Researching Current Topics in Nutrition and Health: Part 2
Amy Joy, Professor
Nutritional Sciences and Toxicology
Open. Apprentices needed for the spring semester. Enter your application online beginning January 17th. The deadline to apply is Monday, January 27th, 4 p.m..
This project researches current topics in nutrition and health for my undergraduate class ("Eating Green: The science behind the grassroots food movement"). My class is a small-group class that uses a discussion format to cover a range of controversial questions (eg. Are organic foods better?). Currently teaching this class on zoom, I use many different formats to maintain interest and enthusiasm for good health. I am in the process of updating topics with current research. I am seeking 2 students to assist in identifying new and creative resources to use (video clips and short articles) on a several current nutrition and health topics: A case study on food borne illness (an in-depth review of how pathogens enter the food supply); the danger of ultra-processed foods in our diet (an in-depth review of the health concerns of ultra-processed foods); how much protein is needed in our diet (an in-depth review of protein, what are the best sources, how much do we really need, and the health effects of under and over consumption); and other topics as needed.
Role: Learning outcomes: This project has the following learning objectives:
(1) URAP students will learn how to research topics for educational purposes;
(2) URAP students will learn how to evaluate subject content for accuracy and student interest;
(3) URAP students will learn ways to encourage classroom discussion;
(4) URAP students will learn scientifically-based information about nutrition and health which can be applied to their own dietary well-being.
At our first meeting, we will review some the materials created in Spring 2024 so students can see what kinds of education materials work in my zoom class. Each week, we will work together on each topic to develop the final product.
Tasks:
(1) Students will develop criterion for research topics;
(2) Students will pick one topic to research;
(3) Students will create a list of facts for their topic.
(4) Students will convert the list into powerpoint slides.
(5) Students will find 2 to 3 examples of video clips on the topic.
Qualifications: Students should be able to attend weekly zoom meetings. The ideal candidate is someone who is enthusiastic, motivated, enjoys networking with others, and is interested in discussing current and controversial health and nutrition topics. Although the subject-matter covered in this project is in the field of nutrition and health, students who are in other fields are welcome to apply as they can make important contributions to this research.
Hours: 3-5 hrs
Off-Campus Research Site: We will be working using zoom for this project.
Social Sciences Education, Cognition & Psychology