Communications and Business Curricular Needs of Agribusiness Employees

摘要

Agricultural businesses are plagued with intense competition and narrow profit margins set in a dynamic workplace environment (Harris, 1989). To remain solvent, many businesses have found they must increase efficiency. This situation has lead to greater scrutiny of existing and potential employees. A typical university reaction to this trend is to increase the technical requirements of graduates so they appear better equipped to function in the marketplace. This action reduces the opportunity for students to take electives and supporting courses. Some theorize that students should specialize in their undergraduate programs to enhance their employability, others contend that students should seek a well-rounded education to develop the whole person. Theories abound, but little information is sought from employers regarding their needs for employees.