An Assessment of Teaching Strategies used in Private Pesticide Applicator Education John L. Creswell

For many years, state cooperative extension systems have provided educational programming focused on the safe handling, use and storage of pesticides. These programs were heavily information-based (Pearson, 1987). The initial intent of this training and education program was to provide information on pesticides that would enable participants to apply and handle them correctly and safely. but these programs quickly became sessions to provide information for passing mandatory certification tests (Pearson, 1987). Training was primarily through the use of an illustrated lecture-discussion format. Some individuals and organizations have questioned just how well these programs were training private applicators. Survey research has indicated that pesticide training programs were too repetitive, and people were getting tired of them (Mueller. 1988a.). Agricultural officials and state legislators have been concerned that farmers, although certified, have received inadequate training relative to the use of agricultural chemicals listed as being restricted by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (Fruhling, 1987). Additionally, many extension programs have been evaluated on subject matter content. Very few extension programs have been studied with a focus on teaching strategies. The process should be as critical as the product of education and training (Cole, 1987). Martin and Omer (1990, p. 2) contend that while there is general recognition that educational practice is important. to the education of adults. few studies have been conducted that have placed an emphasis on instructional methods used in adult education in agriculture. Most studies in adult education in agriculture have focused on the need for adult education. Those studies which have focused on instructional methods recommended further study was needed on the appropriate methods and tools to use in adult education programs in agriculture (Bouare & Bowen, 1990; Martin and Sajilan, 1989; Martin