Understanding Agriculture : New Directions for Education

This book responds to the widespread recognition among experts that our educational system needs to change in order to provide the skills and knowledge necessary to ensure the future vitality of U.S. agriculture. Understanding Agriculture focuses on agricultural literacy (education about agriculture) and vocational agricultural education (education in agriculture).

The section on agricultural literacy addresses the teaching of science through agriculture, teacher education and training, model educational programs, community support, and agricultural career exploration programs.

Vocational agricultural education is examined in terms of program enrollment, availability and content, supervised occupational experiences, the Future Farmers of America program, and teacher education and supply. Table of ContentsFront Matter1. Executive Summary2. Agricultural Literacy3. Vocational Agricultural EducationText ReferencesAppendix A: The Changing Face of American AgricultureAppendix B: Agricultural Education in AmericaAppendix C: The Education Reform Movement of the 1980Appendix ReferencesIndex