Curriculum design in an agricultural education program in Nigeria: Towards advancing career readiness

Helen Ajao; I. Damilola Alegbeleye; Donna Westfall-Rudd

doi:10.37433/aad.v3i2.159

Authors

Helen Ajao Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, USA https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0966-1986
I. Dami Alegbeleye University of Southern Maine, USA https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8894-1256
Donna Westfall-Rudd Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, USA https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2401-4023

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37433/aad.v3i2.159

Keywords:

Caffarella’s Interactive Model, curriculum planning, multidisciplinary model approach

Abstract

This research explores the effective curriculum design for higher-ed in preparing agricultural education graduates for Nigeria’s labor market. The continuing professional education program planning theory serves as the framework guiding this study. The study involves a phenomenological inquiry into the conscientious meaning experience of the faculty and alumni in an agricultural education department. A purposeful sampling method of 14 participants (four professors and 10 alumni) was used to select participants since the study relied on individuals close to the phenomenon. Data was collected using a standardized open-ended questionnaire and the Department’s handbook. Three themes emerged: The Department's curriculum design/development; Stakeholder’s consultation; and Principles considered while designing the curriculum. Recommendations were made for the Department to continuously review and update the curriculum to reflect the current needs of the industry and students. Lastly, the current study was recommended to be replicated in other main agricultural institutions in Nigeria.

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