The aspects of agricultural education (Ag Ed) can be represented using the diagram to the left. Classroom instruction, FFA, and Supervised Agricultural Experiences (SAEs) are the three sectors in ag education. Each are an important part in preparing students for success in the future. When enrolled in an agriculture course, students are considered FFA members and will begin planning/executing individual SAEs.
Ag courses are similar to traditional school classes, however, the have a large hands on component. Students will walk to the building detached from the main high school, which is utilized as an agricultural shop and classroom. In agriculture courses, students will experience both classroom learning and take part in lab work in the shop. Ag classes are more hands-on and experience focused than many standard classes.
The National FFA Organization (formerly Future Farmers of America) is a national organization dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. Local, state, and national activities and award programs provide opportunities to apply knowledge and skills acquired through agriculture education. The Ohio FFA Association has 29,089 members in 329 chapters throughout Ohio.
An SAE (Supervised Agricultural Experience) is an important part of agriculture education. Members are able to gain work based learning and experiences. Students are expected to pick a minimum of one SAE (Click here for SAE ideas), log hours, and track revenue on the Agricultural Experience Tracker (the AET) platform. Supervision of SAE projects is provided by the FFA advisor.