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Articles 1 - 30 of 58
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Good Agricultural Practices Training For Limited-Resource Produce Growers And Extension Educators, Agnes Kilonzo-Nthenge, John C. Ricketts, Dharma Pitchay
Good Agricultural Practices Training For Limited-Resource Produce Growers And Extension Educators, Agnes Kilonzo-Nthenge, John C. Ricketts, Dharma Pitchay
The Journal of Extension
We delivered to growers and Extension educators a workshop addressing good agricultural practices (GAP) for produce safety. To assess the workshop's effects as applicable to behavioral intervention theory, we studied past behaviors, behavioral intentions, and changes in knowledge. Workshop participants had been aware of but did not fully understand certain GAP, such as implementing written food safety plans; after the workshop, both groups reported improved understanding of various concepts. Producers were mixed regarding intent to make GAP-related changes after workshop participation, whereas the educators overall were likely to make changes related to teaching GAP. We concluded that producers need more …
Model Integrated Pest Management Program Delivery For Community Gardeners, Eric Barrett, Jacqueline Kowalski
Model Integrated Pest Management Program Delivery For Community Gardeners, Eric Barrett, Jacqueline Kowalski
The Journal of Extension
The growth of community gardens has created new opportunities for urban Extension personnel at a time when staffing resources continue to decline. To serve the integrated pest management (IPM) needs of community gardening populations, Extension educators in two urban counties developed an on-site program involving a demonstration kit and planning protocol that Extension educators, program staff, and master gardener volunteers can use to teach IPM. The program provides practical, research-based information to community gardeners, allows Extension to maintain a presence in urban centers, and provides outreach to audiences who may not have used Extension resources historically.
Collaborative Community Engagement: Experiential Learning Opportunities For College Students Via Extension, Sam Angima, Katie Gaebel
Collaborative Community Engagement: Experiential Learning Opportunities For College Students Via Extension, Sam Angima, Katie Gaebel
The Journal of Extension
Extension is known for developing practical applications through research and demonstration of new and improved practices that positively affect end users. However, Extension has much to offer to all learners, including matriculated students, through experiential learning opportunities. A successful multidisciplinary effort involved students, faculty, and stakeholders in engaging communities as equal partners in determining issues and developing solutions. The students (many for the first time) experienced firsthand the power of engaging with communities and being a part of solutions. Engagement is fully realized and most successful when reciprocity is an everyday practice.
Women Leaders In Agriculture: Data-Driven Recommendations For Action And Perspectives On Furthering The Conversation, Lauren L. Griffeth, Lori Tiller, Jenny Jordan, Rochelle Sapp
Women Leaders In Agriculture: Data-Driven Recommendations For Action And Perspectives On Furthering The Conversation, Lauren L. Griffeth, Lori Tiller, Jenny Jordan, Rochelle Sapp
The Journal of Extension
The presence of women in positions of power in the agriculture industry is lacking. This article highlights findings generated from the 2016 Southern Region Women's Agricultural Leadership Summit attended by women from 13 southern states. The research revealed that women working in Extension should (a) formally connect with leadership mentors, (b) envision themselves in leadership roles, and (c) support one another as they work to lead in the agriculture industry. To further the conversation, we provide recommendations that are inherent in the data and intended to assist early-career women professionals as well as middle managers and administrators who desire to …
Developing A Socio-Ecological Approach To Extension Natural Resources Programming, William A. Warren
Developing A Socio-Ecological Approach To Extension Natural Resources Programming, William A. Warren
The Journal of Extension
This article proposes the concept of socio-ecology as a natural resources programming model in Extension. After a brief review of the concept, I link it with the original vision of Extension and more recent Extension scholarship that addresses the human–environment conundrum. I then suggest socio-ecology as both a guide for programming and a vision for directing Extension leadership in developing a path forward for sustainable, and just, natural resources allocation and use.
Online Leadership Short Course For County Extension Directors, Matt Benge, Matthew Sowcik
Online Leadership Short Course For County Extension Directors, Matt Benge, Matthew Sowcik
The Journal of Extension
Engaging the Extension workforce in professional development is critical for learning, behavior change, and continued development. However, county Extension directors find it difficult to juggle the various demands on their time, including the need to develop the leadership competencies required to be successful in their roles. Online leadership training is one option that can be used to address this time demand faced by Extension leaders and provide an avenue for developing leadership capacity. We discuss the design and implementation of the 10-week online Leadership Short Course for county Extension directors and the reactions of participants.
Examining The Entrepreneurial Leadership Propensities Of Extension Educators, Ashley Jeffers-Sample, Matthew M. Mars, Amber H. Rice, Robert M. Torres
Examining The Entrepreneurial Leadership Propensities Of Extension Educators, Ashley Jeffers-Sample, Matthew M. Mars, Amber H. Rice, Robert M. Torres
The Journal of Extension
Innovation and entrepreneurship are integral to the development and vitality of contemporary communities and economies. Accordingly, entrepreneurial leadership is directly relevant to the Extension education mission. Yet research examining the entrepreneurial leadership propensities of Extension educators is scant. We applied a survey design to analyze the entrepreneurial leadership propensities of Extension educators throughout Arizona using two constructs: innovation and entrepreneurial strategy. The data revealed modest levels of entrepreneurial leadership propensities across the sample. Recommendations aimed at enhancing the entrepreneurial leadership propensities of Extension educators are provided.
Readying Extension For The Systematic Analysis Of Large Qualitative Data Sets, Christian Schmieder, Kyrie E.H. Caldwell, Ellen Bechtol
Readying Extension For The Systematic Analysis Of Large Qualitative Data Sets, Christian Schmieder, Kyrie E.H. Caldwell, Ellen Bechtol
The Journal of Extension
Land-grant Extension institutions face increasing expectations to use data to communicate value and drive program and organizational development. In this article, we introduce the University of Wisconsin–Extension Data Jam Initiative, an integrated qualitative software, methods, and data analysis curriculum. The Data Jam Initiative is an evaluation capacity building framework for collaborative, mentorship-based analysis sessions across an institution and across disciplines. Through sharing exemplar applications of this curriculum, we illustrate how the Data Jam Initiative prepares Extension institutions for using qualitative data in service of communication to stakeholders, program development, and organizational growth.
The Graduate Extension Scholars Program: Professional Development To Connect Research And Education, Hannah H. Scherer, Ayla Wilk, Shannon Wiley, Matthew Spindler
The Graduate Extension Scholars Program: Professional Development To Connect Research And Education, Hannah H. Scherer, Ayla Wilk, Shannon Wiley, Matthew Spindler
The Journal of Extension
The Graduate Extension Scholars program represents a novel approach that brings together graduate students, 4-H agents, and secondary agriculture teachers in an educational resource development project. We conducted process evaluation research based on program goals for the pilot implementation year using participant interviews and program artifacts. Program participants reported an overall positive experience and identified new programming and partnerships that would not have been possible without involvement in the program. Goals were enacted to varying degrees, with challenges occurring related to collaborative planning, educational module development, and building of partnerships between Extension and school-based educators. Recommendations for Extension program development …
Investing In 4-H Volunteers Through State Leadership Forums, Elizabeth Davis, Stacey S. Macarthur, Gaelynn Peterson, Vernon Parent
Investing In 4-H Volunteers Through State Leadership Forums, Elizabeth Davis, Stacey S. Macarthur, Gaelynn Peterson, Vernon Parent
The Journal of Extension
State volunteer forums can be an invaluable resource for providing opportunities for volunteer training on positive youth development. Some western states have experienced decreasing attendance and have questioned the practicality of hosting such forums. In this article, we showcase successes that one western state has experienced as a result of implementing innovative approaches. An online survey of participants showed increased capacity of volunteers to lead 4-H programs. Additionally, we outline implications for Extension professionals to inform their efforts to achieve successful volunteer forums.
Using A Translational Process To Apply Latino Youth Development Research Findings In Practice, Fe Moncloa, Shannon Horrillo, Claudia Diaz-Carrasco, Dorina M. Espiniza
Using A Translational Process To Apply Latino Youth Development Research Findings In Practice, Fe Moncloa, Shannon Horrillo, Claudia Diaz-Carrasco, Dorina M. Espiniza
The Journal of Extension
Translating research into practice is a cornerstone for Extension programs. We developed an intentional and collaborative translational process for converting evidence-based knowledge from Latino youth development literature into Extension practice. The process resulted in internal audience–specific fact sheets summarizing research findings as sustainable strategies for increasing Latino youth participation and engagement in Extension programming. Our systematic approach can be useful for supporting a culture of innovation and collaboration. Through use of our method, numerous organizational benefits were realized, suggesting that the process has positive implications for Extension programs across the nation.
4-H Community Clubs And The Challenge Of Inclusion: The Isleton Experience, Maria G. Fabregas Janeiro, Marianne Bird
4-H Community Clubs And The Challenge Of Inclusion: The Isleton Experience, Maria G. Fabregas Janeiro, Marianne Bird
The Journal of Extension
In California, where 54% of students in kindergarten through grade 12 are Latino, only 21% of 4-H community club members fit this demographic. Consequently, California 4-H is focused on developing Latino membership. This article describes lessons we learned while developing and delivering a project targeting inclusion of Latino youths in an established 4-H community club.
Addressing Declining Rural Communities Through Youth Entrepreneurship Education, Karen Ballard, Kelly Nix
Addressing Declining Rural Communities Through Youth Entrepreneurship Education, Karen Ballard, Kelly Nix
The Journal of Extension
Population decline, outmigration of youths, and dwindling job prospects have challenged the vitality of rural economies in the United States for decades. Previous rural youth programs have been criticized for failing to address the social underpinnings of flight, attend to the unique features of rural contexts, and encourage youths to develop a sense of connection to opportunities within their local communities. This article provides recommendations for Extension personnel on rural youth entrepreneurship education. Recommendations relate to gaps in entrepreneurship programs in rural communities, a focus on technology and innovation, and 4-H as an ideal setting for experiential entrepreneurship education.
Making Extreme Counselors: A State 4-H Camp Counselor Workshop, Hannah K. Epley, Jo Williams, Katherine Feldhues, Larry Hall
Making Extreme Counselors: A State 4-H Camp Counselor Workshop, Hannah K. Epley, Jo Williams, Katherine Feldhues, Larry Hall
The Journal of Extension
Making eXtreme Counselors (MXC) is a statewide 4-H camp counselor training workshop. This training brings teens throughout Ohio together to help prepare them to serve as camp counselors in their own counties. Specific competencies are targeted each year on a rotational basis. The training allows youths to learn not only from a variety of 4-H professionals but also through peer-to-peer sharing and interactions. Evaluation results from participants and the professionals who work with them include high ratings of the program and positive comments. In addition, the results indicate that participants transfer their learning from the training to their performance as …
Impact Of A Professional Development Experience Focused On Extension Educators As Change Agents, Meagan Scott, William G. Weeks, Penny P. Weeks
Impact Of A Professional Development Experience Focused On Extension Educators As Change Agents, Meagan Scott, William G. Weeks, Penny P. Weeks
The Journal of Extension
Extension educators should think of themselves as change agents, yet many act as information dispensers. Accordingly, we sought to determine whether we could change perceptions of county Extension educators in Oklahoma regarding their function as change agents. Educators participated in a two-part (two-treatment) professional development experience involving a workshop and a computer simulation. The experience was grounded in Rogers's diffusion of innovations theory and addressed nine established Extension educator change-agent roles. Participants ranked the importance of the roles prior to the experience and again following each treatment. Their perceptions changed regarding only the "Alternative Delivery Systems" role. We explore the …
A Marketing Standpoint: What Marketers Can Teach Extension Professionals About Internet-Based Media, Holly Whitaker, Holli R. Leggette, Shannon Barbeau
A Marketing Standpoint: What Marketers Can Teach Extension Professionals About Internet-Based Media, Holly Whitaker, Holli R. Leggette, Shannon Barbeau
The Journal of Extension
Extension audiences are turning to Internet-based media for information Extension professionals traditionally have provided them. In a qualitative study, we sought to relate the Internet-based media strategies of marketing professionals to the needs of Extension professionals to increase Extension professionals' success in using Internet-based media. Extension professionals can more effectively engage modern Extension audiences by implementing four strategies: knowing the research, knowing what makes audiences tick, making changes based on measurable data, and increasing the effectiveness of Internet-based media efforts.
Untapped: Accessing Extension To Strengthen Connections Between Citizen Science And Community Decision Making, Malin Clyde, Alyson Eberhardt, Michelle D. Prysby, Kathryn Stofer
Untapped: Accessing Extension To Strengthen Connections Between Citizen Science And Community Decision Making, Malin Clyde, Alyson Eberhardt, Michelle D. Prysby, Kathryn Stofer
The Journal of Extension
Citizen science is on the rise, and Extension is poised to support this movement by offering technical assistance to citizen science programs, communities, federal partners, and researchers. The expansion of citizen science provides an opportunity for fostering innovative access to Extension resources and increasing engagement with new audiences. To encourage capitalization on this opportunity, we outline Extension's traditional strengths and connect them to the needs of citizen science programs, offer examples of Extension-based citizen science programs that are working with communities to make natural resource management decisions, and make suggestions for ways in which Extension's technical assistance can be shared …
Let's Not Get Disrupted, Dennis D. Calvin
Let's Not Get Disrupted, Dennis D. Calvin
The Journal of Extension
Successful 21st-century Extension organizations will require innovative business models and organizational structures to meet customer needs. Although new technologies and tools that support Extension education are important, they do not serve as a vision or strategy. This commentary argues why Extension must pay close attention to its customers' needs to remain valuable and relevant in the future and describes the changes Penn State Extension has made in an attempt to position itself as a 21st-century organization.
Innovate Extension Events: Creating Space For Innovation In Extension, Danae Wolfe, Jamie Seger, Brian Raison, Joshua Dallin, Amelia Doll, Brooke Edmunds, Paul Hill, Dave Francis, Bob Bertsch
Innovate Extension Events: Creating Space For Innovation In Extension, Danae Wolfe, Jamie Seger, Brian Raison, Joshua Dallin, Amelia Doll, Brooke Edmunds, Paul Hill, Dave Francis, Bob Bertsch
The Journal of Extension
Extension professionals are being challenged to innovate their work, yet day-to-day responsibilities do not always allow time or space for creativity and innovation. In early 2016, Ohio State University Extension held its inaugural Innovate Extension event, a hackathon-style gathering focused on creative collaboration during which teams competed for grant funds by developing an idea, plan, and pitch over the course of a day. Turnout exceeded expectations, and participants gave high marks to the experience. Due to the event's success, additional Innovate Extension events have been hosted at North Dakota State University, Utah State University, and Oregon State University. This article …
A New Regional Model For Increasing Extension's Capacity To Reach Metropolitan Audiences, Brad Gaolach, Fe Moncloa, Rebecca Sero, Dayna Emmons
A New Regional Model For Increasing Extension's Capacity To Reach Metropolitan Audiences, Brad Gaolach, Fe Moncloa, Rebecca Sero, Dayna Emmons
The Journal of Extension
Six western Extension organizations founded the Western Center for Metropolitan Extension and Research (WCMER) to increase the internal capacity of Extension to address metropolitan issues and elevate the value of Extension to external metropolitan audiences. In this article, we present a case study of WCMER. We describe the inception of the center and results of an analysis of its functionality. Those results include findings related to the advisory board’s ability to build social capital and leverage power networks, WCMER’s originating within a culture of innovation and being modeled after other innovative centers, and the concurrent formation of WCMER and the …
Pathways To Prosperity Conference Blends Technology And Facilitation To Engage Leaders Statewide, Debra Hansen, Monica Babine
Pathways To Prosperity Conference Blends Technology And Facilitation To Engage Leaders Statewide, Debra Hansen, Monica Babine
The Journal of Extension
Pathways to Prosperity (P2P) is a statewide economic development leadership conference that is hosted by Washington State University Extension (WSUE) and involves use of a unique hybrid delivery model to reach rural communities and revive economies. For P2P, WSUE uses technology to connect multiple sites simultaneously to provide a webinar featuring a national expert. Well-designed and adaptable activities facilitated by a local team address issues and opportunities introduced by the speaker. Regional leaders and stakeholders participate at local sites, allowing them to leverage the knowledge gained by applying it to their community goals and aspirations.
Informing Innovations Through Deeper Insight On Strategic Priorities And Expansive Ideas, Christine Geith, Margaret C. Immendorf, Ashley Griffin, C. Theodor Stiegler
Informing Innovations Through Deeper Insight On Strategic Priorities And Expansive Ideas, Christine Geith, Margaret C. Immendorf, Ashley Griffin, C. Theodor Stiegler
The Journal of Extension
Recent national Extension initiatives and reports provide insight into innovation trends and issues. In response to questions from participants in eXtension Impact Collaborative events, we adapted two business frameworks to provide deeper insight about innovation. The adapted frameworks are helpful for identifying strategic areas of focus for innovation and prompting expanded thinking about potential types of innovation.
Hey, Siri, What Is The Future Of Extension?, Dave King
Hey, Siri, What Is The Future Of Extension?, Dave King
The Journal of Extension
Extension faces unprecedented competition in the information marketplace. Although this is not a new concern, today Extension's competitors are no longer an abstract potential. They reside in our homes across the country. Is the past truly prologue? Is Extension destined to continue to experience erosion of audiences and political support? Or are there opportunities for Extension professionals to step up and stem the flow? The answer to the last question is yes, but doing so will take an understanding of the new competitors in the information marketplace and investments in innovation that do more than just sustain Extension's current market …
Disruptive Innovation: How Washington State University Is Reaching Urban Audiences, Brad Gaolach, Martha Aitken, Anthony Gromko
Disruptive Innovation: How Washington State University Is Reaching Urban Audiences, Brad Gaolach, Martha Aitken, Anthony Gromko
The Journal of Extension
Washington State University (WSU) is redefining how Extension works in urban areas. Its Metropolitan Center for Applied Research and Extension (Metro Center) engages nontraditional Extension audiences using an innovative business model that focuses on short-term projects instead of long-term programs. Outcome-driven, client-centered, and solution-oriented, the Metro Center works to develop practical, place-based solutions by being a conduit between metropolitan decision makers and WSU faculty expertise across the state. In this article, we present a case study centered on the conditions and opportunities leading to the Metro Center's formation, the center's entrepreneurial business model, and center projects that allow Extension to …
Coming To Grips With The Way The World Works, Karen Ballard, Kelly Nix
Coming To Grips With The Way The World Works, Karen Ballard, Kelly Nix
The Journal of Extension
Extension finds itself in a cultural phenomenon known as disruptive change. Clientele increasingly access products and services digitally and in real time. This digital revolution challenges historical methods that have served Extension for over 100 years. Extension's response going forward may stem or even reverse current organizational decline. The Joint Council of Extension Professionals responded to member feedback in 2017 by hosting a virtual town hall meeting (VTHM), initiating a national conversation on innovation and change. The VTHM produced provocative discussions regarding the potential use of digital tools to increase Extension's relevance and value. In this commentary, we reflect on …
What Extension Personnel Should Know About Midwestern Goat Producers, Kelsey F. Cole, Catherine Hoegeman, Benjamin M. Onyango, Jodie A. Pennington
What Extension Personnel Should Know About Midwestern Goat Producers, Kelsey F. Cole, Catherine Hoegeman, Benjamin M. Onyango, Jodie A. Pennington
The Journal of Extension
The growth of the goat industry has created opportunities for producers looking for a profitable alternative enterprise. Little is known about goat production or educational needs of producers in Missouri and Arkansas. A survey of goat producers in Missouri and Arkansas addressed farm characteristics, product marketing characteristics, preferred information sources, and educational topics of interest for goat producers. A better understanding of goat production and producer needs can support Extension's development of education programs to further develop the emerging goat industry.
The Role Of Extension In A University's Response To A Natural Disaster, Susan Kerr, Christina Sanders, Curtis Moulton, Michael Gaffney
The Role Of Extension In A University's Response To A Natural Disaster, Susan Kerr, Christina Sanders, Curtis Moulton, Michael Gaffney
The Journal of Extension
In 2014, a mudslide devastated a small community in rural northwestern Washington State, taking 43 lives. The disaster created ripple effects that affected families, economies, transportation, and employment in neighboring communities. This article provides details of the state land-grant university's efforts to help affected communities recover. Aspects of this response readily replicable by other land-grant universities include outreach leadership provided by local/county-based Extension faculty; creation of a response team with depth and breadth of expertise and skills; engagement of campus-based colleges, colleagues, and students; and delivery of youth development programs in affected communities. Meaningful outcomes have been achieved, and the …
Veterinary Science Career Development Online Study Guide Improves Student Performance, Lisa K. Karr, Lena Luck, Nicole D'Angelo, Nathan W. Conner
Veterinary Science Career Development Online Study Guide Improves Student Performance, Lisa K. Karr, Lena Luck, Nicole D'Angelo, Nathan W. Conner
The Journal of Extension
The Online FFA Veterinary Science Career Development Event (CDE) Study Website was created to better prepare FFA members for the Veterinary Science CDE but is useful to Extension educators as well. The website provides resources for students who may not have access to hands-on study materials for the CDE. These resources include (a) instructional videos of clinical and handling and restraint practicums, (b) photographic identification examples, and (c) practice examinations. Students indicated that they felt more prepared for the CDE after using the online study guide. Because of the types of materials on the website, the site can be used …
Four Approaches To Building Extension Program Evaluation Capacity, Nancy Franz, Thomas Archibald
Four Approaches To Building Extension Program Evaluation Capacity, Nancy Franz, Thomas Archibald
The Journal of Extension
Extension educators are expected to more fully evaluate programs. In response, evaluation capacity building (ECB) is a necessary component of Extension educator professional development. One size rarely fits all; ECB more likely succeeds if it is well aligned with the educator's evaluation needs and the type of educational effort. Four approaches to Extension work have been documented—service, facilitation, content transmission, and transformative education. These approaches require different evaluation measures and therefore different forms of ECB.
Data Parties I Have Known: Lessons Learned And Best Practices For Success, Nancy K. Franz
Data Parties I Have Known: Lessons Learned And Best Practices For Success, Nancy K. Franz
The Journal of Extension
Increased focus on data-driven decision making requires Extension professionals to excel at data analysis and interpretation. Data parties have become increasingly popular for involving stakeholders in making sense of data. As these parties become more frequently used by Extension professionals, best practices are emerging from lessons learned to improve the process and enhance the outcomes. These practices include designing discussion questions to fit the specific goals of the process, engaging a team of key partners, setting a theme and party environment that appeals to the participants and fits the context, providing appropriate data visualization tools, and using strong facilitation practices.