There’s more than one field available in agriculture. Opportunities are growing like seeds in a greenhouse. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are about .
But how can you make sure your students learn what they need to know for future success? How can you make complex scientific concepts both accessible and engaging? How can you help them develop real-world skills?
Dr. Jacob Falwell, a Kentucky native and 23-year teaching veteran from Calloway County High School shares his insights. Read on for Dr. Falwell’s advice and effective strategies for today’s agriculture educators.
Hands-on learning
Like any subject, the key to student engagement in agriculture science begins with tangible learning experiences. Dr. Falwell’s recommendation? Help your students get their hands dirty.
"I like to do something hands-on during the first day,” he said. When teaching soil science, Dr. Falwell recommends starting with soil textures, because it’s easy to physically observe and understand. "I bring in visuals, comparing a basketball to a golf ball to a BB. Easy way to help students grasp the size difference between sand, silt, and clay."
Starting with hands-on, scientific concepts gives students confidence and establishes the rigor of your curriculum. After covering soil textures, Dr. Falwell builds to more complex concepts like fertility and water retention, making abstract scientific principles concrete and memorable. An added benefit? These concepts will prepare students to succeed in any number of agricultural careers.
Skills in demand
Today, agriculture offers a cornucopia of career opportunities, extending far beyond traditional farming. Try showing your students where agriculture can take them. Do they like the scientific side? Perhaps genetics is for them. Interested more in math and finance? Point them toward agronomics. What about business? Opportunities abound in crop consulting.
Regardless of their area of interest, there are skills your students need to succeed in their future agriscience careers. Hard skills? Yes. Soft skills? Absolutely! “I tell my students they need to be curious. They need a passion for the plant field and improving the environment. They need teamwork, communication, and time management skills. Plus, they need to be familiar with the equipment they're going to use," commented Dr. Falwell.
Teaching both hard and soft skills mirrors the demands of agricultural careers. Today’s agriscience professionals combine practical, scientific knowledge with communication and collaborative problem-solving skills — and your students should prepare to do the same.
Outstanding in YOUR field
You’re teaching students the skills that pay the bills. But what about you? As an agriculture educator, you face unique challenges. You may be the sole instructor in your department. You have diverse responsibilities, from greenhouse operations to Future Farmers of America (FFA) activities.
Dr. Falwell recommends self-evaluation. You can’t be everything all the time. "Know your strengths and know your weaknesses. If you’re not careful, you can become a jack-of-all-trades and master of none." Focus on your areas of strength and expand your skills gradually over time.
If you’re looking to teach a concept outside your wheelhouse, look to your professional network. Dr. Falwell has spent years identifying and connecting with experts in specific areas. "In Kentucky, we have a shared drive of information. Teachers can use the shared drive to find out who the expert floral design teacher is in Kentucky and then can get input from them." Collaborating with educators in your district, state, and beyond can help you more effectively teach concepts outside your traditional expertise.
Looking for opportunities to collaborate with other educators? Our annual CERTIFIED Educator Conference is a great place to start. Multiple days. Breakouts. Keynotes. Networking galore. Learn more .
Plant the seeds, watch them grow
No doubt, you’re cultivating your students’ future success. You’re giving them hands-on experience, real world skills, and opportunities to learn from other experts. But is it enough?
Why not give your students more than just a grade on their report card? Give them an industry certification that will show future employers they have job-ready skills!!
Our new Agriscience and Technology Careers – Agriscience Foundations certification is a great addition to your students’ resumes. Get them ready to excel in an entry-level position in the agriculture field of their choosing. Learn more about the program here.