On the Farm STEM Immersive Experience Inspires NY Science Educators
The On the Farm STEM immersive event offered eighteen science educators a hands-on experience to integrate agricultural science into their classrooms.
Lewis County, NY –July 2024– The On the Farm STEM professional development event, hosted by the New York Beef Council (NYBC) on July 29th-30th, 2024, provided eighteen dedicated middle and high school science educators with an immersive experience. Held in Lewis County, NY, this immersive event offered practical insights into the beef and dairy industries, allowing educators to integrate agricultural science into their classrooms and view STEM through the lens of agriculture.
The training brought together teachers from diverse disciplines, including life sciences, agriculture, FFA, and horticulture. By combining hands-on learning with real-world applications, the event empowered educators to enrich their curriculum and inspire their students with the science behind agriculture.
On the Farm STEM trainings are a Beef Checkoff-funded program produced by the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture, a contractor of the Beef Checkoff, that helps STEM ( (Science, Technology, Engineering, & Math) teachers develop curriculum for their classes using food and agriculture as a vehicle for scientific learning and development.
The immersive experience started with an opportunity for educators to participate in a discovery session focused on translating STEM principles into engaging and practical student learning. This set the stage for a deep dive into the world of agriculture. Participants then visited Simply C Farm, exploring the beef lifecycle and learning about grazing principles and soil health from Troy Bishopp of Madison County Soil & Water. This visit offered a comprehensive look at sustainable farming practices and their underlying scientific principles. By observing these processes firsthand, educators gained valuable insights into how real-world agricultural practices align with STEM concepts.
The program continued with a visit to Beller Farms, where attendees explored engineering and technology used in modern animal handling and care. This session showcased the latest agricultural innovations, demonstrating how technology is applied to improve efficiency and animal welfare.
The second day of the event focused on applying the insights gained from the farm visits to classroom settings. Educators participated in a session dedicated to building and enhancing their curriculum, equipping them with practical tools and resources to effectively bring agricultural science into their lessons.
“We are delighted with the impact of this immersive experience,” said Chrissy Claudio, Program Coordinator. “By connecting educators with the real-world applications of STEM in agriculture, we’ve provided them with a unique perspective that will enrich their teaching and inspire their students.”
Feedback from pre- and post-event surveys highlighted a significant shift in participants' perceptions of beef production practices. Educators reported increased trust in beef production's innovative methods and technologies, including rotational grazing management and humane animal treatment. This data demonstrates the tour’s educational impact and reinforces the industry’s commitment to transparency and responsible practices.
For more information, please contact:
Chrissy Claudio
About On the Farm STEM: On the Farm STEM is dedicated to enhancing STEM education by bridging the gap between agricultural science and classroom learning. Our mission is to provide educators with immersive experiences and practical resources that inspire the next generation of scientists and agricultural innovators.
About the New York Beef Council: The New York Beef Council is funded by the $1-per-head National Beef Checkoff Program. Checkoff dollars are invested in beef promotion, consumer information, research, industry information, and foreign market development, all with the purpose of strengthening beef demand. For more information, visit www.nybeef.org.