Molly Jones 4-H Youth Development Agent – Dorchester County
Experiential learning is essential in youth learning and development. Experiential learning engages multiple senses and increases the retention of information. This type of learning involves numerous teaching methods focusing on child-centered learning, building competence and confidence inside and outside the classroom (Spann, 2022). 4-H Embryology Project engages students and classroom educators in experiential learning through a month-long project hatching fertilized chicken eggs in the school. Dorchester county 4-H Youth Development delivered 4-H Embryology Project kits and lessons to urban, suburban, and rural classrooms within Dorchester and Charleston Counties, SC. The project reached 21 classrooms in Dorchester and Charleston Counties March-May 2022. A total of 1,084 students engaged in 4-H Embryology in their classrooms. 100% of students surveyed on their experience in the 4H Embryology Project stated they enjoyed the project. Out of the students surveyed, 72% said they learned a lot of new information, and 17% stated they felt they discovered “a little” further information. Educators provided feedback on the program’s impact on students; the following statement was given as feedback. “The students loved the project! This is a great activity for so many reasons; my students engage from start to finish, they love watching the chicks, and I even had a student who made himself the “chick guard.” This is a great way for my students not only to learn and witness the lifecycle of a different animal, but they engage in a language in ways that I cannot replicate.” Students gained knowledge and skills in science, inquiry, critical thinking, observation, leadership, responsibility, and animal husbandry.
Spann, S., 2022. Eggcelent Adventures. 1st ed. [ebook] Gainesville, FL: UF/IFAS Extension, p.3. Available at: <https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdf%5C4H%5C4H368%5C4H368-Djopo33cz6.pdf> [Accessed 31 May 2022].
Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to people of all ages, regardless of race, color, gender, religion, national origin, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital or family status and is an equal opportunity employer.
