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A Systematic Literature Review on Blockchain Technology in Agri-Food Systems (Flexible Project Credits)

Beschreibung

This project centers on conducting a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) to explore the implementation and impact of blockchain technology in agri-food systems. 

  • Blockchain is a decentralized data storage system that securely records and verifies data transactions across multiple computers. 
  • The use of blockchain in agri-food systems, can potentially insure full transparency and traceability of the food supply chain. 
  • However, this technology is still new to agriculture and food supply chain and there is still need for research to determine its benefits and disadvantages. 
  • SLR is a fundamental methodology across disciplines.
  • An SLR is the most objective way of summarizing the state of the art in a particular subject using a well-defined methodological protocol.
  • Unlike traditional literature reviews that are narrative and subjective, SLRs employ rigorous and transparent methods to objectively synthesize previous findings with minimized bias.
  • Learning SLRs is essential for enhancing skills such as evidence synthesis, critical thinking, and informed research question development.
  • In recent years, numerous studies have explored the application of blockchain technology in agri-food systems, and the focus on this topic is increasingly growing.
  • To systematically organize and summarize these findings, an SLR is essential.

This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research by exploring the innovative intersection of blockchain technology and agri-food systems, gaining valuable experience in a rapidly evolving field with significant implications for increasing transparency, efficiency, and sustainability in global food supply chains.

Teamwork: We work as a team, embracing the collaborative spirit. We try together, make mistakes together, learn together, and try again.

If you would like more information or have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to Dr. Shahin Ghaziani at sh.ghaziani@uni-hohenheim.de.

Projektzeitraum
Wintersemester 2024/2025
Bewerbungszeitraum
14. bis 28.10.2024
Durchführung
nach Absprache
Details zu Projektzeitraum und Durchführung

The project is scheduled to commence in November and will unfold according to the following timeline:

  • Weeks 1-2: Learning Phase 
  • Week 3-6: Developing the Review Protocol and Conducting the Search
  • Weeks 7-14: Screening the Literature and Thematic Analysis
  • Week 15-16: Synthesizing Results and Dara Visualization 
  • Weeks 17-22: Poster Preparation and Manuscript Compilation 

At the first meeting, the students will be involved in discussing and determining the specifics of the project and its organization.

Please note that this timeline is subject to adjustments based on project progress and evolving research needs.

Throughout the project, ongoing discussions, feedback loops, and regular meetings will ensure progress and address questions, fostering a collaborative and dynamic research environment. 

Studienfach
offen für alle Studienfächer
Betreuende
Shahin Ghaziani, Prof. Dr. Enno Bahrs
Institut
Institut für Landwirtschaftliche Betriebslehre (410) (Fachgebiet für Landwirtschaftliche Betriebslehre (410b))
Sprache
englisch
Teilnehmendenanzahl
min. 1, max. 3
Arbeitsaufwand
ca. 60 Stunden pro Teilnehmende:r | 2 ECTS-Punkte

Arbeitsaufwand (Stunden und ggf. ECTS) sind ungefähre Angaben. Die tatsächlich vergebenen ECTS-Punkte ergeben sich aus der tatsächlich geleisteten Arbeit.

 
Für dieses Projekt ist kein Motivationsschreiben des Studierenden erforderlich
Projektart
theoretisch/nicht experimentell
Lernziele

Die Teilnehmende lernen in diesem Projekt:

Subject-Specific Learning Objectives: Blockchain in Agri-Food Systems

  • Food supply chain: Develop a comprehensive understanding of the food supply chain, focusing on its various components and challenges.
  • Blockchain: Gain in-depth knowledge of blockchain technology and its applications within agri-food systems.
  • Other technologies: Explore other technological solutions that enhance efficiency and traceability in agri-food systems.
  • Business management: Investigate business management approaches, including the use of the PESTEL framework, to improve decision-making in agri-food contexts.
  • Other relevant fields: Analyze the interplay between sustainability, food law and politics, and societal impacts on agri-food systems, and the economic factors influencing agri-food systems and their technological integration.

Methodological Learning Objectives: SLR and research process

The project aims to equip participants with the knowledge and experience to conduct SLRs effectively, strengthening research capabilities.

  • The principles and steps of SLR: Acquire a deep understanding of the fundamental principles and methodical steps involved in conducting an SLR.
  • MAXQDA for advanced thematic analysis: MAXQDA software is a powerful tool for organizing, coding, and analyzing qualitative data.
    In the future, this skill will help you conduct and analyze qualitative surveys, such as interviews.
    This software is particularly useful in various disciplines, such as social sciences, political science, public health, business and management, market research, and media and communication studies. 
  • Article search: Enhance your ability to create and execute search strategies using scientific databases such as Scopus, CAB Direct, and IEEE Xplore.
  • Critical reading and evaluation skills: Improve your capability to critically read and evaluate academic literature, assessing the credibility, relevance, and quality of scientific articles.
  • Hands-on experience with AI in Research: Learn how to integrate AI tools into your research process to streamline data collection and analysis, as well as improve the reporting and writing processes.
  • Reference management and citation techniques: Learn accurate and consistent documentation of sources throughout your research.
  • Scientific writing: Develop your ability to write clear, concise, and impactful scientific reports and papers, articulating your research processes and findings with precision and clarity.
  • Design and present research posters: Acquire skills in crafting posters that effectively communicate your research findings and learn techniques for presenting your research concisely and engagingly.
  • Deep work: In this project, you will learn techniques to deepen your focus and improve your work outcome.
Anmerkungen für Studierende
  • 2 ECTS for 60 hours, but flexible based on your preference and working hours
  • Possibility of turning your project into your thesis
  • Possibility of co-authorship of a scientific paper
Schlagworte
Blockchain, food supply chain, food certification, Systematic Literature Review, Qualitative Research, data analysis, food safety