Rhodes State College is hosting the Grow with Rhodes Summer Teaching Institute from June 24 to June 28, 2024. This innovative program is equipping educators with cutting-edge knowledge and practical skills in agriculture, focusing on the dynamic industry in Northwest Ohio.
The institute commenced on Monday, June 24th, with introductions and an in-depth overview of the current state of the agriculture industry in the region. Participants are learning about the expectations for the institute and exploring various career pathways through interactions with business and industry leaders. The day's activities include hands-on experiences in the Agronomy Lab, a mapping exercise, and data visualization activities.
On Tuesday, June 25th, attendees embarked on an enriching field trip to a working farm, featuring a mobile lab where they engaged in a cover crop trial at the Kalida Fish and Hunting Club and visited Duling Farms. This off-site adventure provides firsthand exposure to innovative farming practices. Participants then returned to campus to consolidate their learning experiences.
The focus on data continues on Wednesday, June 26th, with sessions dedicated to data analysis using open-source code and public domain data. In the afternoon, another working farm field trip showcases advanced planting technologies and guidance systems, further bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Thursday, June 27th, is a day of collaboration and creativity as participants will partner with local schools to develop solutions to real-world problems and create classroom presentations. The day includes sharing an assessment rubric, building a teaching toolbox, and finalizing their problem solutions and presentations.
The institute will culminate on Friday, June 28th, with teams presenting their problem solutions to Ag Tech faculty and peers. This final session offers valuable feedback and fosters a collaborative environment among educators, enhancing their teaching methodologies and enriching the educational experience for their students.
The Grow with Rhodes Summer Teaching Institute proves to be a transformative experience, empowering educators with the skills and knowledge to inspire the next generation of agricultural professionals.
For more information, please contact Danielle Banks at banks.d@rhodesstate.edu or 419-995-8878.
