Are teachers equipped for experiential learning? Facilities and equipment access in school-based agricultural education programs

Reagon Carter; Christopher J. Eck; Bradley M. Coleman

doi:10.37433/aad.v7i3.707

Authors

Reagon Carter Oklahoma State University, USA https://orcid.org/0009-0001-7086-8054
Christopher J. Eck Oklahoma State University, USA https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1645-3632
Bradley M. Coleman Oklahoma State University, USA https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5981-5747

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37433/aad.v7i3.707

Keywords:

agricultural education, experiential learning, SDG 4: Quality Education

Abstract

The availability of functional facilities and equipment is a cornerstone of effective school-based agricultural education (SBAE) programs. Therefore, access to functioning facilities and equipment is essential for SBAE teachers to further the knowledge of students as they pertain to agriculture, food, and natural resource (AFNR) standards. Beyond providing practical learning experiences, adequate facilities and equipment are crucial for meeting the diverse needs of students. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the availability of facilities and equipment amongst SBAE teachers in the United States across National Association of Agriculture Educators (NAAE) Regions II, III, and IV using a descriptive, survey research design. While proper facilities and equipment are a crucial for facilitating experiential learning in SBAE, we found many teachers are not properly equipped to carry out such experiences for their students. While it is important for SBAE teachers to advocate for themselves and their programs, it is paramount that support systems be provided through teacher educators, agricultural education teacher associations, agricultural education state staff, and program advisory councils in order to obtain proper equipment and facilities and the knowledge to use them. Future research should explore the impact of resource (i.e., equipment and facilities) access on teacher satisfaction and career retention.

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