Significant Accomplishment

Elementary school aged children need fun, hands-on learning that helps them learn practical life skills and information.

Importance of the Program

Children today are disconnected from where their food comes from. Though Rockcastle County is a very rural area, many children have also never seen farm animals in real life or been exposed to the source of their food. This program, which is new to the county, would allow children to learn about food sources and the life cycle of chickens. It also helps children learn about nutrition and making healthy choices.

Inputs – Role of Extension

Educator and sponsor of the program

Outputs 

• Method, activity, and/or resources
  • Lessons (in person and virtual), activities, games, a live camera feed, and hands-on experience with materials were used to teach the children
• # attending:
  • 380 total students
• Target Audience:
  • 4^th-5^th grade Rockcastle County students

Evaluation Methods

A pre-test was administered that tested the students on their knowledge of embryology, chickens, and eggs. Due to COVID-19, our post-test was not administered.

Outcome/Impact

Initial Outcome – As a result of this program, children gain knowledge of embryology, life cycles, and food. This gives them a deeper understanding of not only the life cycles of chickens, but also of all animals. This basis of understanding will be helpful moving forward in their STEM classes. Children also gained a fair and unbiased education of animal agriculture that many of them may not have otherwise gained and can use that information to guide their decisions on nutrition and diets in the future.

Success Story 

Even in rural areas, it is uncommon for elementary aged students to have an understanding of where their food comes from. Allowing these children to explore the life cycles of a chicken, from the egg all the way to becoming a hen or rooster, gives them knowledge of animal agriculture, food, and reproduction, that will help them in the future. Our students got to gain this knowledge through fun activities and hands-on education, which made them incredibly excited to learn. The goal was to give students a first-hand look at how some of our food is produced, as well as make sure they understand aspects of animal agriculture, reproduction, and life cycles. Though we did not get a chance to administer an official post-test due to COVID-19, students were asked review questions weekly at the end of each lesson and showed a greater understanding of the material. This also gave students who live on farms or raise chickens an opportunity to teach their classmates about their own experience. We transitioned to a virtual learning program to adapt to COVID regulations, and had voluntary participation from students, parents, and other community members. Hopefully, we will be able to hold this program again and allow our students to finish the entire experience.