Texas Cooperative Extension's 4-H County Government Guide: A Needs Assessment

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify the elements needed to provide a tool to enhance civic education and engagement, through teaching county government, so Texas Cooperative Extension Agents can effectively educate 4-Hers about county government. Participants in the study included all Texas Cooperative Extension Agents in the state of Texas. Participants were sent an email containing a link to an online survey instrument, which contained questions to rate their perceptions of the 4-H County Government Guide. County government was found to be an important topic for 4-H to teach youth in Texas, but most county agents are not currently teaching it to 4-Hers. Most county extension agents were aware of the guide, but do not use it. Training programs and online activities were found to entice county extension agents to use the guide. The most important topic was found as the role of the commissioners court.