EXPERIENCE-BASED LEARNING IN AGRICULTURE
This project seeks to test various models focused on experiential learning in a variety of agricultural settings in an attempt to evaluate them and develop new approaches. The end result has the potential to impact learning and teaching technical agriculture subjects and skills as well as enhancing the quality of education in agriculture.
Investigators: Wade Miller, Robert Martin, Greg Miller, Nancy Grudens-Schuck, Roger McEowen; Mike Retallick, Awoke Dollisso, Ryan Anderson, Tom Paulsen, agricultural education and studies
UNDERSTANDING TOXIC STRESS EXPOSURE, FOOD INSECURITY AND CHILD/ADOLESCENT OBESITY
About 40 percent of America's youth (6 to 19 years old) are overweight or obese. Researchers are examining the relationship between toxic stress and child and adolescent obesity and evaluating if food insecurity worsens the relationship between toxic stress exposure and child and adolescent obesity over time, particularly in low income and minority families.
Investigators: Brenda Lohman, Kimberly Greder, Tricia Neppl, Daniel Russell, human development and family studies
HUMAN DIMENSIONS OF AGRICULTURE, NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AND FOOD SYSTEMS
The project seeks to better understand the roles of perceptions, beliefs, values and behaviors of farmers, rural residents, consumers and other relevant groups regarding the use and conservation of Iowa's agriculturally based natural resources and food systems. Public support for alternative approaches to achieve resource sustainability and a productive and efficient food system also will be studied. Results will be used to implement educational strategies to create changes leading to better natural resource conservation and preservation, increased benefits for farm families and rural communities from natural resource use, and a more trusted and secure food system.
Investigators: Lois Morton, J. Arbuckle, Carmen Bain, Cornelia Flora, Jan Flora, Paul Lasley, Steve Sapp, sociology
BEHAVIORAL ECONOMICS AND FINANCIAL DECISION-MAKING AND INFORMATION MANAGEMENT ACROSS THE LIFESPAN
This project seeks to understand consumer decision-making behavior with regard to financial decisions. Major financial decisions like buying a home, starting Social Security and the amount of student loans to incur will be studied specifically. The process of consumer decision-making needs to be better understood so appropriate strategies can be devised. Researchers will start with a panel of rural Iowans to evaluate their financial decisions and what factors are associated with various decisions. This initial research will help inform later studies in which various types of educational materials influence choosing alternatives in their own best interest.
INVESTIGATOR: Timothy Griesdorn, human development and family studies