Teaching with inquiry-based learning (IBL) can be used to increase high school students’ science proficiency levels. Teachers must also be equipped and prepared to teach inquiry-based learning concepts. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate how prolonged professional development (PD) about IBL impacts science and agriscience teachers’ intent to use IBL animal science concepts in the classroom. The current evaluation identified the theory of planned behavior elements which provided a better understanding of teachers’ attitudes, perceived behavioral control, subjective norms, and intent relating to implementing IBL into their curriculum. A total of two focus groups were conducted between Tennessee and Nebraska Using a semi-structured moderator’s guide, participants were asked questions related to their confidence, motivation, and intent to integrate the IBL animal science concepts into their classroom. The findings from this study indicated that although teachers faced barriers to new teaching strategies concerning subjective norms and perceived behavioral control prior to the PD, they now perceive that they can control those barriers and further intend to integrate the IBL animal science concepts into their classroom after completing the PD. We recommend that future research is conducted to explore the students’ experiences participating in the IBL lessons and pursuing a follow-up with teachers after implementation.

The need for qualified school-based agricultural education (SBAE) teachers is often discussed in terms of teacher recruitment; however, retaining those teachers is also necessary to ensure the stability and longevity of SBAE programming. Through the lens of teacher resilience, this qualitative study sought to answer the question: What individual and social-ecological characteristics of Tennessee career agriculture teachers contributed to their resiliency and longevity in the profession? In response, we conducted a phenomenological study of Tennessee agriculture teachers with 15 or more years in the profession. After coding data from 15 interviews, six themes emerged: (1) Passion, (2) Support, (3) Adaptability, (4) Positivity, (5) Boundary Setting and Time Management, and (6) Autonomy. We concluded that multiple personal and social-ecological characteristics influenced the teachers in this study to remain in the profession. Our findings aligned with similar research on teacher resilience, demonstrating that a combination of personal development and support systems can enhance resilience. Based on these findings, we recommend preservice training and professional development related to growth mindsets and normalizing work-life balance among SBAE teachers. Because the participants emphasized the importance of both support and autonomy, we also recommend researchers investigate the roles of support organizations in SBAE retention. Additionally, we recommend training for SBAE stakeholders to learn more about how to best support teachers and the programs they manage.

The process of inquiry-based learning allows learners to identify a problem or develop a hypothesis, develop a process of inquiry, and report their findings (Keselman, 2003). Twenty-six preservice agriscience teachers at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln participated in focus groups to explore preservice agriscience teachers’ perceptions of developing and using science-based learning activities that use inquiry-based teaching methods. Qualitative data analysis allowed the following six themes to emerge: a) inquiry-based learning is a process, b) trainings and pre-made lessons, c) student- vs teacher-led, d) critical thinking and problem solving, e) age, skill, & prior knowledge of students, and f) time-consuming to design. These findings hold importance for adoption of inquiry-based learning not only at the instructor level, but also system-wide.

As Agricultural Education shifts to a more science-based curriculum to help fulfill shortcomings of the current United States science test scores, teachers implementing Inquiry-Based Learning (IBL) is becoming more important. For Agriculture Educators to do this, training is necessary for both new and experienced educators. This study was conducted to gauge teacher attitudes toward and ability to integrate IBL in the classroom to meet these goals. Teacher knowledge was also assessed in four life science categories. Study results indicate that teachers have positive attitudes toward learning about IBL and implementing the model in the classrooms. Teachers also gained more content knowledge in life science by completing the training. With proper training and experience in all levels of teachers, IBL methodology can be a useful tool in the agriculture education classroom.

Teacher professional development is seen by many as a cornerstone for initiating educational change. Yet, there are many challenges to participating, such as family commitments, high workloads, poor-quality content, high program costs, and frequent travel. Financial incentives can be an effective tool to overcome these challenges. However, setting up incentives to motivate participation can be difficult, since several factors can influence the optimal payment level. This study investigates how content, time commitment, and stipend payment influences willingness to participate in an agricultural professional development program. Data were collected by surveying participants. Most of the participants joined the program based on the content and stipend, indicating both were influential for involvement. The $500 stipend offered to teachers exceeded the compensation for which they were willing to participate, and they indicated they were willing to dedicate additional hours to professional development. Based on the results of this study, we recommend stipends for professional development be at rates comparable or higher than local instructional rates to maximize participation and persistence.

Professional development (PD) programs for science and agriculture teachers designed around the inquiry-based learning (IBL) teaching strategy could help to improve science proficiency amongst our high school students. PD that continues over a longer period of time is more effective than short-term workshops. The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of a prolonged PD program on teachers’ confidence in using IBL strategies for teaching animal sciences content. The following research questions guided this study: RQ1: What were participants’ perceptions of a prolonged PD program? and RQ2: How did the prolonged PD program influence the participants’ confidence in using IBL? For this project, the teachers completed three online modules focused on best practices for using IBL in the classroom and then participated in a five-day in-person PD program that was offered in Tennessee and Nebraska during June and July of 2022. Basic qualitative methodology was used, and four focus groups were conducted. The following themes emerged: perceptions of the PD and confidence in using IBL. Allowing teachers to work through the IBL activities as students appeared to increase their confidence in using IBL to teach animal science concepts in the future.

In the United States, there is an increasing need for high school students to enhance their science proficiency. Inquiry-based learning (IBL) can serve as a teaching strategy to increase students’ science proficiency levels, but it is critical that teachers are equipped with the knowledge needed to teach IBL. In this study, we aimed to describe the impact that a professional development (PD) about integrating IBL into curricula has on science and agriscience teachers’ intent to use IBL. The theory of planned behavior, as well as confidence, guided this evaluation. A paper survey was distributed to the PD participants after the in-person part of a prolonged PD. Survey questions were related to respondents’ confidence, attitude, perceived behavioral control, subjective norms, and intent in using the IBL animal science concepts. Findings from this study indicate that teachers developed an increased confidence, possessed positive attitudes, were influenced by subjective norms, and felt that barriers could be controlled. However, attitude was the only significant predictor of intent to integrate the IBL animal science concepts. We recommend pursuing a follow-up with the teachers after implementation of the IBL lessons to gain a better understanding of the practicality of IBL in the classroom.

The purpose of this study was to better understand where and how Tennessee consumers receive information about genetically modified (GM) products by examining the use of informational channels and sources among consumers with negative-leaning, neutral, and positive-leaning perceptions of GM products. Twenty percent of respondents were categorized as having negative-leaning perceptions, roughly two-thirds held neutral perceptions, and only 10% of respondents had positive-leaning perceptions. The use of information channels was similar across all perception groups, with websites, word-of-mouth communication, television, and social media as the primary channels used. However, respondents with negative GM perceptions primarily used food bloggers, family, and friends as informational sources, while those with positive-leaning perceptions used food scientists, USDA professionals, and agricultural producers. The findings of this study offer implications for a variety of audiences and communication goals, whether such goals be to market to an existing consumer base or develop an educational campaign to address misconceptions among consumer groups.

Coffee cooperatives from the Huatusco region in Mexico have played an important role in helping coffee farmers in this region maintain economic viability in the midst of Mexico’s economic crisis and the international crisis of the coffee sector over time. While these types of organizations have played an important role, not all of these organizations have survived over time. Using information from interviews with leaders of five longeval coffee producer cooperatives in the Huatusco coffee region, this study tries to identify factors that could explain the longevity and long-term sustainability of these organizations. Additionally, using information from these interviews, we evaluate challenges that could put at risk the long-term sustainability of these associations and strategies to overcome these challenges from the cooperative’s leadership perspective. Findings from this study suggest the motivations behind the creation of these producer associations that goes beyond accessing government resources, an institutional structure where there is a democratic process behind the election of leaders, leadership positions have a definite term, and association strategies to increase member engagement could explain the longevity of these organization. Regarding challenges the cooperatives would be facing in the future, the aging population of growers is perceived by cooperative leaders as one of the major challenges they will be facing in the future. Increasing youth involvement in the cooperatives through training and educational activities was perceived by cooperative leaders as a strategy to overcome this challenge.

Using inquiry-based learning instructional strategies as a way to integrate science into secondary classrooms is a common approach in education. This study documents agricultural teachers’ perceptions of science integration using inquiry-based learning as an instructional method when teaching animal science after participating in a on professional development program. A focus group (n = 10) was used to collect data which were analyzed using the constant comparative method. The following six themes emerged: (a) perceived value in inquiry-based learning, (b) alignment to state and local expectations, (c) value and challenges of a 12-month program, (d) challenges in engaging science teachers, (e) confidence in teaching technical content, and (f) integrating science concepts. Teachers in the focus group described positive experiences and attitudes when using inquiry-based learning techniques in their classrooms and described an appreciation for the 12-month program, including how the approach helped to meet state standards and local administrative requirements. Logistical challenges of a 12-month program existed, but also provided accountability for teachers. The program increased teachers’ confidence in both instruction of technical content and their ability to engage students while integrating science concepts.

There is documented need for improvement of science comprehension amongst high school students in the United States, and inquiry-based learning (IBL) is a recommended teaching strategy to improve science comprehension. Several researchers have focused on examination of learning outcomes for students, but few have researched the concerns of teachers who may wish to adopt IBL methodology. This study used the stages of concern questionnaire to profile ten Midwest high school agriscience teachers’ concerns regarding implementation of IBL, before and after participation in a year-long professional development program where IBL lessons were developed and used in the participants’ high school classrooms. Results indicated that while some participants showed a positive progression in their stage of concern, most professional development program participants did not progress in their concern stage, and some developed increased resistance to IBL as a teaching strategy. This suggests that teachers may need more robust and tailored support when adopting IBL for their classrooms.

There is a need to improve science comprehension in the United States. Incorporating scientific principles into the study of food production provides context to engage youth in STEM education. The Curriculum for Agricultural Science Education (CASE) is an inquiry-based program that stimulates scientific engagement. While agriscience teachers believe in the concept, less than 20% are certified in Nebraska to teach CASE. Twenty-five active agriscience teachers, who were not CASE certified, individually discussed their reluctance to become CASE certified. Most research participants had a positive view of CASE but were concerned about the apparent stringent program structure. They questioned individualizing the CASE model for different teaching styles and programs. Three primary barriers to CASE certification were identified: cost, time, and administrative support. Although scholarships were available to cover certification costs ($2,500-$3,000) in Nebraska, participants questioned funding needed equipment and supplies to implement the program. Traditional CASE certifications require 50-100 hours of intense training, and participants opposed trainings that exceeded five days due to personal and professional obligations. Teachers also believe school administrators lack knowledge of CASE benefits. For the widespread implementation of CASE, certification trainings need to be more concise, implementation costs minimized, and school administrators informed of benefits.

Over the years, accountability in education has transformed from the primary focus being the school as a whole to the individual teacher. The purpose of this study was to determine the metrics Tennessee school-based agricultural education teachers perceive as indicators of excellent total programs (classroom instruction, FFA, SAE), and a modified Delphi study was used to seek a consensus. The following nine metrics were retained: (a) pesticide certification, (b) program of activities, (c) number of students participating in CDEs, (d) chapter community service hours, (e) total number of FFA activities, (f) number of CDEs coached, (g) at least one proficiency at regional level, (h) one American degree every 3 years, and (i) percentage of students with SAE. Overall, the metrics agreed upon are narrow in focus and all but one is a record of activity and not direct measures of students’ knowledge or skills. As a result, the measures do not include student growth or value-added scores or authentic assessments of 21st century skills. Additional research is needed to further investigate the metrics that should be used to measure a school-based agricultural education program’s success in Tennessee and across the nation.

Women are a traditionally underrepresented demographic in the turfgrass industry. As the industry faces labor shortages, increased recruitment and retention of women to the field may reduce labor issues. The purpose of this descriptive study was to explore the lived experiences of 13 female leaders in the turfgrass industry representing diverse job titles, years of experience, and geographic locations. The objective of this research was to promote change within the turfgrass industry and subsequently increase female recruitment efforts by identifying barriers faced uniquely by women and influences on female leadership success. To discover this information, participants engaged in 30-to-90-minute semi-structured interviews with the central research question, “What lived experiences have shaped your career in the turfgrass industry?” Transcriptions of interviews were open-coded and used to develop six main themes: (a) career paths, (b) mentorship involvement, (c) leadership styles, (d) challenges, (e) opportunities for personal growth, and (f) opportunities for industry growth. Interviewed women proved to be vibrant leaders in the industry and faced similar challenges in their journeys to leadership including inappropriate peer conduct, difficulty building a family, and overcoming stereotypes. Women sustained career success by engaging in self-efficacy through educational development, mentorship, and personal growth. These findings can be used by both women and men in the turfgrass industry to improve current culture for women

After completing a 40-hour field experience course, 26 preservice teachers participated in interviews about their experiences observing science integration in secondary agriculture classrooms. Based on Bandura’s social cognitive theory, researchers analyzed interview transcripts for preservice teachers’ descriptions of perceived preparedness to integrate science into agricultural education programs based on personal, environmental, and behavioral determinants. Findings indicated the integration of science concepts were reliant upon participants’ perceived integration ability, importance of science knowledge, consequences of science integration, application of hands-on learning, practical application of science in agriculture, and the influence of colleague collaboration on the learning environment. From their observations, preservice teachers cited specific instances of academic science concepts relating to agriculture, which they perceived as an applied science. While natural ties to biology and chemistry appeared in classroom lessons, preservice teachers held a belief that agricultural education is a unique practical context for learning and integration of science, but too much science integration is seen as a threat to agricultural education. Many preservice teachers noted the environment surrounding their future agricultural classrooms will play a large role in how they integrate science. Future research should further investigate how behavioral, personal, and environmental factors influence science integration.

Students’ academic-related perceptions, beliefs, and strategies are fundamental elements that influence teaching and learning within colleges of agriculture. This study investigated students’ academic efficacy, academic self-handicapping, and skepticism about the relevance of school for future success at the University of Tennessee’s Herbert College of Agriculture. The students were academically efficacious, rarely self-handicapped, and did not doubt the relevance of their degree. In addition, a low negative association was found between academic efficacy and self-handicapping, a negligible relationship was found between academic efficacy and skepticism about the relevance of school for future success, and a moderate relationship was found between academic self-handicapping and skepticism about the relevance of school for future success. Therefore, instructors are encouraged to move past traditional lecture-based instruction and challenge their students at higher cognitive levels, which will allow students to realistically explore the complexities of agriculture. Furthermore, academic self-handicapping may be an indicator of lower academic efficacy and/or skepticism about the relevance of a student’s degree. Future research should further explore these relationships.

Educational and training opportunities provide individuals with many options when it comes to building their knowledge base. Both formal and informal educational opportunities are available in many different formats, including face-to-face and online delivery methods. The purpose of this study was to examine the type of education and training opportunities in which Nebraska agricultural employees participate and their satisfaction with different delivery formats. The specific objectives of this study were to determine 1) the type of education or training programs rural agricultural employees have participated in over the last two years, and 2) the differences between attitudes toward face-to-face versus online education and training approaches. In general, results indicated that agricultural professionals participated in face-to-face training and training related to their job more often than other types of training. They also tended to be more satisfied with face-to-face training than online training. As educators develop programming for agricultural professionals, these findings may be helpful in designing high impact educational opportunities.

While research has shown class attendance is important for undergraduate student success, few studies have examined why students choose to not attend class. What is more, existing research has focused on absenteeism among undergraduates at land-grant institutions and professional schools. The purpose of this qualitative study was to examine reasons for absenteeism among students at a small, regional, minority-serving institution. Three focus groups were used to collect data, and thematic data analysis revealed class attendance was impacted by (a) teacher attributes, (b) student attributes, (c) process variables, and (d) context variables. Based on these attributes and variables, recommendations are provided to instructors and administrators on how to improve class attendance at small, regional, minority-serving institutions.

The purpose of this study was to analyze undergraduate students’ perceptions of experiencing a flipped classroom in a teaching methods course at a Non-Land Grant Public Institution. The flipped classroom moves lectures and online videos outside of the classroom and uses class time for learning activities that promote problem-solving and discussion. Basic qualitative methods were used to provide flexibility, rich description, and the emergence of common patterns and themes. Participants reported the online lectures were beneficial and provided order and structure to the learning process. Personal responsibility emerged as a subtheme with mixed responses. Some participants felt it was the responsibility of the students to watch the videos and make sure they understood, while others felt it was too much responsibility on the students. All participants acknowledged that online lectures were a valuable tool for delivering content knowledge. All participants reported the online lectures, combined with the learning activities during class meetings, deepened their knowledge of teaching and learning application and skill development. Overall, participants felt the flipped classroom approach was a confidence booster due to the use of class time to practice their teaching skills. Participants recognized the flipped classroom as an effective teaching approach.

Today’s agricultural industry is charged with feeding a growing population, which means producing larger quantities of food and marketing the food worldwide. Future employers seek graduates that have global perspectives. To mitigate students’ lack of international knowledge, many higher education institutions are providing students an opportunity to participate in study abroad programs. The purpose of this study was to explore how an international experience in South Africa impacted participants’ perceptions of South African culture, global agriculture, and science. Seven reoccurring themes emerged from the data: a) adaptability (pre-experience), b) enhanced communication skills (both pre and post experience), c) an attainment of diverse/broadened academic agricultural knowledge (both pre and post experience), d) risk taking (post-experience), e) intercultural competency and global awareness (both pre and post experience), f) critical thinking skills (post-experience), and g) career enhancement (post-experience). Findings indicate an international experience should integrate cultural learning, academic learning, and should be applied to the participant’s future career. Keywords: international experiences; science literacy; cultural learning; study abroad