A crop management term project in undergraduate agronomy courses

Abstract

A crop management term project conducted by students enrolled in a sophomore-level crop production class is reported, including student evaluations of the project and student backgrounds. The methods involved in the term project and student reactions to it are discussed. Eighty-four percent of the students had a farm background and 83% were familiar with the land they used for their project, with most using their home farms. Student responses to evaluative statements about the project show that 97% considered the project worthwhile, 90% thought the project increased their understanding of field crop production, and 94% thought the project was a realistic experience. Students not acquainted with the land used for their projects were less likely to think the project increased their understanding and was realistic. Eighty-eight percent thought the project made course material more meaningful; 95% of the non-farm students felt this way. About 68% liked the idea of choosing the land for their paper. The project has proven to be a valuable learning tool for students with both farm and non-farm backgrounds.