of teaching and what do they prefer instead. If there is a gap between preferred methods of learning and perceived methods of learning, then there is a need that needs to be addressed. This is important because many students find language learning at best ineffective and at worst impossible. I hypothesize that there will be a difference between adult student perception and preference because student focuses more on speaking and listening skill over …


Community Assistant Role And Its Impact On Academic Performance And Mental Health, Abigail R. Lamanna May 2024

Community Assistant Role And Its Impact On Academic Performance And Mental Health, Abigail R. Lamanna

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to analyze the multifaceted challenges faced by Community Assistants (CAs) within residential life at Rowan University. Through an examination of existing literature, data, and qualitative insights, this study sheds light on how CAs prioritize their academics and mental health within their role. Three research questions guided the study: (1) To what extent does the demanding role of a Community Assistant impact their ability to prioritize their academic responsibilities? (2) To what extent does the demanding role of a Community Assistant impact their ability to prioritize their Mental Health? (3) How can Residential Life Offices …


Examining How Artistic Expression In The Classroom Can Increase Students' Academic Performance And Understanding Of Course Material, Jake Taylor Marrazzo May 2024

Examining How Artistic Expression In The Classroom Can Increase Students' Academic Performance And Understanding Of Course Material, Jake Taylor Marrazzo

Theses and Dissertations

This qualitative research study examined how artistic expression in the classroom can increase students’ academic performance and understanding of course material. This study consisted of graduate students in the Masters of Arts in Higher Education program at Rowan University, during the Fall/Spring 2023-2024 semesters, enrolled in at least one of the following courses: Crisis Management, Higher Education in America, and The College Student. The study utilized an artistic expression activity, painting, in connection with participants' course material and readings to understand the benefits of artistic expression on student success in the classroom. Some findings of this study show that artistic …


The "Essence" From Within: A Phenomenological Study Examining The Lived Experiences Of Racial And Ethnic Minoritized Women (Raemw) Senior Level Administrators At 4-Year Predominately White Institutions (Pwis) In The United States (U.S.), Felicia Crockett May 2024

The "Essence" From Within: A Phenomenological Study Examining The Lived Experiences Of Racial And Ethnic Minoritized Women (Raemw) Senior Level Administrators At 4-Year Predominately White Institutions (Pwis) In The United States (U.S.), Felicia Crockett

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of senior level RAEMW administrators who work at 4-year PWIs in the U.S. and analyze the impact of institutional environments on their success. The theories that guided this study were: Crenshaw’s (1994; 1989; 2015) intersectionality framework and four tenets of CRT which include counter-storytelling, the permanence of racism, interest convergence, and intersectionality (Hiraldo, 2010, 2019). This study was guided by the three research questions: 1) How do RAEMW senior level administrators describe their experiences navigating higher education, 2) How do senior level RAEMW administrators describe the impact of institutional environments …


From Crisis To Aftermath: The Role Of Nursing Professional Development Educators During The Covid-19 Pandemic: A Realist Case Study, Kimberly Kanner May 2024

From Crisis To Aftermath: The Role Of Nursing Professional Development Educators During The Covid-19 Pandemic: A Realist Case Study, Kimberly Kanner

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this qualitative, realistic inquiry case study was to examine and understand the experiences of NPD educators as they assisted new graduate nurses transitioning into clinical nursing practice during the COVID-19 pandemic in acute care hospitals in the state of New York. Moreover, this research study sought to understand how the COVID-19 pandemic brought about changes to the NPD educator's role and their ability to assist new graduate nurses transitioning into clinical practice post-pandemic. The sample included NPD educators from acute care hospitals in the state of New York. Data collection included semi-structured interviews and document collection. The …


The Experiences Of Minoritized Students In A College Success Course: A Qualitative Case Study, Erin Hannah May 2024

The Experiences Of Minoritized Students In A College Success Course: A Qualitative Case Study, Erin Hannah

Theses and Dissertations

Enrollment in higher education has increased over recent years with more students entering college underprepared for the academic rigor. Through expanded access, more minoritized students who are Pell eligible are enrolling. To retain these and other students, higher education institutions are implementing high impact practices to provide additional support. One such strategy is through the implementation of college success courses. These courses are intended to provide an extra layer of support for students as they make the transition from high school to college. Using a qualitative, case study approach, I used semi-structured interviews which included a photo-elicitation component to explore …


Impact Of Social Integration On Student Persistence In Commuter Students, Julianna Paolini May 2024

Impact Of Social Integration On Student Persistence In Commuter Students, Julianna Paolini

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study is to quantitatively examine the ways in which social integration impacts student persistence in the commuter student population on the Glassboro campus at Rowan University. Additionally, this study examines the levels of social engagement in the commuter student population and in what ways is their engagement impacted. The sample consisted of 159 participants who commute to Rowan University’s main campus who are enrolled as undergraduate students. Participants were surveyed utilizing a Qualtrics survey that was distributed to students starting in December of 2023 and ending in February 2023. The survey consisted of questions about the …


Using Efficacious Content Area Literacy Practices To Support Student Improvement And Perception Of Self-Efficacy, Christine Mccabe May 2024

Using Efficacious Content Area Literacy Practices To Support Student Improvement And Perception Of Self-Efficacy, Christine Mccabe

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis examines how students’ self-efficacy, confidence, and motivation change when students use content area literacy practices in math. This study was guided by the affective theories of Bandura, Maslow, and Guthrie & Wigfield. This study used qualitative research, focusing on collecting data through anecdotal evidence, student self-evaluation surveys, student journal responses, and a teacher research journal. Throughout the six week study, students participated in lessons focused on improving self-efficacy, confidence and motivation. Additionally, students learned to make connections between math and literacy through math literacy tasks, such as numberless word problems. Following the study, data was analyzed through triangulation …


Sense Of Community And Belonging At Rowan University? An Exploration Of Involvement In Student-Led Clubs And Organizations, Samantha Rylee Harvey May 2024

Sense Of Community And Belonging At Rowan University? An Exploration Of Involvement In Student-Led Clubs And Organizations, Samantha Rylee Harvey

Theses and Dissertations

This study explores concepts of community and belonging among students who are involved in clubs and organizations at Rowan University. Through the use of a qualitative survey and the option for an additional interview, participants are able to discuss their personal experiences being involved in a club or organization and if they believe it contributes to their sense of community and belonging, not only in the club or organization, but at Rowan University as an institution. Findings show that involvement in student clubs and organizations has helped some participants feel a sense of community and belonging in the clubs and …


Investigation Of The Regional Innovation System In Rural Region Of New Jersey: A Qualitative Single Case Study, Ketan N. Gandhi Apr 2024

Investigation Of The Regional Innovation System In Rural Region Of New Jersey: A Qualitative Single Case Study, Ketan N. Gandhi

Theses and Dissertations

This single-case study investigated how a partnership between a rural community college in New Jersey and a manufacturer of emerging optics equipment reflected the “regional networked innovation system,” a type of regional innovation system (Asheim & Isaksen, 2002, p.83). The regional innovation system explains a region's development and competitiveness based on a set of actors within a region, developing specific forms of capital derived from social relations, norms, values, and interactions with the community (Doloreux & Parto, 2005).


The Journey Toward Ascension: Understanding The Narratives Of Latinx Women In K-12 School Principalship, Manuela Jimenez Apr 2024

The Journey Toward Ascension: Understanding The Narratives Of Latinx Women In K-12 School Principalship, Manuela Jimenez

Theses and Dissertations

This study explored the unique leadership journeys of Latinx women holding principal positions in K-12 schools across New Jersey. The research findings revealed that these women's career paths were significantly influenced by their social identity characteristics, specifically as female Latinx individuals. The study serves as a crucial reminder to challenge and eliminate negative perceptions and biases towards Latina school principals and their leadership growth and methodologies. The study focused on the leadership journeys of Latinx women holding principal positions in K-12 schools in New Jersey. The findings also showed that their career paths were aided by their social identity characteristics …


A Qualitative Case Study: Ncaa Division Iii First-Generation Student-Athletes And Transferable Skills, Eric Brennan Apr 2024

A Qualitative Case Study: Ncaa Division Iii First-Generation Student-Athletes And Transferable Skills, Eric Brennan

Theses and Dissertations

The development of transferable skills is seen as an important factor for higher education institutions to enhance the employability of their graduates (Holmes, 2013; Tymon, 2013). An overarching purpose of the higher education system is to prepare students for their professional careers and lives. This qualitative instrumental single case study explored how first-generation student-athletes develop transferable skills through intercollegiate athletics at a public, Division III university in New Jersey. Further, it sought to understand how the university validates these transferable skills for first-generation student-athletes. Data was collected using semi-structured in-depth open-ended interviews to capture rich details from the participants related …


Planning, Outcomes, Oversight: A Linguistic Analysis Of New Jersey Statutes And Reports From 1970 To 1999, Sharon E. Mccann Apr 2024

Planning, Outcomes, Oversight: A Linguistic Analysis Of New Jersey Statutes And Reports From 1970 To 1999, Sharon E. Mccann

Theses and Dissertations

Between the decades of 1970 through 1999, there were major shifts in higher education in New Jersey. Utilizing a grounded theory approach this dissertation created a database of legislation, hearings transcripts, and education reports. Searching this database for commonly used terminology, this dissertation was seeking a pattern in language use that could demonstrate the incursion of neoliberal economic terminology into the way high education was discussed during these years. A grounded theory exploration, this dissertation does not claim to have achieved a proven connection between the language shift and decisions made by education leadership. All it can demonstrate is that …