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Impact of an online teaching faculty development course on student social engagement
No full textAmple evidence supports the impact of greater student social engagement on student success outcomes, particularly for first time in college freshmen students (Avison et al., 2007; Tinto, 1997; Wilcox et al., 2005). Keeping students engaged socially online can be challenging for some faculty due to reliance on strategies that worked previously within face-to-face environments (McQuiggan, 2012). At the University of North Florida, a Teaching Online (TOL) certification course provides instructors with evidence-based online pedagogy aimed at bolstering social engagement.
This dissertation investigated whether and how faculty implementation of TOL design principles impacted freshmen students’ social engagement with both peers and instructors in fully online courses. A quasi-experimental, post-test design surveyed 44 first-year undergraduates near mid-term in Fall 2024. Students completed the “Dialogue with Students” and “Dialogue with Instructors” subscales of the Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire, while rating the extent to which their course reflected TOL elements.
Perceived TOL implementation correlated positively with peer dialogue (r = 0.39, p = .009) and even more strongly with student-to-faculty dialogue (r = 0.52, p \u3c .001). Adding TOL implementation to the control model increased explained variance from 25 % to 37 % for peer dialogue (B = 0.47, p = .012) and from 11 % to 37 % for instructor dialogue (B = 0.72, p \u3c .001). Findings underscore that it is not completion of faculty training but the faithful application of its design principles that elevates online interaction. Institutions should pair development courses like TOL with follow-up support—design audits, peer mentoring, and coaching—to ensure training translates into engagement-rich course structures
Episode 23 Math and Analytical Resources
No full textIn this episode, Librarians Lauren Odom and Beryl White-Bing dive into the wealth of mathematics and analytical resources available through the Thomas G. Carpenter Library. They highlight powerful tools like Mintel Reports and Statista, which provide global consumer data, market analytics, and industry-specific statistics—perfect for tackling research projects or exploring topics like the electric vehicle market.
Beryl also spotlights Calc Flow VR, an immersive tool in the Virtual Learning Center that allows students to explore mathematical concepts in 3D space, making abstract topics more engaging and interactive. And don’t miss the announcement of this episode’s Library VR Champion—Dr. Rachel Mullins, Professor of Social Work—who is recognized for her engagement with immersive technology in teaching and learning.
The librarians also share updates on campus activities, including Puzzle Day in the VLC every other Tuesday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and the return of library open office hours in Zoom, designed to give students and faculty immediate access to research help without an appointment.
Whether you’re a student facing midterms, a faculty member planning course assignment, or simply someone curious about where to find reliable statistics and immersive learning tools, this episode offers practical guidance and engaging updates to support your academic journey.https://digitalcommons.unf.edu/instructionpodcast/1022/thumbnail.jp
Analysis of port traffic growth for optimization of traffic flow: A microscopic traffic simulation study of JAXPORT\u27s Blount Island Marine Terminal
No full textTo accommodate increasing cargo volumes and remain competitive, ports worldwide are facing growing pressure to expand and modernize their facilities. However, these expansions can place additional strain on land transportation networks, leading to congestion, delays and operational inefficiencies. This study used VISSIM, a microscopic traffic simulation tool, to model and analyze the complex traffic dynamics at the Blount Island Marine Terminal in Jacksonville, Florida, which is currently undergoing expansion.
To account for future traffic conditions, time series analysis was employed to project growth in traffic demand, taking into consideration anticipated expansions in tenant yard facilities, as well as increases in berth capacity. Traffic forecasts for the year 2035 were developed using a combination of the FDOT Northeast Florida Regional Travel Demand Model and the ITE Trip Generation Manual. These projections were integrated into the calibrated baseline model to evaluate future “no build” and “build” scenarios.
The results indicated a deterioration of intersection performance with increased traffic demand, revealing potential bottlenecks within the network. To address these challenges, a range of geometric and operational improvements were proposed, including lane expansions, alternate entrance for non-container truck traffic, additional service gates at the main gate and container yard gate, and improved gate processing times. Simulation results demonstrated the effectiveness of these strategies in improving travel time, delay, and level of service (LOS) across critical road segments and intersections. Based on these outcomes, the study recommends a phased implementation of all five strategies to ensure that an acceptable LOS is maintained throughout the network
A pilot study of the freeze response: Physiological markers under threat versus safety video conditions
No full textThis pilot study examined physiological markers of the human freeze response during exposure to threat and safety-based video stimuli. The freeze response is an adaptive defense mechanism characterized by reduced heart rate and heightened sympathetic arousal (Roelofs, 2017; Hagenaars et al., 2014; Sagliano et al., 2014; Hermans et al., 2013). 20 university students were randomly assigned to view either a threatening or safety-based video clip while heart rate and electrodermal activity (EDA) were recorded using Biopac Bionomadix wireless systems. Trauma severity and PTSD symptomatology were assessed through validated self-report measures (BTQ; Schnurr et al., 1999), (PCL-5; Weathers et al., 2013). Although traditional ANCOVA analyses did not reveal statistically significant group differences, moderate effect sizes suggested trends toward elevated sympathetic activity. Additionally, correlation analysis did not reveal any significant association between trauma severity and PTSD severity with physiological responses regardless of the video condition. Time-segmented analyses revealed brief autonomic shifts, particularly during the early moments of video onset, indicative of an orienting response. These patterns were obscured in condition-level averaging, emphasizing the value of segmented physiological analysis in freeze response research. Although the study was underpowered, it demonstrated the basis for capturing subtle biobehavioral changes through physiological recording and segmentation analysis. Future research should use larger, trauma-diverse samples, use subjective experience metrics, and employ machine learning approaches to confirm patterns in physiological data. Findings from this pilot contribute to an emerging understanding of how trauma influences defensive states and highlight the potential for refined methodologies in psychophysiological research
Exploration of physicians’ and registered dietitians’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to current nutritional concerns in adult Cystic Fibrosis patients
No full textBackground: As Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) modulator treatments for Cystic Fibrosis (CF) continue to advance, patients are experiencing new challenges related to their nutrition. Many patients have gone from fighting to gain weight to working to maintain or lose weight. These shifts in nutrition have left providers without nutrition care standards or guidelines to assist patients in achieving an optimal nutritional status. This study aimed to explore providers\u27 knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the current nutritional concerns in the era of CFTR modulators.
Methods: We conducted an exploratory survey among physicians and registered dietitians (RDs) currently practicing in adult CF care centers (n=97) to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to current nutritional concerns according to the most recent research. Knowledge scores were calculated by assigning correct responses one point and wrong or unsure answers zero points. Attitude and practice scores were measured using Likert scales and calculated by averaging the total score. Qualitative interviews were conducted among a sample of RDs practicing in adult CF care centers via Zoom (n=13) to further explore current providers\u27 attitudes and practices regarding nutritional concerns in adult CF patients.
Results: Providers had moderate knowledge scores (M=66.48, SD=8.57), relatively high attitude scores (M=83.65, SD=6.33), and fair practice scores (M=68.13, SD=8.54). Interview data reflected three main themes: 1) RDs’ approach to the mental and emotional effects of weight gain (e.g. sensitivity of questions, lack of knowledge and skills to address concerns, importance of unified CF care team approach); 2) Practice Approach to weight concerns (e.g. patient led weight loss and weight neutral approach, lifestyle changes); and 3) Lack of research for nutrition care in the setting of CFTR modulators (e.g. lack of guidance on vitamin and minerals, calorie and protein estimations, use of BMI as nutrition indicator)
Conclusion: Providers continue to struggle with addressing nutritional concerns in the setting of CFTR modulators due to the lack of research and nutritional guidelines. Providers expressed the need for evidence-based research regarding the effects of weight gain, the efficacy of BMI as a nutrition indicator, vitamin and mineral supplementation, and calorie and protein recommendations to ensure they provide the best patient care
Precision haptics for rehabilitation: Quantifying directional bias and force threshold effects on motor learning
No full textHand rehabilitation represents a critical challenge in modern physical therapy, with significant implications for patients\u27 quality of life and functional independence. Despite technological advancements across healthcare, traditional hand assessment methods often rely on subjective measures or lack task-specific biomechanical assessment capabilities. This thesis investigates the effects of haptic force feedback, handedness, and rotation direction on circle-tracing task completion using a within-subjects factorial design with 20 university participants examining varying resistance levels (0.0N, 0.5N, 1.2N) across different movement configurations using a 3D Systems Touch X haptic device with 0.023mm precision. Results demonstrate that moderate haptic force (0.5N) significantly enhanced spatial accuracy by 18.4% compared to no-force conditions (p \u3c 0.001, η² = 0.47), while higher force levels (1.2N) yielded diminishing returns. The interaction between handedness and rotation direction (F(1, 19) = 14.92, p \u3c 0.001, η² = 0.44) revealed substantial biomechanical advantages for movements aligned with natural tendencies. Quadrant-specific performance indicated significant differences, with superior- medial movements demonstrating the highest accuracy. These findings extend theoretical models of hemispheric specialization and sensorimotor adaptation while providing empirical support for developing personalized, adaptive haptic feedback systems that dynamically adjust parameters based on individual characteristics and movement requirements, potentially maximizing functional recovery in hand rehabilitation
Florida Bathing Beauty 1920
No full textThis artwork shows a figure dressed in a 1920s-style bathing suit on a wooden pier, holding their leg in the air.https://digitalcommons.unf.edu/campus_art/1814/thumbnail.jp
Creating Web-Based Augmented Reality Experiences in the Academic Library
No full textHampered by constantly evolving applications, the cost of commercial applications, and the mechanics of having to download yet another application to a smart device, the use of augmented reality (AR) has been a struggle for this academic librarian in promoting resources, teaching content, and encouraging widespread general use of this immersive technology. Then, a random conversation with a creative and technology-oriented multimedia artist changed my perspective on this very useful and immersive tool. He introduced the concept and use of web-based augmented reality and the possibility of its use, not just in creative ways to produce art, but in other ways to inform and educate the public. This article will explore how the use of web-based augmented reality has been used in an academic library at the University of North Florida (UNF) to educate, inform, and document information in an immersive way and to keep the user experience uncomplicated. I will specifically highlight the process for both creation of the Jazz AR Experience and the VLC AR tour. Each experience was accomplished through campus collaborations with librarians from the Instruction Unit of Thomas G. Carpenter Library, the Head of Digital projects, the Center for Instructional Research and Technology (CIRT), and a faculty member in the Computing department at UNF
Antisocial behavior among students in Florida school districts and their associated disciplinary approaches: A cross-lagged panel design
No full textResearch suggests that antisocial behavior is a major problem for all those involved in school environments. Additionally, despite the prevalence of using harsher punishments in response to such behavior, these practices may present more negative rather than positive consequences. The aim of the current study was to explore antisocial behavior in schools and the disciplinary approaches used in response to such behavior. Using disciplinary data reported for public schools in 67 districts of the state of Florida, the prevalence of antisocial behavior incidents was compared to the prevalence of other, drug-related incidents. A cross-lagged panel model determined whether a preference for exclusionary practices or rates of antisocial behavior incidents in previous years was a stronger predictor of antisocial behavior in following years. We found no relationship between the disproportionate use of exclusionary practices and the increased risk of severe antisocial behavior in subsequent years. In contrast, we found that the risk of severe antisocial behavior within schools often predicted less general use of exclusionary practices in subsequent years, rather than the inverse. Determining the relationship between antisocial behavior and the disciplinary practices used to address these behaviors can have important implications for school staff, helping to create safe, productive learning environments
Rewilding the Built Environment: Navigating Economic, Political, and Social Barriers to Urban Ecological Restoration
No full textUrban rewilding offers a nature-based approach to restoring ecological processes in cities while advancing climate resilience, biodiversity, and public well-being. Unlike conventional green infrastructure, rewilding allows ecosystems to develop with minimal intervention, emphasizing succession, complexity, and long-term adaptability. This paper examines the political, economic, and social factors that frame how rewilding is understood and implemented in urban planning. Governmental frameworks often prioritize order, predictability, and short-term results, making it difficult to accommodate the uncertainty and ecological complexity that rewilding requires. Economic models struggle to capture its long-term value, frequently overlooking ecosystem services or reconciling competing land uses. Social perceptions of rewilded spaces of wilderness are mixed, shaped by aesthetic expectations, safety concerns, and broader inequities in access to green spaces. These challenges limit rewilding’s potential to function as a meaningful planning strategy. However, when cities create space for ecological processes, invest in long-term environmental stewardship, and design with communities in mind, rewilding can cool urban heat islands, improve air and water quality, manage stormwater, increase biodiversity, and strengthen connections between people and the natural world. This paper argues that realizing these benefits depends on shifting governance norms, embedding environmental justice in decision-making, and developing funding frameworks that support adaptive, long-term strategies. Rewilding should not be treated as just a decorative add-on or luxury amenity, but as a sustained commitment to restoring ecological relations, enhancing resilience, and reimagining what cities can become