Research Methods Lecture 1

Introduction to Research Methods in Animal Science

Instructor Information

  • Instructor Name: Arturo
  • Affiliation: Animal Science Department
  • Research Focus: Seminal plasma priming in ewes, its effect on the female microbiome and embryo health.

Student Contributions

  • Karimen: Research on croutless urine supplementation, effects on growth in growing labs, and wool characteristics, focusing on the CXCR4 and CXCL12 hormone receptor and ligand pathway.
  • Elora: Masters in Food Science, research on characterizing pressing of Xanthocerra sorbifolium as a potential cooking oil replacement.
  • Liz: Research on Q4 cells' effects on early gestation and metabolism in ewes, under Dr. Craig Gifford.
  • Quina: Research focused on Interferon Tau, working with Dr. Ashley and Dr. Craig Gifford.
  • Toby: Working with Dr. Tau on rumen microbials, originally from Nigeria.

Class Overview

  • Class Title: Research Method
  • Goals: Provide a comprehensive understanding of planning, designing, analyzing, and publishing experiments.
  • Main Focus: Importance of data analysis in drawing valid conclusions from research.

Course Content Structure

Planning and Experiment Design

  • Stages of Research:
    • Planning
    • Designing a research study
    • Analyzing data
    • Publishing findings
  • Key considerations for strong conclusions:
    • Ensuring the conclusions reflect the truth with a degree of confidence.
  • Student Involvement:
    • Typically, master's students engage more in execution than planning of studies.
    • Students will learn through hands-on experience under the guidance of faculty.

Historical Context of the Course

  • Previous Curriculum:
    • Focused on manual statistical analysis due to limited software access.
  • Modern Context:
    • Introduction of various software: SAS, SPSS, R, Excel.
  • Primary Software Used: SAS, particularly in animal sciences.

Statistical Analysis and Tools

Software and Tools for Statistical Analysis

  • SAS: Traditional tool in animal science research.
  • SPSS: Commonly used in social sciences.
  • R: Another option for statistical analysis.
  • Excel: Used primarily for basic calculations, such as standard deviations and slopes.

Core Topics in Statistical Analysis

  • Experimental Design Types:
    • Complete Randomized Design
    • Randomized Complete Block Design
    • Split Block Design
    • Repeated Measures Design
    • Latin Square Design
    • Crossover Design
Mixed Models Approach
  • Emphasis on using mixed models for complex analyses.
  • Use of PROC MIXED in SAS for analysis.

Manuscript Preparation

  • Components of a Manuscript:
    • Structure and requirements for each section.
  • Grant Proposals:
    • Importance of writing proposals based on current research topics to enhance understanding and expertise.

Challenges in Graduate Research

  • Perception of Writing:
    • Many students underestimate the importance of writing skills until they enter the workforce.
  • Communication:
    • Essential for producing scientific papers and securing funding.
    • Continuous writing required in academia for publishing research.

Developing Research Ideas and Questions

Factors Contributing to Research Selection

  • Curiosity:
    • Drives the identification of gaps in knowledge that spark research questions.
  • Problem Identification:
    • Importance of detecting unaddressed issues within a field.
    • Example noted: Research on crude glycerin as an energy source for ruminants despite existing data on concentrates for cattle.

Steps for Selecting a Research Program

  1. Identify a gap in existing knowledge in your field.
  2. Ask pertinent questions regarding the relevance and novelty of the proposed research.
  3. Assess potential impacts and further contributions to the field based on research results.

Example Case Study

  • Crude Glycerin Research:
    • Byproduct from biodiesel industry, potential energy source for ruminants.
    • Investigating its reproductive effects on sheep.
    • Aim: Fill knowledge gaps regarding alternative energy sources in sheep diets, specifically in foraging contexts compared to conventional concentrates.
Final Considerations in Research
  • Evaluating Risks:
    • Contemplation on the feasibility and relevance of research topics.
  • Knowing your Field:
    • Essential for recognizing gaps that require further exploration.

Conclusion and Practical Application

  • Preparation for First Class Task:

    • Students will formulate a clear and concise research problem based on discussion.

  • Engagement in the Learning Process:

    • Importance of consistent participation and effort to ensure understanding of material.

  • Next Steps:

    • Transition into the discussion of philosophical approaches to research in future classes.