TEACHER PERCEPTIONS OF THE GOALS ACHIEVED BY ADULT ORGANIZATIONS IN AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to describe perceptions of secondary agricultural education teachers in the United States toward the adult agricultural education organizations affiliated with their programs. A random sample of 367 teachers, stratified proportionally by state, was generated. Data were collected from March through May 1994 using a mail questionnaire. Usable responses were obtained from 244 teachers. Two (n=96) or one (n=82) adult organization(s) were commonly affiliated with secondary agricultural education programs. Advisory committees were affiliated with 199 programs, often advising on course content, assessing equipment and facility needs, and evaluating programs. Adult organizational goals that were being met by over 50% of all types of organizations included assisting the secondary agricultural education program with public relations, promotion, and identifying community resources; supporting FFA youth activities; and assisting young agriculturists to remain in agriculture. Although the teachers had positive attitudes toward a model of three adult organizations (i.e., advisory committee, FFA Alumni affiliate, and NYFEA chapter) affiliated with their programs, only 20 reported having all three. Agricultural education students remaining in the community after high school graduation commonly received continuing education in agriculture through local postsecondary institutions, the Extension Service, commodity organizations, and Farm Bureau.