3 credits
Spring 2026 Lecture
This course is primarily intended for PhD students in the broad discipline of agricultural sciences who want to learn how to develop a publishable systematic review (SR) for their dissertation topic and/or in future work. The course goal is for students to understand the distinguishing features of important SR typologies and be able to apply their understanding to selecting and conducting the SRs that are appropriate to their own research questions. Students will meet twice a week with experts in agricultural sciences (e.g., agro-ecology, soils, animal sciences, crop sciences, socioeconomic sciences, etc.), information studies, data sciences and statistics; class time will typically involve lecture followed by collaborative work activities. Students will identify questions to work on individually and/or together in teams in a semester-long effort expected to lead to a peer-review publication. The research questions are anticipated to focus on management and technology efficacy in broadly defined agricultural systems (including livestock), agricultural impacts on ecosystem services, etc. Weekly assignments will follow the sequential steps of a full SR. Note that completion/publication of a full SR is not required to successfully complete the class as a full publication will likely require additional effort beyond the 16-week semester. Additional special project credits may be offered to students for completing work in the following semester(s).
Learning Outcomes1Think originally and independently to develop concepts and methodologies.
2Identify new research opportunities within one's field.
3Synthesize existing knowledge, identifying and accessing appropriate resources and other sources of relevant information and critically analyzing and evaluating one's own findings and those of others.
4Master application of existing research methodologies, techniques, and technical skills.
5Communicate in a style appropriate to the discipline.
6Keep abreast of current advances within one's field and related areas.
7Show commitment to personal professional development through engagement in professional societies, publication, and other knowledge transfer modes.
8Show a commitment to creating an environment that supports learning through teaching, collaborative inquiry, mentoring, or demonstration.
9Adhere to ethical standards in the discipline.
10Listen, give, and receive feedback effectively.
Restrictions
made by Purdue students.