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Fall 2023 Midland University Research Fair

2023 Midland University Fall Research Fair

Through this event, we have the opportunity to showcase the outstanding academic work and experiential learning opportunities of our students. For many students presenting today, their research project serves as the capstone experience for their academic major requiring them to apply skills they have developed throughout their time at Midland. For others, their projects involve putting academic knowledge into practice by going out into the community for enhanced experiences and reflection. We are incredibly proud of the work they have done and hope you enjoy learning from our students.


Research Fair Projects

CRIMINAL JUSTICE

CJU425: Francisco Jared Quinonez – The Unsung Heroes: Understanding the Skills and Coping Mechanisms of 911 Dispatchers

This project aims to understand the different skills and coping mechanisms a 911 dispatcher needs in order to be successful. Also with the goal of determineingwhether or not certain skills go hand in hand with certain coping mechanisms. Based on surveying 911 dispatchers themselves, a set of demographic questions were asked while also delving into the individuals’ career plans and their opinions of their coworkers’ skills.

CJU426: Sade Arrington – Individual Experiences with Family Structures

My purpose of this study is to better understand how different family structures impact the experiences that individuals have. To assses this a google survey was conducted across a wide array of demographics. Specific focus is given to the impact of age, parenting style and gender.

CJU426: Ethan Coleman – From Grit to Glory: Unleashing the Inner Champions in Student Athletes’ Mental Battles

The purpose of this study is to examine how different athletes at Midland University battle with mental toughness by exploring the challenges that student-athletes face in maintaining their mental toughness, as well as the skills to overcome these obstacles. The hope is to provide valuable insight about mental toughness for all student-athletes.

CJU426: Ryan Donovan – Concussions and Beyond: The Impact of Physical Sports on CTE

The goal of this study is to research the possible relationship between physical contact sports and Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Concussions and brain injuries are seen often seen in contact sports but less is know about how often signs of CTE are evident. This question is answered by surveying Midland students to better understand how common symptoms are experienced.

CJU426: Grace Felder – Crimes in the Suits and Crimes in the Streets: A Study of Public Perceptions

The purpose of this study is to gain a deeper understanding of individual’s perceptions on white collar crime, which is often seen as a more socially acceptable type of crime, in comparison to street crime. These difference perceptions are examined through interviews with individuals who have a strong understanding of the criminal justice system.

CJU426: Arianna Flores – Perceptions of Abnormal Coaching Behaviors and its Effects on Student-Athletes

My goal for this project is to better understand whether and how prevalent inappropriate behaviors are by athletic coaches. The impact that this has on players is also examined. In order to discover the mistreatment and subsequent experiences, interviews were conducted amongst 6 student-athletes at Midland University.

CJU426: Villami Makoni – Exploring the Experiences of College Students Raised in Single-Parent Homes through Personal Interviews

With a focus on exploring the positives that come from a negative situation, the goal of this research is to better understand whether children with single parents can outgrow the statistical stereotypes that surround them. Using interviews from college students who grew up in a single parent home, this research shines a light on the overlooked positive aspects that growing up in a single parent home can have on children.

CJU426: Connor Rinn – The Relationship Between Underclassmen College Students and Weight Gain

Based on survey research with current Freshman and Sophomore students, the project that is being studied in the relationship between underclassmen college students and weight gain. The goal is to understand whether these students feel that they have experienced weight gain and the factors that have contributed.

CJU426: Micaela Rodriguez – Private Schools vs Public Schools: A Battle for Education

The goal of this study is to understand how the education system differs between private and public schools. This study was conducted by surveying Midland students about their K-12 education experience. This study includes different factors like bullying and extracurricular activities that affect student learning.

CJU426: Sarah Showalter – From Family Ties to Academic Rise: Unraveling the Link Between Family Composition and Education

The purpose of this study is to explain how family composition affects academic achievement. Key questions involve parental marital and education status, if education was actively discussed in the household, and if there was any financial aid from the family aimed toward further education.

CJU426: Hannah Stone – Participation in Extracurriculars and College Students’ Stress Levels

The goal of this study is to understand how participation in extracurricular activities in a university impacts a student’s stress levels. There is a mental health epidemic occurring in universities around the country, trying to find the factors influencing the decline of students mental health is imperative to solving this epidemic.

CJU426: Samantha Segura-Veliz – Emotional Expression & Ties To Male Masculinity

This project explores the perceptions of six different male individuals in their thirties and their experiences with how showing emotions ties with society’s view on male masculinity. The topic brings to light their own personal experiences of dealing with their emotions and examines what emotional suppression looks like for each of these individuals. The main themes that are highlighted in conneciton with emotions are environmental, cultural, parental structure, emotional suppression and significant other relationships.

CJU426: Trevor Timm – Analyzing the Effects of Video Games on Academic Success and Overall Health

The goal of this study is to see if playing video games has an effect on academic success, as well as overall health of an individual. Video games have become much more prevalent in our society. This brings up concerns regarding how video games can influence parts of a person’s life.

HISTORY

HIS303: Jasmine Ballestros – Japanese Global Power

This project will cover the transformation of long-term urban resilience, an ever-expanding population, and the cultural modification within the country’s capital. Known for its huge market, urbanization, world-renowned technology, and competitive power of new cultural industries, Tokoyo has demonstrated why it is the largest metropolitan city in the world.

HIS303: KeRon Blackwell – Capturing San Francisco

California’s transformative journey from its beginnings to its current status as a global city. Beginning with its Ohlone ancestors and Spanish colonization, it progresses to the pivotal California Gold Rush era, which fueled rapid population growth and economic development. The article investigates the city’s resiliency following the 1906 earthquake, cultural flourishing, and the establishment of iconic structures in the twentieth century. The focus then shifts to the late twentieth and early twenty-first centuries, examining San Francisco’s rise as a tech hub and delves into the city’s long history of social activism and environmental sustainability. This condensed historical analysis seeks to provide insights into the complex forces that have shaped San Francisco.

HIS303: John Cook – Moscow: The Stage

Moscow, the capital of Russia, has a rich history that dates back to its beginnings in the 12th century. Over the centuries, it grew from a small settlement into a powerful city, playing a significant role in Russian politics, culture, and economy. From the rule of Ivan the Terrible to the reign of the Romanov dynasty, Moscow witnessed many historical events and saw the rise and fall of various rulers. By the 20th century, Moscow became the political and cultural center of the Soviet Union, hosting important events like the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution. The city continued to evolve until 1980, when it hosted the Summer Olympics .

HIS303: Ryan Hanson – Liquid Assets: The Thames’ Crucial Role in London’s Financial History

London’s transformation between the 17th and 19th centuries from a major European city into a global metropolis is a tale of resilience, innovation, and foresight. This evolution can be attributed to a combination of political, economic, socio-cultural, and geographical factors that influence the city’s destiny.

The emergence of London was a symbiotic relationship with the iconic River Thames. The Thames provided London with a natural port, which was a source of trade that connected the English interior to the greater world. Throughout the past, this led to the establishment of pivotal docks such as the East and West India Docks, enhancing the city’s status as a hub of global trade. The river also influenced the cultural and urban landscape, providing a backdrop for art, literature, and momentous events, and driving urban expansions and strategic constructions on its banks.

The expansive British Empire further enhanced London’s global stature during this period. Being the heart of the empire’s vast trading network, London was the primary beneficiary of the wealth which streamed in from various colonies. The Industrial Revolution, which had its roots in Britain, boosted London’s commercial and financial standing on the global stage. The establishment of pivotal financial institutions, such as the Bank of England in 1694, further strengthened London’s role as a leading financial powerhouse.

Infrastructure was a key factor in this urban metamorphosis. Projects such as the construction of docks, bridges such as the iconic Tower Bridge, roads, and the railway system were testament to the city’s forward-thinking approach. This infrastructural development not only streamlined trade and movement but also displayed London’s adaptability in the face of challenges. A prime example is the construction of the London sewer system following the “”Great Stink”” of 1858, reflecting the city’s commitment to public health and sanitation.

London was a symbol of enlightenment and artistic expression. The establishment of institutions such as the Royal Society made the city a nexus of scientific thought. Its theaters, authors, and publications further reinforced London’s position as a hub of culture, information, and intellectual pursuit. Additionally, the city’s allure drew in a multitude of people, from skilled craftsmen to scholars, further enhancing its rich mosaic of cultures and ideas.

In conclusion, London’s rise to global prominence between the 17th and 19th centuries was a result of a harmonious combination of geographical advantages, strategic infrastructural and institutional developments, and a vibrant cultural and intellectual milieu. These elements, combined with London’s resilience and adaptability in the aftermath of adversities such as the Great Fire of 1666, created its legacy as a global metropolis that continues to shape its contemporary identity and influence.

HIS303: Dylan Hawk – How did Honolulu come to be?

We live our lives and go on the occasional vacation. More likely than not a lot of major Global Metropolis are vacation spots. A place to go to relax and take your mind off. Whatever you had been doing prior. My project will tell tell how the great vacation spot of Honolulu came to be. Honolulu to Hawaiians is more than just a vacation spot. Thus, my project will figure out how Honolulu became Honolulu and then how it became the vacation spot. We all know today.

HIS303: Kamrin Mauzey – A Historical Journey of Quito, Ecuador

This project dives into the interesting and multifaceted history of Quito, the capital city of Ecuador, over the last 300 years. Beginning with its ancient indigenous roots and moving through the Spanish colonial period, this project explores the city’s transformation from a colonial capital into the vibrant metropolis it is today. By examining key historical events, influential figures, and other milestones this project sheds light on how Quito’s identity has been shaped over time. Through this, we gain a profound understanding of how Quito’s heritage has shaped its present and laid the foundation for its promising future.

HIS303: Alec Villanueva – New York City as a Global Metropolis: A Historical and Contemporary Perspective

New York City is one of the most, if not most, influential and iconic cities in the entire world. Even though its existence only runs about 300 years, its history is rich and filled with stories and events that make it the metropolis it is today, and was nearly 100 years ago. New York City is the trade center of the United States, and one of the biggest in the world. It’s home to major economic sectors like finance, media, and major businesses. It also features one of the most diverse populations in the entire world! Overall New York City could be considered the father of all global metropoli, even though it is one of the youngest!

HIS303: Colton Wunderlich – Berlina: A Global Metropolis

After World War 2 Berlin was split mainly between 4 countries. The United States, France, and Great Britain controlled West Berlin and The Soviet Union controlled Eastern Berlin. Western Berlin thrived and Industry grew very quickly to prop up the post-war economy. East Berlin on the other hand was controlled by Russia and was oppressed. Communism was propped up. The powers that controlled Western Berlin had to drop supplies via airplane to the East because they were not getting adequate supplies. Berlin was finally connected in 1989. This allowed citizens to become Berliners and not East and West. The city grew after it was left on its own.

HIS419: Ariyana Crafton-Jimmerson – African American’s Progress: Education and Civil Rights in the 20th Century

African Americans have endured a multitude of challenges; nevertheless, they have strongly overcome those hardships and exhibited remarkable resilience. In their pursuit of equal opportunities and education, they experienced profound struggles that were only achieved with restrictive policies like “separate but equal” being overturned. Even though decisions like Brown v. Board of Education eliminated school segregation and provided African Americans with greater educational opportunities, their struggles persisted in the 20th century.

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HIS419: Brandon Creps – Beyond Borders: Unveiling Hidden narratives of 20th Century Civil Rights

Embark on a transformative journey through ‘Beyond Borders: Unveiling Hidden narratives of 20th Century Civil Rights.’ This project meticulously explores global civil rights movements, highlighting the pivotal roles of women, the influential force of art and technology, and the intricate dynamics of intersecting identities. By delving into lesser-known stories, our presentation challenges conventional narratives, offering a fresh perspective on the complexities of civil rights struggles. Prepare to be captivated, enlightened, and moved as we unravel the untold tales that have shaped societies and continue to resonate throughout history.

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HIS419: Aryannah Harrison – Shadows to Shame: The Rise and Fall of the Ku Klux Klan

This project delves into the historical trajectory of the Ku Klux Klan, an infamous white supremacist organization in the United States. It explores the rise of the KKK during the Reconstruction Era, its reign of terror through the early to mid-20th century, and its resurgence during the Civil Rights Movement to try and stop the advancement of African Americans. This project highlights the Klan’s evolution from a post-Civil War secret society to a symbol of hate and domestic terrorism, providing an overview of its impact on American society and the ongoing efforts to combat its influence.

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HIS419: Dylan Hawk – Home But Not Home: Japanese Internment During WWII

Very few are aware of what Japanese Americans went through in America during World War II. During this time period, the 14th Amendment was violated. The 14th Amendment guarantees the right of citizenship and the right of citizenship guarantees the right of life, liberty, and land. In my research, I will go into the lives of Japanese Americans during World War II the discrimination they went through, and how they persevered while being relocated during the traumatic times.

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HIS419: Jay Lambert – The Harlem Renaissance: How it Shaped Black America

The Harlem Renaissance was a vibrant cultural movement that allowed African American literature, music, and art to flourish. During this period it produced prominent figures including Duke Ellington and Langston Hughes, and it also caused African American culture to become more prominent within the rest of the country. This also played a pivotal role in the social changes that happened, challenging racial stereotypes and offering a sense of black pride. In this project, I am going to highlight the key members and events of the Harlem Renaissance, and how the great migration played a vital role in jumpstarting this period of black prominence.

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HIS419: Aaron Middleton – Fred Hampton: The Leader That Should’ve Been

The black Panther Party was a Civil Rights group founded in 1966 as a more radical option as compared to MLK, and the leader of its Chicago chapter was a man named Fred Hampton. He was born on August 30, 1948 and was killed on December 4, 1969, and in that short 21 years of life, he was able to make different races come together, with the biggest example being the creation of the Rainbow Coalition. Still, despite the successful speeches and the feeling of togetherness he was able to bring different groups, he and the entire Black Panther Party would still be smeared and called lawless thugs by the government and the media. This project will explain what projects he started, the lasting effects they had on the nearby communities, and how he would eventually be betrayed by on of his most trusted men.

HIS419: Matti Reiling – Fight for Your Rights: African American Civil Rights During World War II

At home and abroad, World War II became a catalyst for social change and activism with the struggle for equality occurring in juxtaposition to the fight against Nazi Germany. In the workforce and in the ranks of the United States military, African American men and women served a country that constantly diminished their constitutional rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. This project will explore the landscape of segregation during the second World War and discuss the progress of African American Civil Rights during the time period.

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HIS419: Bestre Sanchez – How Music Fueled the Sound of Freedom: Concentration to 19th century mainstream songs of protest and artists

In early organized slavery in the US, music was used as a common ground for the literate and illiterate. This art form has been used to bridge the gap of understanding and collaboration amongst different populations as well. Looking further into the stages of civil rights, music has always been a form of expression and argument against forces of racism and terror. Anymore, we use music to conjure different emotions and ideas. However music knows no agenda but has had its part in helping artists explain their concerns or ideals alongside the civil rights era. This project will focus on artists such as Billie Holiday, Louise Armstrong, Nina Simone, Pete Seeger, and Sam Cooke.

HIS419: Eddie Schweikert – Omaha Revisited: An African American History of Omaha, Nebraska

When people think of the African American experience in the United States, many people think of the old South or big cities across the nation. However, this narrow view of history ignores the full scope of African American history in the United States. This research will explore the black and African American experience in Omaha, Nebraska, seeking to bring awareness and attention to this often-overlooked piece of history, emphasized through a local lens.

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HIS419: Salem Scobee – The Fight for Love: The Historical Context of Marriage Equality

The fight for marriage equality was rough for both same sex and interracial couples, it took years to achieve equality for both. This project will examine the cultural norms and opinions as well as the legislation and Supreme Court decisions surrounding racial and same sex marriage equality. It will detail the time in United States history when interracial marriage and same sex marriage was illegal, as well as the timeline of events leading to full marriage equality.

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HIS419: Alec Villanueva – Shaping Society: Historical Figures in Activism

Instead of focusing on one key event in history, I think that I’d like to take a different approach in writing about some of the most important changes in our society. With so many movements and people to choose from I don’t think that just one person was responsible for change. Instead I’d like to highlight multiple people from a wide spectrum of activist involvement. For example, the works of Martin Luther king Jr., regarding African American civil rights. Another example would be Susan B. Anthony, regarding her work in achieving women’s rights. My project will not just consist of background information regarding these people, but it will dive deeper into who they were and the changes they made that we still feel today. Throughout the semester we
have covered many activists, and while I plan to tie them into my project, I’d like to highlight a
few more that deserve just as much attention.

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HIS419: Emily Ziegler – The IDEA of an Equal Education: Special Education in America

IDEA or the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, was a legislative ruling which mandated equal access to education for individuals with physical or mental disabilities. IDEA was developed to ensure that all students have access to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the United States and requires that the education provided is tailored to each individual students’ needs. Most Americans are unaware of the civil injustices that individuals with disabilities have faced in America. This project will dive into the history of how individuals with disabilities were able to gain rights to education and how IDEA has continued to close the gap between disabled and non-disabled individuals in the US education system.

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HONORS

HON300: Laura Alonzo – The Art of Aging: The Power of Accepting the Aging Process

Aging is a normal process that people go through, yet how a person ages varies drastically from one another. One person may age with minimal health problems, while another ages with many health problems Another problem that arises is the treatment that older adults face. As people age, the level of respect they receive decreases because of the visible signs of aging. As unfortunate as this may be, this is the reality that many individuals face as time goes on. This paper analyzes how people feel about aging, the impact that aging has on individuals, and the several ways that people can look at aging from a positive perspective. Another aspect this paper will investigate is the societal influence on individual physical features, which creates pressure to appear young through the aging process. Connecting the biological aspects of aging and the societal expectations of aging can help increase awareness of the importance of promoting a positive image about accepting the aging process.

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HON300: Emma Barnes – Maternal and fetal outcomes in vaginal and cesarean section delivery

In recent years the number of women delivering their babies via cesarean section has increased. We will discuss the difference in both mom and baby health depending on if they were delivered vaginally or by c section. I want my patients to be able to make informed decisions and have all the information on which way they are choosing to bring their baby into the world.

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HON300: Emma Christianson – Inequalities of Healthcare in America and the Importance of Health Promotion

The healthcare system in America is one that is both abstract and confusing too many. Many Americans are uninsured because of cost and lack of knowledge when it comes to receiving healthcare. Those without insurance have a harder time going in to receive care because of cost, and inequality when they do receive care. In 2020, 28 million Americans were without health insurance. Health promotion can reduce the need to receive care and should be the main line of defense from any disease as most are preventable by exercise, healthy eating, and caring for your body. This study is to better understand health promotion options and the inequality when it comes to receiving care.

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HON300: Kay Hopfensperger – Color Theory in Classrooms

Colors in a classroom can affect how a student can learn. This is a psychological effect that colors due to the brain. The kinds of colors that can be shown and how colors affect a person are part of color theory. Color theory studies how colors work together and affect our emotions and perceptions. To show this, people use a color wheel. The color wheel has our three primary colors and our three secondary colors. These colors give us different moods. Color is a powerful tool and can be used to signal action, influence mood, and even influence physiological reactions. Say if someone were in a grey room, that individual would be pretty sad versus a yellow room which might make a person happy. In a classroom, teachers make the environment as comfortable as possible for students so they can focus more on learning than what is going on around them. Colors in the room may affect a student’s mood. Say if a room is full of red, this may make the students feel anxious about what they need to get done or even angry about what is going on in the classroom. If there are inspiring educators, this paper is the place for them to learn about what colors they should think about using in their classrooms.

HON300: Aaron Langemeier – The Economics of Art Heists

To the common eye a piece of art may never stand out or have any value, but to others it can mean everything. A canvas with even a few strokes of a paint brush from notorious painters of history can be worth more than the value of your house and some will do anything to get their hands on these pieces. The value of artwork that is stolen and illegally sold to private parties is a multibillion dollar industry. According to the FBI, between four and six billion dollars worth of artwork is stolen annually across the globe; however, even with the implication of the Art Crime Team as a branch of the FBI, a total of 850 pieces with a value of 135 million dollars have been safely returned to their rightful museum or owner. This is merely a fraction returned and billions of dollars may never be returned (Magness- Gardiner). While the value of the artwork continues to rise, what is being done to prevent valuable pieces from being stolen and what happens to the artwork that is never collected? These questions are the centerpiece and foundation of this paper set out to determine the hidden markets for artwork. Works Cited Magness-Gardiner, Bonnie. “FBI Art Theft Program.” FBI, 4 Sept. 2008, www.fbi.gov/video-repository/newss-fbi-art-theft-program/view. Accessed 15 Oct. 2023.

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HON300: Leia Miller – Art as Advocacy Throughout Time

Sociology is the study of groups of people. Over time these groups of people have been using art to explore their identity, advocate for their rights, and create the change they want to see in the future. Art gives an outlet for individuals to express their inner thoughts. When this art is shared it allows other people to see their message and it can start conversations about the topic. Before the American Civil War, slaves used art and songs to secretly communicate escape plans and other business behind their owners backs. Art gives people a platform to find themselves and the people they share things in common with. In this paper, examples will be given to show how art has historically been used to advocate for groups that are fighting for their rights and explore their group identity. This matters because all groups deserve to be treated equally. People should be allowed to feel pride in who they are. Unfortunately this has been taken away from many. This has been an ongoing struggle all through history, but art has begun to and will continue to assist resolve this issue.

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HON300: Jenna Pool – Text to Film: The Journey of Art

In today’s culture, the most common thing that seems to be happening is turning classic literature into film. Literature is a big part of everyone’s lives because it allows people to look back at history in a unique way. When literature is turned into film, there comes an issue of how true to the story the film is. Many different people try to take the easy way out of reading literature by watching the movie made from the book. This is troublesome because of how movies lose the point that the actual book tries to make. Everyone learns more than they realize by reading literature, whether it’s about history or something deeper about life. One of the best examples of literature to film are the different movies compared to the book of The Great Gatsby. There are three different movies that have been made from The Great Gatsby and each of them has their ways of sticking true to the original story, but some differences too. It’s important to understand how literature can change when it changes forms because there are so many things that can be missed or misinterpreted from the author’s original intent. Fortunately, there are always different ways to get the meaning that the author wanted their audience to get. If this isn’t recognized by society, all the knowledge that these authors wanted their audiences to gain will be gone. There’s little doubt that these books won’t exist after a certain period of time, but the laziness of society will cause people to not take the time to actually read these books.

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HON300: Sarah Sjoberg – How Scientific Diagrams Have Evolved and Changed Over Time

Over time, scientific diagrams have dramatically changed. They have become more detailed, drawn better, and have color as well. When evolution was beginning to be studied more, Charles Darwin had drawings done on his trips that he took of organisms he saw. After more research, some of Darwin’s ideas include evolution, natural selection, adaptation, common ancestry, and gradualism. These ideas have led to many biological developments and debates that have shaped current biology that is now taught in school. At the time when Darwin was traveling, they were good diagrams, but today, they wouldn’t be too helpful. Today’s diagrams are more detailed because, over time, more technology has been developed to be able to do more research and to do better research. So, diagrams that are drawn today are going to have more helpful information compared to past diagrams. Another advantage to today’s diagrams is color. The diagrams done by Charles Darwin did not have color. Color is very helpful in diagrams to help differentiate different parts of the diagram. Some other characteristics of scientific diagrams that make them useful are clarity and simplicity, accuracy, consistency, annotations and labels, organization, scale and proportion, dynamic elements, adaptability, and accessibility. This project will describe how detailed diagrams are beneficial to students and are easier to look at. We will also see how the diagrams done by Charles Darwin may be difficult to use.

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HON300: Jaya Soor – How the Art of Advertising Influences Our Lives

Advertising is an incredibly powerful tool that shapes our choices and influences our lives everyday. As a whole, it is an outstanding process of persuasion that changes our perception of products and brands from reality. The Art behind the adverts, is a dynamic and ever-evolving field that plays a significant role in the effectiveness of these ads. The art combines creativity, psychology and strategic thinking in order to captivate attention and make consumers feel like they are connected to a brand. Art, ever since the beginning, has been a vigorous force when it comes to expressing, influencing and inspiring people. It has the power to transcend language and connect people from all different backgrounds. Without consumers realizing, the way an advertisement is marketed dictates the decisions we make in life. If a consumer was not planning on purchasing something, the way an advertisement is illustrated can completely change their mind without hesitation. Art is the driving force behind how effective these advertisements are and there are many key approaches and examples that demonstrate this.

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HON300: Abigail Spidle – Fresh and Fabulous: Unveiling the Secreets Behind Successful Grocery Store Marketing

Aldi, Trader Joe’s, and Whole Foods are three prominent grocery store chains that employ distinct marketing techniques and psychology to captivate consumers. Aldi, known for its no-frills approach, leverages a strategy of cost-effectiveness. The store’s minimalist design, limited brand assortment, and no-frills store layout convey value and cost-savings to customers, creating a perception of affordability. In contrast, Trader Joe’s focuses on the “”treasure hunt”” experience, using bright, engaging signage, and playful product labeling. They employ scarcity psychology by frequently rotating inventory, inducing a sense of urgency to buy unique, seasonal items. Their friendly and personable staff also cultivate a sense of community, enhancing customer loyalty. Whole Foods, on the other hand, targets health-conscious consumers. With a premium image, they employ sensory marketing by highlighting organic and natural products, incorporating soothing colors, and offering in-store sampling to engage multiple senses. Their ethical and eco-friendly practices appeal to consumers seeking products aligned with their values. All three stores utilize pricing psychology, offering private label products that compete with name brands, and building consumer trust in quality. Additionally, loyalty programs and customer feedback mechanisms play a role in their marketing efforts. Aldi uses a straightforward approach, Trader Joe’s fosters a sense of belonging, and Whole Foods taps into a desire for healthier and ethically sourced products. In essence, these grocery chains employ various marketing techniques and psychological strategies to attract and retain their diverse customer bases.

In today’s complex retail landscape, Aldi, Trader Joe’s, and Whole Foods each employ distinct strategies that respond to critical aspects of modern consumer behavior and societal demands. Aldi’s no-frills approach shines as an answer to economic uncertainties, appealing to consumers striving for cost-effectiveness through minimalist design and limited brand offerings. Trader Joe’s excels in creating engaging shopping experiences, satisfying the desire for entertainment and excitement by orchestrating a “”treasure hunt”” atmosphere with playful branding and frequent inventory rotation. Both Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods resonate with the values-driven consumer demographic, offering a sense of community and ethical, eco-friendly practices, aligning with the heightened emphasis on social connections and sustainability concerns in today’s society. Whole Foods positions itself as a beacon of health and wellness, in tune with the prevailing societal focus on well-being through sensory marketing, organic options, and in-store sampling. Furthermore, they address the growing concern for sustainability, and all three grocery chains adeptly nurture trust and loyalty with consumers through pricing psychology, private label products, and robust customer engagement strategies, recognizing the increased importance of trust and feedback mechanisms in our digitally interconnected world.

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HON300: Kari Van Nostrand – The Unexpected Fuel Source: The Importance of Teaching Art in School

Art, music, and theater are common classes seen in high school. However, their status in school remains low on the list compared to other subjects. What makes it difficult for art classes is that most schools don’t use them to their potential. Art opens a door that allows students to be flexible, vulnerable, and inclusive in the most accommodating ways so that they can express themselves. What schools can discover, however, is that teaching “the basics” in art classes has proved to help students to excel in other areas of school with skills such as reading music and understanding color theory. They also provide academic and psychological benefits with hands-on activities, classroom discussions, and independent studies that students can engage in through various art classes. Finally, schools must understand that art classes should remain in our schools and the removal of them can cause students to lose opportunities that they would not be able to receive anywhere else. Despite the stereotypes that surround art classes, there is evidence that proves that teaching and learning art is beneficial in more ways than anyone can imagine. Only then can a new generation of students rise from the seats in the classroom with new ideas and deep understandings of the world around them so they can foster creativity in their communities and eventually change the world.

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HON300: Sydnee Wenninghoff – The Importance of High School Theatre

According to a 2020 study by the Pew Research Center, 80% of people believe that high school arts programs contribute positively to adolescents’ development. High school arts programs are an important part of teenage development, both socially and academically. More specifically, high school theatre programs benefit students both while they are in school and beyond. Students involved in high school theatre perform 55% better on average than their non-theatre participating peers. All of this sounds like schools would want to support their theatre programs. However, according to the New Jersey Arts Education Fund, nearly 100 million dollars have been cut from high school theatre programs nationwide in the 22-23 school year. This demonstrates the issue of cutting funding within high school theatre. High school theatre has overwhelmingly positive effects on students, it is something that needs to be protected. By examining both the first-hand accounts of high school theatre students, both current and former, from throughout the United States and the academic data of high school theatre students, a clear picture of the benefits becomes apparent. The large benefits of high school theatre are increased test scores, a greater sense of empathy, collaboration skills, and higher self-esteem.

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HON300: Garrick Wilson – The Art in Anatomy

As our knowledge of human anatomy grew, the art to spread that knowledge also grew. Leonardo Da Vinci and Michelangelo are only two of many artists who studied human anatomy in order to improve their art. Their findings increased our understanding of human anatomy and art of the human body. Their research notes and findings helped advance the study of anatomy, by making more realistic diagrams of the human body. Art and anatomy have grown together throughout history, and they still influence each other. Some operations can require an artistic approach, and many artists try to make their art as life-like as possible. In this research paper, I will go into the history of how the efforts of Da Vinci and Michelangelo to become better artists advanced the study of anatomy. I will also explain other times in history when our knowledge of anatomy grew as a result of artists. It is important to recognize the beneficial effects art has had on the study of the human body.

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HON401: Peter Chavez – Cluster Sets: Increasing power throughout weightlifting sets

A typical weightlifting set sees a diminishment of power over time throughout the reps. This reduction in power sees a massive decrease in usefulness to athletics. For this reason, a different way of completing a workout would be instituting cluster sets. Cluster sets are shown to maintain power throughout high repetition sets and therefore are more applicable to anaerobic sports. With my research, I aim to demonstrate that cluster sets are beneficial for athletics and determine when and how to use them.

HON401: Sarah Murray – The Effects of Music Therapy on Mental Illnesses

Music Therapy is a relatively new discipline that can have significant effects on different mental illnesses. Music Therapy is the clinical and evidence-based use of music to accomplish individualized goals. Each mental illness is unique across people and across categories, and the treatments that work for some people and illnesses may not work for others. Music Therapy has been shown to be effective in treating Anxiety disorders, Depressive disorders, Personality disorders, Eating disorders, Posttraumatic Stress disorders, and more. This literature review aims to determine which illnesses and disorders Music Therapy has been most effective with and explain which traits of illnesses and disorders lead to higher recovery with Music Therapy.

HON401: Eddie Schweikert – Effective Soundbites or Effective Policy? A Closer Look at Social Studies Standards in Education

History represents an important and often personal subject. As a result, many parents, educational experts, and elected officials advocate curricular standards that advance their personal values and worldview. However, much of this contentious debate has focused more on getting the best soundbite and winning elections instead of delivering effective education. This project attempts to separate rhetoric from results by exploring the connections between politicized social studies standards and student achievement in the form of standardized test scores.

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HON401: Sarah Showalter – Foster Care in America: A Literature Review

Foster care in the United States was created in 1853 by Charles Loring Brace. Today, more than 391,000 children are in foster care in the United States. This literature review aims to explain the process of the foster care system, highlighting the risks and benefits for foster children. This study will also examine the traits, qualities, and training of foster parents. The goal is to educate readers about the foster care system and its essential pieces.

NURSING

NUR426: Zoey Carrico & Jeny Rascon – STEMI QI & Safety

The focus of our project is to identify opportunities for improvement in early identification and treatment for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients as Methodist Fremont Health works towards minimizing door to balloon time.

NUR426: Allie DeGroff & Camille Vestal – Non-Pharmacological Pain Interventions- Healing Touch

Opportunity for improvement with EHR documentation evidence of non-pharmacological interventions for pain. Methodist Fremont Health started using Healing Touch as a new non-pharmacological pain intervention and are looking to add ways to document it and other non-pharmacological pain interventions in the patient’s EHR under their pain assessment.

NUR426: Adriana Martinez & Chloe Dominger – Interpretation Services

The focus of our project was the effectiveness of interpretaive services at Fremont Methodist Health. Our QI project focuses on how having more oncall interpreters would be beneficial. We gathered information on their policy and how they felt that things were going at the time of meeting.

NUR426: Aaliyah Jordan & Jemila Ibrahim – Sepsis

The focus of our topic was sepsis, a serious condition and leading cause of death in hospitals. Our quality improvement project focuses on reducing mortality rates via improvement in sepsis bundle compliance at Methodist Fremont Health. We gathered information about their progress so far, and noted the current steps that are being taken to improve compliance rates at the hospital.

NUR426: Emma Lewis & Bree Roberts – CAUTI prevention

The focus of our topic is the opportuinity for the imporvment in CAUTI prevention at Methodist Fremont Hosptial.

NUR426: Aliyah Rincon & Trevor Kigoonya – Patient Hand Hygiene

The focus for our project topic is the opportunity for improvement with auditing procedures and hand hygeine related to patients on medical surgical units at Methodist Fremont Health hospital. We looked at evidence and data reflecting use of hand hygiene standard measures related to patients before and after meals and after toileting or exposure to self body fluids at the hospital. Our project will focus on recommendations the hospital has taken for improvement as well as additional evidence-based methods for quality improvement related to patient hand hygeine.

NUR426: Jace Mahoney & Olivia Gardea – Lab Specimen Collection in the ED

Our group is working to decrease lab specimen and collection errors at Methodist Fremont Hospital. We want to target making sure nurses are following the correct process and limiting chance at errors. The purpose of this is to limit errors that may lead to mislead information and misdirect clinical judgement. We also want to limit having to make our patient uncomfortable by having to draw blood multiple times for our patient as they are already going through a lot.

NUR426: Alizeih Villalpando, Mia Orduna & Levi Markey – UTI Prevention

Our group’s project topic is the oppotunity for improvement with UTIs within Dunklau Gardens. We will be talking about the care mesures that the task team at Dunklau took and ways they are able to improve this problem within their nursing home to prevent any pain and discomfort for the residents as well as not using antibiotic therapy if not necessary.

NUR426: Xacaria Clark & Precious Eden – Nye Legacy Fall Prevention

Our focus of the project is the opportunity for improvement with fall incidencce reduction through interdisciplinary care team measures. We will gather imformation about how daily falls can be charted and communicated amongst the employees in the facility. We will also be gathering information on what interventions can be implemented to help prevent falls in the facility.

NUR426: Rylee Rusinko & Keyana Hastings – Staff Hand Hygiene on Medical Surgical Units

The focus of our project is the opportunity for improvement with hand hygiene compliance through the use of an artificial intelligent tool. The research gathered in this project will show the quality, knowledge, and compliance of hand hygiene and how Methodist Fremont Health can improve the system used to gather data in measuring hand hygiene compliance.

NUR426: Emma Christianson & Natalie Hammer – Nurse-led Hospice Visits Prior to Hospice Patient’s Death

The purpose of this project is to provide an opportunity for improvement with securing a minimum of two nurse led hospice visits within the 3 day period of a patient’s death. The research will be focused on gathering information on how to better provide support and resources for family during those last moments with their loved one. We will explore how to get those last visits in before a patient passes.

NUR426: Serenity Durham Goree & Lauryn Samuelson – Use of Restraints & Associated Documentation

The focus of our project is the opportunity for improvement with hospital-wide use of restraints and associated documentation. The research gathered in this project will identify the importance of documentation while using restraints. It will provide information on the policies that Methodist Fremont Health implements within its facility and ideas to improve the practices for better patient outcomes and safety.

NUR426: Abby Ertz & Allie Lazarus – Workplace Violence in Healthcare

The focus of our project is the documentation of workplace violence, including the different types and how this can affect the workplace atmosphere and the workers involved. Workplace violence includes visitors, workers, and patients. We are gathering information to improve the incidence of violence in the workplace and formulate interventions. Through our research, we have found multiple factors that influence why workplace violence is underreported and interventions to de-escalate situations to try and prevent violence from occurring. Progress on this can be done at the personal level as well as the management and organization level to address these issues. We suggest implementing more education and training with staff about reports and why they are important to fill out without fear of judgment or repercussions. We also suggest making the formal workplace violence complaint more accessible to staff to encourage reporting. We have found how prevalent workplace violence is in healthcare and that action needs to be taken.

NUR426: Andrea Schreiber – Early Hospice Referrals

Fremont Methodist Health recognized that hospice patients had an average length of stay of less than 5 days, with the goal being the average length of stay greater than 5 days. By referring patients to hospice care earlier in the course of their illness, healthcare professionals can help to ensure that patients receive the appropriate care and support to manage their symptoms, maintain their comfort, and improve their quality of life.

NUR426: Grace Chipman & Roni Foote – Pain Assessment and Reassessment

The focus of our topic was pain assessments and reassessment before and after a pain medication is given. We looked at charting audits to determine if nurses were accurately documenting pain assessment according to JCO.

SOCIOLOGY

SOC426: Victoria Cruz Cervantes – The Buzz on Campus: An Analysis of Caffeine Intake among College Students

College students often rely on caffeine to combat sleep deprivation, boost alertness, and enhance academic performance. This research explores the prevalence of caffeine consumption among Midland University’s college students, its potential effects on their physical and mental health, and the need for responsible caffeine usage to maintain overall well-being during their academic journey.

SOC426: Jacob Liquori – Boost Your Gains the Natural Way: Unleashing the Power of a Healthy Lifestyle

The purpose of this study was to get a better understanding of college students to see if they have used steroids or natural supplements to increase their athletic performance and if they live a healthy lifestyle. The study included the perceived potential benefits, risks, and long-term implications of each path.

SOC426: Tayler Peligrino-Hayase – Snooze or Lose: Exploring the Relationship Between Sleep & College Student Performance

The purpose of this study is to develop a better understanding of sleep among college students. The study looks into the associating factors of why college students are potentially satisfied or dissatisfied with their sleep. Poor sleep quality can have extensive effects for college students and thus how thi may impact the individuals’ cognitive functioning and physical performance is also examined.

SOC426: Madyson Ray – Diet & Nutrition & Mental Health, Oh My!

The goal of this research is to understand how diet and nutrition affect a college student’s mental health. Oftentimes the way a person eats affects the way a person feels mentally either positively or negatively. Changes that occur in students’ diets when they leave home and go to college are extremely impactful.

SOC426: Harold Urban – Effects on student athlete’s mental health by sport

The purpose of this project is to determine the possible effect that the sport an athlete plays has on their mental health. Are basketball players more stressed than soccer players? What about football? This research is important to help better understand the mental health of student athletes, as this can help with getting athletes the resources they need to better help their mental health.

SOC426: Kolten Wright – Exploring The Impact Of Stress on College Students’ Mental and Physical Well-Being

Stress is in everyone’s lives to some degree all of the time, but one of the most vulnerable groups to high amounts of stress are college students. This project explores what factors for college students are contributing to their stress levels and the positive and negative effects stress has on them. The different positive and negative coping mechanisms many college students use is also examined.

YOUTH & FAMILY MINISTRY

YFM420: Luke Chavanne – A Guide for Christian Mission Experiences

Mission trips are an essential piece of the Christian tradition focused on following Christ’s last command The Great Commission. There are a multitude of things to consider when preparing to lead a Christian mission experience. This guide is designed to aid those seeking some assistance when beginning this process and searching for things to consider. Some of the topics this guide includes are travel resources, preparation considerations, cultural considerations, hosting accommodations, as well as religious considerations. This research is designed to be a useful tool and guide for anyone considering leading or joining this type of religious experience.

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