Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1 Tarbiat Modares University
2 M.Sc. Graduated, Tarbiat Modares University
3 Institute of Agricultural Education and Extension, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO)
Abstract
Identifying factors that affect agricultural students' practical skills acquisition is essential for enhancing educational quality and ensuring workforce readiness. This study focused on analyzing the factors influencing employment skills acquisition among medicinal plant students in agricultural secondary schools. Conducted in 2024, the research employed a quantitative, causal-comparative approach with a population of 390 students across various provinces in Iran. A questionnaire based on educational standards for medicinal plants was the primary data collection tool, with 220 responses analyzed. The questionnaire's validity was confirmed by agricultural education experts, and its reliability was strong, indicated by Cronbach's alpha ranging from 0.93 to 0.98. Results revealed a significant positive relationship between students' interest in medicinal plants and job skills acquisition, while variables such as place of birth, agricultural background, and GPA showed no impact. A notable difference in skill acquisition levels was found between male and female students. Regression analysis indicated that internship, interest in the field, and gender accounted for 48.2% of the variance in employment skills. Recommendations include enhancing collaboration between educational institutions and agricultural ministries, prioritizing practical lessons and internships, and organizing workshops to boost student interest, which are crucial for improving employment skills acquisition rates among students.
Keywords
- Vocational and professional education
- Agricultural secondary schools
- Medicinal plants educational standards
- Employment agricultural skills
- Applied agricultural skills
Main Subjects
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