What the study found
Military veteran farmers showed significant associations between age and preferred ways of learning, including formal and experiential learning formats and several technology-based options. The study also describes these veterans as engaging in agricultural education through nonformal learning environments.
Why the authors say this matters
The authors say this matters because veterans’ educational needs as agricultural producers have been less emphasized than the therapeutic and mental health benefits of farming. The study suggests that understanding these learning preferences can help educational institutions and policymakers design programs that support veterans’ continued education and agricultural productivity.
What the researchers tested
The researchers used self-directed learning (SDL), or learning that people guide themselves through, as the study framework. They collected quantitative survey data using an instrument adapted from academic and governmental sources and distributed it through nonprofit organizations that support veteran farmers.
What worked and what didn't
The results showed significant associations between age and preferred delivery methods, including formal and experiential learning formats. Age was also associated with preferences for asynchronous learning, static videos, podcasts, chat threads, and open educational resources.
What to keep in mind
The abstract does not provide detailed limitations beyond noting that this was part of a larger research project. The available summary also does not include sample size, effect sizes, or more detail on how strongly the learning preferences differed.
Key points
- Age was significantly associated with veteran farmers’ preferred educational delivery methods.
- Preferred formats included formal learning and experiential learning.
- Age was also linked with preferences for asynchronous learning, static videos, podcasts, chat threads, and open educational resources.
- The study focused on military veterans who engage in agricultural education through nonformal learning environments.
- The authors suggest the findings can help institutions and policymakers tailor programs for veteran farmers.
Disclosure
- Research title:
- Veteran farmers showed age-related differences in learning preferences
- Image credit:
- Photo by Gregory Hayes on Unsplash
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