Agricultural Education

Extension professionals are expected to translate multiple critical issues into creative, evidence-based programs. This resource explains a five-stage innovation process—Prepare, Cultivate, Challenge, Implement, and Evaluate—to help Extension professionals be more effective at innovating in their professional roles. When Extension professionals have the tools necessary to make changes within their programs and responsibilities, they can provide the best support and guidance for their stakeholders.

The textbook definition of a system is “an interconnected set of elements that is coherently organized in a way that achieves something.” In other words, systems thinking is a way of examining the interconnections between elements, including both the direct and indirect effects. This publication provides an overview of key concepts associated with systems, including elements, interconnections, and functions. Developing a systems thinking mindset is helpful in moving beyond simple cause-and-effect thinking to consider the patterns and characteristics of systems as well.

Motivation is probably a term many of us have heard, or use, on a regular basis, whether it is getting out of bed early to start that exercise program we know we need to, or the healthier eating commitment we made as a New Year’s resolution. It may also be the challenge we face in getting our children to sit down and complete the summer reading we know is important for them. Despite the common use of the term, there is a science that underlies the concept. When we understand the core components of motivation, we can start to better understand ourselves, as well as the actions of those around us.