TEXAS 4-H AGENTS’ PERCEPTIONS OF SELECTED COMPETENCIES IN THE 4-H PROFESSIONAL RESEARCH, KNOWLEDGE, AND COMPETENCIES MODEL

Abstract

There are many competencies necessary for success as a 4-H agent. The 4-H Professional Research, Knowledge, and Competencies (PRKC) Model organizes competencies into six domains: (a) Youth Development, (b) Youth Program Development, (c) Volunteerism, (d) Partnerships, (e) Organizational Systems, and (f) Equity, Access and Opportunity (National 4-H Professional Development Task Force, 2004). Previous research (Harder & Dooley, 2007; Seevers, Baca & VanLeeuwen, 2005) identified competencies in the Organizational Systems domain as some of the most important, but most competency research has focused on volunteer management. A modified Borich (1980) model of needs assessment was used to determine the training needs of Texas 4-H agents in the Organizational Systems domain. Agents perceived they were more proficient in the competencies associated with program delivery and less proficient in competencies associated with their own personal wellness. Significant differences existed between perceived proficiency and importance levels for several competencies. Training is most needed in providing the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to overcome the stresses associated with careers as 4-H extension agents.