Enhancing Ohio's Educational Capacity
The Challenge: As Ohio's economy shifts from an industrial to a knowledge base, we must learn to meet the demands of a technology-based and more diverse work environment in the context of a more global economy. Ohioans, both youth and adults, need to develop and hone their skills in creating innovation, applying new technologies, training employees, improving productivity, and networking. Furthermore, the future workforce must be more competent in communications, math, science, and research skills.
OSU Extension's Response
In order to transform our communities to reflect the new reality of a productive and innovative economy and an informed citizenry, we will build capacity through specialized education, lifelong learning opportunities that encourage high-school graduation and technical/college degrees, hands-on learning focused on science and literacy, and 4-H and youth-development programs. OSU Extension will also be more proactive to engage families, neighborhoods, community leaders, schools/educational institutions, and other youth-serving organizations in a community decision-making process to provide for a more effective and seamless educational system that meets the needs of the workforce.
Benefits/Outcomes for Ohioans
Through an effective and seamless educational system, the workforce will engage in both technical and life-skills development resulting in a well-prepared workforce that encourages new and expanded businesses/opportunities, an increased tax base, and a better quality of life for individuals and families. Our educational system will support and encourage lifelong learning.
Signature Programs and Target Audiences
- 4-H Clubs, Camping, Afterschool, Cloverbuds, and School Enrichment engages young people between the ages of 5 and 18.
- Teen Leadership Development (e.g., camp counselor, CARTEENS youth volunteers, ambassadors, etc.) programs.
- Scientific literacy education program focused on both youth and adult audiences.
- Real Money, Real World is a money-management curriculum that gives young people the opportunity to make lifestyle and budget choices similar to those they will make as an adult. Program implementation is through Extension, school, and community partnerships.
- OSU Leadership Center.
- Ohio Leadership Education and Development (LEAD) Program is a two-year program to enhance leadership in the rural sector.
- Work Force Development and Building Human Capacity--FCS.
- Preschool Learning and Child Care--FCS.
- School Food and School Age Children--Jaime Foster.
