Teaching

Spring: Of Meta-analysis in Agricultural Sciences (ENTM 7890 / ENTM 5130)

Narrative reviews gather evidence but lack empirical synthesis. Conversely, meta-analysis quantitatively combines effect sizes from multiple studies addressing similar hypotheses, revealing general patterns objectively. Despite limitations (file drawer problem, publication quality variations), meta-analysis powerfully identifies patterns in data-rich disciplines like agriculture, ecology, psychology, medicine, and education where large, under-analyzed datasets abound

Our class teaches students in agricultural and environmental sciences to master meta-analysis techniques for extracting meaningful insights from scattered research findings. Piloted in Spring 2025 as ENTM 7890, the course is transitioning to a permanent standing offering, ENTM 5130, beginning Spring 2027

Publications from class

  1. Senanayaka Mudiyanselage, P., Lindsey, L., Oladipupo, S.O., 2025. Does growing latitude influence soybean seed critical amino acid content? A meta-analysis. Agric. Environ. Lett. 10(2): e70033. DOI

  2. Williams, O., Ruppert, A., et al., 2026. Climate extremes, genomic coverage, and taxonomy shape the detection of adaptation: a systematic review of GEA studies for the Kingdom Animalia. Mol. Ecol. 35:e70328. DOI

underlined = Student in class

Fall: Biology of Insects, Animals & Fungi Affecting Buildings (ENTM 1111)

Acquaint construction engineers with the incredible biological diversity found on Planet Earth using insects as examples and biological models. Management of buildings against attacking and inhabiting insects, animals, and fungi will be covered