Course Description
Designed to provide students with practical, career-based, hands-on experience in agricultural education and extension organizations. The course is a comprehensive field encompassing formal and informal learning experiences related to agriculture and its associated industries.
Athena Title
Internship in Ag and Ext Educ
Non-Traditional Format
One student credit hour = 45 contact hours at the internship site.
Two student credit hours = 90 contact hours at the internship site.
Three student credit hours = 135 contact hours at the internship site.
Prerequisite
Permission of department
Semester Course Offered
Offered fall, spring and summer
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student learning Outcomes
- Internship in Agricultural and Extension Education is designed to provide students with practical, hands-on experience in the field of agricultural education and extension. Agricultural education is a specialized form of education that focuses on teaching individuals about various aspects of agriculture, including its science, technology, practices, and management. It is a comprehensive field that encompasses both formal and informal learning experiences related to agriculture and its associated industries. Extension education is a vital component of agricultural and rural development. It is a process that involves the dissemination of agricultural and related information, technology, and best practices from experts and institutions to farmers, rural communities, and other stakeholders. The primary goal of extension education is to empower individuals and communities with the knowledge and skills they need to improve their agricultural productivity, income, and overall quality of life. This internship program offers students the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations, develop professional skills, and make meaningful contributions to the agricultural community. Through this course, students will gain valuable insights into the diverse facets of agricultural education and extension, preparing them for future careers in this vital sector.
- By the end of this course, students will be able to apply theoretical concepts learned in their academic studies to real-life scenarios.
- By the end of this course, students will be able to perform a wide range of skills, including communication, leadership, program development, data analysis, and problem-solving.
- By the end of this course, students will be able to connect with professionals, organizations, and agencies within the agricultural education and extension field. Building a professional network is crucial for future career growth.
- By the end of this course, students will be able to engage with local communities and agricultural stakeholders to understand their needs and challenges. They will develop strategies to address these issues and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
Topical Outline
- Pre-Internship Orientation: Before starting their internships, students will participate in an orientation session. This session will cover internship expectations, guidelines, and safety protocols.
- Internship Placement: Students will be placed with host organizations or agencies involved in agricultural education and extension. These placements can include schools, universities, government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private agricultural businesses. Students who wish to conduct their internship with the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Extension Program must complete the internship placement and approval process established by that program.
- Supervision and Mentorship: Each student will have a designated supervisor or mentor at their internship site. This mentor will provide guidance, feedback, and support throughout the internship.
- Project Work: Interns will work on specific projects or initiatives related to agricultural education and extension. These projects may involve curriculum development, community outreach, workshops, or research.
- Reflective Learning: Students will maintain a journal or portfolio to document their experiences, challenges, and accomplishments during the internship. Reflective exercises and discussions will be part of the course to encourage critical thinking.
- Presentations and Reports: At the end of the internship, students will prepare presentations and reports summarizing their experiences and the impact of their work on the host organization and community.
- Evaluation and Assessment: Students will be evaluated based on their performance, professionalism, and the quality of their work during the internship.
- Final Assessment: The course will conclude with a final assessment that includes a presentation, report submission, and an evaluation of the student's overall performance.
