RSIS Article Types
Experimental Research:
This is original research based on hypotheses, experimental design and statistical evaluation. Characterized by replicated or pseudo-replicated experiments, and usually allows for defining cause and effect (these include research notes). The conclusions from this type of research usually are applicable across a wide variety of environmental conditions and ecological sites.
Documented Case History:
Documented case histories are also original research; usually include hypothesis formulation, experimental design and statistical evaluation. These are non-replicated research and involve clearly described changes in the rangeland, the animal, or the experimental unit. The author(s) will usually offer their ideas on the cause and effect relationship or the implications of the work. However, these are not clearly tested relationships. The conclusions can only be drawn within the boundaries of study and interpretation is limited by the conditions of the study.
Scientific Synthesis:
A literature review of original experimental research, a wide array of published information. A synthesis may include a research hypothesis, but not always. The information is presented in an objective way and assumed to be independent of the author’s personal viewpoint. This type of literature review presents a wide spectrum of research and observations to provide a complete understanding of the research within the specific topic area.
Scientific Opinion:
This type of literature is usually denoted in journals as forums, viewpoints, scientific opinion or others. This is type of article presents ideas or views that offer an insightful, thoroughly documented slant on a topic for which opinions are either controversial or unresolved by experimental research.
Professional Resource Knowledge:
This is qualitative knowledge and experience of scientist, professional resource managers and others. Professional knowledge does not have experimental design or statistical analysis of data and is not science. Findings from demonstration projects are many times included here, as it reports knowledge that is based on the skills and abilities of the authors.