Continuing Education Interests of Master Gardener Volunteers: Beyond Basic Training
An article in the Journal of Extension
Abstract: Knowledge of client preferences is important when designing continuing education programs. Extension professionals surveyed 131 Master Gardener volunteers in El Paso County, Colorado to guide future programs. Results showed they are highly interested in continuing education events, especially in improving diagnostic skills. Master Gardeners are also interested in learning about local ecology, home gardening skills, and home landscapes through lectures, field trips, and hands-on activities. One-time or regular monthly events held on weekday mornings and afternoons are most popular, especially October through May. When these guidelines were used to design continuing education classes, actual attendance was similar to predicted attendance.
Click here for full article.
Do you think if we surveyed NYS Master Gardener Volunteers would could expect similar results?
Lori Bushway | on-line publications
After 10 years as a Master Gardener, and after receiving Advanced MGV training at Cornell (a six week course, once a week, hands on) which was only offered once that I am aware of; more training is badly needed. I also believe if it was available, it would lead more trained MGV’s to stick with the service end of the job longer. Please consider this in NYS. Debbie Smith, Cayuga County
Debbie I think most, if not all, agree with you that more advance training would be most appreciated. As NYS’ MGV program leader I recently submitted a proposal to CCE administration that include a request for funds to organize regional MGV trainings that could Debbie I think most, if not all, agree with you that more advance training would be most appreciated. As NYS’ MGV program leader I recently submitted a proposal to CCE administration that include a request for funds to organize regional MGV trainings that could address this very need. Let’s hope administration sees it as a priority area.
In the meantime, I do hope you and other MGV will consider attending the 2007 State Master Gardener Volunteer Conference this July. It is full of opportunities for advancing your skills. Some more info can be found at the conference website: http://www.gardening.cornell.edu/mgconf/
From Essex County CCE:
We just conducted a proficiency survey of our MG volunteers. Perennials and composting came up with high numbers; plant diseases came up with zero! Seems to fit right in with the above study.
Essex and Clinton Counties are having a mid-winter (yes, we are having winter!) training in February. Diagnostic skill development is not on the list, but since it appears to be such a “hole” for everyone, perhaps it should be better addressed at another separate training. February’s training will cover a bunch of smaller topics such as propagation and Invasive Plants (that we didn’t cover in the 2006 Training).
I am a firm believer in continuing education. After all, “knowledge is power”; and if our volunteers feel empowered, they’ll get more pleasure out of volunteering - and come back for more (education and volunteering)!
Thank you for keeping continuing education a strong current issue.
Emily