4-H Projects!To
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Here 4-H projects are specific areas of planned experiences for young people to learn, such as training pets, making clothing, growing plants, or building rockets. 4-H projects are in-depth learning experiences for 4-H members. A wide range of projects are offered in each state, individual projects may vary from state to state. The project materials are written by faculty members at the university. What does a 4-H project cost? Depending on the state, there may be a small charge for the project books. The total cost to complete a 4-H project varies a great deal. A member enrolled in foods might use supplies from around the home (to practice the skills being learned) and have no direct expense. A member who buys and keeps a saddle horse might invest hundreds of dollars. Leaders, parents and members should discuss costs when projects are selected by 4-H'ers. Projects and their cost should be realistic for the families. Are 4-Hers expected to do their own project work? Yes, with help and support. 4-H is a learn-by-doing program. Leaders, junior leaders and parents may tell or demonstrate to members how some things should be done, but 4-H'ers are expected to learn how to do things themselves. What is a self-determined project? In this project, a member with a special interest designs a project different from existing projects. It may be completely new or an adaptation, specialty, or advanced stage of an existing project. Members should discuss such projects with their leaders. What is project evaluation? Members in each project should visit regularly with leaders, who help them review the work they have done toward completing the learning experiences in the project book. They should evaluate their results and determine the extent to which they have accomplished project objectives and personal goals, and identify strengths to build upon and weaknesses to overcome in current and future projects. Evaluation provides members with a sense of competence and accomplishment. What is an exhibit? An exhibit is an object or display designed to help young people feel they are capable and that they have accomplished something. Ideally, exhibits motivate members to learn and to have fun in a 4-H project. Exhibits are usually associated with a fair, but members can exhibit their projects at club meetings, community events and other opportunities. Members are not required to exhibit their work or participate in competition. However, participation in competitive activities and exhibits is encouraged as an educational, recognition and public awareness opportunity. An exhibit is not an end in itself, nor does it measure the learning that takes place in the process. A first-place blue ribbon is only one measure of success. Fair premiums, ribbons and other awards are incentives and symbols of recognition in many areas for those who choose to participate. Self-recognition and self-satisfaction for having completed a project are important rewards. Are projects done individually or as a group? Both. Some projects, like biking and planting trees for conservation, are more fun when done as a group. Others like making a dress or building a bookcase will be done individually by each member of the group. |