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Strengthening
of Soil Science Education at Tennessee State University
Desh
Duseja and Arvazena E. Clardy
Cooperative
Agricultural Research Program
Seminar Series
Tennessee State University, Nashville, TN
April 7,
1999
Introduction. The soil science curriculum at
Tennessee State University has been successfully preparing both
undergraduate and graduate students in the area of soil science since
the 1950s. However, new technology and conservation practices in the
areas of agronomy and soil sciences call for a reevaluation of the
curriculum and teaching methods. These measures will better prepare
students for careers in agronomy and soil sciences and technological
advancements of the 21st century. The soil science curriculum at TSU has
not been changed since the 1960s. New and innovative courses and
techniques in soil science needed to be implemented into the existing
plan of study to better prepare our students for careers in the soil
science areas.
Objectives. The following areas were
targeted for change: (1) adding new class and lab courses, (2) providing
tutors for students, (3) purchasing of new equipment and laboratory
supplies, (4) recruiting students, (5) hiring additional staff, (6)
providing scholarships and financial assistance to undergraduate and
graduate students, and (7) enhancing the teaching staff.
Results. (1) Hired a research assistant and
tutors, enhancing the teaching staff and assisting students with their
academic needs relative to soil science classes. (2) Recruitment of
students from local high schools with agriculture programs: Sent
recruitment packages, follow-up for visitation and meeting with
potential graduates. Visits were made to high schools in West Tennessee
where a majority of Tennessee State University students have been
recruited in the past. (3) Our teaching laboratories are now better
equipped for laboratory studies. Students no longer have to wait long
periods to weigh samples or wait to share glassware or test kits.
Students have enough equipment to work alone for actual hands-on
experience rather than in groups. Tutors are available to assist
students with assignments. (4) Scholarships and financial assistance
have been given to eight undergraduate students and two graduate
students.
Impact. The grant has offered the soil
science program the chance to develop new courses and laboratory
classes, purchase new equipment and supplies, and hire a teaching
assistant and tutors. In the long term, our students will be more
competitive and better prepared for the challenges of the 21st century.
Tennessee State University graduates are hired by the federal and state
governments, the private sector, as educators, or as entrepreneurs.
These students will have an impact on the whole geographic area of the
United States. These students will be competitive and prepared for
careers in the 21st century, and will reflect positively on Tennessee
State University.
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