Utilization of a modified Delphi method to perform a needs assessment and curriculum revision of a senior-level beef systems management course

Abstract Text:

Recent, new instructorship of the senior-level beef systems management course at Iowa State University presented the opportunity to conduct a thorough evaluation and potential revision of the course curriculum. The objective of this study was to conduct a critical evaluation of the course and utilize the results to update course objectives and student outcomes. To accomplish this, a select group of industry stakeholders was invited to aid in an assessment of course objectives and student preparation for various careers in the beef industry. Fifteen stakeholders (10 males and 5 females) including cow/calf producers, feedlot operators, and industry professionals were used in the process. The stakeholders encompassed a broad range of experience ranging from 2 to more than 60 years, including both recent graduates and industry thought leaders. A series of surveys patterned after the Delphi process was designed to rank the importance of various aspects of the beef industry that students need to understand prior to entering the industry. This resulted in development of a list of desired student outcomes created by stakeholders. During the first round, stakeholders individually listed what outcomes and objectives they believed should be considered paramount to the course. Results from round 1 were compiled and subsequently ranked on an individual basis in order of importance by all stakeholders during round 2. The third and final round involved a group discussion on rankings from round 2 and development of final ranking of objectives and outcomes. For each ranked outcome category, a composite mean, median, and standard deviation were calculated. Rankings were then used to assess and re-design the course structure and curriculum. Among the top ranked categories (composite mean) were understanding of basic economics/risk management (35.13), ability to calculate total cost of production (35.94), and marketing of the cattle (40.65). Some of the lowest ranked categories (composite mean) included understanding the beef carcass grading systems (62.05), how to use existing beef-based software programs (62.38), and EPDs and breeding systems (63.31). As lower ranked categories are covered in prerequisite courses, this data reinforced the need to build on course prerequisites and not focus on topics taught in prior courses. Utilizing this modified Delphi method with carefully selected stakeholders proved to be an effect protocol that allowed instructors to critically evaluate and update course objectives and student outcomes that are relevant to the needs of the industry.

Keywords: beef, Delphi method, teaching