Parental Learning Experiences with Children Active in 4-H

Abstract

This study was a qualitative pilot study conducted on the optimal questions and venue of data collection on the learning experiences of adults with children active in 4-H. 4-H provides youth development and STEM literacy education across the U.S. and internationally. 4-H was originally developed to help increase adoption of science-based practices by adults in rural communities. The concept was that the 4-H program trained the youth and had them demonstrate the value of the new methods to their parents. If parents learn as a result of having children in 4-H, 4-H may serve as a venue for increasing adult agricultural and STEM literacy. However, previous studies found on the learning impact of 4-H on adults focused on 4-H volunteers who receive additional subject matter training. This project was intended to explore the learning experiences of parents of 4-H members who did not serve as volunteer leaders.