Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons^™

Voice Interaction With Conversational Ai Could Facilitate Thoughtful Reflection And Substantive Revision In Writing, Jiho Kim, Philippe Laban, Xiang 'Anthony' Chen, Kenneth C. Arnold

University Faculty Publications and Creative Works

Writing well requires not only expressing ideas but also refining them through revision, a process facilitated by reflection. Prior research suggests that feedback delivered through dialogues, such as those in writing center tutoring sessions, can help writers reflect more thoughtfully on their work compared to static feedback. Recent advancements in multi-modal large language models (LLMs) now offer new possibilities for supporting interactive and expressive voice-based reflection in writing. In particular, we propose that LLM-generated static feedback can be repurposed as conversation starters, allowing writers to seek clarification, request examples, and ask follow-up questions, thereby fostering deeper reflection on their writing. …

Volume 11 Full Text, Bjur Staff

Butler Journal of Undergraduate Research

No abstract provided.

Artificial Intelligence In Higher Education: A Case Study Of Faculty Teaching Methodologies At A Private University, Ellen Ramsey, George Antoniou, Matteo Peroni, Karima Lanfranco, Brent Muckridge, Raouf Ghattas, Philip L. Fazio, Wendy Wallberg, Saidi Porta, Mary Smith, Gary Solomon, Kristen Migliano, David G. Wolf

Faculty and Staff Publications & Presentations

This research study examined the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education from the perspective of the faculty of a private university. It inquired into the impact of AI on pedagogical methods, administrative procedures, and ethical values. Qualitative case study methodology and in-depth semi-structured interviews were designed and conducted with faculty from four academic departments. Responses related to impressions, challenges, and opportunities for AI integration were gathered. The study findings from qualitative and quantitative data analysis indicated that AI is perceived to help improve educational outcomes with student-personalized learning pathways through streamlined administrative processes. The study revealed that participating …

Harnessing Neurodiversity And Artificial Intelligence In Education To Bridge The Cybersecurity Workforce Gap, George Antoniou

Faculty and Staff Publications & Presentations

This perspective paper examines how neurodiversity and artificial intelligence (AI) can jointly address the critical workforce shortage in cybersecurity. Drawing on peer-reviewed research, industry reports, and case studies, it explores how neurodivergent individuals—such as those with autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, and dyslexia—possess strengths in pattern recognition, logical reasoning, and attention to detail that align with cybersecurity demands. AI-based educational tools, including adaptive tutoring systems, scenario-based simulations, and real-time analytics, can personalize learning for neurodiverse students, enhancing engagement and skill mastery. The paper discusses how these targeted interventions not only accelerate knowledge retention and practical competence but also foster greater inclusion …

Table Of Contents And Front Matter, Bjur Staff

Butler Journal of Undergraduate Research

No abstract provided.

The Mechanics Of Angular Momentum Generation In Discus Throwing, Andreas Maheras

Track and Field Faculty Publications

Angular momentum development in the back of the ring, during the first double and first single support, is of paramount importance in discus throwing because this is where almost all the angular momentum the thrower can generate will be generated. From a purely mechanical point of view, to achieve that, the thrower should keep her arms spread apart, and also actively throw both the right leg and the left arm and shoulders CCW. Those actions will collectively contribute in slowing down the lower body, as the thrower actively chooses to pass as much angular momentum to the upper body at …

Learning Through Online Participation: From Breakout Rooms To Discord, Makayla Moster

All Dissertations

For software development teams, teamwork is an essential part of their day-to-day lives. However, due to the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, more companies have allowed employees to have more hybrid and remote work options than before. As more companies are adopting hybrid and remote workstyles, we need to ensure that we are preparing the next batch of young software developers to conduct teamwork in remote and hybrid settings. In this dissertation, I address the tools students use for teamwork and how to improve their teamwork inside and outside of the classroom. I present my research on improving student experiences …

Exploring Educational Affordances Of Interactive Murals, Alyshia Bustos

Computer Science ETDs

Interactive murals are a new technology that blend traditional mural painting and embedded electronics. My work contrasts traditional STEAM projects by introducing youth to programming, building electronics, and interaction design principles within the context of designing and constructing interactive murals. Accordingly my dissertation addresses the following: 1) How can we integrate traditional mural practices and ubiquitous computing in an interactive mural, 2) How do interactive murals support youth in learning how to program and build electronics, and 3) How can we design learning activities that support youth as interaction designers?

To address my research questions, I first conducted technical tests …

Artificial Intelligence Through Young Eyes: A Study Of Students’ Perspectives And Experiences With Artificial Intelligence In Education, Chad Preston Salyer

Ed.D. Dissertations

Artificial intelligence was an emergent and powerful new force in education. The public release of ChatGPT 3.0 in 2022 transformed learning for many students. This phenomenological qualitative study sought to record and analyze student’s perspectives on the influence of artificial intelligence on their learning routines. This study collected data through surveys and interviews with undergraduate students, analyzing patterns of artificial intelligence usage, perceived benefits, and challenges. The findings revealed that most students used artificial intelligence as a primary learning tool and that those students viewed artificial intelligence as beneficial for personalized learning and skill development. However, concerns about over-reliance on …

Culture And Context: How Frames Of Teaching And Of Learning Mathematics Form And Change For Graduate Student Instructors, Johan Benedict A. Cristobal

Department of Mathematics: Dissertations, Theses, and Student Research

Why do instructors teach the way that they do? This question is key in understanding how and why asset-based or deficit-based practices are enacted in the classroom. In consequence, this question also gives insight into how the environment where students learn is shaped. Mathematics education research, in particular, has been concerned with how instructors respond to students’ contributions in the classroom and how these ways of responding can (dis)empower students.

One way to answer this question is to understand how instructors frame their own teaching and their students’ learning. Frames are mental constructs which help individuals filter details, interpret information, …

Effects Of Group Delay Dispersion In Silica Glass On Non-Gaussian Laser Pulses, Lars Pedersen

Honors Program: Senior Projects (Public)

We present an analysis of how the group delay dispersion in silica glass affects the envelope of non-Gaussian laser pulses. In particular, we examine femtosecond pulses in the ultraviolet regime with cosine squared and symmetric exponential envelope shapes. For both envelope shapes, our results show a linear or semi-linear dependence of both the maximum electric field strength and duration on the group delay dispersion when the pulse passes through the silica glass medium with a thickness between 1 μm and 10 μm. This computational analysis is done using a fast Fourier transform method.

Understanding Automation From A Computer Science Perspective, Matthew Donsig

Honors Program: Senior Projects (Public)

This thesis looks into automation and analyzes its benefits and problems. It begins with an explanation of a capstone project, automating the UNL State Museum’s reservation system. Problems of automation are presented in unsuccessful attempts and some pitfalls of automation. Next this thesis turns to an examination of artificial intelligence in automation. Along with that, we look at bias in automation and how people can bias automated tools or be biased by them. Turning successful examples of automation and then automation in manufacturing shows its benefits. Automation creates new jobs or changes work as much as it eliminates positions. At …

An Integrative Approach To Einstein’S Field Equations Of General Relativity For High School Students, Christina M. Aintablian

Senior Honors Theses

Einstein’s Field Equations form the foundation of the theory of General Relativity, describing the interdependence of mass-energy and spacetime curvature, where curvature gives rise to gravity. However, the complexity of these equations makes them difficult for high school students to grasp. The mathematical framework of General Relativity is introduced step by step, beginning with relative motion and culminating in a discussion of complex phenomena that challenge modern physics. Each explanation intertwines core concepts of relativity with pre-established mental models to enhance learning. Through the use of figures, analogies, narratives, and thought experiments, a structured framework is developed to make relativity …

Supporting Novice Programmers With Scaffolded And Open-Ended Generative Ai Interfaces: Insights From A Design-Based Research Study, Justin Olmanson, Azadeh Hassani, Gretchen K. Larsen

Department of Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education: Faculty Publications

In this study, we explore student experiences in coding and learning programming with scaffolded and unscaffolded generative AI interfaces. Specifically, we supported higher education students in using ChatGPT, an open ended interface for interacting with generative AI; and Giuseppe, a specialized interface with an OpenAI backend service that offers personalized supports specifically for helping students overcome early-stage challenges in learning to code, and working on education technology prototyping projects. This study contributes to the field by offering design insights for scaffolding initial learning interactions between generative AI interfaces and novice programmers. Our findings suggest that those new to coding welcome …

Learning Educational Technology Prototyping With Generative Ai, Justin Olmanson, Azadeh Hassani, Gretchen K. Larsen

Department of Teaching, Learning, and Teacher Education: Faculty Publications

In this study, we use ethnographic methods, grounded theory, and an iterative analytical approach to explore participant experiences and strategies for engaging generative AI in support of both learning how to prototype educational technologies and learning to code. We examine how ChatGPT and Giuseppe (a scaffolded co-coding interface of our own design) influence students’ approaches to prototyping and programming. This study contributes to the field by: identifying specific challenges and affordances of generative AI in prototyping and educational technology development contexts; and offering insights into how educators, students, and learning technology developers can integrate generative AI in formative educational technology …

Equity Vs. Excellence: Dichotomy Or Duo?, Nadjia I. Logans

Honors Program: Senior Projects (Public)

In this thesis, I investigate recent changes in mathematics education and how these developments connect to the principles of equity and excellence. I place a special focus on “active learning” methods. My methodology primarily consisted of interviews with educators, along with analyzing literature from math education researchers. I first define and explain the motivations behind active learning instruction methods. Next, I explore not only how instructors define equity and excellence but how educators perceive the role of the two principles within education. Finally, I challenge the pervasive media portrayal of equity and excellence as being mutually exclusive. Instead, I find …

Culture And Context: How Frames Of Teaching And Of Learning Mathematics Form And Change For Graduate Student Instructors, Johan Benedict Arroyo Cristobal

Dissertations and Doctoral Documents, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 2023–

Why do instructors teach the way that they do? This question is key in understanding how and why asset-based or deficit-based practices are enacted in the classroom. In consequence, this question also gives insight into how the environment where students learn is shaped. Mathematics education research, in particular, has been concerned with how instructors respond to students’ contributions in the classroom and how these ways of responding can (dis)empower students.

One way to answer this question is to understand how instructors frame their own teaching and their students’ learning. Frames are mental constructs which help individuals filter details, interpret information, …

Improving Home Security Through User Centered Device Positioning, Lalith Nadipalli

Theses and Dissertations

In today’s world, where technology is advancing rapidly and security threats are becoming more complex, the need for effective home safety measures is more critical than ever. Homeowners are increasingly turning to a variety of smart devices, such as smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and security cameras, to protect their living spaces against potential dangers like burglary, fire, and environmental hazards. These devices offer essential protection, acting as both early warning systems and visual surveillance tools. However, their effectiveness largely hinges on how well they are placed within the home. Proper placement of these safety devices ensures that they provide …

Effects Of Reflective Journaling And Nudges On Academic Motivation And Engagement, Lakshmi Satya Sai Veda Mahita Uppuluri

Theses and Dissertations

This study investigates the effects of reflective journaling and motivational nudges on academic motivation and engagement among college students. Grounded in Self- Determination Theory (SDT), the research examines how different interventions influence intrinsic motivation, and academic behaviors such as class attendance, participation, and preparation. The study employed a between-group experimental design with three conditions: a control group, a journaling group, and a journaling group that also received daily motivational nudges. Results showed that students in the journaling groups—particularly those who received nudges—experienced a significant increase in academic motivation. While changes in academic engagement were not significant, the effect size suggested …

A Sociocognitive Perspective On The Activation Of Productive Epistemic Resources In College Students' Understanding Of Chemical Equilibrium, Henk Steven Van Den Bogaard

Open Access Theses & Dissertations

Science education, particularly in higher education, has a content coverage problem: it has long been described as "a mile wide, an inch deep" in various consensus documents from the National Academies. In chemistry education, the most common general chemistry curriculum covers topics as chapters based on the popular Sienko and Plane 1960's general chemistry textbook. The limited time available in such fast-paced coverage may limit the instructor's modeling and assessment of key performances in developing a mechanistic understanding of complex chemistry phenomena. In this sociocognitive, qualitative investigation, general chemistry II students' responses to assessment prompts were used to activate cognitive …

Revolutionizing Higher Ed: Ai’S Impact On Faculty And Pedagogy, George Antoniou, David G. Wolf, Ellen Ramsey, Matteo Peroni, Saidi Porta, Philip L. Fazio, Kristen Migliano

Faculty and Staff Publications & Presentations

No abstract provided.

Exploring The Pedagogical Impact Of Software Development Live Streams: Informal Learning Opportunities For Software And Game Developers, Ella Kokinda

All Dissertations

Live streaming is an increasingly popular medium for throwing back the curtain on software development where streamers and viewers share their knowledge and experiences. Popular platforms like Twitch and YouTube enable developers to stream live coding sessions where people around the world can engage in real-time collaboration, feedback, knowledge sharing, and skill development. This work investigates the pedagogical implications and learning opportunities present in software and game development live streaming while focusing on the role of streaming as a learning environment and collaborative community. We begin by exploring summer camps as an informal learning opportunity for STEM education, highlighting the …

Countering Deficit Narratives Through A Blackcrit Lens By Examining Case Studies Of Black College Mathematics Students’ Classroom Experiences, Akhenaton Wilbourn

All Dissertations

This dissertation examines the lived experiences of 11 Black college mathematics students at their predominantly white institution (PWI) through the lens of Black Critical Theory (BlackCrit) to counter deficit narratives about the racial achievement gap (RAG) in mathematics education courses. Deficit narratives often attribute disparities between Black and white students’ mathematical performance to assumed deficiencies in Black students’ abilities rather than systemic inequities, historical marginalization, and ongoing anti-Blackness in educational settings (Cobb & Russell, 2015; Kress, 2021). Using multiple case studies, this study explores how anti-Blackness manifests in mathematics classrooms, how students navigate tensions between multiculturalism, neoliberal educational policies, and …

Detecting Ideological Bias In Trump's Tweets: Trump's Peace Plan As A Case Study, Amer Qasem

This study aims to explore the extent of ideological bias in the discourse of elected U.S. President Donald Trump on social media platforms, specifically Twitter (now known as X), regarding his peace plan, commonly referred to as the "Deal of the Century." The study employs Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) to examine all of Trump’s tweets related to the Deal of the Century, seeking to answer the following research questions: How did Trump portray the parties affected by the deal in his tweets? What rhetorical strategies did he employ to present the deal? The analysis spans the period from the announcement …

The Use Of Artificial Intelligence Applications By Media Students In Palestinian Universities And Their Achieved Gratifications “A Field Study”, Said Shaheen Allani, Ahmad Al Sallaq

The study aimed to identify the extent to which media students in Palestinian universities use artificial intelligence applications and the achieved gratifications from it. The study belongs to the descriptive studies approach utilizing questionnaire as a tool for collecting data, for an available sample of (165) individuals that were distributed in five Palestinian universities. The study reached to; (54.5%) of media students in Palestinian universities use artificial intelligence applications, they use it for several reasons, the most important phrase is “it helps me to produce good digital content,” with a relative weight of (47.4%), it also achieves a number of …

Media Frameworks In Addressing Environmental Issues On Al Jazeera Net Website: An Analytical Study, Sabah Al Harahsheh

This study aimed to recognize the media frameworks used to address environmental issues on (Al Jazeera Net) between 2009 and 2024. The study relied on the descriptive survey method, the theory of media frames, and the content analysis as a method and tool. The study population consisted of all articles, reports and interviews published on the (Al Jazeera Net) throughout the period specified by the study. A purposive sample was selected from the articles, reports and interviews interested in environmental issues only, which numbered eighteen journalistic works. The study identified the most important frameworks that presented the environmental issues during …

The Mediating Role Of Remote Communication On The Relationship Between Electronic Human Resource Management Practices And Organizational Performance In Iraqi Commercial Banks, Shuhub Basel Ahmad Taqa

This study aimed to measure the impact of remote communication as a mediating variable on the relationship between electronic human resources (e-HRM) and organizational performance in Iraqi commercial banks. The study adopted a descriptive-analytical approach, with the study population consisting of managers, their deputies, and department heads in Iraqi commercial banks, totaling 242 individuals distributed across 24 commercial banks by the end of 2023. A total of 234 questionnaires were analyzed, achieving a response rate of 96.7%. The study employed Smart PLS software for data analysis and result extraction. The study revealed several key findings, the most significant of which …

The Impact Of Institutional Features On Student Retention Rates Using Regression And Random Forest Modeling, Grayson Tvrdik

Honors Projects

Student retention is a focus for higher education institutions aiming to improve student outcomes and institutional success. While previous research has often relied on qualitative assessments of college related factors, this project applies quantitative techniques at a national scale. Random forest and beta regression models were used to predict retention rates for public colleges based on institutional characteristics such as financial variables, enrollment patterns, and demographic metrics. The random forest models demonstrated higher accuracy than the beta regression models, leading us to find that financial variables and student integration factors are significant predictors of retention. Beta regression models, though less …

2025 Acssc Program, Acssc Planning Committee

Annual Celebration for Student Scholarship and Creativity

No abstract provided.

There's A Method To This Physics Madness, Hanna J. Ross

Physics and Astronomy Presentations

Physics tends to be seen by the general public as scary and unattainable, especially for students who are non-STEM majors. However, at Ursinus College (as well as many other institutions) the professors employ the use of specific problem-solving strategy instruction to mitigate these fears and further general problem solving skills. This study reviews previous experiments evaluating the merit of this strategy and analyzes its results as it relates to Physics on Screen, a physics class at Ursinus geared specifically towards non-majors.