Learning Task # 5--Ilene Sorensen What do our Clients/Constituents Think?

I have interviewed several clients/constituents that are involved in the Nutrition Education Program. This program is a branch of the Extension Service. It involves many hours of working with the community. Since this is a very rural, small, close-knit community. People do tell each other what they think and what is expected.

One of the place my job takes me is the schools. I really enjoy this part of my job and the students know this. I let them know that I care and I tell them. When I go into a classroom, I always have a fun learning activity. This is expected now, because I have done this quite often. When I walk into a classroom, I hear--"What game are we playing today?"

When I interviewed a student, I asked what do you expect when I come. His comment was, "I expect that you will talk about the Food Guide Pyramid and that I will have fun learning about food." From another student--"You will have a game to play." Still another said, "We will probably make a snack."

When talking to the teachers, I found that they have more long-term goals in mind. In a discussion with several teachers, I found out some expectations they had of me in the classroom. There was the expectation that I will come to the classroom and teach nutrition. The teachers want me to teach the Food Guide Pyramid and the purpose of each group. They also wanted me to talk to the students about sugar in pop. The teachers also felt that teaching the fat in foods is important. Two of the instructors wanted a lesson on the importance of handwashing. The one teacher said, "Be creative and teach the graduation standards."

The goals are pretty long-term and I find this exciting. It is a real challenge to make students aware of what they are doing to their body today effects the future.

As I interviewed senior citizens, I found a different perspective. They wanted the information, but want to live like they always have. They enjoy the research-based information from the extension service. One said, "You give us good information, but I normally do it this other way."Another one said,"I knew I should be driniking more water and now you told me why."

One senior citizen said, "If I want some information on anything--I know extension will have it." Now that a big ORDER.

I feel teachers are attracted to programs offered by extension because of its diversity and resources. They like the continuous information on the emerging issues.

In my county, the seniors, teachers, and students all make use of the information. In discussing this with the educators, we feel that the type of delivery on a topic can make a hugh difference. We felt project-based learning is one of the most effective methods.

These groups stimulate me because they are highly motivated and have retention levels in terms of learning. They keep me current and accountable. Most importantly they have become a tremendous support base for the future of extension.

-- Anonymous, February 10, 2000