Enhancing STEM & Social Studies Through Agriculture: A Hands-On Professional Development Experience

This engaging professional development program equips teachers, extension personnel, and youth educators with practical strategies to incorporate agriculture as a powerful teaching tool across multiple subjects, including science, social studies, language arts, and math. Aligned with Iowa Core standards, this course provides a real-world context that makes learning more relevant, engaging, and impactful for students. Participants will leave with ready-to-use lessons, hands-on activities, and instructional strategies that require minimal preparation, ensuring immediate classroom implementation.

Course Experience & Learning Outcomes

Exploring Agriculture & Conservation Through STEM

•  Gain insight into sustainable agricultural practices and conservation efforts that balance economic and environmental sustainability.
•  Visit a dairy farm, a biodigester site, and a poultry hatchery, engaging in hands-on, real-world learning about agricultural innovation.
•  Discover how STEM concepts drive modern conservation methods in diverse agricultural operations.

Bringing Agricultural Learning to the Classroom

•  Connect agricultural advancements and conservation efforts to STEM and social studies curricula.
•  Explore historical and technological changes in agriculture and their societal impact.
• Utilize practical lesson plans and interactive resources that make agriculture relevant to students’ lives.

This program is designed for educators seeking innovative ways to deepen student engagement and foster real-world connections in their teaching.