The Popcorn Class

EAST LANSING, MICH - They call it the Popcorn Class.

But, the official name of the course known to the students at Michigan State University is entitled, "Science of the Foods we Love". It's picked up the common name of the "popcorn course" because it may come up with how to better make a popcorn kernel.

The class shows students how science and industry work together. And, thanks to funding from ConAgra Foods, which makes Orville Redenbacher popcorn, the students study popcorn's size, thickness, explosive factors and the quality of microwaved popcorn.

Research that could be used adds a real incentive for the students says MSU professor Jim Smith. He adds,"In addition, they will be turning in projects that will be seen by people other than the instructor. It adds a whole new level of meaning to assignments.”

The students will be visiting the ConAgra headquarters in Omaha, Nebraska, to show off their work within the month. Besides actually doing the research, the students will have to write up their research proposals, show identifying variables, and come up with the experiments.

Smith says that there are many ways to make a living in science and furthermore, “If you look at food or food production there is a lot of research going on in that area. Many students are not aware of career options like these.”

To find out more about the Popcorn class, go to: www.msu.edu/course/lb/494/s11/