A traditional Master Gardener training program was re-designed to meet the changing needs of both volunteers and Cooperative Extension. The re-designed training reduced the number of sessions and travel requirements of participants and Extension staff and increased participants' ability to choose sessions. Interactive teaching methods were emphasized, and distance-education sessions piloted. Program offerings were integrated across three audiences--new Master Gardeners, current Master Gardeners, and the general public--for efficient use of Extension staff time. Weekday scheduling of several sessions selected for participants who would be available for weekday volunteering. Fee increases moved the program closer to financial sustainability.
Lee Young (Mon,) studied this question.