Agricultural education career discussion guide

Use this guide at any point in exploring the agricultural education career pathway. We recommend that students complete the Student Interest Survey on GrowNextGen to enhance classroom discussion.

Discussion questions

1. Professionals in this field are interested in inspiring and educating the next generation of agricultural workers. What interests and skills do you have that fit a career in agricultural education?

2. There are many ways to get involved in agricultural education, even before you graduate. You could join a school club, contact one of the GrowNextGen Teacher Leaders, or help coordinate a field trip. Brainstorm several “next steps,” including courses you might take at your high school or career tech. center.

3. Science and Math are essential in agricultural education. Make one connection between math or science you have learned, and agricultural education. For example, you may have learned the principles of genetic inheritance. How might these principles be used by agriculture instructors to teach future farmers about hybrid crops?

Problem solving
Each career path contains unique problems to solve. Below are a sampling of real-world challenges that agricultural educators may encounter.

1. Recruitment of a diverse range of students into agriculture programs is necessary for a thriving future. What strategies can be used to attract a wide range of students into agricultural programs?

2. Technology is being incorporated into agriculture more than ever. Today’s learners are also technology-oriented. How can technology be used to further the learning experience of agricultural students?

3. Immersive learning is important to give students an accurate picture of what agricultural careers are really like. How might a technical school or college incorporate hands-on, immersive learning into their curriculum?