The Influence of Agriscience Research SAEs on Perceived Self-Efficacy of 21st Century Skill Attainment

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the association between involvement in agriscience research SAEs and student’s perceptions of 21st century skill attainment. Tenth through twelfth grade students enrolled at three purposely selected high schools were surveyed to assess their current level of perceived 21st century skills attainment. Selected 21st century skills were defined based upon the standards outlined by the P21 Framework Definitions for 21st Century Skills. According to the findings of this study, students who engaged in agriscience research SAEs expressed higher levels of perceived self-efficacy of 21st century skills in the following 21st century skill constructs: (a) critical thinking and problem solving, (b) communication and collaboration, (c) information literacy, (d) flexibility and adaptability, (e) initiative and self-direction, (f) productivity and accountability, and (g) leadership and responsibility. It is recommended that involvement in agriscience research SAEs be expanded in school-based agricultural education programs as a potential approach to support student development of 21st century skills.