Introduction
APS, which stands for the American Phytopathological Society, is an organization of a group of individuals who conduct research of pathology of plants. The organization consists of world class scientists who have dedicated their lives to the study of plants. APS is recognized as the official international organization that mainly contribute its resources to not only the study of plants in general but also its management. However, the main focus of this scientific organization is plant diseases. Apsnet refers to the online website of APS which updates the society in general about their research. Apsnet is known to be a central resource for people who want to find more information about different sorts of plant diseases that have been discovered by the APS community.
History
The Apsnet offers an education center which was launched in 2000. The education center is an active part of the American Phytopathological Society and is responsible for sharing the research of the society with all. Access to the education center is completely free of cost and is open to everyone who is interested. The online website offers a wide range of research material for one to surf on the internet regarding their specific interests in the field of pathology of plants. The education center consists of an editorial board which does a very systemic review of the research material before it is posted online.
Features
The Apsnet education center offers the APS research material in variety of ways. The material is designed in such a way that it can suit the need of a very basic student to an advanced plant pathology student. This is done through organizing information in sections. The research of American Phytopathological Society is available in the form of notes, research papers and public journals. Range of educational activities available online on the education center. The education center website is designed in such a way that there a separate sub-sections for students, for people who want to do independent learning, for instructors and people who plan to teach or share the research to the third party involved. Also, there is a separate section available for authors, who want to contribute their private research to the scientific society. There is also a ‘what’s new’ new section which includes recent news or research by the APS society. An important main feature of the online education center is the translation section. This section consists of research material in different languages from authors around the world, making the research available to much wider population.
Tips and comments
The Apsnet, itself is a huge contribution from the American Phytopathological Society for the better understanding of plant diseases and the management of plants. The resources are available in an organized manner for anyone to easily find the right type and amount of information which is required. Whether it’s a small beginner’s class or an advance study student body, the education center has information for everyone, suiting everyone’s need. If one is completely sure of what type of information they are looking for or what their basic research requirement is then it is almost impossible for one to not find the right answers with the help of the online education center.
