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The lived experiences of contemplative practices in the lives of social change actors: An analysis with contemplative resistance and transformative change
No full textAlthough there is a large body of literature in the contemplative studies field, there is still much to learn about contemplative resistance and transformative change. Contemplative resistance uses contemplative tools to resist negative tendencies or systems like mental dominance, social corruption and prejudice, commercial narrowness, and intellectual and creative compliance. Transformative change is a change in how a system is built and functions, with a focus on incorporating interdisciplinary alteration across all scales. Additionally, there is little known how individuals define and understand contemplative practices, the role that they play in the lives of those practitioners, and how those practitioners engage with a personal practice. Through in-depth interviews, I asked social change actors about these missing pieces to better understand the role that contemplative practices play in their lives. I also analyzed their lived experienced with the literature on contemplative resistance and transformative change. I found that contemplative practices played roles in tending to the inner world and the outer world, and also found obstacles that hindered these processes. This research illustrates the difference between the participants’ lived experience of contemplative practices with the literature in contemplative studies, the connection between these experiences with contemplative resistance and transformative change, and the role that intention and identity might play in these spheres
The Reversal Poset of Signed Permutations
No full textThe set of signed permutations S±(n) has a fascinating structure. A reversal acting on a permutation π ∈ S±(n) reverses the order of elements in consecutive positions and changes their signs. As a group, S±(n) is generated by the collection of reversals. The reversal distance of a signed permutation π ∈ S±(n) is equal to the minimal number of reversals needed to transform π into the identity permutation. The reversal poset on S±(n) is a poset whose elements are signedpermutations with covering relations determined by: u < v if and only if there exists a reversal that transforms v into u and the reversal distance of u is one less than the reversal distance of v. The reversal poset is ranked by reversal distance.
We refer to a signed permutation that attains the maximal reversal distance in S±(n) as a maximal permutation. These are the permutations of maximal rank in the reversal poset on S±(n). It turns out that maximal permutations in S±(n) have reversal distance n+1 when n is not 1 or 3. In this thesis, we derive several results pertaining to the structure of the reversal poset and enumerate permutations of rank 0, 1, 2, and n + 1, and obtain partial results for reversal distance n. Our main result is an enumeration of the maximal permutations
Cultural mentoring as a component of collegiate academic achievement for African American male students
No full textThis research study investigates the effects cultural mentoring programs have on African American male college graduates. The objective of the holistic qualitative narrative research study was to understand how participants in the Southwest Youth Leadership Institute (SYLI) (pseudonym), understood their cultural mentoring experiences and describe in what ways SYLI helped them in their collegiate, professional, and personal lives. The study was based on a need to provide an equitable, relevant, and inclusive learning environment for African American male students enrolled in institutions of higher learning in the United States. The study’s qualitative research was based on a purposeful sample of college graduates who also participated in the same focused cultural mentoring program located in a large metropolitan area in the southwest region of the United States. A holistic narrative is the design selected for this study with principles of grounded theory being applied. Aspects of Ladson-Billings Culturally Relevant Pedagogy (CRP) helped frame the analysis and findings of this research study with support from Culturally Responsive Teaching (CRT) and Cross-Cultural Learning (CCL) approaches.
Keywords: cultural, interaction, mentoring, pedagogy, realization, achievemen
Play as a Catalyst for Improved Student-Teacher Relationships and Better Perceptions of School
No full textPositive student-teacher relationships impact many aspects of schooling for students (Fredriksen & Rhodes, 2004) and for teachers (Veldman et al., 2013) including their overall perceptions of school (Mainhard et al., 2018). However, research has shown the quality of student-teacher relationships lessens as students get older (O’Connor, 2010). Additionally, academic pressures have placed limitations on students’ and teachers’ abilities to form positive relationships (Fredriksen & Rhodes, 2004). The current study was designed to determine if unstructured play could be a catalyst for positive student-teacher relationships, thus leading to better perceptions of school. Play leads to social-bonding (Panksepp, 2004) and more positive relationships (Brown & Vaughan, 2010). It is especially important between children and adults, and this is true for a range of adult-child relationships including teachers and students (Ginsburg, 2007). This is because play removes the dominance systems that often occur between children and adults (Gray (2009).
In this study, teachers and students in second through sixth grade participated in questionnaires and semi-structured interviews before and after a treatment period. This data was used to measure students’ and teachers’ perceived relationships with each other and their perceptions of schooling. Teachers and students in the treatment group participated in a play-intervention during which they played together at recess. Overall, results of the study indicated there was no significant difference between groups in regards to positive student-teacher relationships and better perceptions of schooling. However, many students who reported playing with their teacher three or more times per week indicated more positive relationships after the treatment period. Additionally, most students in the treatment group who reported better perceptions of school also reported better relationships with their teacher. Future research on the effect play has on student-teacher relationships and perceptions of school is needed
Application of novel methods in conservation physiology for understanding cases of baleen whale mortalities
No full textRecovery and conservation of populations of large whales is particularly important to the marine environment due to their key ecological roles and unique biological traits, i.e., their large body size, long lifespan, and enormous home ranges. Although commercial whaling is currently banned, today´s whales are exposed to a variety of other anthropogenic stressors and concomitant ecological impacts, such as climate change, fisheries bycatch, entanglement with fishing gear, wounds from vessel strikes, disease epidemics, alterations in food availability, ingestion of plastics, exposure to toxins, and numerous other stressors. Understanding the effects and identifying the relative importance of multiple stressors is critical for managing endangered species and in this context, methods in conservation physiology can help. Traditionally, physiological and endocrine assessments have used plasma-based analyses. Implementing such techniques to monitoring the physiology of mysticetes (baleen whales) are largely impractical or impossible, so novel approaches have resulted in the adaptation and validation of several physiological analyses, particularly endocrine assays, to quantify analytes of interest from alternative sample types, such as feces, respiratory vapor, blubber samples, baleen, and earplugs. Outputs from these analyses can be used to infer the physiological status of whales. In this dissertation, I validated and applied a novel method in conservation physiology to investigate the potential cause or causes of calf mortalities of southern right whales (SRW, Eubalaena australis) of Península Valdés (PV), Argentina. From the period of 1993-2002 as compared to 2007-2013, the average number of calf mortalities per year increased tenfold (8.2 to 80 mortalities per year). Although the cause for increased and recurrent high calf mortalities at PV is currently unknown, negative interactions with Kelp Gulls (KG, Larus dominicanus) stands out amongst several compelling hypotheses that seek to explain the elevated calf mortalities. In short, KGs in Patagonia have developed a microparasitic behavior which consists in attacking living SRW calves to feed on their skin and blubber. I determined appropriate laboratory sampling parameters (minimum mass of sample and solvent:sample ratio) for hormone extractions from baleen, and then quantified lifetime glucocorticoids (cortisol and corticosterone, GC) and metabolic (triiodothyronine, T3) hormones profiles of post-mortem collected baleen plates to retrospectively assess the role of KG interactions on SRW physiology. Based on T3 results, this study suggests no evidence of malnutrition in whale calves exposed to KG attack. However, the strong positive correlation between extent of wounding and glucocorticoid hormones indicate that heavily wounded calves suffered high levels of physiological stress throughout their short lifespans. Thus, considering the negative effect that chronic elevations in GCs levels might pose to SRW calves’ growth and immune system, KG wounding and harassment may have contributed to the high calf mortality observed at the PV calving ground, in Patagonia Argentina. More broadly, my findings highlight that baleen hormone analysis may be a fruitful method with which to explore the physiological and population impacts of other types of stressors, both natural and anthropogenic
Drilling into "petro-masculinity": A media analysis of the community messaging produced within the extractive industry of Alberta, Canada
No full textIn March of 2020, an illustrated image depicting the rape of young Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg exploded into the public sphere. To better understand the petro-culture that this image was created within, a thematic analysis of the public “Alberta Pipeliners” Facebook group was conducted for two weeks around the same time the “Greta” rape image was publicized. The themes that were constructed from the Alberta Pipeliners Facebook group were (1) Occupational Identity, (2) Enemy, (3) Regional Loyalty, and (4) Social Dominance Orientation. Petro-masculinity, a concept that attributes climate violence as a reaction to avoid climate and gender anxiety, was a weaving force and connected these dominant themes to one another through identity, ideology, and a need for control. These themes were then used to contextualize the “Greta” rape image produced by the organization X-Site Energy Services with the aim to understand the conditions for the image’s creation and in-group normalization. To further understand the meaning of the image, a semiotic method of analysis was used to break down each symbol within the image using an ecofeminist theoretical framework, establishing that gender and climate anxieties are interwoven and that the image is a reactionary result to diminishing masculine hegemonic power over both women and nature. Lastly, the implications of my thesis suggest that there are tangible consequences that arise from this culture: higher rates of gendered interpersonal violence, anti-Native racism, climate denial ideation, and a vulnerability for falling into unfounded politically-motivated conspiracy
Exploring first-generation Latina students’ campus experiences within Latina sororities
No full textThe study examined first-generation Latinas’ experience in higher education, specifically those involved in Latina sororities. Research has documented the many obstacles first-generation Latina students experience, which provides higher education the opportunity to address the concerns and improve academic achievement. However, more research needs to be conducted to identify the contributing factors that promote academic and social benefits for first-generation Latinas. Latina sororities claim to provide first-generation Latinas a sense of belonging, which in turn leads to higher achievement attainment (Olivas, 1996 & Tinto, 2016).
Since most mainstream sororities entail homogenous demographics that do not allude to traditions that represent the Latinx culture. Many first-generation Latinas feel excluded from participating in activities that do not attest to their self-identity. The feelings of isolation create a rippling effect in achievement and persistence from the consequences that occur when students lose confidence, therefore, detaching themselves from the campus culture. Latina sororities claim to provide first-generation. Latina sororities are one response to these trends and may offer a promising strategy for ensuring the success of first-generation Latinas.
This qualitative research study employed a multi-case study to collect narratives that explored first-generation Latinas’ campus experiences while being active members of a Latina sororities. This study collected data through an online survey, focus groups, and individual interviews. The study used an intersectionality theoretical framework to explore the various identities that contribute to first-generation Latinas’ experiences
Ponderosa pine planting: a survey of expert knowledge
Get PDFPonderosa pine forests in the southwestern US are at risk of conversion to other vegetation types due to slow natural regeneration. Artificial regeneration may be a viable tool to prevent the loss of ponderosa pine forests, but there is insufficient literature to guide effective planting. To address this gap, we interviewed researchers, forest managers, and nursery managers to gather expert knowledge to guide future reforestation projects and identify future research areas. We focused on four themes: seed sources, nursery operations, site preparation, and planting operations. Interviews with nineteen planting experts in the Southwest showed that all respondents knew the origin of their seed sources but had differing views on the appropriate level of site specificity for genetic adaptation. Challenges of ensuring appropriate seed sources included limited seed selection, periodicity of masting species, limited funding, and lack of a seed collection program. In the nursery, use of containerized seedling and treatments was considered by respondents to increase success. Site preparation treatments were used by most respondents but there was no consensus on the effectiveness of specific treatments. When outplanting, tree shelters received mixed reviews. Best planting times also had mixed responses between summer monsoon and fall seasons. Expected mortality was highly variable with 50% being the average. Desired eventual stand density ranged from 15 to 200 trees per acre. Grouped planting designs are increasing in popularity, but a few respondents still use grid designs. The use of nurse structures had positive effects. North and east- facing aspects showed to have greater success in comparison to south and west-facing aspects. Contractors are used and preferred for planting because of their ability to bring in big crews. Short-term budgets limit flexibility of project planning and managers to a short window for reforestation.The results of this study are directly relevant to management of future planting projects and suggest the areas that need more systematic research. Artificial regeneration is a critical tool for addressing the challenges of severe disturbance and warming climate. Expert opinions contribute valuable and timely knowledge for sustaining forest ecosystems in the Southwest
Archaeological Pets: A Pathological Examination of the Human-Dog Relationship in the American Southwest
No full textDogs have been human companions for at least 15,000 years (Morey 2010:69-70). How this relationship has been and is now defined; however, varies culturally and temporally. This research explores the complexity of our relationship with dogs in an intermediate space between ritually significant and working animals, with specific focus to the impact humans may have had on dog health. Using faunal collections from the Museum of Northern Arizona, I evaluate healed cranial fractures and worn dentition from domesticated dogs. Methodologically, previous researchers lacked formal systems for documenting these pathologies (Clark 1997; Grant 1982). Innovative data collection methods, such as comprehensive tooth wear and healed cranial lesion measurement systems, expand interpretations concerning the diverse interaction’s humans have had with animals. For this thesis, Middle-Range Theory structures the methodological approach, while a Decolonizing framework supports data interpretation.Not only does this research provides a new perspective on archaeological investigations of human-dog relationships, but it also explores an applied perspective concerning the dynamics between dogs and their owners today. Equally, the research herein challenges narratives of animal abuse from archaeologists and the public alike when considering Native American communities. Given the application of a decolonized interpretation in zooarchaeological research is rare, this research encourages the field to question assumptions about past interactions with animals based upon colonial and prejudiced ideologies. Furthermore, I argue for a strengthened understanding of the human-animal relationship, challenging the suggestion only Westernized cultures can keep pets
Lovelines
Get PDFThis thesis is comprised of a novella titled Lovelines, which follows the title character, an Instagram poet and ad-agency copywriter. Lovelines writes for markets rather than art, and the plot is propelled by his grappling with disconnection from the physical world. He lives through the persona he has created in his phone and Instagram and exists to much of the world as an anonymous writer on the internet. Through self-doubt, strained relationships with other characters, and the solace of natural spaces, Lovelines attempts to discover the meaning of his art, as well as his life. The novella is built upon my interest in artistic liminality: where is the threshold
between market and art? Between persona and artist and who we actually are? How do we draw a line for “good” art or writing? And how should a writer create their goals as an artist? This interest in liminality has grown from the rapid digitalization of our world over the course of my life, which has been so amplified by COVID-19 and the isolation that the pandemic brought. Everyone tries to cloud or efface in some way how and who they actually are through their online presence. Lovelines attempts to process that effacement through his simple craft; he tries to project an image of life through a poem, through a caption, through hashtags, and yet each of those options falls short. The touch of social media is not a physical one. But purely physical touch is not what Lovelines is after either. His generation, which is my own, has been so thoroughly processed in an online, social media world, that there exists simultaneously pleasure and hollowness in both the complete absence of touch and the purely sexual touch, which complicates all intimacy. Furthermore, a product of our digital age is that we risk losing correct perception of ourselves to our personas; we’re depressed and anxious about ourselves because we buy into the way we have crafted this persona. And then we begin living to fit the persona we have created. In the novella, Lovelines starts to live the way he thinks his poetry dictates that he should. It is not until Mary, someone who lives the version of life that she has created for herself in what appears to be a meaningful, fulfilling way, that Lovelines begins to see that you can both create yourself and love yourself. But there is profound implication in that self-creation: there is a space—between the brain and the page, between the reader and writer, between a good decision and a bad—where exists the truth of art. The hard part for Lovelines is finding that truth.
The novella at its inception was influenced by Nathanael West’s novella Miss Lonelyhearts. Nearly a century later, I wanted to rewrite the darkly comic, lonely book for our contemporary audience. An Instagram poet seemed the modern-day equivalent to the love columnist of Miss Lonelyhearts, with their relative anonymity, crafted persona, and potential inability to meaningfully help their audience. Beyond the basic structure and obvious naming homage, the dark comedy, profound loneliness, and absurdity of West’s novella influenced my own. And the hybrid form: a novella interspersed with faux “Insta-poems,” is one that further grows from my interest in liminality and hybridity, both informed by my experience in Northern Arizona University’s MFA program. The flexibility to take courses in different genres, as well as combine that creative work with meaningful literary theory has propelled this thesis where it would not have dared go two years ago.
Increasingly, when writing, my attraction to liminality gravitates toward choice, whether it be on the line, or the action/inaction of a speaker. The cliche goes: there is always a choice. But art, truth knows that is not the full extent of reality: to be fully some body, choice is often an illusion or a privilege. By discovering the fictional in-between my writing hopes to learn its own agency, or what can be chosen and what is predestined. For Lovelines, meaningful choice is the ultimate discomfort. For him choice has become flattened because he believes his world is flat. He believes his world fits in a screen, is catered to him, targeted for him, propped up and flattened by our technology. When he finally chooses not to buy into this version of himself and his world, my hope is that he progresses incrementally forward. But he makes mistakes, profound mistakes. We all do. And at some level my fiction believes in valuing the humor and humanity found in these mistakes. Perhaps this is the final threshold the work hopes to elucidate: where does dark beauty and dark humor shake hands? As much as I want the reader to believe in the image of Lovelines’ poems, or the story itself, I also want them to smirk and shake their head. That does not mean I want sympathy for him, rather, something closer to empathy. My hope is that readers will realize that, like Lovelines, we often miss something in ourselves, something profoundly loveable, because we are buying into the created version of ourselves. This novella hopes readers will leap between all the clever, loving, and creative spaces in their minds.
I believe in this novella, this idea, and Lovelines. Without the caring readers, collaborators, and teachers I have had here in Flagstaff, at home in the Midwest, and otherwise, I would not have been able to see this work through the COVID-19 pandemic. And I am so grateful that I was able to, because the extended isolation and further digitalization of our lives that the pandemic incited, amplified the meaning I hoped to reveal when I started this work