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ERIC Number: EJ1310466
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2021
Pages: 16
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1042-0541
EISSN: EISSN-2162-5212
Expanding 4-H Alumni Life Perspectives: An Experiential and Programmatic Evaluation
Powell, Alyssa; Bennett, Natalie; Lamm, Kevan W.
Journal of Agricultural Education, v62 n2 p185-200 2021
Involvement with the 4-H program during youth has been empirically shown to have positive effects on participants and to influence their life perspectives and career development. The activities offered within 4-H allow individuals to build relationships with peers and mentors, develop life and leadership skills, and create a positive self-concept. The focus of this study was to identify key touchstones which influenced 4-H alumni life perspectives and inform program development to ensure individuals are exposed to these activities during their 4-H involvement. Although numerous studies have examined the positive outcomes of 4-H programming, limited research exists identifying the context in which these influential experiences occur. This study employed a modified Delphi approach, using an expert panel (n = 31) to identify and generate consensus regarding 4-H experiences, events, and programs deemed influential in expanding alumni life perspectives. Thirty-six items were retained following the Delphi process. Two items received unanimous consensus: (1) interaction with diverse groups; and (2) hearing dynamic speakers and listening to accomplishments they have achieved because of involvement in 4-H. Retained items were analyzed for overarching themes using the constant comparative method (CCM). Five themes emerged following the CCM analysis: (1) professional skills and leadership development; (2) networking and mentorship opportunities; (3) 4-H events, programs, and camps; (4) 4- H projects and educational opportunities; and (5) internal influences. These themes may be combined with Robert's (2006) model of experiential learning to identify the appropriate setting, duration, level, and intended outcomes of 4-H programming.
American Association for Agricultural Education. P.O. Box 7607, Department of Agricultural and Extension Education, Raleigh, NC 27695. Web site: http://www.aaaeonline.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Georgia
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A