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Are two heads better than one? Investigating the influence of collaboration on creativity
Get PDFCreativity and collaboration are considered fundamental skills for student success in STEM Education (Karimi & Pina, 2021) and are consistently among the top-ranked skills for employers (Flaherty, 2021). To assess creativity, the Remote Association Task (RAT) is an increasingly used tool to measure creative problem-solving (Wu et al., 2021). However, no research has systematically investigated the effectiveness of working collaboratively versus individually using this measure. The current research evaluates how collaboration impacts creative problem-solving using the RAT. Participants worked collaboratively or individually to solve 20 RAT problems (Experiments 1-2) and completed a later, individual test that involved the same 20 RAT problems and 20 novel RAT problems (Experiment 2). Outcomes suggest collaboration lowers performance during initial problem solving, but may benefit later, individual problem solving. Evaluating how best to support creative processes in the context of collaboration has implications for supporting student success and helping them develop highly applicable skills
Wetland restoration in the North Dakota Prairie Pothole Region: a macroinvertebrate community perspective
Get PDFThis study assessed the long-term recovery of aquatic macroinvertebrate communities to wetland restoration. Previous research has suggested that even after a decade post restoration, macroinvertebrate communities may not fully resemble those of undisturbed reference sites, and how effective wetland restorations are in recovering macroinvertebrates is unclear. To assess macroinvertebrate recovery to restoration over long-time frames, thirteen restored and five reference wetlands were sampled in the North Dakota Prairie Pothole Region during July and August of 2019. Restored wetlands ranged from 20 to 32 years post-restoration, within restoration dates spanning between 1987-1999. Differences were examined between reference and restored sites, along with differences between four age categories: 20-26 years (n = 4), 29 years (n = 4), 31-32 years (n = 5) and reference sites (n = 5). No significant differences were found in aquatic macroinvertebrate richness and diversity between reference and restored wetlands, or among restoration age groups. Community composition was also similar among all restoration age groups, with no apparent influence from measured chemical and physical water variables and soil organic matter. These results suggest, within the Prairie Pothole Region, that restored wetlands contain diverse macroinvertebrate communities that resemble undisturbed reference sites after 20 to 32 years post-restoration
The Impact of Media on Price Paid for Thoroughbred Horses at Auction
Get PDFIt has been said a picture is worth a thousand words, but the economic value of that picture for livestock sales transactions has not been quantified. The objective of this study aimed to evaluate the effect of the presence of media (photos and/or video) on sale prices of Thoroughbreds. Online auction sale data from two U.S. Thoroughbred auction sites were used to compare 18,221 horses that sold and 4,215 horses that failed to meet the minimum desired bid. Sellers that provided media of their horses at auction received approximately 74,000 more for yearlings, and $89,500 more for older horses versus horses without media representation. Additionally, sellers increased their ability to receive a desired sale price for their horse when media was available for prospective buyers. In conclusion, availability of media prior to sale at auction will result in a greater sale price at every life stage
Implementing Industry 4.0: a study of socio-technical readiness among manufacturers in Minnesota and North Dakota
Get PDFThe implementation of Industry 4.0 has become increasingly prevalent in the manufacturing industry since its inception. With the introduction of these newer technologies, changes in personnel and organizational structures occur. The purposeful joint optimization of social and technical factors of organizations is imperative to the successful adoption of Industry 4.0. Thus, the socio-technical system theory addresses a holistic design of human, technology, and organization subsystems of the manufacturing process and their interdependencies.
This dissertation investigates the progress made towards implementing Industry 4.0 by small, medium, and large manufacturers in Minnesota and North Dakota. The outcomes of two surveys conducted among a group in Minnesota and North Dakota are analyzed and the results are compared to national and international data. This research identifies potential challenges, as well as, advantages in the current socio-economic landscape for manufacturers that may be either impeding or encouraging the development of a competitive and sustainable manufacturing business. As well, the implementation of flexible work arrangements in the modern work environment has increased in recent years. The first survey posed questions based on a socio-technical theory framework, Industry 4.0, and productivity outcomes. Insights were provided as to how regional manufacturers were utilizing the socio-technical design framework to integrate Industry 4.0 into the organizational design and extract value, such as increased productivity. The joint optimization of social and technical factors within an organization is necessary for the successful adoption of hybrid work environments. The outcomes of the second survey conducted among a group of small, medium, and large manufacturers in Minnesota and North Dakota were assessed the level of socio-technical readiness among regional manufacturers. The survey posed questions based on socio-technical design, digital maturity, organizational learning, responsible autonomy, leadership, communication strategies, and reduced work week schedules. Insights were provided as to how these critical factors support sustainability initiatives, such as reduced work week schedules. As a result of the surveys, a socio-technical strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis framework to complete was proposed to guide the organization through the Industry 4.0 implementation process, assess opportunities for the reduction of work hours, and facilitate the strategic enterprise-wide buy-in from employees and diverse stakeholders
Assessing Burnout and Resiliency in Doctor of Nursing Practice Students
Get PDFThis project aims to further assess the issue of burnout among Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) students, a population that remains understudied in the context of burnout research. DNP students, who concurrently function as registered nurses, graduate students, and novice nurse practitioners (NPs), can face many challenges in their academic journey. The rigorous demands of didactic and clinical coursework have been shown to impact academic success and overall well-being. Existing literature highlights high levels of burnout among DNP students, which affect various aspects of their lives, including personal time, sleep, and relationships.
Resilience has been identified as a potential strategy to mitigate burnout, with more resilient individuals experiencing lower rates of burnout and an improved quality of life. By assessing the correlation between these factors, the aim is to shed light on the prevalence and causes of burnout symptoms in DNP students and explore the levels of resiliency within this population.
A quantitative descriptive survey was conducted to collect data on burnout and resiliency levels among DNP students. Thirty-one DNP students completed the survey. Burnout scores reflected moderate to high levels in second and third-year students, with first-year students experiencing the lowest rates of burnout. Resiliency scores were below the national average, with third-year students experiencing the lowest levels of resilience.
The cynicism component of burnout correlated negatively with resilience, while the professional efficacy component of burnout correlated positively with resilience. There was no correlation observed between the emotional exhaustion component of burnout and resilience. Furthermore, DNP students with resilience exposure experienced lower rates of cynicism and were found to be more resilient than participants who had no resilience exposure. These findings strengthen the theory that utilizing resilience is useful in decreasing burnout severity and increasing resilience.
The outcomes of this practice improvement project hold significant implications for the mental health and well-being of DNP students. Interventions can be developed by individuals and educational institutions to potentially prevent and reduce the likelihood of burnout. This project addresses an urgent need for research in this area and underscores the importance of prioritizing the mental health of healthcare professionals in training
Evaluation of fungicide sensitivity and forms of resistance of selected Diaporthe species in soybean (Glycine max L.)
Get PDFIn U.S, Diaporthe species caused yield losses of 0.2 million metric tons in soybean in 2022. Quinone outside inhibitor fungicides carry high risk of fungicide resistance and may use for managing Diaporthe. In this study, isolates of D.aspalathi, D.caulivora and D.longicolla from 16 U.S. states were tested for their sensitivity to azoxystrobin. Significant effect of isolates (P<0.05) was observed on effective concentration at which mycelial growth was inhibited by 50% (EC50). The results showed the presence of sensitive Diaporthe isolates in soybean to azoxystrobin. Moreover, resistance to stem and seed infection by D.longicolla was evaluated in 39 soybean accessions. Significant effect of genotypes was observed on disease severity of stem and seed infection (P<0.05). Correlation between disease severity of stem and seed infection was non-significant. Results indicate defense mechanism against D.longicolla during stem and seed infection may differ. These findings indicate need to determine alternative fungicide chemistries and develop Diaporthe-resistant soybean varieties
Dammed: Master Planning Along the Lower Snake River in a Post Dam-Removal Condition
Get PDFThe four dams on the lower Snake River in Washington state have numerous impacts on the surrounding environment, and although provide benefits of hydroelectric power, irrigation services, and waterway navigation that alter the state of the river and adjacent land ecologically. The question that persists is if these structures need to be maintained, replaced, or removed altogether; since like all man-made structures, they have a finite lifespan that is approaching its end. The following research and methodologies address design solutions for these dam sites in a post-removal condition through case studies, site analysis, site planning, and design interventions from a landscape architectural lens. Although total removal is not certain as it deals with the influence of many different stakeholders, for the approach it will err on the hypothesis of removal. The unique design approach will open the door for greater opportunities along the river corridor
Genetic variation in black gram and guar for phenology, physiology, growth, and yield under irrigated and rainfed conditions of Northern Great Plains
Get PDFField trials were conducted in 2022 and 2023 to evaluate the feasibility of growing black gram (Vigna mungo) and guar (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba) and to identify superior accessions for semiarid conditions of Northern Great Plains, U.S. Significant genetic variability was observed among 21 black gram and 18 guar accessions under rainfed and irrigated conditions. Black gram accession PI425187 yielded the highest grain per plant (8.6 g) under rainfed conditions, while PI377397 and PI377406 performed best under irrigated (6.5 g). Number of pod per plant and seeds per pod were highly correlated with yield per plant. The highest guar yield per plant obtained were (8.1 g) in rainfed and (6.6 g) in irrigated conditions. These guar yields were, however, significantly below the yield reported in the southern great plains, U.S. The study demonstrates the feasibility of cultivating black gram in NGP conditions. More multi-location trials are recommended to identify superior accessions
Cosmic Curiosities and Earthy Wonders: A Sensuous Reimagining of the Denver Museum of Nature and Science
Get PDFThe Denver Museum of Nature and Science envisions a transformation that
acknowledges our connection to nature, aiming to deepen our understanding of this relationship. This transformation stems from the belief that humans are part of nature, not its conquerors. The museum has achieved LEED Platinum certification, highlighting its commitment to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. However, critics argue it serves more as a testament to human achievements than as a sanctuary for nature, missing the chance to integrate with its surrounding environment. To address this, the proposed transformation emphasizes architectural design in harmony with nature, moving away from mere mechanical efficiency towards a more symbiotic relationship. The vision extends beyond exhibits, aiming to reimagine the museum as a living link connecting people with the marvels of our planet and beyond
Growing with the Roots: Re-Connecting Youth with Nature Through Nature-Based Learning and Play
Get PDFChildren today are becoming increasingly disconnected from the natural world. This is directly related to the increased amount of time spent indoors which is likely caused by limited access to natural green spaces, time spent on screens and parental safety concerns. Too much time spent indoors leads to reduced physical activity, lower physiological well-being, increased social-emotional vulnerabilities and a lack of care for the environment. While these trends are detrimental to the child, they are also detrimental to the environment. In a time where pro-environmental advocates are needed more than ever, our next generation of environmental stewards are disconnected from the natural world. This begs the question; how can we better connect the next generation of youth to nature? Growing with the Roots is a design solution intended to provide children with the opportunity to connect with nature by being highly accessible to the surrounding communities in West Fargo, ND. A lack of accessibility to naturalized spaces in this area of the city calls for an ecological community park, centered around nature-based play and learning, to help children form a bond with nature, while also enhancing their learning, development, and environmental stewardship