Work

An Investigation of the Characteristics and Uses of School Farms in California FFA’s Superior Region

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates the characteristics and uses of school farms within Northern California, focusing on their role in school-based agricultural education (SBAE). The research aims to determine the structural and operational attributes of these facilities and to identify their primary uses as experiential learning tools. Utilizing a descriptive survey design, data were collected from 74 agricultural educators. Findings reveal that school farms, averaging 21.27 acres, are predominantly managed by agriculture teachers and are primarily used for housing market animals, supporting Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) projects. The study highlights the need for diversified school farm facilities to enhance experiential learning across all components of the SBAE model. Recommendations include targeted training for teachers, strategic facility planning through community partnerships, and innovative management approaches to optimize the educational potential of school farms.

Source: Journal of Research in Technical Careers

DOI: 10.9741/2578-2118.1169

Authors: Emily R. Fuller, Jessica M. Toombs

Institutions: Virginia Tech, Michigan State University

Language: English

Topic: Diverse Educational Innovations Studies

Subfield: General Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Quality education, Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $150