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Journal of Extension

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Impact Evaluation Of Integrated Extension Programs: Lessons Learned From The Community Gardening Program, Jay S. Jayaratne, Lucy K. Bradley, Elizabeth Driscoll Jun 2009

Impact Evaluation Of Integrated Extension Programs: Lessons Learned From The Community Gardening Program, Jay S. Jayaratne, Lucy K. Bradley, Elizabeth Driscoll

Journal of Extension

Integrated programming is a coordinated Extension approach to address multi-faceted community issues. An integrated Extension approach is needed to address complex community issues in a meaningful way. Planning, implementation, and evaluation of an integrated program should be considered as a joint effort by the partnering Extension agents. This article describes how to document the impacts of integrated Extension program to reflect the coordinated effort of the Extension team. Documentation as well as sharing impacts with the partners is necessary to strengthen the collaboration and sustain the integrated Extension programming effort.

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Enhancing Accountability: Servsafe™ Impact Template Delivers, Renee Boyer, Matthew C. Benson, Heather H. Boyd, Mena Forrester, Nancy Franz, Karen Gehrt, Patsy Pelland, Kirsten Roan Jun 2009

Enhancing Accountability: Servsafe™ Impact Template Delivers, Renee Boyer, Matthew C. Benson, Heather H. Boyd, Mena Forrester, Nancy Franz, Karen Gehrt, Patsy Pelland, Kirsten Roan

Journal of Extension

Generating statewide impact data from Extension programs can be challenging. To streamline reporting, Extension specialists, with the help of county agents and administrators, generated a statewide impact statement for the ServSafe™ program in Virginia. This template includes knowledge gain, behavior change, and economic impact from participants generated from current standardized evaluation methods used by all Extension educators across the state. Providing this template for agents resulted in easier, more consistent yearly reporting for those agents administering the program.

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Creative Approach To Evaluating: The Tri-Fold Display Example, Chris T. Boleman, D. Rollins, Larry W. Pierce Jr. Jun 2009

Creative Approach To Evaluating: The Tri-Fold Display Example, Chris T. Boleman, D. Rollins, Larry W. Pierce Jr.

Journal of Extension

One benefit in working for Extension is the educator's ability to be "creative." However, creativity and evaluation typically are not two words an Extension educator uses in the same sentence. This article highlights one creative evaluation strategy used at a youth wildlife camp. The evaluation strategy utilizes a tri-fold display allowing participants the ability to "showcase" what they learned. From their "showcase," the Extension educator can use simple evaluation techniques to determine the most significant item learned. An extra bonus is that these participants use these tri-folds in communities to tell others about their experiences building critical life skills.

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Designing A Regional System Of Social Indicators To Evaluate Nonpoint Source Water Projects, Linda Stalker Prokopy, Kenneth Genskow, Jeremiah Asher, Adam Baumgart-Getz, Joseph E. Bonnell, Shorna B. Allred Phd, Cynthia Curtis, Kristin Floress, Karyn Mcdermaid, Rebecca Power, Danielle Wood Apr 2009

Designing A Regional System Of Social Indicators To Evaluate Nonpoint Source Water Projects, Linda Stalker Prokopy, Kenneth Genskow, Jeremiah Asher, Adam Baumgart-Getz, Joseph E. Bonnell, Shorna B. Allred Phd, Cynthia Curtis, Kristin Floress, Karyn Mcdermaid, Rebecca Power, Danielle Wood

Journal of Extension

A collaborative team has developed a system to measure the social outcomes of nonpoint source water projects as indicators of progress towards environmental goals. The system involves a set of core indicators, additional supplemental indicators, and a process for collecting and using the indicators. This process is supported by methodologies and instruments for data collection, analysis, and reporting that are coordinated and supported through detailed written guidance and an on-line data management tool. Its multi-state scope and application offer a unique opportunity to target, measure, and report interim resource management accomplishments consistently at multiple levels.

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Community Health Advisors' Perceptions Of The 2005 Dietary Guidelines And Mypyramid, Jamie Zoellner, Wendy Bounds, Carol Connell Apr 2009

Community Health Advisors' Perceptions Of The 2005 Dietary Guidelines And Mypyramid, Jamie Zoellner, Wendy Bounds, Carol Connell

Journal of Extension

This article describes knowledge and perception of the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DG) and MyPyramid from 106 Community Health Advisors (CHAs) representing underserved, hard-to-reach communities in Alabama and Mississippi. Only 16 (15%) were able to correctly identify the MyPyramid graphic and DG knowledge scores were low. However, most respondents strongly agreed they would like to know more about the DG (86%) and more should be done in their community to raise awareness (81%). The Internet was the least preferred method to communicate DG. More intense efforts and appropriate communication channels are needed to promote the DG and MyPyramid.

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Pedometers Are Perceived As Useful Tools For Weight Loss, Ashley R. Valentine, Leah Whigham, Sherry Tanumihardjo Apr 2009

Pedometers Are Perceived As Useful Tools For Weight Loss, Ashley R. Valentine, Leah Whigham, Sherry Tanumihardjo

Journal of Extension

Pedometers are used as motivational tools to encourage physical activity through Extension educational contacts. In conjunction with a community campaign, subjects (N = 60) enrolled in a weight-loss study were provided with pedometers. Participants recorded steps and responded to an evaluation. Step counts increased from baseline through 9 weeks (P ≤ 0.018) and correlated with goals (P ≤ 0.038). Participants who reported that the pedometer helped them achieve goals had greater fat and less fat-free mass at baseline than those who did not find it helpful. Pedometers benefit individuals by increasing activity and being perceived as useful for weight-loss.

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Improved Understanding Of Fiber Digestibility In Ryegrasses, Troy Downing, Patrick French Apr 2009

Improved Understanding Of Fiber Digestibility In Ryegrasses, Troy Downing, Patrick French

Journal of Extension

Dairy nutritionists have long known that forages with the same laboratory analysis could produce significantly different performance in lactating cows. Neutral detergent fiber digestibility (NDFD) may explain much of this variation. The objectives of the study described here were to demonstrate NDFD variation between varieties of ryegrass and season of harvest and to use this information as the basis for an educational Extension program. Large differences in NDFD were found among 11 varieties of ryegrass. This information was used to change the way livestock rations are balanced and it is hoped will convince grass seeds companies to focus more on …

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Building A Multi-Generational Volunteer Base: Understanding How Human Development Impacts Volunteer Service, Ken Culp Iii Feb 2009

Building A Multi-Generational Volunteer Base: Understanding How Human Development Impacts Volunteer Service, Ken Culp Iii

Journal of Extension

Extension professionals seeking to recruit multi-generational volunteers face several challenges, including understanding human development across the life span, recruiting different age groups for volunteer roles, and developing volunteer roles for people with different developmental needs. Engaging an age-diverse volunteer pool will benefit the organization, its clientele and volunteers. Extension professionals should consider creating specific roles for multi-generational volunteers. This should yield a broader cadre of recruits who are likely to be retained as they move through different developmental stages across the life span.

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Are Rural 4-Hers More Connected To Their Communities Than Their Non-4-H Counterparts?, Omolola A. Adedokun, Mark A. Balschweid Feb 2009

Are Rural 4-Hers More Connected To Their Communities Than Their Non-4-H Counterparts?, Omolola A. Adedokun, Mark A. Balschweid

Journal of Extension

The purpose of the research described in this article was to determine if membership in 4-H enhances rural 11th graders' sense of belonging or social connection with their communities. Specifically, the study compared the levels of social connections of 4-Hers with those of their non-4-H counterparts. The results revealed that participation in 4-H programs is an avenue for young people to develop a sense of belonging in their communities. The 4-Hers were more socially connected with their communities than their non-4-H peers. The implications of the results for practice in the field of youth development are discussed.

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Barriers To A Healthy Lifestyle: From Individuals To Public Policy—An Ecological Perspective, Nurgul Fitzgerald, Kim Spaccarotella Feb 2009

Barriers To A Healthy Lifestyle: From Individuals To Public Policy—An Ecological Perspective, Nurgul Fitzgerald, Kim Spaccarotella

Journal of Extension

By using an ecological framework, this article provides a review of common barriers to healthful eating and being physically active. The barriers are described within the four levels (intrapersonal, interpersonal, community/institution, and macro/public policy) of an ecological model highlighting the need for multifaceted approaches to overcome these barriers. Examples of how Extension professionals can effectively target these barriers to promote healthier lifestyles and encourage the development of related policies and community programs are given. Practical examples of interventions that have successfully used an ecological model to promote behavior change are also provided.

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Evaluation Of A New Nutrition Education Curriculum And Factors Influencing Its Implementation, Justine R. Hoover, Peggy A. Martin, Ruth E. Litchfield Feb 2009

Evaluation Of A New Nutrition Education Curriculum And Factors Influencing Its Implementation, Justine R. Hoover, Peggy A. Martin, Ruth E. Litchfield

Journal of Extension

The study reported here evaluated a nutrition education curriculum through examining participant behavior change. A previously used curriculum (April - September 2005 and 2006) was compared to a new curriculum (April - September 2007) using pre- and post-program 24-hour dietary recalls and food behavior surveys. Participant, educator, and program variables were explored relative to behavior change. The new curriculum elicited behavior change similar to that elicited by the previous curriculum. Factors influencing behavior change included participant and educator race and educator experience. Participant and educator variables should be considered in future program/curriculum implementation.

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A Tool For Focusing Integrated Team Efforts On Complex Issues, Lisa A. Guion Feb 2009

A Tool For Focusing Integrated Team Efforts On Complex Issues, Lisa A. Guion

Journal of Extension

Focusing the work of interdisciplinary teams to address prioritized issues is not an easy task. This new tool is designed to aid Extension educators in working with their integrated teams to dissect a complex issue by identifying the: 1) primary and secondary target audiences, 2) causal and contributing factors (i.e., root causes), 3) opportunities and threats to addressing and/or improving the issue, 4) program components to build in, and 5) resources to implement/carry out the different program components.

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Assessing Volunteers' Needs And Interests To Inform Curriculum Development In 4-H, Martin Smith, C L. Meehan, H. Steve Dasher Feb 2009

Assessing Volunteers' Needs And Interests To Inform Curriculum Development In 4-H, Martin Smith, C L. Meehan, H. Steve Dasher

Journal of Extension

4-H volunteers have the knowledge and experience to benefit the Youth Development Program by helping inform curriculum development. To capitalize on this, researchers at the University of California, Davis, used focus group interviews and a statewide survey to identify curriculum and programmatic needs in 4-H Animal and Veterinary Science from the perspectives of 4-H volunteers. Survey results and a review of subsequent curriculum development projects that were informed by the outcome data are discussed.

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Living Well: National Extension Association Of Family And Consumer Sciences National Media Campaign, Jean Clarkson-Frisbie, Debra Bartman, Carolyn Gregov, Elizabeth Gregory Dec 2008

Living Well: National Extension Association Of Family And Consumer Sciences National Media Campaign, Jean Clarkson-Frisbie, Debra Bartman, Carolyn Gregov, Elizabeth Gregory

Journal of Extension

In 2000, a benchmark survey gathered information from the 18-44 age general urban population about where that group seeks Extension information and the level of the group's awareness of the Cooperative Extension Service. The information was used to develop a Family and Consumer Sciences media public relations campaign that allowed all FCS Extension agents in the U.S. to make a programming impact using the same logo, slogan, and items. The campaign has been heavily used by Extension Family and Consumer Sciences educators to educate the public about Cooperative Extension. The results have application for all components of Cooperative Extension.

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Obesity Prevention And Health Promotion: How Family Life Educators View Their Role, Jane Lanigan, Thomas G. Power Dec 2008

Obesity Prevention And Health Promotion: How Family Life Educators View Their Role, Jane Lanigan, Thomas G. Power

Journal of Extension

Parenting and family life educators should be part of the multi-disciplinary solution to childhood overweight. Their ability to work in a preventative capacity to facilitate healthy family practices around eating and activity can help alter one of the key social contexts in which children develop. This article shares the results from a survey of parenting and family life educators that explored their current efforts and understanding regarding childhood overweight, willingness to increase future involvement with the issue, barriers to addressing the issue, and need for Extension support.

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Influencing Consumer Awareness Through The Missouri Chestnut Roast Dec 2008

Influencing Consumer Awareness Through The Missouri Chestnut Roast

Journal of Extension

Results are presented from a longitudinal study conducted during the Missouri Chestnut Roast Festival in 2003, 2004, and 2006 assessing participants' familiarity with and essential knowledge about chestnuts. Familiarity with chestnuts increased over time. Compared to first-time visitors, repeat visitors revealed an increase in frequency of consumption, familiarity with roasting chestnuts, and an increase in knowledge. The likelihood people would buy chestnuts more often and eat them roasted or in recipes also increased. Results demonstrate the positive impact of the event on participants' knowledge of, familiarity with, and interest in chestnuts. Thus, Extension professionals can use community festivals as an …

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Using Local Farmer's Markets To Promote Extension Programming, Mary E. Burrows Dec 2008

Using Local Farmer's Markets To Promote Extension Programming, Mary E. Burrows

Journal of Extension

A booth at the farmers' market was set up in Bozeman, Montana during 2007 to promote Extension activities at Montana State University. This was a highly effective, low time-input and cost-effective method of promoting Extension activities to an audience that is often not aware of the resources available from Extension programs. It is recommended that other states use this as a model for promoting Extension programming in their communities.

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Keeping Our Charm: Residents, Growth, And Quality Of Life Issues In A Small But Growing Texas Coastal Community, Michael A. Schuett, John S. Jacob, Jiaying Lu, Logan Respess Dec 2008

Keeping Our Charm: Residents, Growth, And Quality Of Life Issues In A Small But Growing Texas Coastal Community, Michael A. Schuett, John S. Jacob, Jiaying Lu, Logan Respess

Journal of Extension

The study reported here assessed residents' perception of small, fast-growing coastal community on issues of quality of life, conservation, and growth. Data for the study were collected from an on-site survey in Aransas County, Texas from 2006 to 2007. Results show that the residents are concerned about preserving their natural resources, maintaining a small town atmosphere in their community, and ensuring citizens' involvement in future planning efforts, especially with tourism. The implications of the study are discussed for Extension professionals and residents, suggestions for future research are provided.

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The Difference Between Physical Activity And Nutrition Attitudes And Behaviors Among Maine High School Students, Alfred M. Sheehy, Jigna Dharod Dec 2008

The Difference Between Physical Activity And Nutrition Attitudes And Behaviors Among Maine High School Students, Alfred M. Sheehy, Jigna Dharod

Journal of Extension

A study was conducted to estimate physical activity and fruits and vegetable behaviors, perceptions, and attitude among Maine high school students (n = 765). Over half (57%) reported participating in physical activity for >40 minutes per day. Only 6% reported eating five or more servings of fruits and vegetables per day. However, nearly half of the students (49%) reported eating enough fruits and vegetables "Always/Most of the time." A significant positive relationship was found between environmental indicators and daily intake of fruits and vegetables. Results highlight the need to promote fruits and vegetables consumption among high school students.

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Methamphetamine Prevention Education: Extension Responds To A National Issue, Kirk A. Astroth, Mike Vogel Oct 2008

Methamphetamine Prevention Education: Extension Responds To A National Issue, Kirk A. Astroth, Mike Vogel

Journal of Extension

Methamphetamine is quickly becoming one of the nation's most dangerous drugs, affecting people of all socio-economic categories and geographic locations. In response to this emerging crisis, MSU Extension specialists developed a range of research-based programs and materials, in collaboration with key state agencies, to combat rising meth use in one rural Western state. The materials have been widely distributed and results indicate that the materials are having positive effects on meth use, production, and awareness. As a result of this cooperative effort, valuable lessons have been learned that can help other states deal with critical social issues.

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Local Foods: Estimating Capacity, David Timmons, Qingbin Wang, Dan Lass Oct 2008

Local Foods: Estimating Capacity, David Timmons, Qingbin Wang, Dan Lass

Journal of Extension

While local food is enjoying new interest in much of the country, data revealing the extent of local food production and consumption are typically lacking. This lack of data has made it difficult to set local food goals and assess progress toward such goals. This article describes two methods for quantifying local food consumption and presents estimation results using national and state data. The local food indicators presented in this article can be easily estimated with publicly available data and represent low cost indicators of local food use that Extension professionals can use to assist clientele.

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Measuring Impacts In Risk Management Education--The Beehive Master Beef Manager Program, Ck Chapman, Dr Zobell, Eb Godfrey, D Feuz Oct 2008

Measuring Impacts In Risk Management Education--The Beehive Master Beef Manager Program, Ck Chapman, Dr Zobell, Eb Godfrey, D Feuz

Journal of Extension

The purpose of Extension risk management education is to assist clientele by helping them make better management decisions. The results of this effort can sometimes take months or years to be expressed. It is difficult for Extension faculty to wait for this interval because administrators and funding entities demand results for programs usually within the space of one year. Curriculum-based programming enables faculty member(s) to develop enough data about attitude changes and knowledge transfer over several workshops to demonstrate statistical changes, compared to single workshops. Using multiple evaluation instruments, Extension faculty can show implementation patterns that further demonstrate program value.

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Ranch Management Practices Of Beef Quality Assurance (Bqa) And Non-Bqa Certified Producers In Montana, Lisa Duffey, John Paterson, Marc King, Kelsey Rolfe Oct 2008

Ranch Management Practices Of Beef Quality Assurance (Bqa) And Non-Bqa Certified Producers In Montana, Lisa Duffey, John Paterson, Marc King, Kelsey Rolfe

Journal of Extension

The beef cattle industry continues to provide a safe, quality, and consistent product to consumers while addressing animal health and food safety issues. The study reported here sought to determine Beef Quality Assurance educational needs for record keeping, health management, marketing strategies, and perceptions of industry issues to inform and prepare Montana beef producers for changes. BQA and non-BQA certified producers had varying management strategies for animal identification, record keeping, and vaccination programs, while implant programs and marketing strategies were similar. The results of the survey will be used to determine the BQA educational needs of Montana cattle producers.

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Principles Of Effective Behavior Change: Application To Extension Family Educational Programming, Clara Pratt, Sally Bowman Oct 2008

Principles Of Effective Behavior Change: Application To Extension Family Educational Programming, Clara Pratt, Sally Bowman

Journal of Extension

Principles of effective behavior change are described in terms of their implications for Extension educational programming. These principles are drawn from evidence-based models for child, youth, and family programs. Examples include: build specific behavioral skills; increase environmental conditions that support desired behaviors; modify behavior sequentially; train in naturalistic conditions; teach specific cognitive principles to guide behavior; practice the desired behavior; higher dosage leads to greater response; facilitate supports for behavior; and attribute success to the individual. Implications include offering more multi-session classes, maintaining model fidelity, and utilizing evaluations to assess readiness for behavior change.

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Expanding The Latino Market Niche: Developing Capacity And Meeting Critical Needs, Andrew Behnke Oct 2008

Expanding The Latino Market Niche: Developing Capacity And Meeting Critical Needs, Andrew Behnke

Journal of Extension

As Extension competes to secure a place in serving Latino populations across the nation, it is critical to assess its overall capacity to serve Spanish-speaking clients. Extension must also evaluate how well current educational programming is meeting the needs of this population. This article describes a statewide assessment of 97 North Carolina counties via online surveys and 12 Spanish-language focus groups. Survey respondents noted the need for bilingual staff in their county offices, and specific types of Spanish-language materials. Focus groups with Spanish-speaking clients, demonstrated the need for hands-on training, collaboration, marketing, and improved delivery of critical information.

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Improved Knowledge And Adoption Of Recommended Food Safety Practices By Food Recovery Agency Personnel And Volunteers Participating In The Serving Food Safely Program, Katie W. Dean, Elizabeth S. Reames, Georgianna Tuuri, Michael J. Keenan Aug 2008

Improved Knowledge And Adoption Of Recommended Food Safety Practices By Food Recovery Agency Personnel And Volunteers Participating In The Serving Food Safely Program, Katie W. Dean, Elizabeth S. Reames, Georgianna Tuuri, Michael J. Keenan

Journal of Extension

The tri-state study reported here tested the effectiveness of a curriculum developed and presented in workshops by Extension and research faculty to increase knowledge and promote safe food handling practices of staff and volunteers of food recovery agencies providing rescued and surplus food to vulnerable populations. Results indicated that knowledge and adoption of recommended food safety practices increased for both staff and volunteers following participation in the workshops. The improvement in food safety knowledge and adoption of recommended food safety practices support the continued use of the food safety curriculum in the three states and possibly other areas in the …

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Community-Based Food Systems In Michigan: Cultivating Diverse Collaborations From The Ground Up, David Conner, Susan Cocciarelli, Barbara Mutch, Michael W. Hamm Aug 2008

Community-Based Food Systems In Michigan: Cultivating Diverse Collaborations From The Ground Up, David Conner, Susan Cocciarelli, Barbara Mutch, Michael W. Hamm

Journal of Extension

This article discusses the results of a Michigan project to forge partnerships between Extension and diverse teams of community members to enhance development of local food systems. The project provided training and resources for teams to utilize food system work as a community problem solving tool. Such efforts have great potential to address a host of public health, economic, and land use issues.

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A Population At Risk: Youth "Aging Out" Of The Foster Care System And Implications For Extension, Eboni J. Baugh Aug 2008

A Population At Risk: Youth "Aging Out" Of The Foster Care System And Implications For Extension, Eboni J. Baugh

Journal of Extension

Youth who age out of the foster care system are faced with many unique challenges. This article offers an overview of risk factors found within this group, occurring both before and after discharge from care. Suggestions are given for the creation of Extension programs that address the specific needs of this growing population.

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Kentucky Extension Professionals Use Oral Health Partnership To Educate Communities, Sharlee Shirley Burch Aug 2008

Kentucky Extension Professionals Use Oral Health Partnership To Educate Communities, Sharlee Shirley Burch

Journal of Extension

As the evidence mounts regarding systemic connections between oral health and other chronic diseases, new and innovative partnerships are being formed with Extension personnel to educate communities on the importance of oral wellness and disease prevention. The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service and College of Dentistry have developed one such unique collaboration, The Oral Health Wellness and Disease Prevention Program. Process evaluation data suggests this partnership between non-traditional partners can produce original, easy-to-use, adaptable educational resources that benefit Kentuckians as well as lead the country in innovative approaches to oral health wellness, education, and disease prevention.

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Cattle Code: Coproduct Optimizer Decision Evaluator, Crystal D. Buckner, Darrell R. Mark, Virgil R. Bremer, Galen E. Erickson Aug 2008

Cattle Code: Coproduct Optimizer Decision Evaluator, Crystal D. Buckner, Darrell R. Mark, Virgil R. Bremer, Galen E. Erickson

Journal of Extension

Expansion of the corn-based ethanol industry in recent years has resulted in a growing supply of coproduct feeds. These coproducts result in significant improvements in cattle performance and are often priced lower than corn on a dry matter basis. Along with these benefits to feeding ethanol coproduct feeds, cattle feeders must also account for additional transportation costs to originate the coproducts and for added expenses to handle, mix, and deliver the feed ration within the feedlot. An economic budget model, called Cattle CODE, was created to help feeders, nutritionists, and Extension educators evaluate these nonlinear effects across unique feeding situations.

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