2017 ASHS Annual Conference

In 2011, the Department of Horticulture & Natural Resources at Kansas State University launched a new specialization in Urban Food Systems within the M.S. in Horticulture program. This specialization is aiming in preparing professionals for positions in non-governmental organizations (NGO’s), city governments and extension programs that are facilitating urban farming development. The students enrolling in the program have a diverse educational background, frequently lacking basic knowledge of plant physiology and/or laboratory research. One of the objectives of this specialization is to provide the students with a solid foundation in horticultural science and food crop production; students lacking basic plant physiology knowledge are advised to complete their elective requirements with plant science classes. One of the programs elective classes is HORT 725, Postharvest Technology and Physiology of Horticultural Crops. This course covers the biological principles involved in the postharvest life of fresh produce and the effects on shelf life and quality. The intended learning outcomes are as follows: 1) Understanding the physiological, biochemical, and pathological considerations and the compositional and physical changes occurring during maturation and degradation that affect produce quality and shelf life. 2) Understanding the commercial procedures from harvest to consumer in relation to biological principles and individual commodity requirements and responses. The class includes a research project in which the students have to propose the topic, experimental design and methods for studying the aspects of postharvest biology and handling of a perishable horticultural crop. Students are expected to gain the ability to evaluate existing postharvest handling systems and recommend improved practices for maintaining product quality during the postharvest period, using scientific methods. This interdisciplinary environment provides the opportunity for the students to learn from each other while also challenging the instructors to use teaching strategies for students with and without knowledge of the basic principles of postharvest science and laboratory research. This presentation will discuss the challenges and opportunities faced when teaching a plant science class in an interdisciplinary classroom.