NIC Expected Practices

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Scenario-Based Microlearning: DOJ/NIC Pilot Test Results

Introduction The Department of Justice (DOJ) and the National Institute of Corrections (NIC) recently conducted a pilot test to assess the effectiveness of a scenario-based microlearning program titled Expected Practices. This initiative aimed to support federal, state, local, and tribal…
happy hens free range chicken farm sign

Enhancing Veterinarians’ Skills in Early Detection of Foreign Animal Diseases: An Interactive & Immersive Learning Series

In response to the escalating threat of foreign animal diseases, a new interactive video series has been developed to train veterinarians in the early detection and diagnosis of these diseases, with the goal of preventing outbreaks before they occur. Utilizing…
illustration of agricultural elements

Building Stronger Veterinary-Producer Partnerships: Key Insights and Lasting Impact from the Texas A&M AgriLife Research and USDA-NIFA Creating Partnerships Project

INTRODUCTION The Creating Partnerships Between Veterinarians and Small and Medium-Sized Producers project, funded by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), has successfully concluded. This initiative aimed to enhance economic efficiency and sustainability for small and medium-sized ranchers…
portrait of Ashlee Shephard

Introducing Ashlee Shepard: Program Manager for Online Learning Programs

We are pleased to announce the appointment of Ashlee Shepard as the Program Manager for Online Learning Programs at the Center for Educational Technologies. In this capacity, Ms. Shepard will assume responsibility for planning, organizing, directing, and managing the day-to-day…
workshop participants overlayed on a map of Africa with Zambia highlighted

The Need for Zambia to Use Good Regulatory Practices to Evaluate SPS Measures

In partnership with the United States Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agriculture Service and African Union, Dr. Nicola L. Ritter, Instructional Associate Professor in the department of Veterinary Integrative Sciences at Texas A&M University, hosted a one-week training event on good…

Augmented Reality: Revolutionizing Veterinary Training for Disease Detection

The USDA has been transitioning from in-person training to virtual training since the pandemic. This shift allows employees to access training remotely, ensuring safety and flexibility. Virtual platforms enable interactive learning experiences, including webinars and online courses. This move reflects…

Texas 4-H Robotics Challenge Meets Veterinary Medicine: A Unique Collaboration

In an exciting fusion of technology and healthcare, the Texas 4-H Robotics Challenge recently teamed up with veterinary medicine to create a one-of-a-kind experience for future biomedical engineers. This innovative collaboration brought together the bright minds of young robotics enthusiasts…

Ritter Awarded Texas 4H Grant: Bringing STEM Opportunities to Rural County Youth

In January 2024, Dr. Ritter founded the Panola Robotics program with two Lego Mindstorm robots borrowed by the Panola County AgriLife Extension Office. This comprehensive program is designed to equip youth with a variety of skills related to robotics, coding,…