Evaluation of Master Gardeners of Greater Kansas City

Abstract

The Master Gardener Program sponsored by the Univ. of Missouri provides the metropolitan Kansas City area with information, demonstrations and programs designed to educate the general public about gardening topics and suggests solutions to current or anticipated problems. The main objectives of this evaluation were to identify the satisfaction level of clients (public) and the Master Gardeners from the program, demographics of Master Gardeners, how the program has changed the quality of life of the Master Gardeners and to identify any constraints. An evaluation committee consisting a social scientist, horticulturist and Master Gardeners were formed to develop the process and tools necessary for a comprehensive evaluation. It was decided that each facet of the program should have its own separate evaluation. The committee met several times to develop evaluation tools (survey questionnaires), to gather information from clients and the Master Gardeners. The results indicate a high level of satisfaction from clients and the Master Gardeners. The program had made positive changes in lives of Master Gardeners. The results provide guidance in decision making for further implementation such as it was found that the program should give a strong emphasis on providing new or advance horticultural information to Master Gardeners through continuing education.