1. NFSMI Applied Research Update
USDA/State Agency Workshop 2014

2. Applied Research Division
Conducts applied research projects that address operational issues impacting CN Programs
addresses real-world issues
finds solutions to everyday problems
has immediate and practical application of the findings
Let’s focus on what applied research means:
Applied Research projects:
Address real-world issues
Find solutions to everyday problems and
Have immediate and practical application of their findings

3. Applied Research Division
Projects focus on:
Continuous improvement of CN programs
Strengthening the competence within the CN profession
Operational issues (not policy issues)
Methodologies used:
National surveys
Case studies
Expert work groups/national review panels
Request for Application (RFA)/Request for Proposal (RFP)
So the focus of ARD’s projects are on:

4. Applied Research Division
Resource development:
Previous research provides foundation
Research-based best practice model
Involvement of CN professionals
CN professionals can use resources to:
Guide decision making
Establish plan of action
Establish goals for continuous quality improvement

5. Research Projects: Completed
Competencies, Knowledge and Skills for State Agency Child Nutrition Professionals in the 21st Century (resource)
Training and Educational Resource Needs of Child Care Professionals Participating in the Child and Adult Care Food Program

6. Research Projects: Completed
Exploring School Nutrition Professionals’ Preferences of USDA Recipes and R4HK Competition Recipes for Meeting USDA Meal Pattern Requirements
Development of an Emergency Preparedness Resource Guide for School Nutrition Professionals (resource)
Marketing the School Nutrition Program: A Resource Guide for School Nutrition Professionals (resource)

7. Research Projects: In Progress
Best Practice Resource Guide for Increasing Middle/Junior High School Student Participation in and Satisfaction with the National School Lunch Program (resource)
Exploring Standard School Nutrition Productivity Measures
A Needs Assessment on Point of Service/Sale (POS) Systems in School Nutrition Programs

8. Research Projects: In Progress
Explore the Issues and Challenges Associated with Managing a Diverse School Nutrition Workforce
The Milk Project: Want Milk! Exploring the Impact of Elementary and Middle School Students' Preferences on Milk Selection
Identify Knowledge and Skill Statements Needed for Child Care Providers in CACFP Operations (resource)

9. Research Projects: Planning Stage
Competencies, Knowledge, and Skills Needed for School Nutrition Managers in the 21st Century (resource)
Develop a Resource for Using Standard School Nutrition Productivity Measures (resource)
Exploring Innovative Summer Feeding Programs: Explore Innovative Marketing Strategies and Delivery Models Used in Effective Summer Food Service Programs

10. Research Projects: Planning Stage
Assess Current Status of Nutrition and Wellness Components in Child Care Centers Participating in the CACFP
Conduct a Needs Assessment of School Nutrition Directors Operating in the 3rd to 5th Year of Service

11. R.E.S.E.A.R.C.H R – Ask the Right Questions E – Ask the Experts
S – Collect Information Systematically
E – Examine the Data
A – Assessment
R – Remember the Reason We’re Here
C – Children
H – Helping to Improve CNP