Success StoryKentucky Extension Master Gardener Program Virtual Training



Kentucky Extension Master Gardener Program Virtual Training

Author: Richard Durham

Planning Unit: Horticulture

Major Program: Master Gardener

Outcome: Initial Outcome

Because of COVID-19 restrictions, Master Gardener Training was different in 2020. Training usually occurs at the county or adjacent multi-county level, and 10-15 programs may conduct training in any given period (usually fall or spring). In 2020, I worked with several extension agents for horticulture/Master Gardener coordinators to plan a virtual training. Amy Aldenderfer, Harden County extension agent for horticulture, led this effort with significant contributions from Kristin Hildebrand, extension agent for horticulture in Warren County. The first training session occurred on September 25, 2020, and over 50 Master Gardener enrolled. Most access the training synchronously although some have opted to view recordings. A few labs (soils, plant propagation) are on hold until participants can meet face-to-face. The sessions last for 2.5 – 3 hours and include pre-session reading and homework assignments. The training concluded in February 2021 with a final exam administered by Qualtrics and tan evaluation. This virtual approach may provide options for future training. Agents my choose to participate in a centralized virtual training such as this one, use portions of this recorded training to supplement their local training or fill in when speakers are not available, or use recordings when participants need to make up a session due to absence. Regardless of how this new approach and resources are used, this venture into virtual training promises to make future trainings more efficient.






Stories by Richard Durham


Kentucky Extension Master Gardener Program Virtual Training

about 3 years ago by Richard Durham

Because of COVID-19 restrictions, Master Gardener Training was different in 2020. Training usually o... Read More


Partnership in Publications between the Nutrition Education Program and Horticultuer.

about 3 years ago by Richard Durham

In 2018 I was approached by NEP extension staff to help update existing and develop new home gardeni... Read More


Stories by Horticulture


Hands-on high tunnel agent training increases agent knowledge and confidence

about 3 years ago by Rachel Rudolph

High tunnels are primarily use for specialty crop production, including fruit and vegetables, and ha... Read More


Early-planted spring broccoli can reduce pesticide applications and increase marketable yields

about 3 years ago by Rachel Rudolph

Broccoli production in Kentucky has grown by nearly seven fold from 2012 to 2017 (USDA, 2017). Accor... Read More


Stories by Master Gardener


State Master Gardener Conference

State Master Gardener Conference

about 3 years ago by Amy Aldenderfer

In October 2020, the Lincoln Trail Area Master Gardener Association, with the guidance and technolog... Read More


McCracken County Extension Service Helps County Fair in Wake of Pandemic

McCracken County Extension Service Helps County Fair in Wake of Pandemic

about 3 years ago by Kathryn Wimberley

Need: Due to Covid pandemic guidelines in early months of 2021, the Horticulture Agent, Horticultur... Read More