Connecting Students: Improving Engagement and Participation Through Technological Solutions

Authors

  • Caleb Rice
  • Cheng Eu Sun
  • Garret Van Dyke
  • Matthew Merlo Student, Computing, Mathematics & Physics Department, Messiah University, PA, USA - 17055

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.59461/ijitra.v4i2.172

Keywords:

Recommendation System, Student Engagement , Benchmarking , User Experience

Abstract

Student engagement and participation in extracurricular activities are vital for a thriving campus community. However, many clubs at Messiah University face challenges with low engagement due to limited information dissemination and poor communication channels. To address this, the development of goSHARC, which stands for Student Happenings and Recommendations for Clubs, is proposed. It is a comprehensive web platform designed to foster a more connected and engaged student body. goSHARC will provide a centralized hub for all club activities, featuring a user-friendly interface with a calendar of events, discussion boards, and a notification system. This platform will streamline communication, improve information accessibility, and ultimately encourage greater student involvement in campus life. 

The development process will prioritize user experience and involve gathering detailed requirements through surveys and focus groups with various clubs. This collaborative approach will ensure that goSHARC effectively addresses the specific needs and preferences of the student population. By creating a sustainable technological solution that promotes a thriving and interconnected campus community, goSHARC aims to enhance the overall student experience at Messiah University. 

Author Biographies

Caleb Rice

Caleb Rice is studying at Messiah University to earn a B.S. in Computer and Information Science, with concentrations in Computer Science and Software Development, in addition to a Mathematics minor. He has experience in both frontend and backend software development and leads the goSHARC team in its efforts to streamline student engagement at Messiah University. In addition to programming, he also possesses technical skills in software engineering, statistics, and data analysis, and is a strong communicator and leader. He can be contacted by email: caleb.rice.2626@gmail.com, or on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caleb-rice-2626-cs/.  

Cheng Eu Sun

Cheng Eu Sun is pursuing a B.S. in Computer and Information Science at Messiah University, with a concentration in Computer Science. As a key contributor to the goSHARC project, he focuses on backend development and system architecture to enhance student engagement through digital solutions. He can be contacted via email: eusunkv25@gmail.com or LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/chengeu2525 

Garret Van Dyke

Garret Van Dyke is currently a student at Messiah University earning a B.S. in Computer and Information Science with a concentration in Business Information Systems and a minor in International Business. Contributing to goSHARC in both frontend and backend software development. He can be contacted by email: vandykegl4@gmail.com 

Matthew Merlo, Student, Computing, Mathematics & Physics Department, Messiah University, PA, USA - 17055

Matthew Merlo is currently studying at Messiah University to earn a B.S. in Computer and Information Science, with a concentration in Computer Science. As a member of the goSHARC team, he has dealt with both front- and back-end development as well as database management. He can be contacted via email: mdmerlo1@gmail.com 

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Published

2025-06-18

How to Cite

Rice, C., Sun, C. E., Van Dyke, G., & Merlo, M. (2025). Connecting Students: Improving Engagement and Participation Through Technological Solutions . International Journal of Information Technology, Research and Applications, 4(2), 1–13. https://doi.org/10.59461/ijitra.v4i2.172

Issue

Section

Regular Issue