Student Focus Groups Reveal Impacts of 4-H Program

As Extension professionals, we need to evaluate programs to know that what we're doing is making a positive and productive impact. This article summarizes how student focus groups validated perceived program strength for 4-H Wildlife Stewards (4-H WS). 4-H WS promotes science learning and environmental stewardship among youth. Sustainable wildlife habitat sites are created on school grounds through a partnership of 4-H, trained volunteers, and school staff. To evaluate the effectiveness of the program, students at six participating schools were interviewed. They reported improved attitudes and increased knowledge of science as a result of having schoolyard habitats.