Department of Agricultural Education & Studies

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Graduate Programs: Greg Miller 515-294-2583 / Undergraduate Programs: Mike Retallick 515-294-4810

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Graduate Student Scholarly Work

Knobloch, N. R. (1997). Perceptions regarding integration of agricultural awareness activities by elementary teachers in east central Iowa. Master’s thesis.

The purpose of this study was to analyze the status of agricultural awareness efforts in elementary grades in a selected area of Iowa and create a model of agricultural awareness for the community education system.  The primary objectives of this study were: (1) identify elementary school teachers’ perceptions on agricultural related issues; (2) identify the extent of current agricultural awareness activities; (3) compare selected demographic data with perceptions and activities of elementary school teachers in east central Iowa; (4) develop a model for delivery of agricultural awareness programming.

This study was conducted using a survey instrument that was distributed to approximately one-third (n = 689) of the 2000 teachers in the Grant Wood Area Education Agency (A.E.A.) which served as the sample population.  The survey instrument consisted of four parts: (A) 31 statements with a 5 point Likert-type scale relating to knowledge and perception of agriculture and agricultural awareness; (B) 48 agricultural related activities that indicated the extent to which agricultural activities were conducted in elementary classrooms; (C) an open-ended section for comments on integrating agriculture into the elementary curriculum; and (D) demographic information. A total of 281 usable returns were received for a 41% response rate.  Descriptive and inferential statistic procedures were used to analyze the data.

The findings indicate that elementary teachers believe agriculture would enhance the elementary curriculum.  There was strong indication that agriculture needed to be integrated within all instructional areas.  Fifty-two percent of the teachers conducted at least half of the thirty-eight activities listed in the survey instrument.  The respondents in this study had positive views about agriculture as a highly technological, science-based, environmentally conscious, competitive industry with a wide variety of skilled and educated employees.

A spin wheel model was designed based on the findings of the study.  The model, “The Wheel of Agriculture,” was designed to help elementary teachers generate ideas, plan activities, and organize their classes to relate their subjects to the seven career areas of agriculture.  The model was designed with considerable flexibility for all grade levels, subject areas, and teaching styles.  The model helps teachers consider the agricultural careers and resources needed to conduct the agricultural awareness activities.