Students Develop Compost Management Skills through Experiential Learning1

• Published in: NACTA journal Vol. 58; no. 4; p. 311
• Main Authors: Bott, R C, Cortus, E L
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Twin Falls North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture 01-12-2014
• Subjects: Agricultural education; Behavioral Objectives; Composting; Decision making; Experiential learning; Learning Processes; Manures; Teaching Methods
• ISSN: 0149-4910

It is critical for college graduates to enter the workforce not only knowledgeable in a topic area, but also confident in their ability to apply their knowledge. Manure management is a major component of livestock production, including horses. Faculty from South Dakota State University's (SDSU) Animal Science and Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering departments partnered to develop an experiential learning opportunity for students to learn about manure management and composting. The objectives of this activity were for students to: 1) gain experience designing and constructing a compost pile, 2) critically evaluate compost progress and make appropriate management decisions, 3) maintain a logbook of management decisions and behaviors, and 4) develop an understanding of opportunities and challenges associated with manure management. This activity was integrated into an equine stable management course and an agricultural waste management course. The experience included reading assignments, discussions, a field day to construct compost piles, management, and recordkeeping. Pre-and post-tests included content questions, as well as a survey of students' views on manure management and the associated activity. Students from both classes who participated in compost management demonstrated improved performance on compost characteristic questions, and reported an increased confidence in knowledge and ability to compost.