The purpose of the quantitative study was to identify doctoral students' level of integration with curriculum, peers, and faculty. Two hundred and sixty-five participants completed the Distance Doctoral Program Integration scale (DDPIs) designed to measure academic and social integration. Key findings indicate higher levels of integration with…

Although social and academic integration are considered significant predictors of academic success, little is known about their longitudinal development. In addition, cross-sectional research indicates differences in the integration process based on the sociodemographic background of students, but lacks longitudinal confirmation, especially in…

Does schooling equalize achievement disparities among students with and without a migrant background? This question remains largely unanswered in sociology. We hypothesized that children of migrants would benefit more from schooling, thereby making schools engines of educational integration. Our study tests this hypothesis in the context of German…

Background/purpose: Social alienation is an individual feeling or being isolated or disengaged from others and society. It has been a well-identified element in the lives of Muslim immigrants in Europe who face significant challenges in social, economic, civic, and political participation. These challenges may have adverse impacts on the academic…

Amid South Korea's demographic decline and push for global talent retention, this study examines the factors that drive international students to stay or migrate in search of opportunities elsewhere. This study unpacks the complex web of factors--academic satisfaction, social integration, career aspirations, financial support, and participation in…

We use three studies to develop and validate the new concept of playful study design -- the cognitive-behavioral orientation towards study tasks with the aim to make these tasks more fun and/or more challenging. Based on play and proactive motivation theories, we propose that playful study design can be assessed by items indicating two dimensions:…

Universities often overlook prospective graduate students--significant contributors to research productivity--as an audience requiring strategic recruitment communication. Uses and gratifications theory posits audiences intentionally select specific communication channels to fulfill self-actualization needs. Therefore, the purpose of this study…

This study examines the potential of Surah Al-Fatihah, often regarded as the spiritual bedrock of the Qur'an, to serve as a framework for fostering inclusive educational environments. By aligning its core values--compassion, equity, and guidance--with contemporary educational discussions on empathy and resilience, this investigation demonstrates…

Supporting cultural and linguistic differences through literacy education fosters inclusive, diverse learning environments where students thrive. By recognizing and valuing students' unique cultural backgrounds and languages, literacy education can be tailored to bridge gaps and promote comprehension, communication, and critical thinking.…