Perceptions of 4-H Professionals on Proposed Solutions Towards Diversity Inclusive 4-H Youth Programs

• Main Author: Douglas D. LaVergne
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: University Library System, University of Pittsburgh 2015-03-01
• Series: Journal of Youth Development
• Online Access: http://jyd.pitt.edu/ojs/jyd/article/view/426

This paper highlights findings from a web-based questionnaire used to explore and analyze [State] 4-H youth professional’s perceptions on proposed solutions to increasing diversity inclusion — particularly among youth of color and youth with disabilities — in 4-H youth programs. Descriptive statistics were used to report demographic and personal characteristics along with percentage agreements on proposed solutions. Respondents agreed that: “County 4-H youth professionals should become familiar with the youth with disabilities represented in their counties in order to promote an atmosphere of acceptance and cooperation;” “4-H youth instructional materials should reflect the diverse society that 4-H youth programs have;” and “for youth to become interested in joining 4-H, parents, 4-H youth professionals, and policymakers must develop strategies to address the different learning styles of all youth.” Finally, recommendations were identified for professionals who want to increase diversity inclusion in their respective 4-H youth programs.