Agricultural Management Capstone

Course Number:

AG 206

Transcript Title:

Agricultural Management Capstone

Created:

Nov 03, 2026

Updated:

Nov 03, 2026

Total Credits:

3

Lecture Hours:

0

Lecture / Lab Hours:

66

Lab Hours:

0

Satisfies Cultural Literacy requirement:

No

Satisfies General Education requirement:

No

Grading Options

A-F, P/NP

Default Grading Options

A-F

Repeats available for credit:

0

Suggested Outcome Assessment Strategies

The determination of assessment strategies is generally left to the discretion of the instructor. Here are some strategies that you might consider when designing your course: writings (journals, self-reflections, pre-writing exercises, essays), quizzes, tests, midterm and final exams, group projects, presentations (in person, videos, etc.), self-assessments, experimentations, lab reports, peer critiques, responses (to texts, podcasts, videos, films, etc.), student generated questions, Escape Room, interviews, and/or portfolios.

Required: in-person capstone presentation

Course Activities and Design

The determination of teaching strategies used in the delivery of outcomes is generally left to the discretion of the instructor. Here are some strategies that you might consider when designing your course: lecture, small group/forum discussion, flipped classroom, dyads, oral presentation, role play, simulation scenarios, group projects, service learning projects, hands-on lab, peer review/workshops, cooperative learning (jigsaw, fishbowl), inquiry based instruction, differentiated instruction (learning centers), graphic organizers, etc.

Required course activities

Capstone Project includes:

• Initiating and managing an agricultural project from conception to completion
• Practicum fieldwork in chosen area of interest (arrangement with industry professional mentor required)
• Presentation on practicum experience

Course Content

Outcome #1: Identify an area of specialization.

• Introduction to Specialization in Agriculture

  • Overview of diverse sectors within agriculture: orchard management, viticulture, grain production, berry farming, nursery operations, greenhouse/floriculture, agricultural sales, equipment repair, and ag technology.

  • Industry trends and emerging fields in precision agriculture.

• Career Exploration & Self-Assessment

  • Guided self-assessment of student interests, skills, and long-term goals.

  • Research and analysis of potential career paths aligned with personal strengths and industry demand.

• Research and Decision-Making

  • Techniques for researching potential mentors, host farms, and agribusinesses.

  • Evaluation of specialization options based on location, relevance, skill match, and learning outcomes.

  • Writing a justification statement for chosen specialization.

• Capstone Proposal Development

  • Developing a written plan including:

  • Description of area of specialization.

  • Desired learning outcomes and specific goals.

  • Skills to develop and methods for evaluation.

  • Timeline and estimated hours in the field.

  • Submission of proposal for instructor approval.

Outcome #2: Work independently and as part of a team in an agricultural setting.

• Working independently

  • Self-discipline and sense of responsibility

    • Fulfilling commitments

    • Time management

    • Integrity of work

  • Recognizing limitations and when to ask for help

    • Physical limitations

    • Knowledge limitations

  • Recognizing when you have the ability necessary to do the job

    • Self-confidence

    • Trust in what you have learned

• Working as part of a team

  • Listening

  • Fulfilling your part of the task

  • Cooperation and collaboration

Outcome #3: Communicate agricultural concepts and ideas effectively, both verbally and in writing.

• Communicating at the orchard or farm

  • Professionalism

  • Different communication needs

    • Cultural differences

    • Language differences

• Making a presentation

  • Presentation method

    • PowerPoint

    • Video

    • Written report / business plan

  • Clarity of expression

    • Vocabulary

    • Simple is often the best – avoid complex explanations

  • Staying on topic – be concise

  • Use of visuals – a picture can be worth a thousand words

  • Express enthusiasm

Outcome #4: Listen for understanding and provide constructive feedback.

• Active Listening Techniques:

  • Engaging with speakers through attentive listening.

  • Clarifying and summarizing points to ensure comprehension.

• Providing Constructive Feedback:

  • Offering feedback that is specific, actionable, and supportive.

  • Balancing positive remarks with areas for improvement.

• Peer Review Sessions:

  • Participating in structured peer evaluations of project work.

  • Implementing feedback to refine and enhance project outcomes.

Outcome #5: Synthesize content from courses in the Agricultural Management certificate.

• Definition of synthesis

• Review program outcomes

• Relating course content

  • Review course outcomes

  • Outline how course content intersects

  • Connect to program outcomes

• Model examples of synthesis related solutions

Outcome #6: Demonstrate leadership skills.

• Project Initiation:

  • Identifying a relevant agricultural issue or opportunity.

  • Developing a project proposal outlining objectives, scope, and resources.

• Project Planning and Management:

  • Creating detailed timelines and work plans.

  • Assigning roles and responsibilities within a team.

• Implementation and Execution:

  • Coordinating tasks and ensuring adherence to the project plan.

  • Monitoring progress and adjusting as necessary.

• Evaluation and Reflection:

  • Assessing project outcomes against initial objectives.

  • Reflecting on leadership experiences and identifying lessons learned.