Between 2000 and 2007, six western states conducted individual impact studies using public school youth in grades five, seven, and nine. Common areas of study included: risk behaviors, leadership positions held, helping others, close relationships with adults, self-identity, character, self-confidence, and empowerment. The purpose of the study was…

Using data from 187 New Mexico 4-H program volunteers, economic value of volunteer time was determined by calculating the average number of hours spent in 1 year and multiplying the number by the average hourly wage for nonagricultural workers. The data on volunteer activities and their value can be used for program planning, recruitment, and…

Over 3 years, agriculture and home economics faculty were matched with 21 minority undergraduate majors for 8-week summer internships. Qualitative and quantitative assessments showed that interns developed leadership skills and career awareness and had high levels of satisfaction with the professional contacts and linkages they acquired. (SK)

A survey of 400 senior 4-H participants in Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico received 238 usable responses identifying the top three 4-H activities contributing to leadership development: holding office, teaching younger members, and fairs. Greatest involvement in leadership activities was in implementing and evaluating; few were involved in…

Ohio cooperative extension agents who completed the Principles of Adult Learning Scale had low levels of knowledge of adult education principles and practices; a slightly positive attitude toward being adult educators; a more teacher-centered teaching style; a major in technical subjects, not education; and more experience teaching youth rather…