Educational engagement

Abstract

Be so good they can't ignore you."Steve Martin iv ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS This has been an incredible life-changing journey the last four years. I am so thankful to my family, friends, mentors, graduate and professional colleagues, and my students for their support and encouragement. This accomplishment is not possible without you.To my dissertation adviser Venise Berry: Words cannot express how much your kindness, wisdom, and guidance means to me. Thank you for never giving up on my journey. You are the driving force in propelling me to think of college radio in different and unique ways and helping me to shape this platform and spark my research agenda in academia.To my committee David Dowling, Jill Smith, Melissa Tully, and Travis Vogan: Your insight and feedback into this project allowed me to approach college radio, and the broadcast media industry overall, in new and exciting ways. Your expertise was vital in shaping my research.To John Haman, Monique L. R. Luisi, Carrie Prentice, Christina Smith, Michelle Van Maanen, Tammy Walkner, and Kim Zarkin: I am forever grateful for your academic and emotional support, wisdom, and generosity with this project and my academic and professional career. I am fortunate to not only call you mentors and colleagues but incredible friends. To organizations like the Broadcast Education Association, College Media Association, College Broadcasters, Inc., KLGA Radio, and Midwest Broadcast Journalists Association: This project is not possible without your exceptional work in broadcast journalism. Thank you for your service in shaping academic and professional careers and for the immense support and experiences you have given me. You are the bedrock of my career. Finally, to my parents Joe and Kathy Miller, my grandmother Bettie Keisacker, and my family: Without you, my academic and professional journey does not happen. Your constant v emotional and financial support is the reason I have completed this path. You always lift me up with your encouragement, never-ending support, and love. Your constant strength and guidance have shaped my life. I am so honored and blessed to be a part of your lives.vi ABSTRACT The media are experiencing a digital revolution. Substantial research has been conducted on digital technologies as they change television, print, and commercial radio. However, very little is known about the current digital adaptation in college radio. From increased online consumption, to podcasts and social media, college radio is also embracing digital technologies.Educational engagement is important in college radio. Alternative and academic structures are being significantly influenced today through digital transformation. The college radio system has faced a number of funding and administrative tensions between stations and their universities. As these tensions continue to affect the growth and development of college radio, they should be studied. This study investigates the use of digital technologies in two college radio station case studies. The Kotter Eight Steps of Organiz...