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Articles 1 - 30 of 305
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Perceptions Of The Training Needs Of The Newest Members Of The Extension Family, Jacklyn A. Bruce, Jessica Anderson
Perceptions Of The Training Needs Of The Newest Members Of The Extension Family, Jacklyn A. Bruce, Jessica Anderson
The Journal of Extension
The study reported here investigated the perceived importance and proficiency of leadership skills to new North Carolina Cooperative Extension agents. The researchers utilized a Web-based survey questionnaire that incorporated Leadership Skills Inventory (LSI) developed by Jones (2006). According to Moore (2003), the leadership skills are developed into six categories: human skills, emotional intelligence skills, conceptual skills, technical skills, communication skills, and industry knowledge skills. Overall, new Extension agents felt that communication and industry knowledge skills were ranked as the least important and least proficient skills.
Interview With The Merriman Award Winner
Enhancing Both Cooperative Extension And National Environmental Education Resources, Martha C. Monroe
Enhancing Both Cooperative Extension And National Environmental Education Resources, Martha C. Monroe
The Journal of Extension
State Extension programs can contribute to the successful adoption of national environmental education programs by making locally relevant resources available, creating reference materials to bridge between 4-H project books and other resources, and developing companion materials that supplement national materials with local issues and resources. Such activities provide opportunities to integrate research and teaching with Extension programs and build productive relationships with agencies and organizations. Seven strategies with examples from one state are explained.
A Smartphone Application For Landscape Plants: A Case Study And Guide To Developing A Decision-Making Application, Gail Hansen, Scott Purcell
A Smartphone Application For Landscape Plants: A Case Study And Guide To Developing A Decision-Making Application, Gail Hansen, Scott Purcell
The Journal of Extension
Smart phone applications are rapidly gaining popularity, and Extension programs are eager to use this teaching tool. But developing an application can be time intensive and costly. Students in environmental horticulture at the University of Florida teamed with the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ program to develop an application with an extensive plant database. The students and information technology expert from the Florida-Friendly program documented their methodology and developed helpful guidelines for anyone considering an application. With the guidelines, Extension agents can evaluate the adaptability of their program to a database=linked application and determine the feasibility of creating a decision-making application.
2012-2013 All Committee Updates
Extension's Online Presence: Are Land-Grant Universities Promoting The Tripartite Mission?, Shannon Arnold, Alexandra Hill, Nikki Bailey, Courtney Meyers
Extension's Online Presence: Are Land-Grant Universities Promoting The Tripartite Mission?, Shannon Arnold, Alexandra Hill, Nikki Bailey, Courtney Meyers
The Journal of Extension
Land-grant universities were established with a tripartite mission: education, research, and outreach through the Cooperative Extension Service. The purpose of the study reported here was to evaluate the online presence and technological adoptions of Extension on land-grant university, college of agriculture, and state Extension websites. Almost half of the university websites did not contain a direct link to Extension, and only 10% highlighted Extension services. Many state Extension websites had some form of social media, but only 45% had a link to eXtension. The results demonstrate the need to expand Extension's Internet presence, particularly on land-grant university websites.
Social Media In Diabetes Education: A Viable Option?, Julie Cooper, Jill N. Cox, Marilyn A. Corbin
Social Media In Diabetes Education: A Viable Option?, Julie Cooper, Jill N. Cox, Marilyn A. Corbin
The Journal of Extension
As Extension educators are encouraged to implement more cost-effective and efficient means of programming, the use of Web-based social media has become a popular option. Penn State Extension implemented a social media awareness survey among participants in its community-based diabetes education program to determine familiarity with this medium, along with rates of current and future use. Results indicated a level of comfort with email and Facebook options, while many preferred more traditional methods of communication. Future research is needed to determine if this online mode of learning may be more effective in targeting a younger Dining with Diabetes population.
Agricultural Energy Information Needs Of Cooperative Extension Agricultural Agents And Their Clientele, Daniel Kluchinski
Agricultural Energy Information Needs Of Cooperative Extension Agricultural Agents And Their Clientele, Daniel Kluchinski
The Journal of Extension
A nationwide survey of Extension agricultural agents was conducted to determine interests and educational needs related to energy and agriculture. Their highest ranked interests were renewable energy (wind, solar), farm system conservation and efficiency, and biodiesel. They perceived their clientele's greatest interests in biodiesel, wind energy, farm system conservation and efficiency, and solar energy. Regional differences were found, but similar interests included renewables, conservation and efficiency, and inputs (feedstocks) rather than outputs (end products) and processes. The results identify and prioritize informational needs and are useful for planning future educational training and developing educational materials on farm energy topics.
Technical Feasibility Of Small-Scale Oilseed And On-Farm Biodiesel Production: A Vermont Case Study, Emily J. Stebbins-Wheelock, Robert Parsons, Qingbin Wang, Heather Darby, Vernon P. Grubinger
Technical Feasibility Of Small-Scale Oilseed And On-Farm Biodiesel Production: A Vermont Case Study, Emily J. Stebbins-Wheelock, Robert Parsons, Qingbin Wang, Heather Darby, Vernon P. Grubinger
The Journal of Extension
This article investigates the technical feasibility of small-scale oilseed production and on-farm processing of biodiesel and livestock feed using primary data from two Vermont farms. Results indicate that small-scale production of sunflowers, canola, and soybeans, and on-farm processing of livestock feed and biodiesel are technically feasible, but yields depend on many factors. Increased local expertise, information-sharing among the farm and Extension communities, and improved access to harvesting and processing equipment can improve productivity and efficiency. Additional experience in seed drying and expeller pressing techniques should reduce fat content in the seed meal, improve meal value, and improve oil production efficiency.
Poultry Farmers' Willingness To Participate In Energy Audits, Kimberly L. Jensen, Roland K. Roberts, Burton C. English
Poultry Farmers' Willingness To Participate In Energy Audits, Kimberly L. Jensen, Roland K. Roberts, Burton C. English
The Journal of Extension
Farmers' willingness to participate in energy audits of their poultry operations is influenced by a variety of farm characteristics and farmer demographics. Data from a 2008 survey of Tennessee poultry farmers were used in a logit regression to investigate factors influencing willingness to participate in energy audits. Size of operation, energy costs, use of propane, farm income, use of energy efficiency measures, and share of acreage in row crops influenced willingness to participate. Farmer demographics, including farming experience, educational attainment and use of Extension services, also influenced willingness to participate.
Tools For Creating Mobile Applications For Extension, Sabrina L. Drill
Tools For Creating Mobile Applications For Extension, Sabrina L. Drill
The Journal of Extension
Considerations and tools for developing mobile applications for Extension include evaluating the topic, purpose, and audience. Different computing platforms may be used, and apps designed as modified Web pages or implicitly programmed for a particular platform. User privacy is another important consideration, especially for data collection apps. Several useful tools already exist for using mobile devices for data collection, as well as for mundane tasks like volunteer management and effort tracking.
Will Extension Survive? Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service Employees' Perceptions Of Adopter Attributes Of Extension, Xianyan Xu, Kathleen D. Kelsey
Will Extension Survive? Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service Employees' Perceptions Of Adopter Attributes Of Extension, Xianyan Xu, Kathleen D. Kelsey
The Journal of Extension
eXtension was introduced in 2008 as an innovation to rekindle public interest in Extension. The founders forecasted a 75% adoption rate within 1 year. However, adoptions rates have been much lower than expected. The study reported here investigated eight perceived adopter attributes (relative advantage, compatibility, trialability, visibility, ease of use, result demonstrability, image, and voluntariness) of eXtension among Oklahoma Extension employees to identify threats to adoption. Findings indicated that Extension employees generally held negative views of all eight attributes of the innovation. Without profound changes to the innovation and process of adoption, eXtension risks failure in this state.
Impact Of A Dairy Beef Quality Assurance Extension Program On Producer Cull Cow Management Practices And Meat Quality Knowledge, Am Imler, Cc Carr, Mj Hersom, Dd Johnson, T A. Thrift
Impact Of A Dairy Beef Quality Assurance Extension Program On Producer Cull Cow Management Practices And Meat Quality Knowledge, Am Imler, Cc Carr, Mj Hersom, Dd Johnson, T A. Thrift
The Journal of Extension
Dairy producers must implement culling strategies that optimize animal welfare and meat quality to maintain consumer confidence in beef products. A Dairy Beef Quality Assurance Extension program was conducted including varying educational delivery methods, incorporating industry personnel in teaching and discussion, and interactive demonstrations. All respondents indicated that they would adopt at least one new production practice to optimize welfare and/or meat quality. Additionally, all respondents indicated that the workshop was effective at teaching producers how to optimize welfare and meat quality and improve the value of cull dairy cattle, suggesting that similar programs would be successful in other states.
Going The Distance Part 1: Three Keys To Successfully Delivering An Extension Course At A Distance, Heidi B. Rader
Going The Distance Part 1: Three Keys To Successfully Delivering An Extension Course At A Distance, Heidi B. Rader
The Journal of Extension
Distance learning is common in most segments of education, and the body of knowledge is extensive. Extension can apply much of this research but uniquely educates students whose presence is voluntary. The literature suggests that successful distance-delivered Extension courses share three characteristics: course content is high quality, demand is high for the course, and the distance-delivery method is satisfactory. More studies are needed to better assess the efficacy of specific distance-delivery methods in an Extension setting, but these three keys can be used to decide whether or not to deliver a course using distance delivery.
Serving Clientele With Disabilities: An Assessment Of Texas Fcs Agents' Needs For Implementing Inclusive Programs, Rick L. Peterson, Cheryl Grenwelge, Michael R. Benz, Dalun Zhang, J. Aaron Resch, Geraldo Mireles, Lakshmi Mahadevan
Serving Clientele With Disabilities: An Assessment Of Texas Fcs Agents' Needs For Implementing Inclusive Programs, Rick L. Peterson, Cheryl Grenwelge, Michael R. Benz, Dalun Zhang, J. Aaron Resch, Geraldo Mireles, Lakshmi Mahadevan
The Journal of Extension
This article reports on a qualitative study to assess Texas Family Consumer Science (FCS) Extension professionals' experiences working with individuals with disabilities and their perceived skills in promoting and delivering inclusive educational programming for this audience. Study results indicate that overall Extension educators viewed inclusive programming for individuals with disabilities as favorable but also reported a number of barriers to successfully implement inclusive programs. Educators' most pressing needs included: professional development in the area of disability, inclusive educational strategies and support funds for necessary accommodations. Implications for promoting and delivering inclusive educational programming for communities are addressed.
Cpc Update: Mark Your Calendars Now!
Steps Toward Creating And Validating An Evidence-Based Couples Curriculum, H Wallace Goddard, James P. Marshall, Jonathan R. Olson, Steven A. Dennis
Steps Toward Creating And Validating An Evidence-Based Couples Curriculum, H Wallace Goddard, James P. Marshall, Jonathan R. Olson, Steven A. Dennis
The Journal of Extension
This article describes a four-step process for creating an evidence-based couples curriculum and describes the first steps in applying this process. Specifically, we developed a self-report questionnaire to operationalize a model of healthy relationships. We gathered data from 1,204 married people in a southeastern state and conducted a series of analyses to assess the psychometric properties of the questionnaire and the predictive usefulness of the general model. Results indicated partial support for the reliability and validity of the instrument. In addition, certain aspects of the model were significantly related to positive marital outcomes.
Extension Efforts To Restore Bottomland Oaks Requires Knowledge Of Both Trees And Soil, David Mercker, Ryan Blair, Don Tyler, Arnold Saxton, Joshua Smith
Extension Efforts To Restore Bottomland Oaks Requires Knowledge Of Both Trees And Soil, David Mercker, Ryan Blair, Don Tyler, Arnold Saxton, Joshua Smith
The Journal of Extension
Bottomland oak restoration projects have been marginally successful because professionals often recommend conventional tree planting procedures that prove problematic in saturated soils. A reliable method of matching oak species to bottomland sites is needed prior to planting. In the study reported here, bottomland oaks were matched to hydric soils based on soil mottling. The findings suggest that as soil drainage improves, species diversity expands. Natural Resource Extension professionals should consider "active" methods of direct technical assistance and field demonstrations and "passive" methods of newsletters, publications, and pamphlets, as delivery methods to educate both landowners and professionals about this subject.
Profiling H-2a Program Participants In Tobacco Farming: Implications For Extension, Jane H. Starnes, Shiferaw T. Feleke, Harwood D. Schaffer, Kelly J. Tiller
Profiling H-2a Program Participants In Tobacco Farming: Implications For Extension, Jane H. Starnes, Shiferaw T. Feleke, Harwood D. Schaffer, Kelly J. Tiller
The Journal of Extension
The challenge to meet tobacco's labor requirements by domestic sources has prompted tobacco growers to seek a foreign source of labor through the H-2A program. The H-2A program is the only legally sanctioned program allowing farm employers to bring foreign workers into the country to perform seasonal and temporary agricultural work. The article profiles H-2A program participants in major tobacco growing states. The results will help Extension personnel better understand their constituents' labor needs and inform the design of specific Extension programs and workshops in farm labor management, labor laws and regulations as well as labor cost-saving measures.
Mobile Learning And The Visual Web, Oh My! Nutrition Education In The 21st Century, Ellen Schuster
Mobile Learning And The Visual Web, Oh My! Nutrition Education In The 21st Century, Ellen Schuster
The Journal of Extension
Technology is rapidly changing how our program participants learn in school and for their personal improvement. Extension educators who deliver nutrition program will want to be aware of the technology trends that are driving these changes. Blended learning, mobile learning, the visual Web, and the gamification of health are approaches to consider using in programming in the near future to meet learners' expectations.
South Carolina's Model For Initiating Hispanic 4-H Clubs, Robert Lippert, Kellye Rembert
South Carolina's Model For Initiating Hispanic 4-H Clubs, Robert Lippert, Kellye Rembert
The Journal of Extension
Over the past 5 years, through the initiative of several county Extension agents, South Carolina 4-H has established a successful model for bringing Hispanic youth into our program. We have found the most effective method is to initiate contact and establish partnerships with the principals and ESOL instructors in the local schools. Through this collaboration, we have started several Hispanic 4-H clubs throughout the State with further expansion in process.