2017 ASHS Annual Conference

Effective teaching reflects professional decisions made before, during, and after interactions with students, which when implemented, increases the probability of student success. In an effort to demonstrate effective teaching, faculty in the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources have implemented a variety of online tools, teaching strategies, and resources for students enrolled in introductory Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (AFNR) courses. This study was designed to gather student feedback on the effectiveness of various teaching behaviors, course tools, and course delivery methods in enhancing student learning. Ninety-eight students in intro-level horticulture and soil science courses voluntarily participated in a survey that utilized a 42-question instrument which covers various course delivery methods, usage of course tools, teaching behaviors or strategies, as well as demographic information. Survey results reveal that online discussion boards, recorded lectures, and the use of social media platforms worked well for most students. Class projects, group presentations, writing assignments, quizzes and hands-on activities were also viewed as course activities that enhance learning. On the other hand, students generally responded unfavorably to flipped class delivery, the use of clickers, and the use of class humor. No significant difference in student response due to class level, gender, and respective college of origin were observed. This information will serve as basis for efforts to design or modify classes to enhance student learning.