Research
Our faculty experts and scientists are conducting impactful, interdisciplinary research that address critical issues pertaining to food, agriculture, natural resources, youth development and human health. We work where agriculture and the life sciences meet, using advanced research menthods and immersive technology to enhance education, science communication and agricultural literacy and strengthen both urban and rural communities in Texas, the nation and around the globe.
Areas of Research Expertise
Our faculty represent a community of scholars who are conducting extensive research programs in a variety of program areas, collaborating with colleagues across the world from different disciplines.
Curriculum, Instruction & Evaluation
Our researchers working in this area investigate various facets of consumer perceptions about food, products and services and examine how these perceptions influence behavior, such as purchasing decisions. Using immersive technology, this research provides critical information for end-use consumers as well and informs the development and marketing of food, fiber, fuel and
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Access
Our faculty working in this are examine international agriculture issues, conduct research and develop resources and educational programs to increase youth involvement and employment in agriculture, empower underserved populations and advance agricultural practices in their communities.
International Agricultural Development & Food Security
Our faculty working in this area examine different aspects of leadership to enhance personal growth and development and improve performance among people groups, communities, organizations and businesses.
Leadership Education & Student Development
Research in this area aims to improve the health, wellbeing and livelihood of people living in rural areas. This work supports initiatives, education and programming to help reinvigorate small towns and rural communities, providing innovative solutions for preserving their infrastructure, identifying economic opportunities and empowering local citizens to lead and navigate change.
Science Communication & Public Perceptions
Research in this area examines public awareness and understanding of complex scientific and agricultural information to better improve dialogue between scientists and their audiences. This work often uses immersive technology and advanced research methods to help scientists understand barriers their audiences face and equip them with training, resources and tools to more effectively communicate their work in a way the public will understand.
Applied Youth Development
Applied Youth Development addresses the antecedent processes, in situ experiences, and developmental outcomes associated with structured out-of-school time activities for youth. Our teaching, research, and outreach also addresses effective management and marketing of youth-serving organizations.
Research Centers, institutes and Labs
We have faculty in each of these spaces conducting innovative research and outreach to aid in the informed decision making and empowerment of consumers, communities, organizations and businesses.
- Science Communications Lab
- Virtual Reality Lab
- Norman Borlaug Institute for International Agriculture
- Center for Conflict and Development at Texas A&M University
ALEC Research News
Enhancing communications to better support rural communities
Dr. Dara Wald is an associate professor in the Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communications, bringing her research program that taps into developing a better understanding of communications on pivotal issues affecting rural agricultural communities.
Purchasing decisions: The eyes have it
To communicate effective food messages and better tell agriculture’s story, Dr. Matt Baker and researchers in his lab are evaluating eye tracking movement, facial expression, heart rate and other behavioral indicators to reveal consumers’ responses to food messages and choices.