This Is How You Can Be A Cool Adult,
2025
Dartmouth College
This Is How You Can Be A Cool Adult, Angelica Angelica
ENGS 15.11: Design and Education
“This Is How You Can Be a COOL Adult” is an interactive and self-reflective lesson designed to help high school juniors through college seniors practice being more compassionate, open-minded, optimistic, and laughing-out-loud (humorous) in their everyday lives. By the end of this lesson, students will be able to describe and explore research-based strategies that foster compassion, open-mindedness, optimism, and humor, and create a personalized “COOL Action Plan” with self-reflection logs to track progress. The lesson takes place in an unconventional classroom setting (outdoors) and includes mini-lectures, meditation, collaborative games, creative role-play, personal reflection, and practical methods for applying these qualities …
Using Brief Acceptance And Commitment Training To Increase Psychological Flexibility And Reduce Stress In School-Based Professionals,
2025
Minnesota State University, Mankato
Using Brief Acceptance And Commitment Training To Increase Psychological Flexibility And Reduce Stress In School-Based Professionals, Rayna Yaeger
All Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Other Capstone Projects
The significant behavioral and mental health concerns of students and staff in public schools within the United States has led to an increased risk of stress and burnout in teachers, which may lead to subsequent physical and mental health related concerns for staff and negative educational outcomes for students. Due to these school-based concerns, action should be taken to meet the needs of staff and students. This study aimed to better understand the effect of brief, group-based ACTraining on teachers’ psychological flexibility, general stress, job-related burnout, and social validity by replicating and extending the findings of Gillard et al. (2021) …
Development Of A Swpbis Fidelity Tool For Front-Line Intervention Agents,
2025
Minnesota State University, Mankato
Development Of A Swpbis Fidelity Tool For Front-Line Intervention Agents, Courtney A. Sowle
All Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Other Capstone Projects
SWPBIS is a commonly used EBP that provides a continuum of support across three tiers of prevention (Farkas et al., 2012; Mercer et al., 2017). It is known that implementation of SWPBIS with high levels of fidelity has resulted in positive outcomes for students within that system (Farkas et al., 2012). While systems may report high fidelity of implementation of SWPBIS within their system, these reports may not be representative of how an evidenced-based practice (EBP) is implemented by frontline intervention agents and instead is likely more representative of the subjective perceptions of PBIS team members and external coaches (Reinke …
Surveying Teaching Rewards For Effective Behavior Management,
2025
Minnesota State University, Mankato
Surveying Teaching Rewards For Effective Behavior Management, Maggie M. West-Johnson
All Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Other Capstone Projects
This study investigated the implementation of teacher reward systems within School-Wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (SWPBIS) in K–12 educational settings. While the PBIS framework has been extensively studied for its impact on student behavior and academic outcomes, limited attention has been given to supporting and motivating educators through systematic reward systems. This research aimed to identify the types of teacher rewards used, methods of selection and distribution, and staff perceptions of effectiveness and social validity. Using a structured 39-item survey distributed to SWPBIS team members across eight schools in Minnesota, the study gathered quantitative and qualitative data on current …
Psychological Contract Breach And Institutional Trust In Higher Education: Extending The Triadic Framework,
2025
University of South Carolina - Upstate
Psychological Contract Breach And Institutional Trust In Higher Education: Extending The Triadic Framework, Hannah E. Blodget, Katelyn R. Raborn, Justin Travis, Susan Ruppel
University of South Carolina Upstate Student Research Journal
Psychological Contract (PC) theory, originally developed in organizational contexts, has increasingly been applied to higher education to understand the expectations and obligations that students perceive in their relationships with institutions. In this context, the PC refers to the unwritten set of mutual expectations and perceived obligations that shape the student-university relationship (Rousseau, 1998). Psychological contract breaches (PCB), or perceived failures to fulfill promised obligations, can undermine student trust, engagement, and institutional commitment. Despite growing interest, research on PCBs in higher education remains sporadic, often limited to cross-sectional designs, single relational targets, and inconsistent measurement approaches. Moreover, most studies focus on …
Boys Build, Girls Glam: An Examination Of Adult Language Use In Informal Steam Education Settings,
2025
Illinois State University
Boys Build, Girls Glam: An Examination Of Adult Language Use In Informal Steam Education Settings, Alexandra Horton
Theses and Dissertations
Research on STEAM education has primarily focused on formal education settings such as schools, with more research needed in informal or non-traditional education settings. As children frequently engage with informal and non-traditional education settings, it is important to understand how we can transmit information in these settings to bolster and further the learning process and increase engagement. STEAM fields have been plagued by racial and gender inequities that have led to these groups being marginalized and excluded (Blair et al., 2017; Eaton et al., 2020; Martin, 2018; Martin & Phillips, 2019; Miller et al., 2018; Newall et al., 2018, Sheffield …
The Effects Of Gsa Participation On Bias-Based Bullying And School-Related Outcomes For Perceived Sexual And Gender Minority Youth,
2025
Illinois State University
The Effects Of Gsa Participation On Bias-Based Bullying And School-Related Outcomes For Perceived Sexual And Gender Minority Youth, Marissa L. Shaull
Theses and Dissertations
Despite growing attention to discrimination faced by sexual and gender minority groups, perceived sexual and gender minority students face intolerance and prejudice within their schools. This study addresses the complex experiences of perceived and self-identified sexual and gender minority youth (SGMY) subjected to bias-based bullying and its effect on their school experience. This study investigated the impact of bias-based bullying on school-related outcomes, such as academic self-efficacy, absenteeism, school climate, and identity disclosure, for SGMY, while also examining Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs). Participants in the study are self-identified and perceived SGMY, and heterosexual adolescents. An anonymous self-administered Qualtrics survey was utilized …
The Impact Of Ableist Microaggressions On The Supervisory Relationship And The Influence Of Burnout And Self-Efficacy,
2025
Illinois State University
The Impact Of Ableist Microaggressions On The Supervisory Relationship And The Influence Of Burnout And Self-Efficacy, Berenice Contreras
Theses and Dissertations
Disabled graduate students often report experiences of ableist microaggressions in their training environment, as disability-affirming practices tend to be overlooked in higher education institutions (Kattari et al., 2019; Lund et al., 2020). Ableist microaggressions are verbal, nonverbal, and/or environmental messages that relay derogatory messages toward individuals with disabilities and normalize everyday forms of discrimination enacted toward them (Annamma et al., 2013; Kattari et al., 2019). Studies demonstrate that disabled graduate students in health psychology graduate programs report higher exposure to ableist experiences during pre internship training and supervision compared to other stages of graduate training (Lund et al., 2014; Lund …
Using A Self-Report Survey To Determine Students’ Self-Concept, Math Attitudes, And Achievement In Ability-Grouped Math Classrooms,
2025
University of Kentucky
Using A Self-Report Survey To Determine Students’ Self-Concept, Math Attitudes, And Achievement In Ability-Grouped Math Classrooms, Jessica T. Blake
Theses and Dissertations--Educational, School, and Counseling Psychology
Ability grouping is a common practice in the United States that aims to acknowledge differences in student ability by dividing students into more homogeneous groups. Numerous studies have examined factors associated with ability grouping such as self-concept, math achievement, and attitudes toward math, but there is little empirical research exploring these three factors simultaneously. The current study examines the differences in achievement level, achievement gains, math self-concept, and attitudes toward math in middle school students enrolled in math classes based on student ability. Participants included 407 middle school students across two schools that use between-class ability grouping for math. Students …
Exploring Front-Line Implementers Perceptions To Inform Tier 1 Pbis Implementation Coaching,
2025
Minnesota State University, Mankato
Exploring Front-Line Implementers Perceptions To Inform Tier 1 Pbis Implementation Coaching, Sammi Cowger
All Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Other Capstone Projects
The successful implementation of universal practices within Positive Behavior Interventions and Support systems (Tier 1 PBIS) relies on front-line implementers to deliver services through student-facing practice elements. However, schools are often limited in the implementation support they can provide (Fixsen et al., 2005). Therefore, there is a growing emphasis in educational research on the systems and resources necessary to support the individuals tasked with implementing the programming (Forman et al., 2013). One form of support commonly used to support implementers of other school-based practices is implementation coaching. While this term is not universally used within the literature, it can be …
Urban Isolation In The Digital Age- Examining The Sociological Impact Of The Digital Divide On Civic Life In U.S. Cities,
2025
University of Central Florida
Urban Isolation In The Digital Age- Examining The Sociological Impact Of The Digital Divide On Civic Life In U.S. Cities, Delante Clark
Graduate Scholarship and Creative Works
The digital divide remains a persistent barrier to civic participation and social inclusion in urban America, particularly in historically underserved communities. This mixed-methods study investigates how digital lack of access affects civic engagement, social capital, and community cohesion in U.S. cities, with a focus on Chicago’s South Side, Harlem New York, St. Louis, and Orlando. Drawing on quantitative data from recent surveys and qualitative insights from peer-reviewed literature, the research applies four sociological frameworks, Urban Sociology, Social Capital Theory, Critical Race Theory, and Symbolic Interactionism. These were used to examine the structural and interpretive aspects of digital isolation. Findings reveal …
Evaluating Online Resources: Providing Parents With Reliable Emotional Intelligence Training Tools,
2025
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Evaluating Online Resources: Providing Parents With Reliable Emotional Intelligence Training Tools, Melissa Van Embden
PCOM Psychology Dissertations
The rise of online resources has produced a shift in how parents seek guidance in fostering their child’s emotional intelligence (EI). Yet, the quality and accessibility of these resources remain largely unexamined. This study evaluates the top Google search results generated from six prompts designed to reflect the information-seeking behavior of parents looking to develop their child’s EI. Using an incognito browser, the first 20 links for each prompt were recorded, with Google Gemini AI-generated responses specifically marked. The researcher vetted the recorded links by utilizing a comprehensive checklist assessing professional credibility, communication and engagement features, and pricing. The Findings …
Exploring Screen Time Trends Among Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Quantitative Survey Analysis,
2025
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Exploring Screen Time Trends Among Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Quantitative Survey Analysis, Jessica Rachel Ponzo
PCOM Psychology Dissertations
Research exploring the trends, motivations, and parental influences of screen use among children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is limited. The purpose of this study was to address these gaps by examining screen time habits among children with ASD. Specifically, it explored the duration of screen time, screen-based activities, device ownership, parental mediation strategies, functional uses of screens, and caregiver perceptions of children’s screen time. Besides entertainment, children with ASD also use screens for emotional regulation, sensory seeking, accessing restricted interests, and communication, including Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices. The data for this study were collected using a quantitative …
Identifying Needs Of School-Age Children With Cardiospondylocarpofacial Syndrome,
2025
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Identifying Needs Of School-Age Children With Cardiospondylocarpofacial Syndrome, Erin Henning
PCOM Psychology Dissertations
Advancements in genetic testing have led to the identification of many rare genetic conditions, yet comprehensive knowledge of their broader impacts remains limited. Most existing research focuses narrowly on medical outcomes. Cardiospondylocarpofacial Syndrome (CSCF) is an ultra-rare genetic condition for which little is known beyond its physical manifestations. This descriptive case series study examined the behavioral, social, emotional, and academic functioning of eight school-aged children diagnosed with CSCF, as well as the experiences of their families. Participants were recruited from North America, Europe, and Australia via a private Facebook group. Data were collected through an open-ended, written questionnaire completed by …
Promoting Perinatal Mental Well-Being: Empowering Healthcare Professionals,
2025
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Promoting Perinatal Mental Well-Being: Empowering Healthcare Professionals, Deborah Flam
PCOM Psychology Dissertations
This pilot study aimed to address the critical need to enhance healthcare providers’ knowledge and shift their beliefs regarding perinatal mental health disorders through the development and implementation of a targeted educational workshop, “Promoting Perinatal Mental Health Well-Being”, designed to improve their understanding and attitudes toward identifying, treating, and supporting affected individuals. Using a qualitative approach, pre- and post-tests were administered to assess changes in knowledge and beliefs. While statistical significance was not achieved, likely due to a small sample size, prior training among participants, and other limitations, the findings revealed a meaningful shift in provider beliefs. Participants reported increased …
Predictors Of Anxiety And Depression In Dental Students - A Nationwide Study,
2025
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Predictors Of Anxiety And Depression In Dental Students - A Nationwide Study, Margaret Xiaojiao Yang
PCOM Psychology Dissertations
Student mental health is a growing concern in higher education, particularly within rigorous clinical training programs. This study estimated the prevalence of anxiety and depression among U.S. dental students and examined associations with resilience and perceived institutional and faculty support. A cross-sectional survey was administered to more than 1,100 full-time students at over 30 accredited dental schools. The instrument collected demographics, the Brief Resilience Scale (BRS), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder–7 (GAD-7), the Patient Health Questionnaire–9 (PHQ-9), and four items assessing perceived support. Among respondents who completed the GAD-7 (n = 965), 43% scored ≥ 8, indicating probable generalized anxiety disorder. …
Examining How Adverse Childhood Experiences, Resilience, And Social Support Influence Academic Satisfaction,
2025
Fort Hays State University
Examining How Adverse Childhood Experiences, Resilience, And Social Support Influence Academic Satisfaction, Zoe Caldwell
Master's Theses or Doctor of Nursing Practice
College students face many challenges while working toward their educational goals (Meneghel et al., 2019). Although stressors may not seem significant, they are important to address as the effects accumulate over time and can have a negative impact on students' performance (Gresham & Karatekin, 2023). Without the impact of ACEs, children would be better equipped with skills that could help them continue with higher education, gain better employment, and break the cycle of trauma for any future children. Resilience can help students cope with challenges and improve their chances of graduation and academic success (Myat Zaw et al., 2022). One …
Elementary School Teachers' Perceptions Of The Common Core State Standards For Mathematics,
2025
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Elementary School Teachers' Perceptions Of The Common Core State Standards For Mathematics, Rebecca Potts
PCOM Psychology Dissertations
This dissertation examines elementary school teachers' perceptions of the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics (CCSS-M), focusing on evaluating their views on developmental appropriateness and identifying challenges encountered during implementation. Rooted in the broader historical context of educational reforms in the U.S., the study investigates whether the adoption of CCSS-M adequately integrates research on child development, learning trajectories, and cognitive neuroscience. Using a mixed-methods design incorporating surveys and semi-structured interviews, this study gathered insights from kindergarten through fifth-grade teachers and mathematics interventionists. Findings reveal mixed perceptions among educators regarding the developmental appropriateness of the CCSS-M, highlighting concerns that some standards …
The Blank Paper Method: An Independent Retrieval Protocol,
2025
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
The Blank Paper Method: An Independent Retrieval Protocol, Kevin Gregorio
PCOM Psychology Dissertations
Most students struggle with effective self-study, often relying on passive strategies like rereading instead of active techniques such as retrieval practice, which research shows enhances learning and long-term retention. To address this issue, this study introduced and evaluated the Blank Paper Method—a structured free recall protocol designed to encourage self-regulated retrieval practice. The study explored two key questions: (1) Does the Blank Paper Method improve test performance compared to students’ default study habits? (2) Will students voluntarily adopt this method over time, demonstrating self-regulated learning? The study involved 56 incoming high school freshmen at a private college-preparatory school in Philadelphia. …
Fluency-Based Staff Training On Restraints To Improve Safe And Accurate Implementation In The School Setting,
2025
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Fluency-Based Staff Training On Restraints To Improve Safe And Accurate Implementation In The School Setting, Jaclyn Leotta
PCOM Psychology Dissertations
This study examined the effects of fluency-based training on staff implementation of crisis management procedures in a center-based public school serving students with exceptionalities. Using a single-case multiple baseline design across three targeted skills—1-Person Stability Hold, 2-Person Stability Hold, and Forward Transport—the study measured changes in staff accuracy, confidence, and injury frequency. Six staff members participated, all of whom were Registered Behavior Technicians or Personal Care Assistants certified in Safety-Care® procedures. The intervention incorporated Behavior Skills Training (BST), enhanced with repeated trials and immediate feedback until participants achieved fluency, which was defined as five consecutive error-free trials. Results demonstrated immediate …
