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Articles 91 - 120 of 240
Full-Text Articles in Entire DC Network
Knowledge, Attitudes, And Commitment Concerning Evidence-Based Prevention Programs: Differences Between Family And Consumer Sciences And 4-H Youth Development Educators, Daniel F. Perkins, Sarah Meyer Chilenski, Jonathan R. Olson, Claudia C. Mincemoyer, Richard Spoth
Knowledge, Attitudes, And Commitment Concerning Evidence-Based Prevention Programs: Differences Between Family And Consumer Sciences And 4-H Youth Development Educators, Daniel F. Perkins, Sarah Meyer Chilenski, Jonathan R. Olson, Claudia C. Mincemoyer, Richard Spoth
Journal of Extension
We describe the results of a study designed to assess knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes towards evidence-based and other prevention programs among county Extension educators. We examined differences across educators from Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) and 4-H Youth Development. Analyses based on a multi-state sample of educators revealed significant differences such that, compared to their 4-H counterparts, FCS educators were more knowledgeable of evidence-based programs and had more favorable perceptions and attitudes towards evidence-based and other pre-packaged prevention programs. These findings suggest that Extension administrators should work to encourage the use of evidence-based and other prevention programs, particularly within 4-H.
An Analysis Of The Impacts Of The Ready, Set, Go! Program On Program Participants And The Ability To Build Community Capacity, Carrera Romanini
An Analysis Of The Impacts Of The Ready, Set, Go! Program On Program Participants And The Ability To Build Community Capacity, Carrera Romanini
Journal of Extension
The ultimate goal of community capacity building is that communities will be able to deal with their own problems without relying on resources external to their community. The study reported here examined the impacts of the Ready, Set, Go! training program on building community capacity of its participants. Through a survey administered to 110 participants, survey data revealed that perceived utility correlated to future community involvement while knowledge gained did not determine future community action.
Using An Initiative To Focus Programming Efforts: A Case Study Of The Ohio 4-H Workforce Preparation Initiative, Graham R. Cochran, Theresa M. Ferrari, Nate Arnett
Using An Initiative To Focus Programming Efforts: A Case Study Of The Ohio 4-H Workforce Preparation Initiative, Graham R. Cochran, Theresa M. Ferrari, Nate Arnett
Journal of Extension
Extension is facing many challenges, including increasingly complex and changing societal conditions. One method to address these challenges is to implement targeted efforts around programmatic or organizational themes organized as an initiative. We use the Ohio 4-H Workforce Preparation Initiative as a case study to illustrate how the process of focusing and redirecting programming efforts can be an effective strategy for addressing issues important to Extension clientele. We also describe in general the benefits of using a change process or model to organize such efforts and specifically how Kotter's (1996) model fits well with our concept of an initiative.
Strengthening Family Members Of Incarcerated Youth: A Productive Role For Extension, Dorothy P. Brandon, Constance Wilson, Jannie Carter, Lakeisha Johnson
Strengthening Family Members Of Incarcerated Youth: A Productive Role For Extension, Dorothy P. Brandon, Constance Wilson, Jannie Carter, Lakeisha Johnson
Journal of Extension
The challenge to provide incarcerated youth the skills needed to succeed and avoid recidivism has prompted the use of family-systems approaches in juvenile detention centers. A quasi-experimental study was conducted in northern Alabama to determine the impact of a conflict resolution workshop on the family members of incarcerated youth. Results indicated a significant difference in participants' knowledge and anticipated behavior after attending the workshop. It is important to note that this research further supports the use of family-systems approaches in juvenile detention centers.
Increasing Parent Involvement With Parent Progress Reports, Kimberly Catchpole, Nate Arnett
Increasing Parent Involvement With Parent Progress Reports, Kimberly Catchpole, Nate Arnett
Journal of Extension
Youth service providers recognize that involving families in children's learning is critical to academic achievement and overall healthy development. Yet youth service providers face ongoing challenges engaging families in out-of-school time programs. The authors, administrators of a nationally recognized youth development program, share their success using a tool to provide parents with expectations, feedback, and motivation: The Parent Progress Report. Tips for replicating the Parent Progress Report are provided along with lessons learned.
Doing The Work Of Extension: Three Approaches To Identify, Amplify, And Implement Outreach, Brian Raison
Doing The Work Of Extension: Three Approaches To Identify, Amplify, And Implement Outreach, Brian Raison
Journal of Extension
This article explores the literature and practice of how the Cooperative Extension Service does its work and asks if traditional outreach and engagement models have room for innovative delivery mechanisms that may identify emerging trends and help meet community needs. It considers three innovative approaches to the educational mission: sense-making, contextual (typological) framing, and an internal starting with why concept. It discusses how each might offer processes that would help Extension workers identify and act on community needs, and how the approaches could become critical work skills that will help sustain Extension in the future.
Fitting The Framework: The Stem Institute And The 4-H Essential Elements, Jeff Sallee, Gina G. Peek
Fitting The Framework: The Stem Institute And The 4-H Essential Elements, Jeff Sallee, Gina G. Peek
Journal of Extension
Extension and 4-H youth development programs are addressing a shortage of scientists, engineers, and other related professionals by promoting science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). This case study illustrates how the Oklahoma 4-H Youth Development program trained youth-adult teams to design and implement STEM projects. The STEM Institute incorporated the 4-H Eight Essential Elements to structure programming. Using the Essential Elements framework helped ensure quality STEM programming, participant retention, and successful community projects lead by youth leaders. The most successful projects were youth driven and adult facilitated, used local partners, and took time to develop.
Responding To The Needs Of Geographically Dispersed Military Youth, Paul A. Hill, Dave W. Francis
Responding To The Needs Of Geographically Dispersed Military Youth, Paul A. Hill, Dave W. Francis
Journal of Extension
When the U.S. military reshaped its deployment methods in response to conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, the number of deployed Reserve and National Guard soldiers increased to nearly half of all deployed servicemen. Unfortunately, support to reduce the stresses of deployment is not readily available to these families because they live in geographically dispersed civilian communities. In 2011, Utah 4-H responded as the key partner and ideal organization to align resources and work with community partners to provide a variety of summer camps designed to support military families during the Post-Deployment stage of the Deployment Cycle.
Navigating Difference: Development And Implementation Of A Successful Cultural Competency Training For Extension And Outreach Professionals, Mary Y. Deen, Louise A. Parker, Laura Griner Hill, Melynda Huskey, Anna P. Whitehall
Navigating Difference: Development And Implementation Of A Successful Cultural Competency Training For Extension And Outreach Professionals, Mary Y. Deen, Louise A. Parker, Laura Griner Hill, Melynda Huskey, Anna P. Whitehall
Journal of Extension
As our world becomes more interconnected on international, domestic, and personal levels, our need to be more culturally competent increases (Samovar, Porter, & McDaniel, 2007; Ting-Toomey, 1999). Recognizing this need, Washington State University Extension sought to increase skills of its personnel by developing a set of cultural competencies and training curriculum. This article describes the process of creating, implementing, and evaluating the training. Examples are offered to show how WSU Extension addressed quality standards for successful implementation of diversity training models as outlined by Bendick et al. (2001), serving as guidelines for other Extension organizations with similar goals.
Community Leadership: A New Academic Major, Claire Yeuh-Ti Chen, Graham R. Cochran, Scott D. Scheer, Robert D. Birkenholz, Jeff King, Jerry Thomas
Community Leadership: A New Academic Major, Claire Yeuh-Ti Chen, Graham R. Cochran, Scott D. Scheer, Robert D. Birkenholz, Jeff King, Jerry Thomas
Journal of Extension
Complexity and rapid change prompt the need for institutions of higher education to reexamine curricula and programs to ensure they are preparing graduates for 21st century career opportunities. At Ohio State University, conversion from quarters to semesters provided the impetus to revisit the undergraduate curriculum and create a new Community Leadership major. The new major was designed to prepare students for future Extension outreach and other leader roles to influence positive change in communities through learning partnerships. Development of the undergraduate major and its implications for Extension and leadership workforce preparation are described.
Extension's Capacity To Deliver Quality Early Childhood Professional Development, Tonia R. Durden, Claudia C. Mincemoyer, Jennifer Gerdes, Kathleen Lodl
Extension's Capacity To Deliver Quality Early Childhood Professional Development, Tonia R. Durden, Claudia C. Mincemoyer, Jennifer Gerdes, Kathleen Lodl
Journal of Extension
In recent years much attention has focused on the role of enhancing a teacher's professional knowledge and skills in helping to improve the quality of early care experiences for young children birth-5. In the study reported here, an environmental scan of the early childhood professional development programs offered within the Extension system was conducted to identify the programs' content, delivery, scope, evaluation, and partners. Results indicate that Extension has been a player in providing professional development opportunities for early childhood professionals and with a focused effort in streamlining the current resources has the capacity to become a leader in this …
A Study Of Extension Professionals Preferences And Perceptions Of Usefulness And Level Of Comfort With Blogs As An Informal Professional Development Tool, Melissa Cater, Debra Davis, Bradley Leger, Krisanna Machtmes, Lisa Arcemont
A Study Of Extension Professionals Preferences And Perceptions Of Usefulness And Level Of Comfort With Blogs As An Informal Professional Development Tool, Melissa Cater, Debra Davis, Bradley Leger, Krisanna Machtmes, Lisa Arcemont
Journal of Extension
The use of blogs for informal professional development is a growing phenomenon in higher education. The purpose of the study reported here was to describe Extension faculty's preferences for and perceptions of using an online, particularly social media, environment for professional development. The LSU AgCenter Organization Development and Evaluation unit conducted an 18-week pilot study to determine the feasibility of this delivery method with field and state faculty. Results indicate that blogs are underutilized because of the newness of the technology but possess potential as a delivery method.
Embracing Scientific And Engineering Practices In 4-H, Steven M. Worker
Embracing Scientific And Engineering Practices In 4-H, Steven M. Worker
Journal of Extension
The 4-H Science Initiative has renewed efforts to strengthen 4-H programmatic and evaluation efforts in science and engineering education. A fundamental component of this initiative is to provide opportunities to youth to aid in their development of science process skills; however, emerging research stresses the importance of engaging youth in authentic practices of science and engineering. Refocusing 4-H efforts on a sociocultural framework of science education that emphasizes a participation-oriented framework towards learning scientific and engineering practices ensures 4-H programs are affording youth high-quality learning experiences.
Developing A Parent-Centered Obesity Prevention Program For 4-H Families: Implications For Extension Family Programming, Carrie J. Banke, Sandra J. Bailey, Jill Martz, Lynn Paul, Wesley Lynch, Galen Eldridge
Developing A Parent-Centered Obesity Prevention Program For 4-H Families: Implications For Extension Family Programming, Carrie J. Banke, Sandra J. Bailey, Jill Martz, Lynn Paul, Wesley Lynch, Galen Eldridge
Journal of Extension
Planning youth and family programming in the 21st century is daunting given family members' busy schedules. This is even more challenging when planning programs in rural areas, where there are vast distances between communities. This article discusses a research and educational outreach project that uses best practices in program development in order to create an obesity prevention program for parents of 4-H youth in a rural state. Practices discussed include the development of an interdisciplinary team, information gathered and implemented from focus groups, and the use of evaluations during the pilot-stage of the project. Implications for Extension programming are discussed.
Serving The Needs Of Separating And Divorcing Families: A National Survey Of Extension Parenting Education Programs And Resources, Maureen T. Mulroy, Jane Riffe, Denise Brandon, Yi-An Lo, Harini Vaidyanath
Serving The Needs Of Separating And Divorcing Families: A National Survey Of Extension Parenting Education Programs And Resources, Maureen T. Mulroy, Jane Riffe, Denise Brandon, Yi-An Lo, Harini Vaidyanath
Journal of Extension
An online survey was developed to map Extension's presence in divorce education initiatives and to catalogue the amount, type, and availability of resources that each state has dedicated to meeting the needs of this parent audience. Requests for participation were sent to members on the National Extension Human Service listserv and resulted in representation from 48 out of 50 states and one U. S. territory. Results document a national presence, outline the nature and expression of Extension divorce education programs, and suggest a direction for future collaboration related to this topic.
Contributions Of Youth Engagement To The Development Of Social Capital Through Community Mapping, Keith C. Nathaniel, Sharon B. Kinsey
Contributions Of Youth Engagement To The Development Of Social Capital Through Community Mapping, Keith C. Nathaniel, Sharon B. Kinsey
Journal of Extension
The Multi-State North Central Extension Research Activity (NCERA), Contributions of 4-H Participation to the Development of Social Capital, identified a strategy to pilot a research method that incorporates an inquiry-based approach to understanding community level impact of youth programs. This article focuses on how youth engagement educators can use this strategy to engage youth and to understand the impact of youth engagement on community change work.
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
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's Evolving Alignment Of Programs Serving Families And Youth: Organizational Change And Its Implications, Marc T. Braverman, Nancy K. Franz, Roger A. Rennekamp
Extension's Evolving Alignment Of Programs Serving Families And Youth: Organizational Change And Its Implications, Marc T. Braverman, Nancy K. Franz, Roger A. Rennekamp
Journal of Extension
Extension is experiencing a trend toward closer alignment of its programs serving families and youth, notably Family and Consumer Sciences and 4-H Youth Development. Projects are more multidisciplinary and comprehensive than in the past, and, in many states, FCS and 4-HYD are also becoming more administratively integrated. Several reasons for this shift are recent developments in social science intervention theory, Extension budget reductions, and land-grant universities' long-term organizational strategies. We discuss implications for Extension faculty and the need to track and understand the restructuring process. Overall, the emphasis on collaboration and comprehensiveness provide opportunities for more effective Extension programming.
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
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.
Evidence-Based Programming: What Is A Process An Extension Agent Can Use To Evaluate A Program's Effectiveness?, Robert J. Fetsch, David Macphee, Luann K. Boyer
Evidence-Based Programming: What Is A Process An Extension Agent Can Use To Evaluate A Program's Effectiveness?, Robert J. Fetsch, David Macphee, Luann K. Boyer
Journal of Extension
Extension agents and specialists have experienced increased pressure for greater program effectiveness and accountability and especially for evidence-based programs. This article builds on previously published evidence-based programming articles. It provides ideas that address three problems that Extension staff face with EBPs and that Extension agents and specialists can use either to test or enhance an existing Extension program's effectiveness or to test the effectiveness of a new program that looks promising.
A Review And Critique Of 16 Major Parent Education Programs, Christina L. Collins, Robert J. Fetsch
A Review And Critique Of 16 Major Parent Education Programs, Christina L. Collins, Robert J. Fetsch
Journal of Extension
There are many parent education programs available for Extension professionals. How does a busy Extension professional decide which is best for his/her clients? This article provides a practical review and critique of 16 major parenting educational programs using three review criteria—program readiness, strength of scientific base, and empirical evidence of program effectiveness. Best programs included STAR Parenting, Strengthening Families Program for Parents and Youth 10-14, Systematic Training for Effective Parenting, and Triple P-Positive Parenting Program.
Using Rain Gardens To Promote Service Learning And Climate Science Education With Urban Youth, Sharon B. Kinsey, Michael W. Haberland
Using Rain Gardens To Promote Service Learning And Climate Science Education With Urban Youth, Sharon B. Kinsey, Michael W. Haberland
Journal of Extension
The Jersey Roots, Global Reach 4-H Climate Science Program conducted in Camden, New Jersey introduces middle school students to the evidence, impacts, and potential solutions to climate change. For their service learning project, students installed two rain gardens at the school. Rain gardens are shallow landscaped depressions in the soil that can be installed at homes, parks, and schools and provide environmental benefits by filtrating stormwater runoff. Created using native plants, rain gardens are aesthetically pleasing and require minimal maintenance.
Using Common Evaluation Instruments Across Multi-State Community Programs: A Pilot Study, Pamela B. Payne, Daniel A. Mcdonald
Using Common Evaluation Instruments Across Multi-State Community Programs: A Pilot Study, Pamela B. Payne, Daniel A. Mcdonald
Journal of Extension
In times of diminishing resources to support community programs, it is critical that Extension make every effort to show impact as collectively as possible for the variety of programs being delivered in individual counties and communities. The pilot study reported here (funded by CYFAR, NIFA, USDA award #2008-41520-04810), focused on outcomes in youth citizenship programs in four states. Key factors to consider in the selection of common instruments include length, scope, and validation of instruments. The importance of dosage, specifically intensity and duration, are highlighted in relation to program outcomes.
Extension Professionals' Strengths And Needs Related To Nutrition And Health Programs, Ninfa Pena-Purcell, Elaine Bowen, Virginie Zoumenou, Ellen R. Schuster
Extension Professionals' Strengths And Needs Related To Nutrition And Health Programs, Ninfa Pena-Purcell, Elaine Bowen, Virginie Zoumenou, Ellen R. Schuster
Journal of Extension
We report results of a Web-based nationwide survey of nutrition and health Extension specialists representing 42 states. Survey items (n = 36) assessed five areas: curriculum review, nutrition and physical activity, professional training, communication, and evaluation. An internal curriculum review was common, but few states shared their criteria or process on-line. The majority of respondents reported discussing physical activity, and over half lead physical activities. Most favored on-line professional development training and a one-stop website for sharing information and resources. Evaluation data were most commonly collected for food safety, healthy eating and physical activity, and food resource management.
Using Information Technology To Forge Connections In An Extension Service Project, Sandra B. Schneider, Donna-Jean P. Brock, Crystal Duncan Lane, Peggy S. Meszaros, Barbara B. Lockee
Using Information Technology To Forge Connections In An Extension Service Project, Sandra B. Schneider, Donna-Jean P. Brock, Crystal Duncan Lane, Peggy S. Meszaros, Barbara B. Lockee
Journal of Extension
A hybrid Extension project is introduced that uses a traditional Extension delivery model without the complete infrastructure of Cooperative Extension Services. The absence of this local organizational support and infrastructure necessitates new thinking regarding how Information Technology (IT) can support this project and hybrid Extension projects in general. The reciprocal relationship between offline and online tasks and how an Internet portal can serve as a centralized location for project continuity is offered as one solution. How IT facilitates the implementation of hybrid Extension projects such as this one can further promote the interdisciplinary adoption of the Extension model.
Online Nutrition Education: Enhancing Opportunities For Limited-Resource Learners, Patty Case, Mary Cluskey, Jeff Hino
Online Nutrition Education: Enhancing Opportunities For Limited-Resource Learners, Patty Case, Mary Cluskey, Jeff Hino
Journal of Extension
Delivering nutrition education using the Internet could allow educators to reach larger audiences at lower cost. Low-income adults living in a rural community participated in focus groups to examine their interest in, experience with, and motivators to accessing nutrition education online. This audience described limited motivation in seeking formal nutrition education. However, they were interested in relevant, compelling tools emphasizing cooking and saving money. The likelihood of using the Internet for food/nutrition information was influenced by website characteristics. The insights from the study will help educators design online tools that capture and sustain the interest of low-income clientele.
Assessing The Need For The Development Of Standardized Life Skills Measures, Mat D. Duerden, Peter A. Witt
Assessing The Need For The Development Of Standardized Life Skills Measures, Mat D. Duerden, Peter A. Witt
Journal of Extension
Youth practitioners often select life skills as intentionally targeted program outcomes. While research findings suggest the efficacy of program experiences to positively influence a variety of life skills, it remains difficult to compare these findings due to measurement incongruities. Individual life skills (e.g., leadership, decision making, etc.) often lack standardized conceptualizations and measurement approaches. The purpose of the study reported here was to gather data about practitioners' perceptions of those life skill domains most in need of measurement development. Based on the results of the study, 10 life skill sub-domains are recommended for future measurement development efforts.
Building Community-University Partnerships By Listening, Learning, And Responding, Diana M. Martenson, Dawn A. Newman, Deborah M. Zak
Building Community-University Partnerships By Listening, Learning, And Responding, Diana M. Martenson, Dawn A. Newman, Deborah M. Zak
Journal of Extension
University of Minnesota Extension is expanding work in Indian country by building community-university partnerships through a methodology of listening by gathering data in Indian country; learning by creating opportunities for professional development; and responding by building trusting relationships, resulting in more educators working in partnership with Indian communities. Extension educators who seek a mutually beneficial exchange of knowledge and resources with community partners are more likely to address the interests of the community in an appropriate and sustainable manner. Outcomes achieved are attributed to mutual respect for the strengths of each partner and the joint identification of opportunities, solutions, and …
A Snapshot Of Organizational Climate: Perceptions Of Extension Faculty, Leslie E. Tower, Elaine Bowen, Mohamad G. Alkadry
A Snapshot Of Organizational Climate: Perceptions Of Extension Faculty, Leslie E. Tower, Elaine Bowen, Mohamad G. Alkadry
Journal of Extension
This article provides a snapshot of the perceptions of workplace climate of Extension faculty at a land-grant, research-high activity university, compared with the perceptions of non-Extension faculty at the same university. An online survey was conducted with a validated instrument. The response rate for university faculty was 44% (968); the response rate for Extension was 77% (126). Perceptions of the workplace climate were in the high-to-moderate range. Extension faculty appeared to view campus climate more favorably than traditional faculty. This article calls attention to the benefits of assessing an organization's climate.
4-H Women And Their Horses: An Extraordinary Relationship With An Extraordinary Animal, Janet Kiser Lambarth
4-H Women And Their Horses: An Extraordinary Relationship With An Extraordinary Animal, Janet Kiser Lambarth
Journal of Extension
There is minimal research on the large animal-human companionship bond. The purposes of the phenomenological study reported here were to identify the meaning of the relationship between women and their horses and the impact on their adult lives of the human-horse bond. Analysis is based on in-depth interviews with five adult 4-H alumni horsewomen. The meaning of the relationship was a deeply emotional response to a reciprocal relationship between women and their horses. The central finding was the role of the horse in providing needed social support for the women to meet the challenges of life on an everyday basis.