Wiki has been lauded as a tool that enhances collaborative writing in educational settings and moves learners toward a state of communal constructivism (Holmes, Tangney, FitzGibbon, Savage, & Mehan., 2001). Many pedagogical claims exist regarding the benefits of using wiki. However, these claims have rarely been challenged. This study used a…

Historically, planning and delivery of professional development for public school teachers was centralized in state departments of education and universities, with teachers having little input or control over the content. For many years the literature in adult and continuing education has reflected an emphasis on learner participation in program…

Teachers distribute their time in many ways. The study sought to determine how agriculture teachers distribute their time among 11 selected teacher activities (i.e., preparation for instruction; classroom/laboratory teaching; laboratory preparation and/or maintenance; grading/scoring students' work; administrative duties-program management;…

A survey of farmers in the Minnesota Farm Business Management Education program (n=569) indicated the following: most continued enrollment beyond the 6-year diploma program; average net income increased $5,000; individualized instruction was the most popular and effective method; and farm recordkeeping was the most needed topic and most improved…

Responses from 118 of 314 secondary agriculture teachers indicated that three-fourths teach adults; about two-thirds identified with the progressive education philosophy, 21% with behaviorism; nearly half had no formal training in teaching adults. Effect size results suggest they may not have clearly defined adult education philosophies. (Contains…

Survey responses from 138 beginning Iowa farmers revealed a preference for experiential learning, problem solving, and critical thinking. They felt strongly that lifelong learning and continuing education are important. They preferred onsite instruction, single meetings on specific topics, and unbiased information from public institutions.…

Results of a literature review were organized into a taxonomy of distance learning strategies: (1) cognitive (rehearsal, elaboration, organization); (2) metacognitive (planning, monitoring, regulating); and (3) resource management (time management, study environment, effort management, social support). (Contains 24 references.) (SK)

Usable responses from 244 of 367 secondary agriculture teachers indicated that 1 or 2 adult organizations were commonly affiliated with their programs (Future Farmers of America alumni affiliates, National Young Farmer Education Association chapters, and advisory committees). Advisory committees were affiliated with 199 programs. Adult…

Responses from 170 members of the National Young Farmer Education Association (45%) indicated the following: they were 12 years younger than the national average for farmers, had larger farms, sold twice as many agricultural products, and had a higher educational level. More than one-third worked off the farm. Findings suggest a reevaluation of…

Twenty-two extension clients read publications on water resources and 21 did not. Pre/posttest scores showed significantly higher levels of cognition for the treatment group, not related to their educational level. (SK)

From sample of 599, 276 adult participants in Ohio Cooperative Extension Service (OCES) programs completed questionnaire that revealed five influences on decision to participate: anticipated quality of information, social involvement, difficulties with arrangements, commitment to OCES, and internal motivation. They were most satisfied when they…

Survey of 386 Idaho farmers (response rate 58 percent) identified preferred methods of receiving information on new or innovative farming practices. Analysis revealed preference for interpersonal methods (demonstrations, tours, and field trips) over mass media such as computer-assisted instruction (CAI) and home study, although younger farmers,…

A study looked at attitudes of 158 Nebraska superintendents, principals, and vocational agriculture instructors (92 percent response) regarding the delivery of adult agricultural education programs within the secondary school system. Instructors were more likely to agree about the benefits of and public support for adult education. (JOW)

A study assessed the perceptions of 65 (of 72 surveyed) urban agribusiness managers/supervisors regarding the need for education or training for employees they supervise. Results showed that those who plan and conduct adult agriculture programs should work cooperatively with agribusinesses to develop programs that meet the needs of each…

To identify staff development needs and test the Borich Needs Assessment Model, 68 faculty in Nevada were surveyed (90 percent response). Use of the model made rankings of individual topics substantively different from results obtained by traditional methods. (JOW)