ENGAGING STUDENTS IN THE AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION MODEL: FACTORS AFFECTING STUDENT PARTICIPATION IN THE NATIONAL FFA ORGANIZATION

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the degree of engagement of agricultural education students in the FFA, their agricultural education courses, their high school courses, and agriculture. This descriptive study using self-administered mailed questionnaires had a 52% useable response rate from FFA members and a 63% useable response rate from nonmembers. Members of the National FFA Organization more than non-members had a higher percentage that were current or former 4-H members, a higher percentage that had parents or siblings who were in agricultural education or 4-H, and a higher percentage self-reported that they lived on a farm. A higher percentage of FFA members than non-members reported that they had an SAE (Supervised Agricultural Experience). Members of the National FFA Organization more than non-members believed that their agriculture classes were preparing them for the future, were challenging, interesting, exciting, and allowed for open discussion. Almost one-third of the FFA members reported that they had not received any award in FFA. Two-fifths had never participated in a CDE (Career Development Event), one-half had never participated in a leadership event, and two-thirds had never completed a proficiency award application. One-third did not have an SAE at the time of the survey.