Growing in Agronomy: Bringing the Classroom to the Field

1. Growing in Agronomy: Bringing the Classroom to the Field J.T. Unruh, H.E. Christen, E.N. Waechter, and J.B. Wyrill Abstract To increase awareness of agronomy to elementary students in Kansas, the Wheat State Agronomy Club (WSAC) had the opportunity to work in conjunction with K-State Research and Extension and assist in the 14th Annual Kids’ Field Day held at the North Agronomy Farm. The Field Day is held each fall for fourth grade students in the Manhattan area. Over three hundred students attend the hands-on experience to learn about multiple aspects of Kansas agriculture to include: agricultural engineering, agronomy, animal science, entomology, and grain science. WSAC members believe it is their responsibility to assist in the education of young minds, and they enjoyed the event. Club members presented two stations at the Field Day. One station displayed a crops garden highlighting over fifty different crops they planted and maintained throughout the growing season. The second station was a presentation displaying various products and foods that are produced from these crops. The remaining members served as guides, leading the elementary classes through the remaining stations. Wheat State Agronomy Club members have taken great interest in helping educate local youth and enjoyed their interaction with K-State Research and Extension agents and specialists. Discussion Objectives • Maintained the crops garden throughout the summer • Conducted presentation of crops garden and discussed crop uses • Allowed students hands-on opportunity to explore different crops • Led classes to the 14 different stations • Rain caused one of the two Field Days scheduled to be canceled • To increase awareness of agronomy to fourth grade students by: • Displaying a diverse collection of crops • Discussing how people use crops in their daily lives • Interacting with students outside the classroom environment Materials and Methods Conclusion • Contacted K-State Research and Extension to inquire about presenting two stations at the Kids’ Field Day • Planted the crops garden in the spring • Gathered a variety of household foods and products containing crops • Presented to 12 classes reaching 257 students • Would have educated over twice as many students had the weather cooperated • Gained satisfaction through the interaction with the students • Received positive feedback from the students and educators