By Andi Anderson
Western Illinois University recently organized a five-day Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (AFNR) professional development institute for 28 participants from across Illinois.
The program focused on helping agriculture teachers improve their teaching methods and understand a full year curriculum for Introduction to Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources.
The curriculum was developed by CASE 4 Learning, an initiative of the National Council for Agricultural Education. This organization focuses on creating inquiry-based agricultural education that meets the needs of modern teachers, students, and the agriculture industry. It also provides training and certification opportunities for both new and experienced teachers.
Participants in the institute spent 40 hours working through lessons included in the year-long curriculum.
They learned how to use inquiry-based teaching methods, where students actively participate and explore concepts instead of only listening to lectures. This approach helps students develop problem-solving skills and become independent learners.
The program also introduced Activity, Project or Problem (APP) based learning methods. These methods help students apply theoretical knowledge in practical situations.
The curriculum is designed carefully to build knowledge step by step and align with education standards, preparing students for higher studies and careers.
Dusti Ingles, assistant professor of Agricultural Education at WIU, coordinated the institute with support from CASE staff, lead teachers, and participants.
"It was an exciting opportunity to host 28 agricultural educators from across the state for this institute," Ingles said. "Participants were trained in inquiry-based instruction from two exceptional lead teachers, Riley Hintzsche, a WIU alumnus and Illinois teacher, and Darla Romberger. A current WIU student, Amanda Niemann, worked on this project as a GAST intern. This event would not have been possible without this amazing team of people."
Along with classroom sessions, participants enjoyed educational tours including visits to the university campus, farm facilities, Dearwester Grain Services, and Ann Knowles farm.
"Keela Trennepohl, director of the School of Agriculture, and the entire Agriculture Department came together to support the institute," Ingles said. "In addition to receiving curriculum training, the agriculture teachers participated in a campus and farm tour, an industry tour at Dearwester Grain Services and a field trip to Ann Knowles' farm. It was great to share a few of the great things Western Illinois has to offer."
The institute successfully strengthened teaching skills and promoted practical learning in agricultural education.
Photo Credit: istock-dusanpetkovic
Categories: Illinois, Education