Stander Symposium: School of Education and Health Sciences

Follow

• 

  From Persecution to Protection: Interdisciplinary Approach to Anti-Semitism and the Holocaust in the Classroom

  Katherine Desmet, Jarrett Dixon, Clare Murrin

  This interdisciplinary unit lesson examines the history of anti-Semitism and its role in the Holocaust. Through a social studies lens, students will analyze primary and secondary sources to understand the systemic discrimination and policies that led to the Holocaust while drawing parallels to contemporary issues of religious and ethnic persecution. In English/Language Arts, students will read survivor testimonies, literature, and historical documents to develop critical thinking and empathetic writing skills.Using math and science, students will explore data on Jewish displacement, refugee migration patterns, and the environmental challenges faced by displaced populations. Through this hands-on experience, students will not only develop STEM skills but also deepen their understanding of human rights, resilience, and global responsibility. The unit fosters civic engagement, encouraging students to connect history to present-day advocacy and solutions for displaced communities worldwide.

• 

  From the Yard to the World: The Impact of HBCU Education and Black Greek Letter Organization Membership on Personal and Professional Development

  Meiyah Hill

  Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Black Greek Letter Organizations (BGLOs) have played a pivotal role in shaping the academic, social, and professional trajectories of African American students. This study explores how HBCU education and BGLO membership contribute to personal identity formation, leadership development, and long-term career success. Through qualitative interviews with HBCU students and alumni who are members of BGLOs, this research examines the unique collegiate experiences within these institutions and the ways in which they foster cultural pride, mentorship, and professional networking. Findings highlight the impact of these institutions in cultivating resilience, civic engagement, and career preparedness among African American students. By providing an updated understanding of their relevance in the 21st century, this study underscores the enduring significance of HBCUs and BGLOs in empowering Black professionals and leaders.

• 

  Gender in Math: The Short and Long Term Effects of Bias in the Math Classroom

  Kailey Peppard

  There are many different narratives that are thrown around regarding math with little ill intent but with little regard to the serious impacts that the phrases can have. The one that will be focused on in this project is the idea that ‘math is a male subject’ or that men are inherently better at math than women. This project will attempt to draw a connection between the narratives and the fact that there is a significant lack of women in STEM fields or pursuing higher level math. By reaching out to both students and teachers, the goal is to learn about the ways that people have experienced the effect of these narratives in the classroom. In addition, it is to see the difference in the ways that people of different genders understand math and its purpose in the world. The other purpose of this project is to take the findings from the survey and pair that with research on creating an equal and ethical classroom environment in order to propose solutions to these issues. By giving teachers a way to get ahead of these narratives, they can help make sure that all genders are given a equal chance to learn and understand and later pursue math. This way the connection between the narratives and the classroom environment can be exploited to help equal out the gender representation in higher education math classes.

• 

  Globalization and the Interdisciplinary Impact of Climate Change: Understanding the Global Crisis

  Allison Bertke, Melanie Hendrick, Matthew Welch, Kaylee Woolman

  This interdisciplinary lesson plan explores the complex topic of globalization through the lens of maquiladoras in Mexico, with a focus on their impact on workers, pollution, and human rights. Designed for a ninth-grade classroom, the lesson integrates history, Spanish, science, and English to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the global supply chain and its local consequences. This topic will explore the complex issues of both globalization and marginalization and its impact on immigration through a modern-day, student-centered, lens. Further, this will be applied to classrooms in the United States with diverse student populations, such as students who are culturally and linguistically diverse.

• 

  How Teachers Can Better Assist Students in the Foster Care System

  Grace Wilkens

  Most pre-kindergarten to grade twelve teachers in the United States will likely encounter a student who is in the foster care system. How teachers interact with those students is crucial to their academic success; specifically it is important for educators to collaborate with other professionals within the child’s welfare system. My project shares strategies and actions teachers can take to promote the best educational outcomes for youth in the foster care system.

• 

  Improving Retention for GenZ First-generation College Students; the Role of Academic Advisors.

  Bell Mensah Ampem

  Retention rates among college students are a crucial indicator of success in higher education. First-generation students face even more significant challenges, as they typically have lower retention rates than their peers. This literature review explores the impact of academic advising on the retention of Gen Z first-generation college students. It emphasizes the roles and best practices of academic advisors, their challenges, and innovative ways and strategies to improve retention among these students. Additionally, the study considers the unique characteristics of Gen Z, including their digital orientation and inclinations.

• 

  Incorporating Movement in Classrooms

  Allison Peddicord

  The purpose of this project is to educate teachers and other educational professionals about the importance of incorporating movement in elementary classrooms. This impactful practice in elementary classrooms engages young minds and motivates them to learn. There are many ways to incorporate movement such as group games, yoga and other upbeat-appropriate activities.

• 

  Ingredients to Running a Successful Recreation Event

  Marisa Musso

  Planning and evaluation are the keys to running a successful event. The first thing is to make a supervisor feel prepared. The only way to ensure this takes place is in the preparation stage of an event that will be conducted. When reviewing the events before adding them to the schedule, ensuring they meet a set of requirements provided by the on-site supervisors. All pertinent information needs to be included in event paperwork this will ensure that events can be conducted without incident. However, life happens and the supervisor will adjust to make sure the event can come to completion. This is a teaching moment for supervisors, staff and Operation Managers. What can be done to prevent the same mistake happening the next time the event takes place. This evaluation is so important to conducting a successful event. After speaking with three Midwest universities with student populations over 30,000. This resulted in five best practices that have been identified that Operation Managers can integrate into their event planning. These practices will aim to mitigate problems during the event before they escalate into bigger issues afterward.

• 

  Integrating Music and Noise into History Education

  Charles Coffey

  Sounds can be incredibly influential in crafting the learning environment for a history curriculum. Musical movements can help students better understand the political or social movements of the time as well as see entirely new points of view in a historical sense. Noise can help elevate the dramatic impacts of an event. This poster reviews research about how teaching history using both noise and music can create a richer, multimodal curriculum experience for teachers and students in the history classroom.

• 

  Investigating perceived stress and energy levels in college students before and after an intervention of high-intensity interval training (HIIT)

  Kayla Farley, Paul McGrath, Molly Morris, Taylor Morris, Robert Shinkle

  Introduction: High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is increasing in popularity as an alternative to traditional fitness. It often includes several repetitions of high resistance or explosive cardiovascular movements, done repeatedly in short periods of time. Prior studies have shown evidence that HIIT can not only provide some of the same physiological benefits as traditional training, but it can also provide a lot of psychological benefits as well. Many are starting to turn to this as an option to save time and still have the same benefits as traditional training. However, since HIIT is relatively new in the world of fitness, it is still unclear if it can match traditional training in terms of physical and cognitive benefits. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to investigate how HIIT classes affect college students' perceived stress and energy levels. The study is comparing the stress and energy levels, in terms of academics, mental, and physical levels, of the participants before and after the HIIT class they participated in. We predict that HIIT intervention will decrease stress levels and increase energy levels. Methods: We will use a survey to conduct information from approximately 75 University of Dayton students relating to their pre and post HIIT stress levels (mental, academic, physical) and energy levels (mental, physical). Information will be taken from students engaging in the Toned Zone and HIIT classes offered here at the UD RecPlex. We will conduct a t-test to analyze our significance levels. Discussion/Conclusions: While this study is still under investigation, our results will suggest how an intervention of HIIT affects the perceived mental and physical stress and energy levels. This will further highlight the significance of a HIIT training program and provide practical implications for trainers as an effective college Rec program of improving stress and energy levels.

• 

  Language Acquisition in Multilingual Classrooms

  Luke Proviano

  In this literature review, I explore language acquisition in multilingual classrooms, emphasizing strategies to support diverse learners. Students acquire additional languages through immersion, interaction, and scaffolding techniques. By integrating research-based approaches, including role-playing and culturally responsive teaching, educators can foster inclusive learning environments that enhance linguistic development and academic success.

• 

  Leveling up: Using Storytelling to Build Community

  Maren Gainer, Mary Katherine Nestos

  Over the last ten years, a sales and fundraising class has focused on a philanthropy project that helps and guides students to support a non-profit of their choice. This experiential and hands-on process motivates students and embeds vulnerability, as they seek funds, share the reasons behind their chosen non-profits, and passionately present in front of their peers. The class combines low-stake assignments with high-reward outcomes, encouraging students to step outside their comfort zones and fosters a sense of community and connection. Highlighting the results of our 13 question-survey, sent to recent participants in the philanthropy tournament. We will explore how harnessing vulnerability will help develop a deeper understanding among peers and the impact to the classroom as a whole.

• 

  Making Our Classrooms Democratic: Influences and Methods in Teaching Current Events

  Matthew Kolsti

  This literature review examines factors that influence how current events, especially contentious topics, are taught in high schools as well as methods that are used by teachers to team them. It was found that political situations and culture wars can influence curricula, and that teachers and administrators choose to comply or resist. This research suggests that various ideologies influence the methods each teacher uses in the classroom to teach controversial subject matter.

• 

  More Than a Passing Grade: My Intrinsically Motivated Undergraduate Research Journey

  Elizabeth Krahe

  The historiography essay from ASI 120 during my first year was more than just a necessary assignment. Through my research on the founding and funding of Historically Black Colleges and Universities during the Reconstruction Era, I was motivated to learn about the beginnings of black higher education in the US and the importance of advocating for quality education for diverse populations. My value of learning and advocacy continues to drive me to pursue further undergraduate research opportunities in the field of education, including participating in the Berry Summer Thesis Institute.By 2043, the United States is projected to become an official "plurality," with the non-Hispanic White population comprising less than 50% of the total (Devine and Ortman, 2014). Schools are becoming more culturally and racially diverse, yet the teaching population remains predominantly White middle-class females. Teachers need to engage all students to promote excitement in learning. Reading and writing are central to education and tied to academic achievement. This study will explore how interdisciplinary models in high school English Language Arts (ELA) education can advance the academic achievement of immigrant, refugee, and urban students. The aim is to observe how teachers in the Dayton Public School system understand and integrate interdisciplinary models in their ELA curriculum, and the benefits or disadvantages of this integration. Using research from Gloria Ladson-Billings' culturally relevant teaching, Paulo Freire's Pedagogy of the Oppressed, and bell hooks' Teaching to Transgress, the study will be grounded in critical pedagogies for education as a tool for freedom.

• 

  Navigating Athletes Mental Health: Challenges Before, During and After the Season

  Ca'ron Coleman, Mary Olivia Eyears, Jenna Ito, Dyrenson Wouters

  College athletes frequently experience fluctuating mental health challenges throughout the sports season due to the physical, emotional, and psychological demands of competition. While sports participation can enhance well-being, pressures related to performance, intensive training, injuries, and external expectations often contribute to anxiety, depression, and burnout. Despite growing awareness, there remains a significant gap in research on how mental health fluctuates across different phases of the sports season and how interventions can be optimized.The purpose of this study is to examine the variations in athlete mental health across pre-season, in-season, and post-season phases, identifying the periods most associated with anxiety, depression, and burnout. Specifically, we aim to test the hypothesis that mental health challenges fluctuate significantly, with heightened stress during in-season competition and increased depressive symptoms post-season due to loss of routine and identity.This study employs a quantitative research approach, collecting primary data through Google Form surveys distributed to athletes at various points in the season. Approximately 80-100 survey responses assessing self-reported burnout, anxiety, and depression levels will be collected. In addition, existing literature on athlete mental health will be reviewed to provide a broader context for understanding these patterns. Statistical analysis, including ANOVA tests and descriptive statistics, will compare mental health trends across the phases.Our findings will contribute to a deeper understanding of seasonal mental health fluctuations in athletes. By identifying critical periods of vulnerability, this research aims to inform targeted interventions by coaches, sports psychologists, and athletic organizations. Enhanced mental health strategies could lead to reduced stigma, improved support systems, and overall better well-being for athletes, ultimately optimizing both performance and quality of life in sports.

• 

  Parent Perspectives of the Special Education Process

  Courtney Bockbrader

  Research indicates that parents of children with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) experience challenges with participation in the special education process due to a variety of barriers. Parents report barriers including a lack of knowledge regarding special education law and terminology, asymmetrical relationships with school staff, the perception of depersonalization and a deficit approach taken by school personnel, and experiencing considerable emotionality throughout the process (MacLeod et al., 2017; Smith & Krieg, 2022; Zeitlin & Curcic, 2013). These findings are significant considering that parents have a legal right to participate in team decision-making within the special education process, as determined by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (2004). This qualitative study examined differences in experiences and needs for support within the special education process for parents of newly identified children and parents of children with long term IEPs. Findings suggest that experiences and needs vary between these groups, although some overlapping themes were identified. Implications for school personnel are discussed.

• 

  Performing Arts in Children's Development

  Jolee York

  Engaging children in performing arts during their early developmental years offers cognitive and mental benefits. Research suggests dance and theater help with creativity and self-expression. It also shows the nature of performing arts as helping children build discipline and time management skills with responsibility. Overall, it is agreed in this literature that performing arts are important in shaping well-rounded and cognitively capable children.

• 

  Pilot Study to Investigate the Effects of Step-rate Manipulation on Running Economy at a Performance Pace in Elite Male Distance Runners

  Noah Clemens

  Background: Step-rate (SR) is a spatiotemporal gait variable representing the number of steps taken per minute while running. Manipulating SR is thought to improve running economy (RE) or reduce injury risk. Research on SR manipulation for RE has focused on recreational athletes or highly trained athletes performing at slow speeds, with limited research exploring competition speeds.Purpose: This study piloted a protocol for determining the most economical SR of highly trained individuals at fast speeds. Methods: Five highly trained male distance runners participated. A graded maximal exercise test determined the speed at anaerobic threshold (AT) as well as the maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) for each subject. The participants returned to complete another running protocol, which consisted of eight 4-minute trials, with two minutes of rest between each trial. The trials were completed at each participant’s speed at AT, and seven step-rate conditions ranging from 9% below self-selected to 9% above self-selected were cued with a metronome. Oxygen consumption was collected.Results: Our sample had an average VO2max of 69.075 ml/kg/min putting them in the 99.5th percentile. The speed at AT varied, with speeds ranging from 10.2 m/s to 12 m/s. Optimal SR was identified for three out of five participants. If participants were unable to achieve a range of SRs, optimal SR could not be determined.Conclusion: Our inclusion criteria and trial duration are appropriate. Though speed at AT was varied, selecting a common trial speed slightly below the average speed at AT may allow for better SR adherence. Adjusting the SR conditions to cover a wider range of achievable values may allow optimal SR to be estimated for more participants. Most participants exhibited the expected relationship between SR and RE, suggesting that this methodology can be applied to a larger sample in a future study.

• 

  Preparing for the Workforce

  Elizabeth Onderak

  Too often students are not prepared to succeed in the workforce. There has been a recent struggle in job hiring to find young people who are fully equipped to succeed in their positions. With the future always changing, it is important that the education system changes with it. The findings shared discuss how to cope with these challenges and suggest improvements and priorities for a focus on for the future of education.

• 

  Project Based Learning

  Ella Sureck

  This research paper will address Project-Based Learning. Project-Based Learning is a teaching method where students engage in real-world projects to gain academic knowledge and skills. Research describes the importance of adding this type of learning to classrooms as it helps students develop better critical thinking skills along with more problem solving skills. This is important as students shape themselves for a successful future.

• 

  Pros and Cons of Online Learning

  Sophia Mitchell

  There are many differences in online learning environments vs traditional learning in school. Everyone learns differently and has different preferences for their learning environment. Online learning has grown dramatically over the years in classrooms. Experiences in the classroom that increase student engagement and learning outcomes for online learning are explored.

• 

  Social Emotional Learning in Elementary School

  Molly O'Riordan

  Implementing social-emotional learning (SEL) in elementary schools fosters students' emotional well-being, improves behavior, and enhances academic performance. This literature review focuses on the importance of starting SEL programs at a young age. As well as how SEL programs help children develop critical skills such as self-regulation, empathy, and interpersonal communication, leading to a positive classroom environment and better overall student outcomes both academically and socially.

• 

  Social Media Engagement with Traumatic Brain Injury Prevention, Recovery, and Community Re-Entry Resources

  Emma Braden

  Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) can result in cognitive, physical, and social-emotional effects that last a lifetime. Inefficient resources can be a significant barrier to care. Internet use, particularly social media, has become an effective way to communicate essential and educational information. Social media can foster connection among those affected by TBIs. Researchers evaluated engagement via analytics on three social media sites on three different platforms that shared information on TBI prevention, recovery, and community re-entry resources. The results of an ANOVA indicated significantly higher engagement when posts were boosted (p = <.001). There was also higher engagement across Facebook and Instagram when compared to Twitter/X. No significant differences were found among engagement across content types; therefore, TBI content creators should continue to post resources relating to prevention, post-injury, statistics, and general information. This study indicated that Facebook and Instagram may be the best social media sites suited to disperse boosted traumatic brain injury resources and content, bridging the gap between healthcare and community.

• 

  Stay With Me! A qualitative study on the retention of young adults in a historically black organization.

  Marnisha Mintlow

  This dissertation explores the factors influencing the retention of Black women under 40 in a historically Black nonprofit organization. Using a qualitative approach, surveys were conducted with current members to identify the organizational, social, and personal dynamics that contribute to their continued motivation and engagement. The study examines themes such as inclusion, motivation, engagement and background within the organization. Findings highlight sisterhood, internal values, dedication and the organization's mission statement, offering insights into how historically Black nonprofits can better support and retain this critical demographic, fostering a more inclusive environment. This research aims to inform retention strategies that address both individual aspirations and organizational needs.

• 

  Students with Depression: Experiences in School Settings and Supports

  Rui Wang

  Mental health is a noteworthy issue in education. Student depression can seriously affect academic performance, social interaction, and overall well-being. This scholarly work explores the challenges faced by students with depression in school environments and explores evidence-based support strategies, including mindfulness-based interventions, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and social support interventions. By understanding these methods, educators and school communities can better create supportive and inclusive learning environments. This literature review aims to improve students' well-being and promote a healthier school environment.