This dissertation explores the lived experience of nature-based educators in Duluth, Minnesota. Portraiture served as the methodological framework for learning about how teachers in Duluth got into teaching and why they remain on the job. Teacher turnover and attrition is a national problem exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, teachers who…

Retaining quality SBAE teachers is key to the success and growth of the agricultural industry. Given the connection between SBAE teacher perceived competence and professional commitment (Palmer, 2020; Rada, 2023), it is vital to explore the perceptions of competence of teachers concerning their classroom. Using a Borich needs assessment model, the…

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many courses were forced online. This posed particular challenges for courses with laboratory or hands-on components. A group of instructors at the University of Minnesota and the University of Wisconsin-Madison designed an online, asynchronous course structure for teaching introductory horticulture courses…

The CAEL (Council for Adult and Experiential Learning) and the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) announce the inaugural winners of the Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) Equity Awards, recognizing strategies that have been proven to put CPL in reach of key adult learner populations and/or increase their CPL credit-earning.…

Sometimes aided by state grants and guidance, Minnesota community partnerships are implementing Grow Your Own educator (GYO) programs to diversify the teacher workforce. The following is an examination of the growth and development of Minnesota GYO. While statewide grants fund some programs for either paraprofessionals or secondary students, the…

The education and training of future food and nutrition professionals plays a vital role in preparation for managing complex food and nutrition problems. Within food systems, food???? and nutrition professionals provide nutrition education to individuals and families and work to ensure? ?access???? to nutritious and culturally significant foods.…

This study explores the perceptions and experiences related to agricultural educators in Minnesota who have used digital media production tools and concepts as learning activities in the classroom. As the cost associated with digital media production equipment and software continues to decrease, this technology is becoming more accessible and…