Journal of Agriculture
and Environmental Sciences

Michigan School-Based Agricultural Educators’ Attitudes, Beliefs and Knowledge of Sustainable Agriculture
Matt R. Raven, Rebecca Wittman, Michael W. Everett, Jason E. Rowntree

Abstract
Agriculture, food and natural resources systems are stressed to adapt to meet societal, industrial, and institutional pressures of the 21st century and ensure the long-term viability of these sectors. Michigan‟s abundant natural resource base positions the production of food, fiber, and energy sectors to continue leading the economic revival of the state and remains a critical part of its economic future. However, the use of these natural resources for agricultural and food systems must take into consideration economic, environmental and societal factors in order for these systems to be sustainable. While necessary skill-sets and knowledge are changing for those entering food, fiber, and energy sectors, little research exists regarding Michigan school based agricultural education (SBAE) teachers‟ perceptions of sustainable agriculture (SA). The purpose of this descriptive/correlation study was to establish a baseline of attitudes, beliefs, and knowledge of SA among Michigan SBAE teachers. A survey measured SBAE teachers‟ ecological paradigm, agricultural paradigm, knowledge of SA and demographics. In general, SBAE teachers held an anthropocentric worldview, held a more alternative agricultural paradigm, and demonstrated a strong understanding of SA as defined by the United States Department of Agriculture.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/jaes.v6n2a1