Agricultural Education Commons^™

Assessing Knowledge Levels And Learning Preferences Among Organic Grain Farmers And Professionals; The Experience Of The University Of Wisconsin Ograin Program, Lauren Asprooth, Claire G Stedden, Evelyn Hammond, Ayse Okur, Erin Silva

Journal of Extension

With lagging domestic supplies of organic grains, transitioning from conventional to organic grain production is needed, but can be a daunting challenge for farmers. The OGRAIN program began at the University of Wisconsin–Madison in 2015 to support increased organic grain production in the Midwest. We surveyed 429 OGRAIN participants to assess the most accessed resources, areas of knowledge change, and areas for program improvement. Participants highlighted the importance of networking and the need for additional marketing resources. Differences were found in programming preferences by organic farming experience. These results can improve our understanding of how to best support organic grain …

Attracting Extension Program Participants: Tips For Extension Educators, Suzanna R. Windon, Theodore R. Alter

Journal of Extension

Extension educators hold a competitive advantage by delivering educational programs tailored to their communities' unique circumstances and perspectives. This article enhances the understanding of the proactive Extension program model and contributes to the literature on Extension educators' competencies. It offers tips for attracting participants to Extension programs and sustaining their engagement. Additionally, the proposed rubric is a practical tool for educators to assess and ensure that all aspects of their programs are well-prepared for successful implementation and meaningful participant involvement.

Understanding Perceptions About And The Practice Of Integrated Pest Management And Biological Control Of The Filth-Breeding Flies By Individuals Involved In The Equine Industry In The United States, Virgillia Adele Beyer-Junfin, Theresa Pesl Murphrey, David Lawver, Barry Boyd, Amy Boren-Alpizar, Rilee Hall, Audra W. Richburg

Journal of Extension

Filth-breeding flies pose significant health risks and costs in the equine industry. Although an arsenal of management strategies exists, integrated pest management (IPM) utilizing biological control (BC) offers cost and labor efficient pest control for equine facilities. Yet, little data exists on IPM adoption across the equine industry in the United States. This quantitative study examines the knowledge, perceptions, and adoption of IPM of those involved in the equine industry. Findings reveal knowledge barriers and time constraints as major preventatives. Preferred communication channels for IPM information are also identified. Recommendations are made for further research and practice in IPM and …

Interpreting Extension Professionals' Viewpoints On Agricultural Climate Change Programming, Aaron B. Wilson, Alli Wenman, Samuel Pratsch, Kenneth Genskow, Patrick Robinson, Dennis Todey, Laurie Nowatzke, Namah Chiamo Taku-Forchu, Moses Wanyakha

Journal of Extension

We evaluated Extension professionals' attitudes and beliefs from Midwestern "1862" land-grant universities around three themes: prioritizing climate programming, farmers' perceptions, and the role of Extension leadership in building capacity to integrate climate change into programs. Using key informant interviews and a two-hour virtual workshop, we developed 'coordinate planes' to illustrate the tensions and contradictions among the three themes, with participants expressing highly diverse viewpoints across the region. Results identify the need for Extension leadership to support multi-state programs and shared resources that provide consistent guidance and expectations around climate change programming while recognizing the intrinsic state context and values.

Farm Tour Evaluation Tool For Agricultural Awareness, Hannah Eason, Jessica Ryals, Yvette Goodiel, Lauren Butler, John Diaz, Marilyn Swisher

Journal of Extension

Educational farm tours offer learning opportunities that cannot be duplicated in a classroom setting. Developing a consistent farm tour evaluation tool is paramount to quantifying individual Extension farm tours while also providing a common platform to measure outcomes and impacts nationally and over time. An IRB-approved farm tour evaluation tool was developed to capture agricultural awareness and used to evaluate the 2022 National Association of County Agricultural Agents Annual Meeting/Professional Improvement Conference (NACAA AM/PIC) tours. The evaluation tool attempts to quantify farm tour outcomes and impacts and demonstrate the value of agriculture to decision makers, consumers, and community members.

Is There An Extension Discount For Agricultural Economics Faculty?, Siun Lee, Jeffrey Hyde, Yangxuan Liu, Rodolfo M. Nayga Jr, Wendong Zhang

Journal of Extension

Salary is an important aspect of one’s decision to pursue a particular career. This work compares the salaries of Agricultural Economics faculty members with and without Extension responsibilities across 19 departments in the US. We find that mean salaries for those with Extension appointments are significantly less than those without Extension appointments, ranging from a difference of $5,065 for assistant professors to $14,532 for full professors. We encourage administrators to acknowledge this “Extension Discount” and, if desired, make intentional decisions to reduce it. Doing so would serve to address recruiting challenges for Agricultural Economics Extension positions.

Managed Online Panel Discussions As A Participatory Education Approach, Melissa M. Kreye, Kathryn Brooks, Eric Burkhart, Jesse Kreye, Allyson Muth, Calvin Norman, Sanford Smith, Scott Weikert

Journal of Extension

We assessed the social learning benefits provided by online panel discussions, where topics and questions on forestry issues were collected from the audience, but the discussions were limited to the people on the panel. We also examined the influence of different panelists including experts, extension professionals and peers. Findings indicate that the panels advanced understanding of issues, but also generated a variety of social benefits (e.g., validation, self-awareness, empathy, passion) that supported views about sustainable forestry and stewardship. Panels that involve peers and extension professionals were slightly better at generating a productive social learning environment, compared to panels containing experts.

Nebraska Extension Tractor And Equipment Safety Certification Course – Measuring Long-Term Impact And Implementing Improvements, Rebecca Bonacci, Ellen Duysen, Bri Parr, Susan Harris, Aaron Yoder

Journal of Extension

Many jobs in agriculture have been deemed too hazardous for children younger than 16 years. A waiver allowing 14- and 15- year-old youth to work on farms requires safety course certification. [Redacted] Extension has partnered with a NIOSH funded Agricultural Safety Center to provide an annual tractor and equipment safety course across [Redacted]. To gauge impact, a survey addressed questions regarding the program's long-term impact, perceived value, injuries, close calls, recommendations for improvement and adoption and implementation of safety practices. The results have led to improved programming. The findings provide a roadmap to establish effective tractor and equipment certification programs.

Facilitating Farmer-To-Farmer Elearning: An Evaluation Of Climate And Wildfires Online Courses In California, Natalia Pinzon, Caitlin Brimm

Journal of Extension

This study assesses the effectiveness of two online courses tailored for farmers and ranchers in California, with a particular focus on the role of farmer-to-farmer pedagogies. Utilizing live sessions, a social-learning platform, and multimedia content, we draw insights from engagement metrics, lesson and end-of-course survey evaluations, and course outcomes. Key findings highlight the pivotal role of peer interactions, featuring farmers and completion incentives. Based on the findings, we advocate for the integration of farmer-to-farmer education methods within online learning environments to cultivate regional learning networks, and promote the timely exchange and co-creation of agricultural knowledge amid environmental change.

Evaluation Of South Carolina’S Extension And Outreach Agents’ Knowledge Of Harmful Algal Bloom Management And The Impacts Of One-Day Training, George Strickland, Debabrata Sahoo, Michael Vassalos, Heather Nix, Sarah White

Journal of Extension

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) impact livestock producers. Most Extension agents have limited knowledge about HAB management. Our study goal was to assess agent readiness and training on HABs. We used data from in-person surveys of South Carolina (SC) Extension personnel. We examined how training influenced HAB knowledge using pre/post-tests. Training improved agent knowledge of HAB management, but water resource agents learned more. The results of this study can be used to identify Extension training shortfalls and drive policy to better prepare agents throughout the state. Further research should involve prioritizing additional extension topics and assessing knowledge in a similar manner.

Evaluation Of The Development Of Critical Life Skills As A Result Of Participating In Texas Youth Horse Judging Programs, Ashley N. Dibbs, Jennifer Zoller, Chelsie Huseman, Scott Cummings

Journal of Extension

Competitive judging teams are valued forms of extracurricular learning tools for many youth students. Unfortunately, unless individuals have direct involvement in these programs the benefits often go unnoticed and undocumented. A survey was designed to assess self-perceived life skill development from current and past horse judging participants, as well as youth life skill development observed by adults. Participants identified critical thinking, decision making, and public speaking as the highest rated life skills developed. Adults ranked self confidence, critical thinking and decision making as the skills they observe develop most frequently.

Gardening Through The Pages: Making A State-Specific Catalog With Community Science Data, Stephen Stresow, Stephen Reiners, Ashley Miller Helmholdt

Journal of Extension

Taking a page from commercial seed catalogs, Cornell Garden-Based Learning created a state-specific catalog using top-rated vegetable varieties. Taste, yield, ease-to-grow, and overall ratings were collected over the past decade through community science garden programs. The catalog combines the reputable, research-backed information Extension information with the marketability of a seed catalog. This project streamlined information across multiple sites into a single document while presenting it in a novel way (for Extension). We note how we collected data, created it, feedback from gardeners, and offer suggestions for improvements.

Climate Resilience For Organic Vegetable Growers In The Midwest: Views, Needs, And Priorities Of Technical Service Providers, Natalie Hoidal, Greta Gramig, James Dedecker, Nicholas Frillman, Katie Black, Sarah Hayward, Rue Genger

Journal of Extension

As organic vegetable production becomes increasingly important in Upper Midwest food systems, Extension programs and partners must rise to the challenge of supporting growers with climate resilience. These growers are uniquely vulnerable to climate impacts, and addressing this challenge requires a networked approach. We report on a needs assessment and social network analysis process with technical service providers across the region to define the challenges, needs, and opportunities for building individual and institutional capacity to address climate change with growers. Results highlighted several focus areas, including improved communication, better access to funding, sound information, and cultural appropriateness.

Supporting Local-Food Businesses To Conduct E-Commerce During Covid-19 Through Remote Student Internships, Angel Cruz, Barry Nash, Daniel Holloman, Joyce Yao

Journal of Extension

During the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the global lockdowns changed the way food was accessed and prepared. These changes at the consumer level impacted farms and fisheries of all types and sizes. To compensate for the loss of larger markets and restaurant revenue, small-scale food producers pivoted to direct marketing to remain viable during the pandemic. However, not all businesses and producers had the time, skills or flexibility needed for a direct marketing business model. To support producers, the North Carolina Local Food Council developed a new internship program: Remote Internship to Support Enterprises (RISE) for Local Foods. The …

Increasing The Awareness Of Land Grant Extension Service To Ethnic Minority Students: Collaborative Programming Of Kansas State University College Of Agriculture And K-State Research And Extension Service, Raymond Thomas, Dr. Zelia Z. Wiley, Dr. Lonnie Hobbs Jr., Summer Santillana

Journal of Extension

An important pre-condition to diversifying the workforce of land-grant extension services is access to qualified ethnic minority individuals with an awareness and interest in pursuing extension careers. This paper highlights an example of collaboration between the K-State Research and Extension office and an educational research program at Kansas State University to expand the awareness and knowledge of the functions and career opportunities in extension to ethnic minority students. The result of this study indicates the collaboration increased the perceived knowledge of extension to the students, leading to an ethnic minority student attending graduate school with an emphasis on extension services.

The Ins And Outs Of Language Translation And Interpretation Of Program Resources, Regina Mcgoff, Annalisa Hultberg, Stephen A. Kells

Journal of Extension

In an increasingly diverse country, creating Extension resources available in a variety of languages and formats is important for supporting learning by Limited English Proficient audiences and extending these impacts throughout the entire community. Learn tips from educational professionals who have created print and electronic resources in ten different languages to better support a diversity of stakeholders.

Potato University: An Interactive Framework To Engage And Educate Industry Stakeholders In Potato-Related Research, Jaime Willbur, Erin Burns

Journal of Extension

Understanding how farmers prefer to learn is critical for the development and delivery of successful extension programming. Therefore, Michigan State University Extension specialists conducted an interactive hands-on demonstration workshop (Potato University) addressing pressing issues to Michigan potato production at the Michigan Winter Potato Conference. The new session format emphasized alternative, hands-on research presentation formats and promoted small group interactions between researchers and stakeholders. Overall, we developed an alternative framework to deliver information in a novel format by highlighting research activities in an approachable format for stakeholders that better aligned Extension teaching styles with the learning styles of the potato industry.

Beyond Direct Education And Facilitation: Revisiting The Role Of Extension In Community & Regional Food Systems Development, Catie M. Demets, Lindsey Day Farnsworth

Journal of Extension

The fundamental issues that community and regional food systems aim to address are inherently systems problems, yet many Extension programs continue to focus food system development efforts on activities and actors that directly support the food value chain. While important, the impact of these interventions is limited. Drawing from interviews with directors of four of the nation’s leading Community and Regional Food Systems Extension programs, this article makes a case for rethinking Extension’s role in community and regional food systems development in relationship to key leverage points through a typology of Extension roles and corresponding examples.

Comparing Participant Recruitment Methods For Statewide Needs Assessment Surveys, Amy Harder, Diane D. Craig, Karlibeth Leitheiser

Journal of Extension

Contracting with a paid survey vendor can be costly; are free and low-cost survey recruitment methods a sound option for Extension? The purpose of our study was to assess the feasibility of using free or low-cost recruitment methods as a substitute for contracting with a paid survey vendor when conducting a statewide needs assessment. The demographic characteristics and responses from paid survey panelists were compared with the same data from participants recruited via Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Observed differences suggest that Extension professionals should carefully consider whose perspectives are needed for a needs assessment and make survey recruitment decisions accordingly.

Adult Teaching Practices Of Exemplary Extension Agents, T. Grady Roberts, Amy Harder, Matt Benge

Journal of Extension

Teaching is an important part of an Extension agent’s duties; however, little is empirically understood about effective teaching practices in an Extension context. The purpose of this study was to explore the adult teaching practices of exemplary extension agents. Through a nomination process, seven agents in Florida were interviewed. The analysis revealed four themes: (a) approach to teaching adults, (b) awareness of learners, (c) planning, and (d) learning to teach. Each theme had several sub-themes. Recommendations for practice and additional research are provided.

Nebraska Conventional Farmers’ Perspectives Toward Agricultural Hemp: A Qualitative Insight Guided By The Diffusion Of Innovations Theory, Blake C. Colclasure, Nicholas Gray, Laura E. Young

Journal of Extension

The legalization of hemp cultivation in the United States has provided opportunities for farmers to grow a new crop. Despite these opportunities, significant social, economical, and technical challenges to growing hemp have been well documented. The purpose of this research was to explore Nebraska conventional farmers’ perceptions toward hemp cultivation. Using the diffusion of innovations theory as a framework, one-on-one interviews were conducted with seven conventional farmers in Nebraska. Data were analyzed using deductive coding methods. Results are presented in four emergent themes describing farmer perceptions: 1) limited prior exposure; 2) perceived technical challenges; 3) advantages; and, 4) impartial feelings.

Perceived Beef Producer Challenges And Competencies For A Value-Added Beef Extension Program, Sarah J. Al-Mazroa Smith, Greg Miller

Journal of Extension

As markets are changing in the beef industry, producers are seeking new opportunities for value-added beef production. A select group of beef industry experts and experienced beef producers have come to consensus regarding challenges that producers face in the current marketplace. They identified competencies that would be a positive addition to a value-added beef Extension program. Competencies and challenges were organized to enable Extension specialists to create a new Extension program framework.

An Exploration Of Learning And Teaching Methods In Agricultural Extension, Jeremy Levinson, Dave Lamie, Michael Vassalos, Chris Eck, Juang Chong, Francis P. F. Reay-Jones

Journal of Extension

Abstract

The Train-the-Trainer approach is widely used in Cooperative Extension education to efficiently disseminate research-based information to many clientele groups, including farmers. This paper compares the traditional Train-the-Trainer model to a comprehensive Collaborative Train-the-Trainer model and discusses weaknesses of the traditional model that are addressed in the Collaborative model. Sources of information used by farmers (growers) and overall effectiveness were measured through a survey instrument created and distributed to farmers in South and North Carolina. The Collaborative Train-the-Trainer model, which emphasizes peer-to-peer interaction and feedback loops, represents an enhanced approach for conceptualizing and implementing Extension educational programs.

An Evaluation Of A Cooperative Extension Internship Program, Lisa Ellis Mccormick, Karen A. Vines, Subrato Kumar Kuri

Journal of Extension

The purpose of this project was to evaluate the Virginia Cooperative Extension internship program from the perspective of student participants and their supervisors. Three focus groups were conducted with internship supervisors from the summer of 2019. Student survey data was used to identify concerns from the student perspective to inform the supervisor focus group questions. In addition to the questions, a Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis was also used to collect qualitative data within the supervisor focus groups. Findings suggest areas of strength that can be used in marketing as well as opportunities for program improvement.

On-Farm Hog Processing Demonstration For Teenage Exhibitors: Blending Academic, Laboratory, And Farm-Based Learning, Katherine A. Wells, Chris L. Bruynis, Lyda G. Garcia

Journal of Extension

COVID-19 challenges induced a U.S. meatpacking industry bottleneck. [University] Extension identified the need and responded by creating a three-step hands-on training for teenage junior fair exhibitors. [University] Extension Meat Scientist and graduate students assisted in demonstrating an on-farm hog harvest and processing event in collaboration with a local Extension office for 4-H and FFA teenagers. To add a practical perspective, a local hog-producing and harvesting family was asked to assist with the event. An online post-survey reflected 90-100% gains in five educational areas and 100% said they would a similar event in the future and recommend it to a friend.

Developing Economic Injury Levels For Thrips (Frankliniella Occidentalis) In Idaho Alfalfa Under Controlled Pest Populations, John Reed Findlay, Joseph Sagers

Journal of Extension

Thrips are a new pest of alfalfa in Eastern Idaho. University of Idaho Extension Educators studied the yield losses associated with this pest in a controlled greenhouse experiment. This data has been used to calculate the economic injury level (EIL) of thrips in alfalfa. The EIL represents the level of insect infestation at which control measures will begin to be economically viable. We calculate that for the 2021 growing season conditions the EIL was approximately 20 thrips per six stems. We also calculated EIL curves that growers and consultants can use as spray costs and hay values change.

Offering Collegiate Livestock Judging As A Student Organization, Maryfrances Miller, Don W. Edgar, Lyle Logemann

Journal of Extension

Resource constraints have lowered the number of collegiate livestock judging teams, dropping the number of opportunities for collegiate judging, even though interest among students remains high. These opportunities can be provided for less expense through student-led extracurricular organizations. This approach increases the student initiative required, but also provides an increased opportunity for developing and demonstrating leadership skills.

Using Multimedia To Help Agricultural Producers Communicate With Consumers About Gmos, Stacey F. Stearns, Jennifer E. Cushman, Joseph A. Bonelli, Bonnie E. Burr

Journal of Extension

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and their uses are often misunderstood. Consumers are regularly unsure what GMOs are, or if they are safe for consumption and the environment. Contradictory and sometimes inaccurate information is available from numerous sources, and challenges consumers and others to separate the facts from sensationalized stories. Agricultural producers often communicate with consumers, neighbors, and members of the general public; however, they do not have information to share about GMOs. Multimedia resources can provide agricultural producers with science-based information to share with consumers. Agricultural communicators and Extension educators can create science-based multimedia resources to bridge the communication gap.

Consumer-Focused Meat Science Extension Program Increase Consumer Confidence And Knowledge Of Meat Selection And Preparation, Stacy Zuelly, Yufei Guo, Melinda Dennis, Emily Ford, Melissa Davis

Journal of Extension

Science-based, meat science education is often limited outside of universities, creating possibilities to develop Extension activities to educate and impower consumers in principles of meat science. The Indiana BBQ Bootcamp was developed to provide consumers information on meat selection, proper cooking techniques, food safety, and meat seasoning (spice rubs and marinades) through demonstrations and product sampling. Attendees were surveyed before and after the program to report their confidence in their ability to perform basic meat science techniques. Responses to all survey questions showed significant increase in the attendees’ confidence demonstrating improvement in their meat science knowledge.

Revisiting The Master Food Volunteer Program: Examining How To Enhance Nutrition Education In The United States, Stacey Viera, Lindsey Haynes-Maslow

Journal of Extension

America’s diet-related illness crisis intersects with a lack of nutrition literacy, nutrition security, and systemic inequities. The Cooperative Extension Service’s (CES) national infrastructure could potentially provide equitable access to quality nutrition education in the US utilizing a Master Food Volunteer (MFV) model. This research brief examined preliminary evidence for the MFV model as a support for CES agents and paraprofessionals, and results show a paucity of evidence. Further research and a pilot program with pre-established measures for health-related knowledge and behaviors could elucidate the model’s potential to increase equitable access to evidence-based programming, nutrition, and implementation guidance.