NACAA

CROP SCIENCE INVESTIGATION (CSI): ENGAGING YOUTH IN PLANTS AND SCIENCE

Abstract:

As rural populations decline and fewer youth are raised in rural settings, there is concern that our youth will become more removed from an interest in agriculture, crops, and science which can lead them to careers in these areas. 4-H can provide an opportunity for educating these youth about crops and science in an exciting way! Crop Science Investigation (CSI) for youth was developed to increase youths' knowledge and interest about plants and science. The Iowa State 4-H Crops Curricula is used for some sessions, while many other sessions are the result of questions received in the Extension Office or field and home visits. CSI meetings are held monthly for youth ages 8-18 and weekly during the summer months of June-August. All sessions are hands-on and allow the youth to be �investigators� as they determine the cause of a problem and find the solution. These sessions build life skills such as plant, insect, and disease identification; understanding natural resources; researching scientifically based answers; and public speaking. Pre and post-survey results showed the largest increase of knowledge on a 5 point scale (3.0) occurred in areas such as taking stand counts, determining plant problems, and identifying weeds. One youth said, �I can actually have a farmer conversation with my dad! I actually know what he�s talking about!�