Relevance

The global pandemic profoundly changed the face of Extension programming. While online learning was utilized before 2020, COVID-19 created the demand to present all programming safely with respect to social distancing protocols, while remaining engaging and educational. Once the public health threat subsided, it was clear that some programming methods of the pandemic era would remain effective due to convenience for clientele, enhanced learner engagement, and the ability to reach broad audiences.

Response

Family and Consumer Sciences Extension at the University of Kentucky developed Big Blue Book Club (BBBC) as an effort to enhance learning using an innovative delivery method that would enhance social connections for clientele. The program was created in response to agent concerns about general morale of clientele who had been isolated and quarantined as the pandemic entered its third quarter. The program goals were to enhance feelings of connectedness between participants and present research-based Family and Consumer Sciences content responsive to community needs. As book club selections were reviewed, the 2018 Kentucky Community Needs Assessment provided guidance to identify areas of specific need throughout the Commonwealth. Substance use, health and wellness, and financial literacy skills were identified as key concerns throughout the state in both focus groups and key informant interviews.  During the past 3 years, 7 books have been shared featuring topics related to nutrition and wellness, family finance and resource management, and substance use disorder in families.  Many participants receive free copies of the selected books from the state or local extension office or have access to the book through local libraries and online borrowing sources. Once pandemic restrictions were lifted, many local offices facilitated local “watch” parties, so that the state specialist facilitated discussions presented virtually could also include a face-to-face component for interested participants.

Results

1,847 unique participants representing 105 Kentucky counties (88%) have been involved in BBBC programming during the past three years. Quantitative and Qualitative measures were used to evaluate the program and confidence in the delivery method’s validity is generated by the high retention rate of participants. Evaluation data indicates that 96% of survey respondents have learned something valuable that they intend to implement and 89% report discussing book club content with someone else suggesting a social multiplier effect may exist. As one participant shared, “It was my first time participating in any book club. I really enjoyed the book, participating with a group, and the way the zoom was presented. I plan to do another one.”

Public Value Statement

As demonstrated by the Big Blue Book Club, innovative programming methods can span diverse content areas and be used to address important and serious interests of local communities.