Leadership Studies Commons^™

Barriers To Effective Parent-Teacher Communication In K-5 Settings, Dylan Sawicki

Leadership Education Capstones

The purpose of this study was to examine barriers that influence parent-teacher communication in K-5 educational settings, with a focus on cultural background, communication methods, and parents’ prior experiences with educators. This study employed a quantitative research design and collected data through a nationwide Qualtrics survey distributed via email and social media platforms. Participants included parents of K-5 students. Findings suggest that most parents feel comfortable communicating with teachers and perceive cultural background and prior experiences as having minimal influence on communication. However, the data also indicate areas for improvement, particularly in the consistency, frequency, and clarity of communication methods …

Examining Organizational Factors Contributing To Burnout In Community College Employees: An Anthropological Perspective, Jesse N. Blue

Leadership Education Capstones

Organizational culture and systemic inequities remain under-researched factors driving the mental and physical deterioration of community college employees. The purpose of this phenomenological study was to describe and interpret the lived experiences of job-related burnout among community college employees. This qualitative short-term ethnography was conducted at Big Rock College, a rural community college in central Arkansas. The sample consisted of six volunteer participants across administrative, faculty, and staff roles. Data collection involved semi-structured interviews conducted via Zoom®. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and triangulated with institutional document analysis. Findings indicated that 84% of participants experienced varying degrees of burnout, driven by …

Burnout Among Wisconsin Career Firefighters: An Examination Of Shift Schedules, Sleep Disturbances, And Organizational Factors, Nickolas R. Pridgeon

Leadership Education Capstones

Occupational burnout among career firefighters represents a growing crisis with serious consequences for individual health, public safety, and fire department sustainability. This study investigates the factors contributing to burnout among career firefighters in Wisconsin, with a focus on three primary areas: shift schedules, sleep disturbances, and organizational culture. Using a concurrent mixed-methods design, the research combines an online quantitative survey with semi-structured qualitative interviews to examine how these factors interact to produce burnout in the fire service context.

The quantitative component employs the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index alongside measures of organizational factors, targeting a sample …

Impacts And Perceptions Of Holistic Education Practices, Kaitlyn Mj Calabrese

Leadership Education Capstones

This study examined educators' perceptions of holistic education and its impact on students. It

addressed the problem of the limited emphasis on developing the whole student within

traditional education systems, despite its importance for long-term success. Developing students

holistically involves not only focusing on academic skills but also on non-academic skills such as

social-emotional development, community building, communication, and collaboration. This

mixed-methods study used an online survey administered through Qualtrics consisting of 24

questions, including Likert scale and open-ended items. The survey was completed by 12

educators from a school that has grades 1 through 4. in Southeast Minnesota. Qualitative …

Exploring Mental Health Counseling Programs For Student-Athletes: A Comprehensive Analysis Of The Stigma Preventing Treatment-Seeking Behaviors., Conner Haggerty

Leadership Education Capstones

The purpose of this study was to examine the mental health counseling treatment-seeking behaviors of male football player student-athletes and the effects of stigma on those behaviors. Despite growing awareness of mental health challenges in collegiate athletics, male student-athletes continue to underutilize available mental health services at alarming rates. This study sought to address two research questions: what methods of mental health counseling most positively impact football player student-athletes, and what are the effects of stigma towards mental health counseling for football player student-athletes. A quantitative designed survey with supplementary qualitative questions was utilized, collecting data from 44 male football …

Balancing Books And Bases: Performance And Burnout Among College Softball Athletes, Mckinzey M. Johnson

Leadership Education Capstones

This mixed-methods study explored the impact of academic demands and athletic participation on academic performance, time management, study habits, burnout among NCAA Division II women’s softball athletes in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conferences (NSIC). The study was guided by three questions: (1) how participation in collegiate softball influences academic performance as measured by GPA, (2) how student athletes manage time and study habits during the. Competitive season, and (3) what factors contribute to burnout and how burnout affects emotional well-being and academic engagement. Data were collected through an anonymous online survey distributed to NSIC softball coaches who then shared the …

Position Utilization And Leadership Of Senior Woman Administrators In The Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference, Mattie J. Schimenz

Leadership Education Capstones

This study investigates the utilization and impact of the Senior Woman Administrator (SWA) position within the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC), focusing on job satisfaction and career confidence. Historically, women led collegiate women’s sports, but with the consolidation of men’s and women’s athletics under a single governance structure, female representation in leadership declined. While women make up 44% of NCAA athletes, only 27.2% of athletic directors are women (Statista, n.d.). The SWA role was created to ensure women have a voice in athletic department decision-making. This mixed-methods study explores whether the SWA role is fulfilling its original purpose of promoting …

Collaborative Leadership Approaches’ Impact On Student Athlete Participation, Jacob Ledger

Leadership Education Capstones

The purpose of this study is to identify reasons for the decline in student athletes participating in high school football within the Big Nine Conference. The research is intended to identify several key reasons for the decline in youth sports, which contributes to high school sports, and ultimately football programs in the conference. The study also identifies two specific coaching and leadership styles and how they impact sports participation. Collaborative leadership and coaching styles compared to authoritative leadership and coaching styles. Using a qualitative research method using surveys and document review themes of sport specialization, Technology, burnout, Culture, and Feedback …

Optimal Time Of Training To Prioritize Sleep, Stress, Recovery And Performance In Student-Athletes, Ryan E. Mutzner

Leadership Education Capstones

This study investigated the impact of training time—morning versus afternoon—on the sleep, stress, recovery, and performance of high school student-athletes. With increasing demands placed on student-athletes, particularly during the academic year, understanding how training schedules influence both physiological and psychological well-being is critical. Using a cross-sectional design, data were collected from ten student-athletes over six training sessions through self-reported surveys and performance testing via Counter-Movement Jump (CMJ) assessments. The study found that afternoon athletes consistently reported longer sleep durations and higher peak performance, while morning athletes demonstrated better sleep quality and more consistent performance across sessions. Afternoon participants experienced higher …

Bridging The Gap: Analyzing The Impact Of The On Track Program On Academic Achievement And Retention Rates Of Academic Warning Students, Tyler J. Peil

Leadership Education Capstones

This thesis examines the effectiveness of a college program called the OnTrack Program, which addresses achievement gaps, improves retention rates, and boosts academic performance for its students considered "at-risk." The study analyzes data from two groups: Students who qualified for the On Track program and chose not to participate, and students who enrolled in the On Track program. Through both quantitative measures of research, such as GPA and retention statistics, as well as qualitative measures of researchers, such as student testimonials, the research investigates whether the targeted academic support significantly impacts students' educational outcomes and student experience. By evaluating the …

Recreational Runner Participation: Barriers, Benefits, And Best Foot Forward In Josephine County, Adam Boothe

Leadership Education Capstones

Running, a simple yet powerful activity, has the potential to significantly enhance physical and mental well-being. While many individuals in Josephine County enjoy running as a recreational pursuit, a cohesive running community remains absent. This research aims to delve into the factors hindering the formation of such a community and explore the potential benefits of participating in a recreational running club.

The Coping Strategies Of Collegiate Football Student-Athletes With Mental Health, James Williams

Leadership Education Capstones

This study explores the mental health challenges faced by Division II collegiate football players, their coping mechanisms, and the adequacy of institutional resources. Through qualitative interviews with student-athletes, the research examines their experiences, stress levels, and perceptions of support systems. Findings indicate that anxiety, stress, and performance pressure are prevalent among players, with 58.3% reporting anxiety symptoms and 50% experiencing football-related stress. Despite 91.7% of respondents being aware of campus mental health services, comfort levels in discussing mental health remain moderate, and coaching support is perceived as only somewhat effective. The results highlight that while individual coping strategies exist, psychological …

Artificial Intelligence In Collegiate Athletic Communications: Revolutionizing Communications And Collegiate Athletics, Jared T. Gerke

Leadership Education Capstones

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve, its influence across professional fields, including athletic communications, demands closer examination. Despite extensive research in journalism and public relations, scholars have largely overlooked AI’s role in collegiate athletic communications. To address this gap, this study surveyed professionals from the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) to explore current use of AI and aspirations for its integration in the workplace. The results of this study show that NSIC professionals generally view AI as a beneficial tool. However, adoptions remain low within both the NSIC and the broader field. Most respondents expressed little concern about AI …

An Investigation Of Ncaa Women’S Ice Hockey Players Motivations To Enter The Transfer Portal, Sarah E. Bobrowski

Leadership Education Capstones

The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) introduced the transfer portal to allow student-athletes the opportunity to transfer between institutions while maintaining their eligibility. While the transfer portal has significantly impacted college athletics, there is limited research on the specific motivations of female student-athletes’ decision to transfer. This study aims to explore the factors influencing NCAA women’s ice hockey players’ decisions to enter the transfer portal, focusing on athletic, academic, and social motivations. The study will provide valuable insights for athletic directors, university administrators, and coaches in developing retention strategies that foster a supportive environment for student-athletes. Findings from this research …

The Impacts Of Coach-Athlete Relationships On Men’S Basketball Student-Athlete Mental Health Outcomes, Luke D. Martens

Leadership Education Capstones

The relationship between student-athletes and their coaches is dynamic and extends beyond sports performance. This connection holds significant implications for the mental health and overall well-being of student-athletes, shaping their experiences both on and off the court (Short, 2005). Coaches often serve as mentors, role models, and sources of support, influencing various aspects of athletes’ lives beyond their athletic endeavors (Burns, 2019). Understanding the intricacies of this relationship is crucial in addressing the mental health challenges that student-athletes may encounter throughout their academic and athletic journey.

An Analysis Of The Mental Health Of Private School Teachers, Caitlin R. Frederick

Leadership Education Capstones

This capstone study investigates the mental health of private school teachers, focusing on how access to professional development resources and support systems influences their well-being. Grounded in Maslach and Jackson’s Burnout Theory, the research explores emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and diminished personal accomplishment as critical components of teacher burnout. A mixed-methods approach was used, incorporating pre- and post-surveys alongside a mental health presentation delivered to staff at a small Christian school in Minnesota. Of the 45 invited participants, 26 reported implementing new strategies—such as gratitude practices and emotional regulation—into their personal and professional lives. Findings reveal that while professional development can …

Data Analytics: Role Of Technology In College Sport Training, Quentin Pringle

Leadership Education Capstones

This study examines how coaches make decisions on player performance, game-day tactics, and injury prevention using performance data technologies, particularly Catapult. A set of coaches from different sports teams was surveyed as part of a descriptive qualitative approach. The findings showed that although coaches use data extensively for player development and game preparation, obstacles such as time restraints, a lack of technology resources, and difficulties interpreting data still exist. The study concludes that while Catapult and similar technologies are useful, improvements in data recording and analysis are required to boost usability and support decision-making. Future studies should concentrate on resolving …

Utilizing Teaching Strategies To Create Productive Coaches: Teaching Competencies For Student-Athlete Development, Marina D. Niehoff

Leadership Education Capstones

This mixed-methods study explores the connection between teaching and coaching, focusing on how teaching competencies can be applied to coaching to develop student-athletes. The research addresses three key questions: which pedagogical strategies can be transferred from teaching to coaching, how the dual role of teacher-coach affects relationships with students and players, and how leadership techniques are utilized in both contexts. The theoretical framework is based on the intersection of educational pedagogy and athletic coaching. Data were collected through online surveys and individual interviews. The study used an online survey in addition to in-person interviews to collect data from teacher-coaches (people …

Retention Of Employees In Student Affairs Positions In Private Higher Education, Lanita Robinson

Leadership Education Capstones

This is a comprehensive exam project for the Leadership Education Department at Winona State University. The purpose of the study was to discover and implement successful strategies that private higher education managers can use to retain support services staff in departments across the university.

Professional Development For Educators On Emotional Regulation And Functions Of Behavior, Amanda C. Harmon

Leadership Education Capstones

Studies have identified a lack of sufficient teacher training in SEL and inclusion. In addition, there is a lack in offerings at the college level about these topics. Studies have shown that teachers have a greater ability to teach SEL effectively when they have the self-efficacy to do so. Currently, there is a dearth of knowledge on the best methods of delivery and content. The research aims to identify the content and methods required of a workshop for veteran and novice teaching staff on the topics of student behavior, functions of behavior, behavior management, and social emotional learning (SEL) through …

Implementing Standardized Nursing Assistant Exam Practices Across Multiple Campuses, Brady T. Malecha

Leadership Education Capstones

The purpose of this study is to investigate best practices for administering the Nursing Assistant Competency Exam, to be developed into a resource guide provided to all MinnState test sites, hosted through private online forum.

Implementing Minnesota American Indian Tribe State Standard In Suburban Minnesota Ecology Curriculum, Sadie R. Spaeth

Leadership Education Capstones

The purpose of the study was to create curriculum supporting the new Minnesota Native American State Standard 4.2.2.

Concrete Representational Abstract: The Exploration And Implementation Of This Strategy For Teaching Mathematics In An Elementary School, Gregory A. Schaitel

Leadership Education Capstones

The goal of this paper was to uncover if Concrete Representation and Abstract (CRA) should be recommended as a math intervention strategy. Published sources were consulted and have led to the conclusion that CRA should be recommended as an effective strategy for math interventionists, special education teachers, and general education teachers. The technique is easy to implement with any mathematical concept, and any resources that are needed can be readily found in any classroom. From the results of the current literature, it is recommended that these two types of teachers should plan mathematics instruction using CRA or should look for …

Ongoing Challenges And Success Stories Of Title Ix Compliance In The Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference: A Qualitative Study, Louis W. Hurd

Leadership Education Capstones

The purpose of this study was to examine the challenges athletic administrations face regarding Title IX compliance and strategies used to maintain compliance. This study will be narrowing the focus to the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NCIS), focusing on athletic administrators, Title IX coordinator/Senior woman administrators, and women’s sport coaches. The results of this study will identify the challenges athletic administrations face with complying with Title IX in their respective schools, as well as how women’s sport coaches perceive that compliance to be fulfilled.

Creating Student Leaders: Strategies For Midwest College, Ryan Hollibaugh

Leadership Education Capstones

The need to build effective work teams and leaders is crucial to the success of a work team. This becomes difficult in a college setting when a manager employs college students. Employing college students means every year managers are losing senior classes and replacing graduates with new workers. This results in teams losing the most experienced workers and oftentimes team leaders. To counteract this, managers are constantly having to find new leaders on a yearly basis and also continue to develop leaders. This is a challenging task and results in transition periods while new employees and the new leader are …

Strategies To Increase Job Satisfaction In Remote Finance Urban Healthcare Workers, Kenna Johnson

Leadership Education Capstones

As the world changed with COVID-19, as did the future following it for workers in all fields. Working remotely has become a routine for many employees. Technology has allowed organizations to expand where employees work. Healthcare workers who were not on the front lines are now working remotely, including workers in finance. The research design was a qualitative study. The data obtained from this research focused on major themes of urban healthcare finance remote workers' challenges and what strategies can be implemented to increase job satisfaction overall. The crucial data points of challenges faced included the lack of communication between …

Decisions Athletic Directors Face When Allocating Funds In An Athletic Department, Joseph Mueller

Leadership Education Capstones

The purpose of this study is to understand the decision-making process athletic directors use when allocating funds within an athletic department. The research is intended to identify the decision-making process athletic directors use when dealing with finances in their department. Athletic directors have a large role in an athletic department and are the driving force for their institution’s athletics, especially regarding the finances related to athletics. Using a qualitative research method using interviews, surveys, and document review, themes of budgeting plans, fundraising, and benchmark analysis emerged.

Contact Center Healthcare Worker Stress Levels During Times Of Rapid Change, Christine Dvorak

Leadership Education Capstones

The purpose of this study is to explore the factors contributing to stress during times of rapid change with healthcare staff working behind the scenes in a contact center. This study will focus on contact center employees working in a healthcare setting where rapid change is frequent and how this impacts individual stress levels. The research currently shows that burnout and increased stress is on the rise for the front-line staff working in healthcare (Meese et al., 2021). To better support contact center employees, it will be imperative to understand the causes of stress and burnout in their roles. Once …

Leading The Social Development Of Students With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Para-Educator Perspectives, Michelle Morehouse

Leadership Education Capstones

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore para-educator perspectives on implementing social development strategies for students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In the academic setting, students with ASD, receiving services through an individualized education plan (IEP), have the option to receive para-educator support.

Social development growth opportunities naturally occur throughout the school day, placing para-educators in situations where implementing social development support can enhance this growth. How do para-educators perceive this role as social development supporters? Do they feel equipped to implement social development support in the general education setting?

This study used a mixed methods design, through …

Teachers’ Use Of Email For Communication With Students’ Families, Matthew Ferry

Leadership Education Capstones

The educational system holds an important role and responsibility in the attempt to educate all the youth in the country. A critical dynamic in the success of educating America is connected to the teacher’s ability to use online communication to build strong teacher-parent relationships. The purpose of this research study was to explore the levels of training that teachers have experienced in teacher education programs and professional development opportunities and the impacts it had on online communication to parents for their students. The study utilized surveys to poll teachers on the training they experienced during their career and the frequency …