Everyone involved in science understands the scientific method, right? Well, not really. There's a lot of confusion and uncertainty about the scientific method, even among experienced scientists! 

Why? Many of us are never formally or deliberately taught the scientific method by an experienced scientist. We're expected to pick it up as we go. But that can lead to stress and confusion for students. 

How much more confident and effective could you be as a scientist if you learned the practice and philosophy of the scientific method? In this course you'll gain those skills and build that knowledge.

In this course we dive into the diverse areas of horticulture research, with discussions centered around weekly topics and articles.  Discussions are led by a different HLA faculty each week, so new graduate students become familiar with the people and research in the department.

In this course we explore

• Methods of crop biofortification

• Recent progress in crop biofortification

• Role of key vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients in nutrition and health

• Key concepts in nutrition, crop genetics/genomics, and biochemistry relevant to biofortification

This class provides a broad introduction to the technical and cultural aspects of science research. You learn the practical skills needed to get involved and succeed in an undergraduate research experience, including scientific reading, writing, and presentations; using the scientific method in applied research; and science ethics. This class includes tours of HLA labs and field sites, guest speakers in a variety of research-related jobs, and interviews with professors.

The main purpose of the Independent Study is to give students the opportunity to pursue topics or skills not fully covered in their course work. Students arrange to work with a professor whose research is of interest to the student, and then spend the semester exploring a topic chosen by the student and professor. Activities and assignments will be project-specific and developed by the student and professor.

Contact me for more information! I can help you identify a professor to mentor you in your Independent Study.