Scholarship of Teaching and Learning Commons^™

Mental Health First Aid With Criminal Justice Students, April N. Terry, Troy Terry

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Mental illness is a major contributor impacting overall health, affecting more than 1 billion people globally (Papish et al., 2013). Research suggests more than 80% of people who die by suicide had a mental illness with suicide being the second leading cause of death for those between the ages of 15-29 (Isometsä, 2001). Yet, many individuals do not seek professional treatment for a variety of factors, including lack of awareness of warning signs and symptoms, mental health stigma, and unavailable services (Baumann, 2007). One method for addressing barriers to mental health treatment includes targeted efforts to improve mental health literacy …

Apathy Or Arrogance? Why High Schoolers Are Uninformed About Current Events, Delia Dixon

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

This study analyzes the associations between high school student confidence levels on international current events, their motivations to learn more, optimism for the future, and their general understanding of international current events. Using a survey, I first asked students how confident they felt about their understanding of current events, their level of desire to learn more, why they felt that way, and their level of optimism for the future. The second section had the participants list 3-10 current events that they felt were the most important. The third section tested their general awareness of current global events by having them …

The Dark Side Of Leadership: Thanos’ Destruction And Underwood’S Deception, Mason Haxton, Minhaj Ahmed

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

This project looks at the leadership styles and use of power in two well-known fictional villains. Firstly being Thanos from the Marvel Cinematic Universe and also, Frank Underwood from House of Cards. Thanos is both an authoritarian and visionary leader, believing it is his responsibility to restore balance to the universe, even though his plan involves mass destruction. His leadership connects to power orientation and action-oriented leadership theories, showing both prosocial intentions and antisocial actions. While he thinks he is being fair and ethical, his leadership is actually destructive and creating chaos throughout the universe. His refusal to consider other …

Christopher Tapp, Haley Schoenberger

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Christopher Tapp was wrongfully convicted for the murder and rape of 18-year-old Angie Dodge and the use of a deadly weapon in Idaho. This took place in 1996. This highlights the damages and dangers of coerced confessions and failures within the criminal justice system. Tapp was convicted even though there was no physical evidence linking him to the crime. He was sentenced to 30 years to life because of a confession extracted by the police’s interrogation and a false witness statement. The DNA at the scene did not match Chris but he was still imprisoned for 20 years. In 2019, …

Piloting Free Ai Tools For Open Student Course Applications, Christine Hober

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Objective: The purpose of this mixed-methods, quasi-experimental pilot study was to analyze practice outcomes after incorporating the university sponsored artificial intelligence (AI) adaptive learning platforms and assistants with the major course project of the student nurse educator development course. The study’s aim was to implement AI tools without increasing student perceptions of course work stress.

Methodology: Utilizing a convenience sample of 10 graduate students from a mid-western rural, public university following structured implementation of normally assigned coursework, process modifications for implementing AI tools were shared. Surveys analyzed student perceptions of stress (specifically linked to new technology implementation) alongside the perceived …

22 Years Lost: The Story Of Paul House, Mariah A. Carrillo

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

This project outlines the wrongful conviction of Paul House and his eventual exoneration after 22 years on death row in Tennessee. The murder of Carolyn Muncey occurred in 1985 in Luttrell, Tennessee and House was an immediate suspect with the finding of multiple pieces of forensic evidence. Namely, it was ABO serology testing that was used to tie House to the crime. Advancements in this form of testing showed that House was innocent. It was in 2006 that the Supreme Court ruled in favor of House’s exoneration due to the flaws in the original forensic evidence. This project exemplifies the …

Patterns Within The Collatz Conjecture, Kiel Harrison

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

The Collatz Conjecture, also known as 3n+1, one of the most famous unsolved problems in mathematics, has been forever out of reach of being truly solved. However, through the application of traces, there is now a new pathway forward to working out a potential solution. This study shows how this pathway was found, and what steps need to be taken to follow it.

Quantitative Analysis Of Evidence-Based Interventions For School-Age Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A National Survey Of School-Based Speech-Language Pathologists, Katie Ecord, Ran An

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

This study explores the use of evidence-based practices (EBPs) in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) intervention by speech-language pathologists (SLPs). Despite strong research backing, a gap exists between evidence and practice, especially in schools or under-resourced settings. Data from 84 SLPs were analyzed to assess EBP adoption rates, identify barriers, and examine the impact of training and experience on implementation. The results highlight challenges such as limited training and support, with varying adoption depending on clinician experience and setting. The findings aim to guide professional development and policy improvements to close the research-to-practice gap in ASD intervention.

Barry Gibbs' Wrongful Conviction And Exoneration, Gracie Rains

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Barry Gibbs was wrongfully convicted in the murder of Virginia Robertson in 1986 based primarily on forced testimony of a single witness. The witness had been tutored by NYPD detective Louis Eppolito, who possessed ties to organized crime. Gibbs was sentenced to life imprisonment but acquitted in 2005 based on forensic evaluation and evidence of corrupting witnesses. Forensic re-testimonies, in the form of inconsistencies in the witness’ statement and forensic evidence, were crucial for proving his innocence. Neither the judge nor the prosecutor questioned the testimony’s credibility, while the lawyer of the accused failed to forcefully object to the investigative …

Dei From The Perspective Of Racially And Sexually Minority Social Work Students, Ilse Ivonne Trejo, Miguel Gabino Lopez, Annette Clarke Jones, Octavio Ramirez

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

This explanatory sequential mixed-method research study examined the experiences and perspectives of racially and sexually minority social work students enrolled at Fort Hays State University. By integrating both quantitative and qualitative approaches, the study aimed to uncover the unique challenges these students face, such as feelings of belonging, microaggressions, and a lack of culturally competent mentorship. It also highlighted resilience strategies and institutional supports that contribute to their academic and personal success. The findings offer valuable insights for social work educators and administrators seeking to foster more inclusive and supportive environments for minority and sexual students in rural PWIs.

Navigating Communication Challenges And Adaptive Strategies In Young Women With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Qualitative Study, Aspen Patrick, Addi Campbell, Mallory Tyler, Ran An

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

This study aims to understand the unique communication challenges in

various aspects of life for young women with Autism Spectrum

Disorder (ASD), such as education, career, friendships, romantic

relationships, and everyday activities. Additionally, this research seeks

to uncover the strategies these women use to navigate these challenges

and provide insights or recommendations for speech-language

pathologists (SLPs) based on their lived experiences.

Predicting Battery Efficiency: A Theoretical Approach, Haiti Schafers

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

The Kansas ElectroRally Races continuously demand faster electric vehicles (EV). When designing a vehicle one of the most important components is the battery. This study was designed to find the following; What is the optimal throttle percentage to run a 36V 20Ah (768Wh) LiFePO4 Rechargeable Battery Pack[1].

The optimal throttle percentage was found with methods detailed in a different section. Based on the performance of the older cars this study choose to focus on 50% and 70%, while obtaining other relevant data to further that inference.

Measuring Cosmic Rays With Muon Detectors (Quarknet), Aiden Burton, Jack W. Maseberg

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

We report measurement of atmospheric muon particles originating from cosmic rays. Using four QuarkNet project scintillators in an unstacked geometry, we are counting muons in coincidence with each other. We are currently refurbishing a second detector apparatus and will soon be capable of measuring coincidence events for larger shower surface areas using a total of eight scintillators.

Stride And Succeed: A Pilot Study For Walking Meetings In The College Classroom, Derek Mesa, Jessica Phelan, Rachel Dolechek

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

This pilot study explores the feasibility and enjoyment of incorporating walking meetings into college classrooms to reduce sedentary behavior and enhance learning. College students often experience prolonged periods of inactivity during lectures, which can hinder alertness and concentration. Walking has been linked to improved mental health, creativity, concentration, memory, and executive function. The study involved 31 students from Business Communication and Health and Human Performance courses, who participated in walking meetings facilitated by their instructors. Data were collected via a survey, which included demographic questions, enjoyment ratings, and feasibility assessments. Results indicated high levels of enjoyment and productivity during walking …

The Impact Of Anthropogenic Infrastructure On Avian Reproductive Success: A Study Of House Wrens In Proximity To Highways, Nana-Esi Irie Hanson, Medhavi Ambardar

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Road infrastructure has multifaceted effects on bird populations, influencing various aspects of their ecology and behaviour. I investigated the impact of road infrastructure, particularly highways, on the reproductive success of House Wrens (Troglodytes aedon) in a rural area. I compared the reproductive success of House Wrens in sites close to a major highway (Sternberg Museum Nature Trail) with sites located farther away (along Big Creek) in Hays, KS. I hypothesized that House Wrens near highways would exhibit lower reproductive success. I recorded metrics of reproductive success, traffic volumes, and noise levels. House wrens at the Big Creek site had higher …

Experimenting With Machine Learning Using Diabetes Datasets, Wyatt Mcdonnell, Hongbiao Zeng

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

The purpose of this research is to understand how to implement machine learning in a practical scenario. There were two diabetes datasets[5][6] used for testing the machine learning models. These datasets contain information relevant to a person’s health, as well as whether that subject had diabetes. I used a total of four models, and three of those models were manually programmed. The model which was not manually programmed was used for comparison with a similar model. This research directly compares and shows the factors which affect the efficiency of each machine learning model.

Enhancing Research Ethics And Interview Methodology For Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorder, Ran An, Mallory Tyler, Aspen Patrick, Addi Campbell

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Recent autism research emphasizes the importance of ethical, inclusive, and participatory methodologies that center the voices and lived experiences of autistic individuals. However, traditional qualitative approaches often reflect neurotypical norms, limiting their sensitivity to diverse communication styles and marginalizing participants with high support needs. This methodological proposal outlines an inclusive, neurodiversity-affirming framework adopted in a qualitative study on individuals with autism spectrum disorder. This approach is based on person-centered ethics and participatory principles, and it integrates values from autism self-advocacy communities.

Crispr-Induced Mutagenesis Of Arabidopsis Thaliana Gene Apetala3, Hazel Frans, Tara Phelps-Durr

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

This project aims to create CRISPR-CAS9 mutations in the APETELA3 (AP3) gene of the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana. AP3 is a class B gene critical to the petal and stamen development of Arabidopsis flowers. AP3 is defined in a MADS domain, which binds directly to DNA and may be responsible for the expression of the CaRG-box genes. AP3 works in conjunction with PISTILLATA (PI), AGAMOUS (AG), APETALA1 (AP1), and SEPALLATA (SEP) genes to specify the development in the second and third whorls of the flower. While several alleles of AP3 already exist, these alleles are strong alleles that knockout gene …

Coastal Erosion In Ireland, Brian Nguyen, Jeanne Sumrall

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Ireland's approach to managing its coastlines focuses more on a short-term solution method rather than long-term, eco-friendly solutions. Their coastal defenses are created upon an immediate need without clear policies and sufficient research. As a result, beach ecosystems are frequently damaged, and the erosion is only reduced to a certain extent. To reduce erosion and protect both the environment and Irish culture, this study suggests that Ireland should implement national policies focused on regularly monitoring coastal erosion, researching nature-based solutions, and implementing them to address the problem. Moving forward, it’s important for research to focus on understanding the overall impact …

The Effect Of An Immersive Inclusive Experience On Preservice Music Educators’ Perspectives About Inclusive Education, Emily M. Chapman

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

This mixed methods study explored the effects of an immersive and inclusive choir experience on music education students' attitudes and self-efficacy regarding inclusive education practices. The participants, 35 junior- and senior-level music education majors from a large Midwestern public university, were divided into two groups: 18 seniors enrolled in a required “Music and Special Education” course and 17 juniors who were enrolled in the semester immediately preceding this required course. Participants’ beliefs, feelings, and teaching intentions were collected using a modified version of the Multidimensional Attitudes toward Inclusive Education Scale (MATIES) Mahat (2008). Following the immersive experience, preservice educators reflected …

Positive Illusions And Their Mental Health Implications, Caleb L. Ashley

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Positive illusions, defined as overly optimistic self-evaluations, exaggerated perceptions of control, and unrealistically favorable outlooks on the future have been the subject of a breadth of research due to their implications in mental health and resilience. Empirical evidence suggests that, in moderate amounts, positive illusions can help support resilience and persistence and are correlated with overall well-being. However, their benefits may become detrimental if they are absent or excessively pronounced. By synthesizing existing research, this presentation seeks to provide a nuanced understanding of positive illusions and to offer insights into how their existence may inform treatment in clinical settings.

British Conduct Is A Major Reason Of Ireland Resist, Churong Wei, Jeanne Sumrall

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

For centuries, Ireland was under Britain's rule, the struggle for Irish people’s independence, driven by a deep desire of self governance, economic justice, and cultural identity , has never stopped.

During the years of Britain domination, Irish people faced political repression, economic exploitation, and religious discrimination, specifically against its Catholic majority. These can be symbolled by The Great Famine (1845–1852) and British neglect further fueled resentment.

In 19th and 20th centuries, nationalism raised in Ireland, along with symbolic events like Easter Rising(1916) and the Irish War of Independence(1919–1921). These event solidified the demand of freedom and independence among Irish people. …

The Distribution And Ecology Of Native Irish Tree Species, Yuchen Hu, Jeanne Sumrall

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Ireland’s native woodlands have greatly declined due to deforestation, farming, and urbanization, with less than 1% of the land now covered by native forests. This study looks at the distribution of native trees like oak, ash, birch, and yew, and their role in biodiversity. Native woodlands are mainly in the western and northern parts of Ireland, while areas with more farming and development have lost most of their native forests.

The study also highlights threats from invasive species and diseases like ash dieback. Forest fragmentation reduces their ecological value and harms wildlife. While restoration efforts have made some progress, the …

Defining Sexual Assault, Consent, And Resources To Empower Students: A Dnp Project, Sarah Powers

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Abstract

Sexual assault (SA) remains a pervasive issue on college campuses in the United States, often compounded by underreporting and a lack of knowledge about available resources. This Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project aims to educate first-year college students about SA, sexual consent, and available resources to empower students in preventing assaults and seeking help when needed. The intervention, which was integrated into mandatory freshman seminars at a four-year university, was guided by Knowles' Adult Learning Theory. A presentation provided critical information, and knowledge gains were assessed through pre- and post-presentation surveys. Initial findings indicated significant increases in understanding …

Exploring Galway Bay And Connemara: Balancing Tourism Growth With Nature’S Protection, Rongtian Feng, Jeanne Sumrall

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

This poster observes how Galway Bay and Connemara manage large tourist numbers while maintaining nature conserved, according to data from Connemara National Park, Galway County Council, two research papers, and a 2017 visitor plan. We researched the ways that tourists affect the land, which rules help, and green ideas to try, learning that too many tourists—over 200,000 to Connemara Park in 2019—hurt the land, Galway Bay lost animals because of trash, and while cleaner water helps, caring about money more hurts nature more. A map, timeline, and graph show the problem. We found out tourism is a source of income …

Wrongful Convictions In The United States, Connor J. Schoenberger

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Wrongful convictions occur too frequently in the united states. A wrongful conviction occurs when a person is found guilty and sentenced for a crime that he or she did not commit. Wrongful convictions occur for a number of reasons including false confessions and prosecutorial misconduct, to name only two. This study considers how wrongful convictions affect society and consequences for those who are wrongfully convicted and then later exonerated. One cannot put a price tag on the harm done as a result of wrongful convictions.

Aircraft Leasing And Its Effects On Ireland's Airline Sector, Aaron Christian, Jeanne Sumrall

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

The aircraft leasing industry sits at the heart of Ireland’s aviation sector, making Ireland the global leader in the business. The presence of major leasing companies’ headquarters, including Avolon, SMBC and AerCap, in Ireland, allows for country to benefit from these companies’ revenue. In return, Ireland provides the companies with supportive tax and regulatory frameworks that benefit the aviation sector. The research on this topic explores different ways aircraft leasing contributes to airline efficiency through cost reductions and fleet modernization while minimizing financial risks associated with aircraft acquisition by utilizing computer programs. Operational modeling has become an essential tool for …

Does Social Media Have An Impact On Inciting Violence?, Cora Thorne

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

What is social media? What comes to mind? What is if for? What is its purpose? Is it the variety of popular applications such as Instagram, Tik Tok, Snapchat, Facebook? Or, is it the headlines that come across those apps? Headlines about crime and criminal justice, major events, and politics? Among all the different platforms and the many people on them there is one common theme, hate and violence.

The Effects Of Faith-Based Programs In Prison, Emmery Huber

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Faith based programs in prison is a cheaper way that the DOJ has found to be able to reduce recidivism rates. Studies show that these programs help inmates find purpose and joy during their situation. However, there is also a question to whether these programs break the establishment clause in the Constitution.

Should Courts Trial Juveniles As Adults, Dylan Velasco

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

The question of whether juveniles should be charged as adults in the criminal justice system is a controversial issue. Some scholars argue that charging juveniles as adults for serious offenses, such as violent crimes, is necessary for ensuring accountability, protecting public safety, and deterring future crimes. Charging juveniles as adults sends a clear message about severity of criminal actions, regardless of the perpetrator's age, and provide a means to safeguard communities by incarcerating dangerous individuals on adult facilities. However, other scholars highlight that developmental differences exist between juveniles and adults. For instance, adolescent brains are still maturing, particularly in areas …