Abstract:
In 1993-94, as part of an effort to evaluate undergraduate curricula, the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences at the University of Delaware (UD) sent questionnaires to alumni and potential employers in the disciplines of agronomy and soils, ornamental horticulture, and plant pathology. The undergraduate questionnaire, mailed to graduates of the years 1984 to 1993, was designed to assess the graduates' perceptions of the level of competency required for employment in their profession, and the level of competency provided in their undergraduate education. The employer questionnaire mailed to current and potential employers in both industry and government was designed to elicit their perception of the level of competency required to meet employees' job responsibilities. The objective of these surveys was to provide quantitative data for the faculty to use in further developing the undergraduate teaching programs in the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences.
While the core curriculum was rated as highly valued, alumni respondents indicated a need for better training in communications (written and oral), time management, and personnel management. A need for greater emphasis on environmental issues also was expressed. The data from employers supported the alumni recommendations, and expressed basic satisfaction with the quality of education in the department. Employers also recommended additional training in professional development skills, and strongly supported the expansion of the internship program.
Keywords:
curriculum, plant science, soil science, evaluation
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