| dc.description.abstract | Extension programs across the nation have been given the task of education and
outreach to citizens of their respective states. Master Gardener programs have been seen
as a way to provide horticultural education, while also providing outreach using the
programÂ’s service requirement.
Extension professionals have used a variety of training methods throughout the
years. These methods include face-to-face workshop trainings, interactive television, and
more recently World Wide Web methodologies. This study sought to test the
effectiveness of CD-based training materials versus a traditional face-to-face training.
Turfgrass management modules chosen for testing in this study included nutrient, water,
and pest topics. ParticipantsÂ’ knowledge levels were measured using a pre-test/post-test
design. Student satisfaction with the learning materials and their perceptions of lawn
care also were measured during the study. Results indicated that CD-based materials
were more effective than were face-to- face workshops for teaching difficult turfgrass
material to the Master Gardener trainees.
Community development is one of the four focus areas for Texas Cooperative
Extension. A secondary purpose was to determine if the Master Gardener program
affected community development. Descriptive statistics were used to compare
participantsÂ’ past experiences with their anticipated experiences after completion of the
Master Gardener program. Results indicated that community development activities
were being completed, but the extent and type of development could not be measured.
This study revealed several surprising and far-reaching implications for extension
programming. These implications and recommendations for improvement of extension
programs are discussed further. Recommendations for additional research also are
included. | en |
