Tell me I'll forget; show me I'll remember; involve me I'll understand: Agricultural education and consumer awareness in Oxford County

This thesis explores the widening awareness gap between consumers and agriculture within Oxford County. It was hypothesized that agricultural illiteracy has resulted in mounting confusion, fear and negativity regarding contemporary food production. Consequently, a strong need for more effective agricultural education programs that connect consumers to agriculture has been identified.;This research shows that agricultural illiteracy is a major problem among the public; that agriculture education in school needs to increase; and that availability of uncomplicated agricultural information in our grocery stores and through other resources is a necessity.;Data were gathered through questionnaire administration and in-person interviews. Results documented that although consumers are concerned about what goes in to their food, their perceptions and understanding of contemporary agricultural practices, especially biotechnology, are often inaccurate and negative. Most consumers could not recall having learned anything about agriculture in school, and almost all participants would have liked to have learned more.