Use of Agricultural Subject Matter by Secondary Students in Swaziland. Summary of Research SR 69.

A descriptive-correlational study was conducted to determine the extent to which students used the subject matter content taught in the "O" Level School Agriculture Program in Swaziland. The target population was 493 graduating "O" Level agriculture students in Swaziland. Data were collected in a school visit and through a mailed survey monitored to ensure 100 percent response. The questionnaire contained five sections that measured content in the following areas: plants and soil science, livestock and poultry production, farm structures and machinery, management and operation of agriculture business, and personal characteristics. The study found that students enrolled in the program rarely used the information they learned in the program and had low intentions of using it in their future. A number of recommendations were made: ensure that education is integrated with work; employment skills in agriculture should be used as a basis for curriculum content; students should be trained to use the skills taught; and agriculture should be taught as applied science. Further research was also recommended. (Contains 11 references.) (KC)