Studies show that farmers learn best through in-person, face-to-face educational programs. But learning opportunities often miss the mark due to content choice, disorganization or lack of understanding of participants' learning styles. Educators that use best adult learning practices have a greater effect on participants’ learning and retention, and empower farmers to make sustainable changes to their operations.
SARE’s newest free bulletin, Sustainable Agriculture Through Sustainable Learning, presents five best practices educators can use to facilitate effective learning among farmers and thus improve agricultural sustainability.
Incorporating effective learning practices before, during and after educational programs is crucial to encouraging learning among farmers. Educators can maximize the impact of learning opportunities by:
- making the content relatable
- engaging positive emotions
- giving learners choice
- identifying mental models and
- providing opportunities for practice and application
Sustainable Agriculture Through Sustainable Learning examines the science behind each practice and examines how it aids in adult learning. The guide also provides strategies for incorporating best practices to improve educators' teaching or their own professional development outcomes.
Download or order your free print copy of Sustainable Agriculture Through Sustainable Learning at https://www.sare.org/resources/sustainable-agriculture-through-sustainable-learning/ or by calling (301) 779–1007. Sustainable Agriculture Through Sustainable Learning is available in quantity for free to educators for use in educational workshops, classes or tours.