Enhancing the undergraduate experience: The role of a student organization for preservice agricultural science teachers

The purpose of this study was to determine if a need exists to establish an organization specifically for preservice agricultural science teachers and if so, the attributes of such an organization. Selected peer preservice agricultural education programs were examined and focus groups were conducted with preservice and inservice teachers. Results indicated that there was a need for an organization and that it should affiliate with the Vocational Agriculture Teachers Association of Texas. The primary purpose of the organization was determined to be the professional development of its members through activities such as (but not limited to): guest speakers, field trips, partnering with local agricultural science programs, attending the state FFA convention, and attending the Texas agricultural science teachers conference.