Approaches to Agricultural Education Research Informed by Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access

Abstract

To adequately research school-based agricultural education (SBAE), it is important to recognize the diversity of viewpoints. This chapter takes an ecological view, proposing the Ecological Model of Agricultural Education. The model considers levels of influence significant and the diversity within. The core are SBAE teachers and students, their identities, and interactions. Surrounding the core are connections between individuals and FFA chapters, such as differences in geographic locations. The exosystem includes policies and procedures governing national agricultural education, including FFA. The macrosystem is the global agricultural industry. The ecological system describes the interplay of factors influencing SBAE and offers a lens to explore the diversity, equity, inclusion, and access in the system. The chapter explores trends in SBAE research, organized by the ecological model and encourages the use of critical approaches and participatory methods in future SBAE research.