A Case Study in Do-It-Yourself Projects:Utilizing Learning Contracts to Facilitate Global Learning in Agriculture

摘要

Agriculture graduates must have the knowledge skills and dispositions to meet the complex needs and pressing challenges in the global agriculture system Differentiation of instruction through learning contract; is one method to encourage students to self-direct anc further their global learning. Individualized learning contracts allowed students in three different agriculture courses to customize class assignments to develop globa knowledge, skills and dispositions. The individualizec approach allowed students a space to explore their owr interests, preferred modes of learning and developmen of learning artifacts. Data for this study were obtainec through student focus groups, instructor observation, i survey of students and through an analysis of the learninc artifacts produced. The data were analyzed using i grounded theory approach. Four themes that emergec from this study were: 1) engagement and motivation 2) frustration with ambiguity, 3) student choice anc creativity and 4) skill development.The individualizec learning contracts did contribute to development o student learning experiences that address the skills and competencies required for meeting the needs of ￡ changing agriculture industry. Instructors utilizing this method of differentiation are advised to provide clarity in the scope of the assignment and support students as the project progresses.