Higher Education Commons^™

How Reliable Is Your Run Data? A Framework For The Physiological Validation Of Coros Wearable Technology, Tyler Lampert, Christian Darrah, Gage Degarmo

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Wearable technology such as COROS has advanced athletic monitoring; however, the accuracy of its physiological measurements must be validated to ensure effective use in training and performance settings. The purpose of this study is to compare physiological metrics obtained from COROS running watches with gold-standard laboratory instruments to determine their validity. Methods will include three separate testing sessions. The first, an indoor laboratory session, will assess VO2 max, lactate threshold (heart rate and pace), and energy expenditure using a metabolic cart, electrocardiogram (EKG), and a portable lactate analyzer. The second, an outdoor session, will evaluate GPS-derived distance, pace, and running …

Perceived Stress Levels Of Prelicensure Nursing Students Over A 10 Week Period, Sara K. Myers

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Abstract

Introduction: Nursing students are held to extremely rigorous academic standards, which often result in severe and chronic stress. This phenomenon creates an array of negative consequences, including mental and physical health issues, reduced academic success, and, in extreme cases, attrition from nursing school or subsequent exit from the nursing profession.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify peak stress levels in a four-semester prelicensure nursing program over a 10 week study period to provide a template for implementation of focused mitigation strategies by nurse educators.

Methods: A longitudinal study design in which the Perceived Stress Scores 10-item …

Understanding Student Attendance Drivers For Collegiate Basketball: A Study Of Midwest Division Ii University Men's And Women's Programs, Noah Beckett, Jj Gonzalez, Jack Hileman, Moses Dirane, Savanah Egger, Justin L. Montney

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Title: Understanding Student Attendance Drivers for Collegiate Basketball: A Study of Midwest Division II University Men’s and Women’s Programs

Names: Gonzalez, J., Hileman, J., Beckett, N., Dirane, M., Egger, S., Montney, J.

Basketball Games Student attendance is a vital component of the collegiate athletic experience, yet the specific drivers behind game-day participation are often complex. This exploratory and descriptive study examines the factors influencing a midwest division II university students’ decisions to attend men’s and women’s basketball games. The primary objective is to identify and quantify key influences on attendance, including game atmosphere, team performance, promotional incentives, scheduling, social factors, …

Madness In March: Leveraging Ai And Statistical Analysis To Predict Ncaa Tournament Outcomes Better Than Humans, Noah Beckett, Whitney Randall, Justin L. Montney, Andrew Gannon, Kyle Hull

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Title: Madness in March: Leveraging AI and Statistical Analysis to Predict NCAA Tournament Outcomes Better than Humans

Authors: Beckett, N. 1,2

, Randall, W. 1

, Montney, J. 1

, Hull, K. 2 , Gannon, D. 1

Affiliations: 1Department of Health and Human Performance, Fort Hays State University 2Department of Athletics, Fort Hays State University

Abstract: The NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, commonly known as "March Madness," operates as a high-variance system where traditional seeding frequently fails as a predictive metric. Millions of brackets are submitted annually, yet high-accuracy forecasting remains elusive due to human bias and subjective guidelines. This study …

Bridging Theory And Practice: Experimental Learning Measurement And Evaluation, Hayley Bertrand, Brooke Befort, Ty Adams, Derek Mesa, M. Camarena, Aniya Stierlen, Justin L. Montney, Emily Washburn

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Title: Bridging Theory and Practice: Experiential Learning in Measurement and Evaluation Background: Experiential learning plays an important role in helping students apply classroom knowledge in real world settings. In the HHP 340 Measurement and Evaluation course at Fort Hays State University, students are taught testing protocols in class, but limited research has explored how hands-on combined experiences influence student confidence and practical skill development. This project was designed to examine whether participation in a live athletic combine improves students’ preparedness, confidence, and ability to administer performance tests effectively. Methods: A pre post design was used in HHP 340 students enrolled …

Bridging The Gap In Patient Attendance: A Dnp-Led Quality Improvement Project To Reduce No-Show Rate By Implementing Text Message Reminders, Charles D. Rogers

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Missed medical appointments contribute to revenue loss, workflow inefficiencies, increased staff burden, and reduced patient access to care in primary care settings. This Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) quality improvement project evaluated the impact of an automated text message (SMS) reminder system on no-show rates in a privately owned, medium-sized family practice in a rural setting, aiming to reduce the baseline no-show rate of 11.4% to 10% or less. Guided by the Model for Improvement and the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) framework, automated SMS reminders were sent 48 hours prior to scheduled appointments. Existing 24-hour phone call reminders were maintained. Formative assessments …

Bridging Theory And Practice: Experimental Learning Measurement And Evaluation, Broke Befort, Ethan Stambaugh, Lilliana Ramierez-Johnson, Kooper Tichenor, Hayley Bertrand

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Title: Bridging Theory and Practice: Experiential Learning in Measurement and Evaluation Background: Experiential learning is an important component of student development because it allows students to apply classroom knowledge in authentic settings. In the HHP 340 Measurement and Evaluation course at Fort Hays State University, students are introduced to testing protocols and performance assessment procedures; however, less is known about how hands-on combined experiences influence students’ confidence, anxiety, motivation, and readiness to administer testing. This project was designed to examine whether participation in a structured experiential learning opportunity improves student outcomes across the training process. Methods: A repeated-measures design was …

Building Sport-Specific Conditioning For Rodeo Athletes, Morgan Hammond, Lillie Gorges, Emily Keene, Jamie Kerkviet, Justin L. Montney, Anthony Fox, Montana Heacock

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Building Sport-Specific Conditioning for Rodeo Athletes: A Mixed-Methods Needs Assessment

Approach

Background: Rodeo athletes face unique physical demands characterized by explosive strength, dynamic balance, and high injury risk across events such as bull riding, barrel racing, and roping. Despite these demands, collegiate rodeo programs often lack access to structured, evidence-based strength and conditioning resources. This project aimed to address this gap through development of a sport-specific training program. Methods: A mixed-methods needs assessment was conducted integrating qualitative interviews with coaches and athletes alongside quantitative systematic observation of practices. Qualitative data identified training philosophies, logistical constraints, and the importance of “rodeo …

Supporting Relationships Through Wholehearted Teaching, Betsy L. Crawford, Latisha Haag, Linda Ganstrom

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Educators face growing political, cultural, and personal pressures that shape classroom relationships and student support. This study explores Wholehearted Teaching, a pedagogical approach influenced by Brené Brown and adapted for educational practice, to examine how faculty enact authenticity, empathy, flexibility, and accountability in higher education courses.

Noise-Induced Gains: Are You Damaging Your Hearing While You Train?, Taylor Hitschmann, Lillian Beauvais, Blake Roth, Andrew Gannon

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

This study investigated the potential risk of noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) among individuals who listen to music during exercise. Survey data were collected alongside sound intensity measurements to better understand listening behaviors in fitness settings. Results indicated that although most participants reported listening at recommended safe levels, a notable proportion exceeded these thresholds, potentially increasing their risk of NIHL. These findings highlight the importance of monitoring listening habits during workouts. Hearing health professionals are encouraged to enhance public awareness and promote safe listening practices to help reduce the likelihood of long-term auditory damage.

Japanese Music Theory, Elias N. Nichols

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

This research project explores Japanese music theories. By analyzing the basic components of Japanese music, including historical and modern approaches, this presentation demonstrates the similarities and differences in the formation of music in western thought when compared to the methodology of Japan. This research dives deep into tones, scales, melodic approaches, historical development and the effect on modern compositions today. This project informs the audience on the nuances of Japanese music theories in the hope to dispel stereotypes about music theories from different cultures, apart from western thought.

The Banjo: A Dive Into The Creation And Rise Of Bluegrass’S Favorite Instrument, Hans E. Deaton

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

This study examines the creation and development of the banjo and its cultural transformation from its West African origins to its role in modern American music. The banjo originated from instruments native to West Africa and was brought to the Americas through the transatlantic slave trade, where it evolved within enslaved African communities. It was later performed by 19th-century American minstrels, leading to its widespread adoption by the Appalachian South. In the 20th century, the banjo became a defining instrument in bluegrass music, shaped by performers such as Bill Monroe and Earl Scruggs. Today, the banjo maintains a lasting influence …

Pros V.S. Joes: Common Golf Injures And Exercises, Benjamin P. Deges, Cooper Scheck

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

A comprehensive review of literature was performed for each stage of the golf swing.

For each stage we identified what muscles are being targeted and what injuries are caused.

The table in the Center of this poster outlines the muscles targeted during each swing phase, their anatomical locations in both professional and amateur golfers, and the exercises that help prevent common injuries.

Our proposed method includes understanding the relationship between muscle activation patterns and common swing-related injuries, allowing us to better understand how technique and conditioning influence injury prevention.

By employing these methods, we can develop targeted training and rehabilitation …

Verifying Mutations In Arabidopsis Thaliana Gene Apetala3, Michelle Wang, Tara Phelps-Durr, Hazel Frans

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

The purpose of this research is to verify the mutation in the Arabidopsis thaliana APETALA3 (AP3) gene. By sequencing DNA, we confirmed the presence of an extra guanine in the mutant AP3 gene. These findings support that further investigation is needed into how the AP3 gene affects flower development in Arabidopsis thaliana.

Deepening Community-Campus Partnerships Through Collaborative Critical Reflection, Lori E. Kniffin, Patti Clayton, Jasmina Camo-Biogradlija, Mary F. Price, Haden M. Botkin, Robert G. Bringle

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Partnerships are the lifeblood of community-campus engagement in all its forms. But how do we know that we are working together in ways that embody oft-cited values such as reciprocity and shared decision-making so as to advance both learning and change?  The Transformational Relationship Evaluation Scale (TRES, pronounced “trees”) Reflection Framework is a tool to support reflection on, assessment of, and research into the dynamics of partnerships in community-campus engagement. Its users and developers realized the value of providing additional support to turn responses to the original TRES scale into concrete action to deepen partnerships. Thus, the Reflection Framework is …

An Overview Of Herpetofauna Surveys At Fort Leavenworth Military Reserve., Zane Smith, Sandra Guzman-Duran

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Herpetofauna surveys focused on Crayfish Frog, Spring Peeper, Eastern Tiger Salamander, Red-Bellied Snake, and Smooth Earth Snake were conducted concurrently with Bush Honeysuckle removal projects on the Fort Leavenworth Military Reservation.  Survey techniques included coverboard arrays, adaptive hunt drift fences, traditional pit fall traps and visual encounter surveys and were conducted between May and August in 2024 and 2025. The survey effort resulted in the detection of one of the target species, the Smooth Earth Snake. Based on our survey results we are confident that the Crayfish frog and Spring Peeper do not occur on Fort Leavenworth Military Reserve, but …

Integrating Artificial Intelligence Into Fnp/Dnp Simulation To Enhance Clinical Competency, Doris K. Gonzales

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Abstract  

This poster presents a theoretically grounded, AI-integrated simulation program design structured across 3-4 semesters of Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) education. This program is designed to support the development of clinical judgment and diagnostic reasoning among FNP students. Guided by Tanner’s Clinical Judgment Model and Roy's Adaptive Model as Theoretical Framework. The program addresses identified gaps in differential diagnosis and role transition from Registered Nurse (RN) to FNP practice. A needs assessment informed the development of a semester-sequenced curricular framework integrating AI-supported simulation across four semesters. The proposed design illustrates how progressive simulation experiences …

The Criminalization Of Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking (Dmst) Survivors, Mackenzie Zimmerman

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

The Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) defines sex trafficking as the “recruitment, harboring, transportation, provision, or obtaining of a person for the purpose of a commercial sex act.” When the trafficking involves resident minors within the United States, the act is referred to as domestic minor sex trafficking (DMST). However, because DMST enmeshment often involves elements of criminal activity, a minor may be implicated as a recruiter in friend-type trafficking, and a third-party trafficker is not required to constitute sex trafficking involving minors, the designation of “survivor” or “criminal” remains complicated in many cases. Due to these blurred lines between …

Adverse Childhood Experiences And Proactive Coping: Impacts On College Adjustment And Risky Behavior, Saige A. Imm, Jisook Park, Will Stutterheim

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Numerous studies have examined the enduring impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) on individuals’ capacity to manage stress and effectively navigate challenges in the rigors of the university environment. Exposure to negative life events has shown to interfere with individuals’ psychological maturation, heightening an inclination to engage in risky behaviors, especially during pivotal developmental transitions like the start of college. Thus, investigating the impact of ACEs on college students is crucial as it could impair their societal well-being and increase mental health concerns and maladaptive behaviors in college (Schafer, 2021; King et al., 2024). The current research examines the role …

Cervical Dilation Assessment Simulation For Development Of Student Nurse Competency, Ashley Romans

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Assessment of cervical dilation is an important component in care for the pregnant and laboring patient. However, nursing students frequently encounter barriers to acquiring this assessment skill in the clinical setting. Through application of the ACE Star model, a simulation-based teaching trainer is utilized to promote achievement of student competence while respecting the limitations of the hospital clinical experience. Varied opportunities for purchasing or constructing these simulation tools allows for beneficial learning experiences at different price points, promoting the implementation of this important tool in the most appropriate method for an individual setting. Implementation of the cervical dilation simulator allows …

Adding Clinical Meaning To Hybrid Prelicensure Nursing Skills Education: Simulated Patients And Demo Medications To Reduce Modality-Based Learning Gaps, Amanda L. Rudman

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Hybrid nursing students often practice psychomotor skills in home environments that lack an authentic clinical context. This may contribute to gaps in clinical reasoning and application when compared with students who practice in on-campus settings. This difference may limit students’ ability to connect their skills to patient care situations and safely apply their knowledge in practice. The purpose of this evidence-based curriculum project is to reduce these learning gaps by using diagnosis-based simulated patient scenarios, medication administration records (MARs), and specific intravenous (IV) medications in hybrid nursing skills education. This project follows the ACE Star Model of Knowledge Transformation, which …

From Classroom To Click: Transitioning A Face-To-Face Nursing Course To An Online Learning Envrionement, Hanna Demel

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Transitioning face-to-face courses to an online learning environment presents both opportunities and challenges for both the students and the course instructors. This project focuses on the systematic redesign of a traditional face-to-face Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) course into an engaging, student-centered focused online format. This project was done under the guidance of evidence-based instructional design. The course was restructured to promote active learning, flexibility, and accessibility while continuing the academic rigor. Emphasis was placed on fostering cognitive, social, and teaching presence to enhance the students’ engagement and learning outcomes. There were several strategies to support diverse learners and promote retention …

Fit Check: Making Health Assessments Work For You, Brooklynn Raacke, Ryssa Schlaefli, Caleb Ashley, Makenzie Premer, Brooke Mann, Jessica Phelan

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

When given multiple tools to assess health, people tend to choose the one that is most familiar, fastest, or easiest to interpret. Relying solely on weight can overshadow other important indicators of health, such as body composition, cardiovascular function, and muscular development. Understanding this preference, even when other tools are available, matters for both educators and fitness professionals. This study used naturalistic observation to assess gym-goers' usage of health and anthropometric assessment tools. Results indicated that while gym-goers initially showed interest in less commonly used assessment tools, they overwhelmingly used the scale. Implications, limitations, and future directions are discussed.

Implementing A Student Standardized Patient Elective To Improve Communication And Confidence In Undergraduate Nursing Simulation, Katie J. Mcqueen

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Abstract

Simulation plays an important role in preparing undergraduate nursing students for clinical practice by fostering communication skills and building confidence. Currently, simulation experiences often depend on faculty and staff to play the roles of patients or family members. Research shows that nursing students can be effectively trained to serve as standardized patients, creating opportunities for peer-supported learning and improving simulation experiences. This evidence-based practice proposal recommends the implementation of a 1-credit-hour Student Standardized Patient (SSP) elective in the undergraduate nursing curriculum for senior level nursing students. The elective would provide structured training in role portrayal, safety practices, and case …

Adn Transition Program; Curriculum Changes To Promote Non-Traditional Student Retention, Sayde K. Fitzgerald

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

ADN transition program; curriculum changes to promote non-traditional student retention

Sayde Fitzgerald, BSN RN

Department of Nursing, Fort Hays State University

NURS 868: Nursing Education: Curriculum Planning

Dr. Chrstine Hober

March 29, 2026

Abstract

Barton nursing instructors have recognized retention challenges among non-traditional students entering the ADN program, a situation further complicated by a nursing shortage and high attrition rates ranging from 10% to 30% (Sheikoleslami et al., 2025). These factors significantly impede workforce development. Non-traditional students encounter distinctive difficulties in adapting to the demanding curriculum, often facing a lack of support and the need to balance personal responsibilities (Mazzotta …

Early Sepsis-Recognition Simulation Training: An Evidence-Based Initiative, Blanca A. Zavala

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that requires rapid recognition and intervention to prevent poor patient outcomes. Delays in identification remain a significant concern for patient safety, particularly among nurses and nursing students who may lack confidence and clinical judgment in early sepsis recognition (Marsack et al., 2022). This evidence-based practice project aimed to examine the existing evidence on sepsis education and evaluate the effectiveness of simulation-based learning in improving clinical judgment and sepsis recognition, with the goal of informing a potential sepsis training initiative for nursing students.

A literature review of six peer-reviewed studies (2022–2026) was conducted using the PubMed …

Exploring The Experiences Of Dually-Involved Youth, Benjamin T. Wilkerson, April Terry

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Research surrounding dually-involved youth (justice system and child welfare) and their connection to crime has increased exponentially in recent years. Contemporary research indicates that the experiences of dual system-involved youth represent a complex phenomenon. Certain characteristics can moderate the likelihood of delinquency and offending for youth concurrently involved in both systems. Notably, however, these correlations may not be as direct or significant as prior research has illustrated. The purpose of this poster is to expose a general snapshot of the research on this possible connection. This poster presents the evolution of research on this subject, discusses casual risk factors, and …

Victimization Pathways Among Homeless Youth: How Trauma, Survival Strategies, And System Failures Intersect, Makynna S. Deland

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Homeless youth often carry deep layers of trauma, and those experiences shape how they cope and survive. Many of the behaviors we see are responses to early harm, leaving young people more vulnerable to exploitation and further system involvement. Without safety, support, or stable adults, they face heightened risks of violence, property victimization, and survival sex.

Navigating Ownership & Access In Collaborative Groups: Understanding Copyright Law, Administrative Controls And Common Project Risks, Karley Downham

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Collaborative groups, such as those in academic settings, often operate under a misconception that administrative control over shared digital files (e.g., Google Workspace permissions) equates to legal copyright ownership of creative content. This confusion frequently leads to internal disputes, contributor alienation, and project delays that can harm outcomes and participant well-being. The goal is to clearly define copyright law from file access administrative controls by providing an evidence-based framework to prevent and resolve ownership conflicts and foster healthier collaboration.

The poster will present core legal principles, emphasizing that U.S. copyright ownership defaults to creators and is not transferred by administrative …

Competency Vs Concept Based Education In Nursing Programs, Amber L. Simmons

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Competency based education helps to develop skills for nursing students to help them prepare for graduation and the workforce. Concept based nursing delivers knowledge to students and can help to build some clinical judgement and critical thinking. Globally there is a shift moving toward competency-based education attempting to allow nursing students appropriately apply their conceptual knowledge in a clinical setting.