University Honors Program Student Theses and Projects
Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/2097/42260
The University Honors Program (UHP) provides students a path for pursuing an elevated educational experience that includes honors courses, complementary resume-building, and a culminating Honors Project.
Honors projects are undertaken to showcase and enhance academic skills, reflect intellectual interests, and support future goals; and creative intellectual products and/or interdisciplinary inquiry are welcome. Students are also encouraged to publish or present their work in appropriate settings, including the option to archive their projects here in K-REx.
The UHP invites you to explore the projects collected below; they offer a great sampling of the kinds of work that Honors students undertake at K-State.
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Item Open Access The Evolution of Animal Research in Ancient Mediterranean Society(2024-05) Fritz, SylviaFor my honors project, I sought to combine my bachelor’s degree, biology, with my minor, in classics. I plan to go into research in the future, and I thought it would be interesting to see how research came to be what it is today. A lot of the fundamental ideas of research originated in ancient Mediterranean society, though it looked much different than the typical thesis paper seen in modern-day research. In this project, I examined the earliest developments of the studies of animals in ancient Mediterranean society and how it developed and evolved. I read several different works by scholars in the ancient Mediterranean region spanning from 300 B.C.E to 200 C.E. The three researchers I decided to focus on included Aristotle, Pliny the Elder, and Galen. Aristotle in some of his lecture notes about “The History of Animals” discussed systems of organization and proposed theories of the origins of animals and other aspects of nature. Pliny the Elder wrote a collection of thoughts about animals, arranged into what is considered to be the first encyclopedia called Natural History. I also read several excerpts and summaries of Galen’s anatomical research on barbery apes and pigs. He performed vivisections on these animals to figure out many fundamental ideas of anatomy in both humans and animals from this animal research. All of these were able to provide a narrative of the evolution of written research in animals. This project was incredibly interesting and provided a lot of context for the world I am about to be a part of. I believe one of the most important aspects of life is knowing history, and I feel more prepared for my future career in research having gained a better understanding of where different aspects of research originated.Item Open Access Oxygen Consumption Differences in Intermittent-Fasted Animals(2024-05) Veith, SabrinaIntermittent fasting (IF) is a promising strategy to protect against cognitive impairment, such as in the case of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Our recent studies have found that young male rats introduced to 10 weeks of alternate-day fasting had significantly reduced body weights, compared to the ad-libitum (AL) control group. However, no significant differences were observed in female body weights even though both males and females had reduced food intake. This sexual dimorphism might be due to changes in resting whole-body metabolism. The study aimed to explore whether IF impacts overall oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production and whether these effects vary between sexes. Methods- Forty 10-week-old female and male Fisher-344 rats were randomly assigned to either a four-week IF group or AL group. Two weeks into the intervention resting oxygen consumption was measured by placing the animal in an air-tight chamber with O2 and CO2 analyzers in order to calculate oxygen consumption, carbon dioxide production, and respiratory exchange ratio (RER). Results- After two weeks of IF, females had reduced O2 consumption and CO2 production compared to the AL group (30.6 vs. 41.4 mL/min/kg, p<.01 and 25.1 vs. 36.1 mL/min/kg, p<.001, respectively), however, no significant changes were seen in the males. Conclusion- The results have confirmed that IF elicits significant sexual dimorphism in both O2 consumption and CO2 production where females exhibited declines in both while males did not change. This shift to a slower metabolism is likely the cause for maintained body mass during IF.Item Open Access Assessing Curriculum Design and Approaches for the Educational Studies Degree Path(2024-04) Lynn, PaytonThis paper presents a comprehensive proposal aimed at revising Kansas State University’s Educational Studies program in order to create a dynamic, interdisciplinary course of study for a diverse range of student interests and career aspirations. Drawing on insights from current students, peer institutions, and professional guidance, this proposal outlines the development of specialized pathways to provide a structured series of courses that allow students to align their studies with their individual career goals. The proposal prioritizes integrating additional minors and certificates to supplement students’ learning through interdisciplinary courses of study. Leveraging the research results, this proposal aims to help students feel academically and professionally prepared for their career in education.Item Open Access Recommendation Report on Campus Transit(2023-01) Brown, Ethan; Carey, Madeleine; Lynn, Payton; Saia, Nick; Wells, Mia; Linenberger, Raegan; Roberts, GageThe Kansas State University Student Governing Association (SGA), in coordination with the Flint Hills Area Transportation Agency (ATA), established the ATA Student Advisory Board. The Board identified the following goals: 1. Increase ATA’s engagement with and representation of students 2. Stabilize ATA’s pool of KSU funding sources 3. Preserve free-to-ride bus service for studentsItem Open Access The Role of Artistic Expression in Therapeutic Design(2024-05) Davies, Alexis M.Over my years at Kansas State University pursuing my master’s in interior architecture, I have realized that my design philosophy revolves around human connection and expression. I aspire to design spaces that are artistic and inclusive while placing value on well-being. To implement and represent this concept, my thesis looks to struggles of occupational stress and self-expression, both of which are key professional problems present and relevant to today. Throughout this research, design development, and final proposal, I seek to design a therapeutic space that hinges on creative expression through the practice of art therapy. In the design of this interior build-out, I hope to showcase my interior architecture, furniture, and graphic design knowledge and versatility.Item Open Access Technology and AI in Dentistry(2024-05) Zink, SamanthaWhen the word “technology” is spoken, most individuals imagine their cell phones or laptops that they take everywhere. Or maybe they imagine gamers playing Call of Duty for hours on end. Technology is an important aspect of our society, and we place value upon it. The technological advancements in the medical world, particularly in dentistry, have impacted present and future generations. Although dentistry often gets overlooked in the medical world, oral health is incredibly vital for the health of an individual by preventing infections, diseases, and contributing to a better quality of life. Dentistry is ever-changing with new developments and technologies trying to continuously improve the oral health of patients. Understanding how dental technology evolved to where it is today, how the prevalence of artificial intelligence can be beneficial, and how this knowledge can be applied in an office setting is key to improving the lifestyles of dental patients in today’s society and the future.Item Open Access Snap Benfit Restrictions on Drug Offenders(2024-05) Nusz, NatalieIn this paper, I will address the SNAP restrictions for drug offenders in various states. Although the restrictions are federally upheld, many states have opted to adopt their own laws, or abolish the restrictions altogether. The purpose of this paper is to analyze trends of those effected by SNAP benefit restrictions on drug offenders and evaluate future policy solutions. We will begin by discussing the history of the SNAP drug offender ban, beginning in 1996. Next, we will analyze the effects this ban has had on drug offenders, both in the past and present. Finally, we will look at a close case study of Texas and Florida. Preceding the established background, the paper will include my own solutions to the SNAP ban on drug offenders. These findings are backed by significant research and can be used to provide guidance to future legislators. This paper was presented to the Food Security Scholar Program at Kansas State University in order to facilitate discussion and future change.Item Open Access Key Characteristics of VR Videos and Their Impacts on Audience Engagement(2025-05) Willson, MadelineThis content analysis of 300 YouTube VR videos took a quantitative approach to examine the impacts of genre, interactivity, storytelling richness, technical enhancement, technical disruption, and immersive audio on audience engagement. Previously, there have been few quantitative studies that have focused on more than one or two of these categories in relation to 360-degree videos. This study is one of the first to consider the impact of multiple categories on audience engagement solely for YouTube VR videos. Viewers are more engaged with VR videos that did not have technical disruption, as well as VR videos that had a higher level of storytelling richness. The impacts of genre, interactivity, technical enhancement, and immersive audio had no significant impact on audience engagement. This is consistent with previous studies as YouTube is significantly limited in regards to VR related features. Findings from the study contributed to the discussion on the technical behavioral aspect of human-to-content interactions, a part of the newly proposed audience engagement theory currently nested under the broader Uses and Gratifications framework. Future studies should consider using videos across the YouTube platform, as our study focused only on videos found on the YouTube VR channel.Item Open Access What Style of Learning is Most Beneficial to Students?(2025-05) Jenner, LexiIn the summer of 2023, I was a student coordinator with the College of Health and Human Sciences’ Health Professions Exploration Program at Kansas State University. This program hosted sessions over many health careers to introduce students to professions they may not know about or may be considering before college. I saw through each session, students retained more and were more driven to learn more about health professions that were presented in active and engaging ways. I was intrigued to research more about what learning style is most beneficial to students in general and in health programs. I took the Health Professions Exploration Program as a start to research active learning and how this style impacts students. I found that an active learning style is most beneficial for engaging students, retaining information, and increasing performance of students in future careers. During the summer camp, data was collected on what the students thought about each session. The data that was collected shows that the students enjoyed and wanted to learn more from the sessions that were presented in an active learning style. The students were more interested in areas of health that were presented in engaging formats. The following research paper uses the data from this health camp to show that students learn and benefit from active, engaged learning. I have also researched from other sources to support my claims and observations as well as included research pertaining to health programs.Item Open Access Examining Obesity and the Effects of Weight Bias in Western Medicine(2024-05) Dickerson, KatherineThe increase in the global prevalence of obesity has become a major issue in medicine. Obesity is a complex and serious disease, often resulting from an interplay between physiology, environment, and lifestyle choices. As the rise of obesity continues, so does the pervasiveness of weight bias. Stigmas surrounding weight and weight-based discrimination have a widespread prevalence in the Western healthcare setting and among healthcare providers and students. Weight bias leads to many adverse health consequences, including worsening a patient’s health and negatively impacting their experiences in healthcare. Views on body image, over-idealization of thinness in Western society, and the lack of education and training have perpetuated worsening stigma and biases towards individuals who are overweight or have obesity. Stereotypes and discrimination based on weight do not motivate individuals to lose weight and instead contribute to worse health outcomes. Addressing biases and eliminating harmful stereotypes of weight stigma is crucial for creating a culture of medicine that promotes respect, inclusivity, and empowers patients with the ability to make changes that better their health.Item Open Access Analysis of Time Dependent Effects in Radiation Epidemiology(2024-05-07) Eckerberg ,DanielStarting with radium watch dial painters in the 1920s, numerous diverse populations have been monitored following significantly-above-background radiation exposures. It is well founded that doses exceeding 100 mGy have potential to induce negative health outcomes in humans. Health effects resulting from radiation doses below this level are not as well understood. Consequently, risks for outcomes in the 0-100 mGy low-dose range are often approximated by linear extrapolation to zero dose. This practice is known as the “linear no-threshold” model. Existing research related to the linear no-threshold model is discussed thoroughly in NCRP Commentary 27 (NCRP 2018).Item Open Access Innovating War: Challenging Traditional Notions of Conflict and Scientific Development in the Cold War Era(2024) Kamman, Jeremy; Long, Andrew; Hillard, DerekI have been able to identify a relationship between innovation and conflict by comparing the Kondratieff Waves of Innovation with data on interstate conflicts from Our World in Data. Kondratieff Waves of Innovation are graphical representations of economic highs and lows, and they coincide with periods of technological development. -3rd Kondratieff Wave: 1880 - 1930 -4th Kondratieff Wave: 1930-1970 -5th Kondratieff Wave: 1970 – 2010Item Open Access F.I.T. Closet Translation Tool and Written Reflection(2023-05-01) Bauman, TaylorMy Honors Project focused on creating a translation tool for the volunteers at the F.I.T. Closet in Manhattan to utilize when helping Spanish-speaking shoppers. Using my semester's experience volunteering as a Spanish interpreter at the F.I.T. Closet (during Fall 2022), collaborating with the coordinator, the English-speaking volunteers, and Spanish-speaking shoppers at the F.I.T. Closet, and researching and comparing similar materials, I created translations of Spanish words and phrases that would facilitate communication for these different linguistic groups. In a written response, I give background information about the project, detail what I learned while volunteering at the F.I.T. Closet, reflect on how my experience at the F.I.T. Closet shaped my decisions in the production of the translation tool, explain how my research on other materials influenced the design of the tool, consider some of the difficulties during the process, and share what I have discovered during the community-based learning experience.Item Open Access Bloom Nutrition Influencer Marketing Analysis(2023-03-01) Jackson, KirstenThis project is a marketing analysis of Bloom Nutrition's use of influencers to sell products to Gen Z consumers interested in wellness. Bloom’s marketing team works with a diverse group of influencers to reach potential customers. Upon initial review, each influencer seems to have a vastly different approach to creating content and engaging audiences around Bloom products. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to identify which influencers and their associated strategies work best for this brand and within the industry. Within this study I will analyze Bloom’s influencer marketing strategy through a content analysis on TikTok that includes identifying influencer tactics of four key influencers that the brand has used. Information gathered about these influencers will be their audience, follower counts, credibility, and the type of content that they share. I will also look at the consumer responses to influencer content to identify the interaction and engagement that each post received and how well the content performed through sentiment analysis. At the conclusion of this study, I will ultimately produce an ideal influencer profile for the fitness/wellness industry and for the brand Bloom.Item Open Access Goals of Project Shop Well(2023-03-01) Thomas, RhiannaHello! My name is Rhianna Thomas and I am the founder of Project Shop Well, which is aimed at helping Americans start regularly buying from sources that truly promote human dignity. Because our market is saturated with companies who outsource their employment to sweatshops across the globe, there is a long way to go before we will be able to freely buy goods without worrying about where they were made. But a good way to start encouraging businesses to employ more ethical practices is to quit buying from the ones that do not. One of the first things that we can do is stop buying goods made in China.Item Open Access Fischer’sFur Babies Veterinary Clinic(2023-03-01) Fischer, LucyI have wanted to be a veterinarian for as long as I can remember. I was accepted into veterinary school as a senior in high school through Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine’s Early Admittance Program. Throughout my college journey, I’ve focused on Animal Science, Spanish, and Risk Management. For my Honors Project, I decided to combine my future entrepreneurial plans with my desire to help animals by designing my own veterinary practice. Since I am passionate about both private practice and shelter medicine, this plan combines the unique aspects of both. The idea for Fischer’s Fur Babies Veterinary Clinic came from my experience with the Animal Rescue Foundation in Chicago, IL. Seeing the impact that these foster organizations have on the lives of thousands of homeless animals fueled my desire to help make a difference. That is why our clinic is so focused on helping shelters and foster organizations. We are paying homage to the volunteers who dedicate their lives to this neverending work. This report details the key attributes of a veterinary clinic that bridges the gap between private practice and shelter medicine. It will explore different aspects of vertical integration and various activities the veterinary clinic will participate in to help better the lives of animals.Item Open Access A Kinome RNAi Screen Reveals Genes Required for Muscle Tissue Maintenance(2023-03-01) Mekuria, Ruth; Ridder, Jared; Geisbrecht, ErikaNUAK is an AMPK-related kinase which controls autophagy (cellular recycling) of an important linker protein in muscle called Filamin1. The absence of NUAK prevents the turnover of Filamin, presents an accumulation of autophagic markers such as p62 and ATG8 and leads to muscle degeneration. The goal of our research was to determine which other kinase genes might be required to regulate autophagy by turning them off with RNA interference (RNAi) and looking for abnormal muscle structure and attachment. 25 candidate kinase genes were selected and turned off in the muscle of Drosophila melanogaster larvae using RNAi. The larvae were then dissected and imaged under a laser confocal microscope to observe muscle structure. Knockdown of seven kinase genes yata, nippedA, CDK9, for, RIOK1, lic, and Vps15 showed abnormal muscle structure such a detachment and muscle thinning. These kinase genes will be further analyzed for their requirement in the proper autophagy of Filamin.Item Open Access Telepresence in Ecuador(2023-05-01) Schoonover, Hannah; Thomas, MiaThe Telepresence in Ecuador project served to analyze and gain an understanding of virtual education with an emphasis in building relationships with students and English language acquisition. The project was completed through a partnership with Kansas State University and ULEAM in Manta, Ecuador. An honors section of Educational Technology (EDCI 318) took on the project, using Double 2 robots to access the Ecuadorian classrooms. The K-State students in the class were split into pairs and assigned a school. The K-State students focused on improving the English pronunciation and vocabulary of the Ecuadorian students through the use of literature circles, games, and conversation. The project found that conversation with the students not only helped to improve their pronunciation as they listened to native English speakers, but it also rapidly built relationships and trust with the students. This project focuses on the qualitative experiences of the authors rather than the quantitative data, as the project was still in its early stages when the authors were involved. https://youtu.be/QRrAnActlsIItem Open Access PipeDoll: A Motion Capture Addon for the Godot Game Engine(2023-03-20) Tucker, EthanCharacter animation is a key challenge in game development and other fields and is often created using motion capture. However, traditional motion capture requires specialized hardware and can be inaccessible for small teams. For this project, I have developed a 2D motion capture addon for the Godot game engine. The addon uses a machine learning model to perform motion capture using a standard webcam, avoiding the need for hardware. It meets all the key functional requirements identified for the project and is published as open-source software at https://github.com/ectucker1/pipedoll.Item Open Access The Influence of CAT and Self-Disclosure on the Classroom(2023-05-01) Turk, Caroline I.Classroom relational dynamics influence the ability to teach and learn effectively, making positive, meaningful relationships in the classroom crucial. Communication Accommodation Theory (CAT) explores how communicative adjustments, or accommodations, “reflect and affect personal and social relationships” (Soliz et al., 2021, p. 130). Thus, implementing CAT in the classroom could result in greater effectiveness of teaching and learning. Because CAT is used tomanage identity and relationships, it is also important to understand the results of communicating identity in the classroom. Communicating identity by self-disclosing can foster a connected classroom dynamic (Johnson & LaBelle, 2015), resulting in greater satisfaction with and appreciation of classroom relationships (Hosek, 2015). Because CAT, specifically accommodation behaviors and self-disclosure, influences academic performance and relational satisfaction, their usage in classrooms would bolster instructional communication. To understand the influence of CAT and self-disclosure on the classroom, a thorough literature review examining research on CAT’s classroom influence will be conducted first.Then, the implementation of self-disclosure in the classroom will be analyzed. Together, these two parts will explain the importance of CAT and self-disclosure’s usage in classrooms to increase instructional effectiveness and build positive relationships.
