Small Farm College is an eight week course that offers participants a vast amount of information covering agricultural topics. Clientele have opportunity to learn about multiple types of agricultural businesses, management skills, marketing skills, business planning information and more to help them decide what segment of agriculture they would like to enter into, or expand into within their current operation.
Trying to increase participation, by reducing miles participants were required to drive to meetings, Educators held classes at two sites rather than one central location. OSU Extension Educators in Belmont, Monroe and Washington county Ohio decided to use computer technology called Skype. By using this technology Educators were able to provide high quality instructors and specialists to present information at two locations at once.
Skype is a software product that allows users to make voice and video calls over the Internet. The product is currently free to use and requires minimal equipment and expense for Extension Educators. All that is needed is a computer, web-camera, microphone, speakers and internet hook-up. Most new laptops come with a built-in camera, microphone and speakers, but additional microphone and speakers may be necessary for audiences to hear properly.
Clientele and instructors will be asked to fill out an evaluation after the classes to record their thoughts, preferences and acceptability of using this technology. Results will be shared at the Annual Meeting in Overland Park, KS.