Education Commons^™

Connecting Through Context: A Culturally Relevant Mental Health Resource For K-12 School Counselors, Erica Knebel

Master's Projects and Capstones

This field project, Connecting Through Context: A Culturally Relevant Mental Health Resource for K–12 School Counselors, explores the intersection of decolonial theory, culturally relevant pedagogy, and school-based mental health practices. Rooted in both personal and academic experiences, the project addresses the significant gap in culturally responsive mental health resources for immigrant and refugee students, with a personal emphasis on those from Southeast Asian backgrounds. With nearly 27% of the U.S. student population being immigrants, traditional Western mental health models, centered on talk therapy and medication, often fall short in effectively supporting culturally diverse students. Through a literature review grounded in …

Teacher Autonomy And Decision Making On Curricular Book Choices, Melanie D. Koss, Kathleen A. Paciga

Reading Horizons: A Journal of Literacy and Language Arts

This article reports findings from an email survey of 748 U.S. PreK–8 teachers. The survey invited teachers’ reflections on their autonomy in selecting children’s literature for classroom instruction and classroom libraries. In this descriptive study, researchers used frequency counts, cross-tabulations, and examination of text-based responses. Data were analyzed across three constructs of teacher autonomy: capacity, self-direction, and freedom. Findings show teachers feel well equipped to select quality literature, have more self-direction in literature used for read-alouds and inclusion in classroom libraries than for instruction, and report recent sociopolitical events in the United States have stifled their feelings of freedom. Internal …

Mapping Teacher And Librarian Perspectives Through A Qualitative Descriptive Study Of Book Bans In South Carolina, Jennifer Gallman

All Dissertations

This study analyzed findings from four data collection pieces with Critical Discourse Analysis, in which participants met in focus groups to discuss their experiences with book bans and curriculum censorship. The five focus groups included Upstate middle school English teachers, Upstate high school English teachers, Upstate middle school librarians, Upstate high school librarians, and participants from the Midlands and Lowcountry of South Carolina. There were two primary research questions and two sub-questions: (1) What do educators and librarians in grades 6-12 say about how power functions in engaging or challenging current curricula and book censorship trends?; (1a) How do middle …

Other Others At The Border: An Autoethnographic Inquiry, Clover Johnson

Theses and Dissertations

This dissertation critically examines the concept of multiple otherness in online learning environments in Hispanic Serving Institutions. Hispanic Serving Institutions may unintentionally perpetuate practices and curricula that exclude and decenter the needs of older, disabled, or geographically diverse black women who may not identify within the university’s focus. Despite their missions to servingness of a stated population, Hispanic serving institutions must examine existing curricula that primarily cater to the dominant minority group they have tasked themselves to serve. By investigating existing curricular practices, this research seeks to maintain the integrity of minority-serving institutions while encouraging inclusivity for all students. By …

Building Motivation And Confidence In Elementary School Students, Alyssa I. Perez

Capstone Projects and Master's Theses

This capstone project aims to explore how growth mindset, motivation, and self-confidence are key components to student success, especially during elementary school years. My capstone results highlight that consistent encouragement, a proactive classroom environment, and self-efficiency skills significantly contribute to improved student attitudes and engagement.

Thematic Geo-Inquiry In Seventh Grade Geography, Rebekah Driscoll Austing

Theses and Dissertations

With the growth of globalization, geography is an important subject for students of the 21^st Century to understand. Being adept in geography will aid our future generations to be able to use geographic skills to answer complex world issues. Unfortunately, geography has been a long-neglected subject of social studies; often considered boring and not worthwhile with teachers using teacher-centered curriculum methods and memorization. A teacher’s job is to provide appropriate experiences, materials, and context for students to construct and connect knowledge that is useful and beneficial to them. Through a constructivist lens, inquiry-based thematic units can be used by …

The Effects Of Implementing A Project Based Learning Framework Into A 5th Grade Science Unit On Force And Motion In A Population Of Disadvantaged Students, Kristy Martin

Theses and Dissertations

Providing quality education that meets the needs of diverse populations and economically disadvantaged students is imperative in today’s educational environments. This research study investigates the effects of implementing a project-based learning (PBL) teaching approach as part of a fifth-grade science unit on force and motion. The implications on engagement, motivation, and student achievement on standardized tests were analyzed through a mixed-methods research approach. This study is grounded in the theoretical approaches of Constructivism and Social Interdependence Theory. Both concepts support PBL and explain the positive impacts noted by the research. The participants included 56 fifth-grade students, that were primarily African …

Understanding The Instructional Decisions Of Middle-School Mathematics Teachers: Three Case Studies, Alissa Lockwood

Theses and Dissertations

This action research study aimed to explore how middle-school mathematics teachers make instructional decisions in the absence of a required curriculum. While the school site has an adopted textbook, many of the mathematics teachers view this resource as invaluable. Better understanding the decision-making process of mathematics teachers at the school site can provide critical information to better support the teachers. The research question that guided this action research was: How does it seem that middle-school mathematics teachers make instructional decisions? This sequential two-phase qualitative study examined decision-making from a 6^th, 7^th, and 8^th grade mathematics …

Enhancing The Development Of Critical Thinking Skills Through The Implementation Of Trauma-Informed Project-Based Learning, Megan E. Coleman

Masters Projects

Many students struggle to develop critical thinking skills, which are considered essential skills in life. While research supports the need for the development of these skills in young adults, many educators struggle to be successful in helping students develop these skills. Project-based learning (PBL) has been shown to be a successful tool in navigating the development of these skills, but research over the years has shown that teachers face many barriers in its implementation. In addition to the challenges of curriculum, students also face barriers in their development of these skills due to the exposure of trauma. Because of the …

Are We Ready? A Phenomenological Study On Teachers' Perceptions Surrounding Readiness To Teach Diverse Communities And The Responsibility Of Teacher Preparation Programs, Ja'niece Tiara Whitehead

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The purpose of this hermeneutic phenomenological study was to discover teachers’ lived experiences in their teacher education programs in regard to levels of preparedness to effectively teach racially, linguistically, and gender-diverse students. The theory guiding this study was Culturally Responsive Teaching (CRT), which refers to teaching students customs, characteristics, experiences, and perspectives as tools to enhance instruction and understanding of the complexities of society as well as the awareness that students dwell in varying circumstances. The central question directing this research study asked, “What are the lived experiences of teachers and their teacher education programs with diverse communities?” Participants of …

Bringing Different Disciplines And Competitions In Your Classroom, Eric Chan-Tin, Mohammed Abuhamad

Computer Science: Faculty Publications and Other Works

It is well-known that cybersecurity does not belong only to computer science/engineering. Other disciplines such as Psychology, Criminal Justice, Sociology, and Political Science can have a great impact in cybersecurity research and education. Students taking only courses are at a disadvantage and should be encouraged to participate in cybersecurity competitions to obtain real-world skills. This lightning talk will look at incorporating two aspects in an interdisciplinary cybersecurity program/curriculum: 1) different disciplines and majors such as Psychology, Criminal Justice, Political Science, Sociology into the cybersecurity program; and 2) including cybersecurity competitions as an integral part of the cybersecurity classroom and curriculum. …

Incorporating Technology And Engineering Literacy Into The 4th Through 8th Grade Educational Experience, Robert Beauchamp

School of Education and Leadership Student Capstone Projects

This capstone project addresses the lack of technology and engineering literacy education at the elementary and middle school levels. The purpose of this capstone project is to help educators at schools without a STEM focus improve the technology and engineering literacy of their 4th through 8th grade students. The project was designed to create a series of practical and engaging professional development sessions tailored to educators with limited time and resources. To achieve this the existing standards and research were reviewed with a concentration on the ITEEA Standards for Technological and Engineering Literacy (STEL), the impact of experiential learning in …

Incorporating Indigenous Knowledge Systems In Environmental Education: Creating Culturally Responsive Curriculum To Foster A More Inclusive And Holistic Approach To Science Learning, Emilie Potocki

School of Education and Leadership Student Capstone Projects

This project explores how elementary science curriculum can be adapted to become more culturally responsive (CR), with a particular focus on integrating Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) into 4th-grade instruction. Grounded in the belief that many Indigenous cultures have long held deep ecological knowledge and sustainable practices, the curriculum seeks to challenge the dominant, Eurocentric framework of traditional science education. Research highlights that culturally responsive teaching not only affirms students’ identities but also improves engagement, academic achievement, and long-term retention of scientific concepts. However, few curricular models at the elementary level meaningfully incorporate Indigenous perspectives in ways that are respectful, authentic, …

You Can Never Have Too Many Flowers: Nature As A Support For Survivors Of Genocide, War, And Conflict, Adam Hettler

School of Education and Leadership Student Capstone Projects

One in five children around the world are surviving war or other violent conflicts. The trauma of disruptions to community, safety, and loss of friends, family, and home can have wide-ranging and life-long impacts on children who survive. While impacts will vary from individual to individual, the trauma can impact mental health, feelings of safety, relationships, ability to learn, and many other aspects of their lives. Many educators in the US and globally are working with refugee students or other students who are navigating the impacts on their brains and bodies of different traumas. This project seeks to answer the …

Nature-Based Education In A Student-Led Environment: A Program Proposal, Cynthia Duus

School of Education and Leadership Student Capstone Projects

This abstract explores the development of documents to be used for the proposal of a nature-based education program for students in grades kindergarten through second grade. This program is grounded in the principles of student-led learning and the nature-human connection. There is a growing body of research that indicates that exposure to natural environments correlates with significant improvement in the physical, social-emotional, and cognitive development in children. By combining outdoor education experiences with student-led learning, the program fosters confidence, self-direction, and a lasting connection to the natural world. The program is structured around thematic, inquiry-driven units that can be designed …

Supporting Independent Readers In The Middle School English Classroom By Visiting Their Local Library, Jennifer Murray

School of Education and Leadership Student Capstone Projects

When students engage in independent reading, which is reading a book of your choice for pleasure, they do better in school. Many studies have positively correlated independent reading with higher grades, higher graduation rates, and more advanced reading and writing skills. The challenge for teachers is to nurture joy in reading, as this does not come naturally for all students. Some of the proven ways to foster independent reading for students, specifically middle school students, is to teach them about different types of books, give them a variety of books to choose from for independent reading, give them time to …

Curriculum Internationalization: Aligned With Equity And Social Justice? Considerations And Perceptions From International Graduate Students In Canada, Siyin Liang

Journal of Comparative & International Higher Education

No abstract provided.

Understanding Undergraduate Aspirations For Law Enforcement Careers And Motivation In The Classroom, Gabriella N. Burt

Honors Thesis

This study investigates the factors shaping undergraduate student interest in law enforcement careers. By surveying students from various Midwestern universities, this research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between social influences, gender, and curricular exposure in shaping law enforcement career aspirations. Specifically, it examines how motivations for pursuing a public service career, external influences, and background characteristics shape career interest overall. The study also examines how these factors shape career interest between men and women and overall motivation to engage with specific law enforcement course topics. Findings inform policy and curriculum design.

Ethical Ai Use And Classroom Integration Training Modules, Daniel Boudon

Open Educational Resources

This project focuses on developing comprehensive training modules to equip students and faculty with the knowledge and skills necessary to ethically and effectively use AI tools in academic settings. The training consists of interconnected modules that cover a wide range of topics, including the ethical use of AI, evaluating AI-generated content, integrating AI tools into curriculum design, and creating AI-enhanced classroom activities. Additional modules emphasize fostering digital literacy, staying updated with AI advancements, and collaborating on best practices for AI in education.

Designed for flexibility, the modules cater to diverse academic disciplines, making them suitable for undergraduate and graduate courses, …

The Role Of Kindergarten Curriculum In Developing Soft Skills Among Children From The Perspective Of Kindergarten Teachers, Najat Horani

Jordan Journal of Applied Science-Humanities Series

The present study aimed to explore the role of kindergarten curriculum in developing soft skills among children from the perspective of kindergarten teachers. The researcher adopted a descriptive survey approach and utilized a questionnaire as the primary data collection tool. The study sample consisted of 275 kindergarten teachers from public schools under the Mafraq District Directorate of Education. The results indicated that the role of the kindergarten curriculum in developing children's soft skills was high, with a mean score of 3.76. Furthermore, the findings showed no statistically significant differences at the (α ≤ 0.05) significance level in participants’ assessments based …

The Urgency Of Instituting Systemic Cybersecurity Curriculum Within Stem At Secondary Educational Levels In Preparation For Postsecondary Institutions., Robert Spencer

Journal of Cybersecurity Education, Research and Practice

Over the last 20 years, many secondary institutions have made advances developing curriculum defined as “STEM (Science, Engineering and Mathematics)” in order to ensure secondary students are eligible to apply as well excel in technology degree programs at the college and university levels. Although various initiatives exist, there are studies however, which allude to a great possibility that there will be a lack of cybersecurity professionals filling present day and anticipated future positions. Despite a large number of federal and educational enhancements there is need for additional research regarding instituting overall systemic processes and curriculum which supports secondary student transition …

Role-Ing While Bipoc: Understanding The Experiences Of Table Top Role Playing Game Players Of Color, Jordan K. Posey

Dissertations

In 2015, controversy surrounded the interactive computer game Mission US: Flight to Freedom. The game was unveiled as an accessible way to teach about American chattel slavery by mixing elements normally associated with roleplaying games (RPGs), Tabletop Roleplaying Games (TTRPGs), and social studies curriculum. The conversations surrounding the game exemplify the complicated history of RPGS/TTRPGs and the limitations of gamification in educational settings. This qualitative study aimed to analyze aspects of gaming culture through a critical race lens by documenting the experiences of Tabletop Roleplaying Game (TTRPG) players identifying as Black, Indigenous, and a Person of Color (BIPOC). Using a …

Development Of A Futsal Sports Curriculum Model Aged 6-8 Years At The Super Junior Club In Malang City, Dwi Novenda, Prisca Widiawati

Indonesian Journal of Research in Physical Education, Sport, and Health

Background: The lack of a structured futsal curriculum for children aged 6-8 years in futsal clubs, especially in Super Junior Club Malang, causes limitations in developing techniques, skills, and long-term athlete development. Objective: This is for developing a futsal curriculum model at the Super Junior Club of Malang City, which is presented as a curriculum for learning. Methods: The research and development model used in the study is to develop a curriculum model. Development research This uses the ADDIE method with steps study as follows: 1) analysis, 2) design, 3) development, 4) implementation, and 5) evaluation. This is done using …

Architecting A More Gender-Inclusive Curriculum For Graduate Leadership Education, Galen J. Talis

Libraries

Graduate leadership education is an important context for increasing gender-inclusivity. Incoming students are increasingly likely to support an all-gender approach; transgender and nonbinary graduate students report safety concerns on campus; and leadership scholars have identified serious discrimination against trans and nonbinary employees in the workplace as well as the need for greater gender-inclusivity in leadership education. Cis women and men are more widely recognized as gender-diverse, whether due to intersections with other identities or due to within-gender complexity. Yet researchers often fail to identify a gender theory when researching gender and leadership, most commonly assume a gender-binary frame, and do …

Lived Experiences Of Preparedness Of Dual Credit Students For The State Of Texas Assessments Of Academic Readiness Exams: A Phenomenological Qualitative Study, Susan Fields Speights

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The purpose of this phenomenological study was to understand the experiences of academic preparedness to pass the state-mandated standardized test requirements to receive higher educational level course credit for students previously enrolled in dual enrollment courses at higher educational institutions on a Texas High School Campus. The theories that guided this study was Maslow’s hierarchy of needs and Rumelhart and Norman’s modes of learning. Maslow’s theory and Rumelhart and Norman’s theory guided the research study and questions when examining the shared experiences of dual credit students taking state assessments. The central research question in this study was: What are the …

From Theory To Practice: Integrating Safe Patient Handling And Mobility Into Occupational Therapy Curriculum (Part 2/2), Kimberly Santorufo, Asha Roy

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy academic institutions continue to teach manual patient handling as the standard of practice despite recent evidence, legislation, and guidelines from the American Occupational Therapy Association on hazards of manual approaches. A paradigm shift is necessary in occupational therapy academic curriculums to include didactic education and hands-on training of safe patient handling and mobility informed approaches. There is currently no standard of practice available in occupational therapy education on how to incorporate safe patient handling and mobility into preexisting curriculum, which emphasizes manual patient handling as the standard of care. The guidelines presented offer academic institutions recommendations on how …

From Theory To Practice: Integrating Safe Patient Handling And Mobility Into Occupational Therapy Curriculum (Part 1/2), Kimberly Santorufo, Asha Roy

The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapists are at high-risk of musculoskeletal injury because of the manual and physical demands of job-related tasks. Many occupational therapists are sustaining injuries or changing careers because of an injury. Safe patient handling and mobility approaches should be used in occupational therapy practice to ensure the safety of both patient and therapist while assisting patients in meeting occupation-based and patient-centered goals. However, despite legislation, guidelines from the American Occupational Therapy Association, and recent evidence, most occupational therapy academic programs and educators continue to teach manual patient handling as the standard of practice. To ensure safety, longevity, and career-retention, academic …

Ucf Pegasus Plan - 1st Grade - Maps & Globes, Cecilia Nuss, Mackenzie Luley, Jessenia Diaz, Alyssa Arnott, Miranda Howley

Pegasus Plans: Social Studies Unit Plans for Florida Teachers

During this unit, students will explore and create various maps and globes through multimedia resources, Hands-on activities, and assessments. The daily lessons cover topics such as a compass rose, cardinal directions, map titles, and physical features on maps and globes. By the end of this unit, students will be able to identify key elements and locate physical features of maps and globes. Through the use of songs, hands-on activities, games, books, and class discussions, students will be engaged throughout the unit.

Mindfulness 101: Integrating Mindfulness Into The First-Year College Curriculum, Shelley Linso

Mindfulness Studies Theses

The college experience offers young people unique opportunities for personal growth and academic development. However, it is widely recognized that college and university students suffer from unprecedented rates of anxiety and depression. Mindfulness, often defined as paying attention on purpose, moment-to-moment, without judgment, has the potential to not only reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression but also to promote flourishing. By integrating mindfulness into the first-year college curriculum, educators facilitate students’ abilities to a) better understand their emotional responses so that they might navigate stress, relationships, and challenges with greater ease, b) better recognize their strengths and weaknesses, and make …

Students' Perceived Value And Emotions In Turkish Physical Education: Testing Moderation By Gender And Sports Involvement, Mehmet Ceylan, Kelly L. Simonton

International Journal of Physical Activity and Health

Physical Education (PE) has been recognized as a key element in developing student enjoyment for physical activity and healthy lifestyle habits. Student emotions may dictate learning and motivation, but less is known regarding the perceptions of value and control that shape these emotions. Specifically, within certain K-12 PE national curriculums and cultures, the goals and objectives of PE, along with its emphasis on physical activity and sport, may influence the emotional response of students and their perceived value of PE. If students feel a lack of value, negative emotions, and marginalized by the content then it is unlikely their experiences …