Thesis (MEd)--University of Melbourne, Melbourne Graduate School of Education, 2010. / Typescript. Includes bibliographical references (p. 66-70)

<p dir="ltr">Agricultural biosecurity is a global concern, with implications for food security, public health, and economic and ecological stability. Through education and technology, threats can be predicted and better managed. Existing educational materials and spatial analysis predominantly cater to larger facilities, leaving smaller producers at a disadvantage as they often lack financial means to implement prevention strategies and have less resources at their disposal. In this dissertation, two novel uses of education and technology within agricultural biosecurity were researched: educational curricula for young and beginning farmers and the potential impact of geospatial information systems (GIS) tools in understanding the spread of avian influenza viruses (AIV). I extend my deepest gratitude to Dr. Shawn Ehlers, Clinical Assistant Professor, for his unwavering guidance and mentorship throughout my dissertation work. Special appreciation goes to my committee members, Dr. Pamela Aaltonen, Dr. William Field, and Dr. Roger Tormoehlen, for their valuable insights and constructive feedback. Collaborative efforts with Melissa Rudolph and the support from ABE GSA and QGSA greatly enriched my research experience. Heartfelt thanks to my family, including Glen Jr. Morris, Melodie Morris, Moranda Morris, Marissa and Ian Pringle, and my partner Adam Dachowicz, as well as Adam’s family Steven, Lori, Alyssa, and Holly, for their constant support. I acknowledge the contributions of Gearing Up for Safety, IN-PREPared, Indiana Board of Animal Health (BOAH), Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for their help in my research investigations and express my appreciation to Purdue libraries and ABE faculty and staff for constant support with crucial resources and facilities.</p><p><br></p>