WEEK #

RESEARCH ACTIVITIES & PRODUCTS

Week 1

• Initial research conceptualization and orientation of field of study
• Begin literature review – Examine literature and background of biotechnology communication and outreach strategies
• Planning of In-Country data collection trip to South Africa (SA)

Weeks 2-3

• Continue literature review
• Develop detailed research approach and concept (design, methods, research instrument/s)

Week 4

• Refine research/data collection approach and concept; Prepare presentation
• Presentation to Research Leader and IIA Faculty

Weeks 5-7

In-country data collection:

week 5

• 2 days – Travel East Lansing -Johannesburg/Pretoria, SA.
• 1 day – Adjust from travel and connect with local coordinator to discuss details of logistics and research schedule.
• 1 day – 1) Meet with members of the AfricaBio Team. 2) Collect local literature/documents related to research topic/questions. 3) Compile a list of all biotechnology stakeholders in SA. 4) Finalize research schedule and travel schedule
• 1 day – 1) Connect via conference call with Research leader and Local organizer to discuss final itinerary and activity details.

week 6

• 1 day – Travel to ARC-VOPI; meet with and interview the PI and members of the Bt Potato project Team in SA
• 2 days – Meet with and interview various Biotechnology stakeholders from public and private sector institutions in the Gauteng Province
• 1 day – Meet with members of the Science & Technology Dept. to discuss the outcomes on public surveys on perceptions and acceptance of GM products in SA
•  1 day – meet with AfricaBio members to discuss the anti-GM campaign and all the role-players in SA
• Revise interview schedule/s as necessary.

week 7

•  Connect via conference call with Research Leader and Local coordinator early in week to discuss progress and refine next steps; Identify and collect any additional local literature/documents needed for research.
•  1 day - Meet and interview members of AfricaBio on Biotechnology Communication and Outreach strategies.
•  1 day – Compile Draft Outline for Report
•  2 days – Travel Johannesburg - East Lansing.

Weeks 8-10

• Report writing – Compile Draft Research report on findings and conclusions of the Biotechnology Communication and Outreach Study in SA
• Prepare presentation
• Presentation to Research Leader

Weeks 11-12

• Revise Research report based on feedback from Research Leader Develop
• Present Research Report to Research Leader and IIA Faculty members

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