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Centering Community in Health Behavior Research and Practice: American Academy of Health Behavior Presidential Note
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Understanding the Theoretical Foundations of Inquiry-Based Learning: Pivot For Productive Science Education in Africa
Full text linkInquiry-based learning (IBL) represents a dynamic pedagogical approach in science education, driven by a foundation of deep theoretical constructs. This paper meticulously examines the cornerstone theoretical underpinnings of IBL, centering on constructivism, situated cognition, and cognitive load theories. Constructivism, epitomized by Piaget\u27s cognitive constructivism and Vygotsky\u27s social constructivism, underscores learners\u27 active role in constructing knowledge and the significance of social interactions in this process. Situated cognition theory accentuates the value of learning within authentic contexts and the transferability of acquired knowledge and skills. Cognitive load theory contributes insights into optimizing cognitive resources for effective learning experiences. However, the high level of student autonomy during IBL has raised critical questions about its suitability in African science classrooms citing its opposing philosophical standpoint. Understanding these perspectives engenders a rich tapestry for a robust science education landscape that encourage a culture of engagement, critical thinking and complex problem-solving proficiency in science classrooms in Africa. This paper underscores the paramount importance of these theoretical foundations, advocating for their continued research-driven application to invigorate and refine IBL within the realm of science education In Africa. Through this concerted effort, the potential to foster a dynamic, transformative, and enduring IBL in the science education landscape will emerge
greatOplus (Extruded Blend of Flaxseed and Nannochloropsis oculata Biomass) Improves Finishing Cattle Performance and Carcass Characteristics
Full text linkObjective: This study investigated feeding greatOplus (GOP), an extruded mixture of flaxseed and Nannochloropsis oculata microalgae biomass (NBO3 Technologies LLC; Manhattan, KS) on feedlot cattle performance and carcass characteristics.
Study Description: Yearling steers (n = 700; 825 lb ± 18.07 lb initial body weight (BW)) were blocked by initial BW and assigned randomly, within block, to 28 feedlot pens containing 25 animals/pen. Cattle were vaccinated against viral and clostridial pathogens and treated for internal and external parasites (Bovishield Gold 5, Ultrabac 7 Somubac, and Dectomax injectable; Zoetis Animal Health), and implanted with a combination implant (Component TE-200; Elanco USA). The control diet (CON) consisted of 58.3% steam-flaked corn, 20% wet corn gluten feed, 2.56% soybean meal, and 4.17% vitamin/mineral/feed additive premix. For the greatOplus (GOP; an extruded blend of flaxseed and Nannochloropsis oculata microalgae) diet, a portion of the corn and all the soybean meal were replaced with 10% GOP (dry basis) to create isonitrogenous diets. Cattle were fed once daily, ad libitum. After 175 days on feed, animals were weighed and transported to a commercial abattoir for harvest. Animal performance measurements included average daily gain (ADG), dry matter intake (DMI), and gain:feed (G:F). Hot carcass weight (HCW) and incidence of abscessed livers were assessed on the day of harvest, and marbling score, 12th rib fat thickness, longissimus muscle area, and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) yield and quality grades were determined following 48 hours of refrigeration.
Results: Cattle fed GOP had greater DMI and ADG (P \u3c 0.05) compared to cattle fed CON, but G:F was not affected by treatment (P \u3e 0.10). Cattle fed GOP had greater HCW compared to those fed CON (932.11 versus 902.79 lb; P \u3c 0.01) and tended to produce more Prime and Choice carcasses (87.4 versus 83.0%; P = 0.11) with greater 12th rib backfat (0.61 versus 0.59 in; P \u3c 0.02) and greater yield grades (2.91 versus 2.75; P \u3c 0.01). Marbling score (488 versus 491), longissimus muscle area (14.6 versus 14.5 in2) and liver abscess incidence (12 versus 16% for CON and GOP, respectively) were unaffected by treatment (P \u3e 0.10). Carcass values were calculated using base prices, premiums, and discounts published by the USDA, and were greater for cattle fed GOP compared to cattle fed the CON diet (2,059; P \u3c 0.01).
The Bottom Line: Including greatOPlus at 10% of the diet dry matter improved cattle performance, largely as the result of its impact on DMI and ADG
Partial Substitution of Edible Mealworms for Corn Flour in a Plant-based Food Nugget
Full text linkThe purpose of this study was to determine an acceptable level of mealworm powder (MW) substituted for corn flour (CF) to provide a higher level of protein in a plant-based food nugget. Data collection included sensory analysis evaluations and post-consumption survey responses from 44 untrained panelists. Mean sensory evaluation scores of nuggets for each of the five characteristics (crust color, interior color, texture, flavor, and aftertaste) across the four groups (0% MW, 25% MW, 50% MW, and 75% MW substituted for CF, respectively) decreased in acceptability with each percentage increase of MW substituted for CF. Post-consumption survey responses immediately following sensory analysis indicated panelists’ increased interest in eating insects. Results of this study indicated that a substitution of up to 25% mealworm powder for corn flour was an acceptable method to provide a higher level of insect protein in a plant-based nugget. Further research into insect protein substitution is recommended
The Evolving Landscape of Non-Traditional Learners in Higher Education: Trends, Strategies, and Institutional Responses
Full text linkThis research explores the characteristics of non-traditional learners, how they have evolved in recent years, and the strategies higher education institutions have employed to support this population. It also delves into the driving forces behind these changes and evaluates the efficacy of these strategies
Transforming Police-Community Relations: The Role of Experiential Learning in Law Enforcement Training
Full text linkAn ongoing case study that explores the integration and effectiveness of experiential learning methodologies in a police officer community-relations training program and its influence on transformative learning
The Transition Tax: Veterans of Color Learning to Navigate the Cost of Service
Full text linkVeterans of color face a transition tax when leaving military service, experiencing significant challenges in finding employment comparable to their military roles in terms of this paper presentation will discuss how veterans of color learn to be resilient in the face of these regressive effects
Augmenting Audience Actualization: Using Q-Methods Analysis to Determine Programming Priorities for One State’s Cooperative Extension System
Full text linkCooperative Extension services play a valuable role in empowering communities through Extension programming. Extension must adapt to evolving societal needs by understanding and addressing its diverse audiences. Audience segmentation is a fundamental aspect of marketing efforts in Extension communication. Previous work has identified that Extension programs are “the best kept secret,” limited in marketing by its lack of a clear audience. This qualitative study pursued the differences in perceptions of Extension priority programming areas among a stakeholder audience of professionals and college students residing in [state]. Utilizing Q-Sort methodology to identify these stakeholder perspectives, factor analysis revealed the professionals highly value youth development, community-based programming, and environmental programming when related to community development. Students’ values toward programming, however, align with their academic interests. For example, students pursuing forestry highly value environmental programming efforts whereas students in business value human-focused developmental programming. Results in this study underscore the need for targeted communication efforts in state Extension priority programming based on audience segmentation to empower and serve diverse communities. Recommendations identified in this study highlight the necessity for state Extension systems to engage its actors in programming needs to enhance public value. This approach can serve as a model to Extension systems across the U.S. as a guide to understanding diverse audiences in an ever-changing society
“They\u27re Dismantling Everything we Created”: Faculty in Teacher Preparation Programs and anti-DEI Initiatives
Full text linkThe purpose of this project was to examine the tensions experienced by university professors in teacher preparation programs among following their campus Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies which may be in direct conflict with their state Educational Gag Orders (EGO). This project was directed through a social justice framework as it applies to education through the lens of Critical Race theory (CRT). This study investigated the contradictory nature of how professors in teacher preparation programs teach about diversity while negotiating the state EGO’s. The consequences for being denied an understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion would be profound for the next generation of classroom educators
Maverick Rates and Application Timings for Weed Control in Kansas Corn
Full text linkMaverick herbicide was evaluated as a preemergence (PRE) treatment at Manhattan, and as a PRE and postemergence (POST) treatment at Garden City. Early in the season, Maverick applied preemergence (PRE) was as effective as Bicep II Magnum, Harness Xtra, Verdict, Resicore, or Acuron for kochia, Palmer amaranth, and green foxtail control at Garden City. Maverick PRE also controlled Russian thistle 95% early. Later in the season, Maverick or Kyro postemergence (POST) provided at least 95% kochia control, 98% Palmer amaranth control, and complete Russian thistle and green foxtail control. At the Manhattan location, Maverick was as effective on Palmer amaranth as the competitive standards. Control of entireleaf morningglory and common sunflower were more variable, but Maverick controlled these species as well as the competitive standards. Herbicide treatment at Garden City increased grain yields 57% to 81% relative to the weedy controls