Expanding 4-H Alumni Life Perspectives: An Experiential and Programmatic Evaluation

Autor/inn/en	Powell, Alyssa; Bennett, Natalie; Lamm, Kevan W.
Titel	Expanding 4-H Alumni Life Perspectives: An Experiential and Programmatic Evaluation
Quelle	In: Journal of Agricultural Education, 62 (2021) 2, S.185-200 (16 Seiten) PDF als Volltext (1); PDF als Volltext kostenfreie Datei (2) Verfügbarkeit
Zusatzinformation	ORCID (Lamm, Kevan W.)
Sprache	englisch
Dokumenttyp	gedruckt; online; Zeitschriftenaufsatz
ISSN	1042-0541
Schlagwörter	Youth Programs; Experiential Learning; Program Evaluation; Program Effectiveness; Alumni; Interaction; Diversity; Skill Development; Leadership Training; Networks; Mentors; Educational Opportunities; Influences; Leadership Qualities; Interpersonal Competence; Georgia + Suchen Sie Ihr Suchwort? Jugendsofortprogramm; Experiental learning; Erfahrungsorientiertes Lernen; Programme evaluation; Programmevaluation; Interaktion; Kompetenzentwicklung; Qualifikationsentwicklung; Führungslehre; Bildungsangebot; Bildungschance; Influence; Einfluss; Einflussfaktor; Führungseigenschaft; Interpersonale Kompetenz
Abstract	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. (As Provided).
Anmerkungen	American Association for Agricultural Education. P.O. Box 7607, Department of Agricultural and Extension Education, Raleigh, NC 27695. Web site: http://www.aaaeonline.org
Erfasst von	ERIC (Education Resources Information Center), Washington, DC
Update	2024/1/01