| Volume 8, Number 24 | July 16, 2004 |
Reminders:
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PDF Attachments: |
Programs of DistinctionManuscripts are currently being accepted for review of the new 4-H Programs of Distinction database. Although the on-line searchable database will be officially launched in September, you can submit now so it will be bursting with outstanding examples of 4-H youth development programs across the country. Which of your programs with impact data would you like to submit? 4-H Programs of Distinction are an ideal way for you to communicate your outstanding program outcomes. Manuscripts (maximum length: 1000 words) can be submitted under 27 different categories and will be evaluated for content and readability. If you are hesitant about how to tackle this opportunity, consider submitting a manuscript with a colleague or mentor. I can help you with format, state-level statistics, or just brain storming on how to present your best work as a 4-H Program of Distinction. Programs submitted/published as Programs of Excellence can be rewritten for this new opportunity. Be sure to tie in your ES237 numbers and e-POWER evaluations. The 4-H Programs of Distinction description, evaluation criteria, guidelines for submission, and categories follow. Submissions are sent electronically, reviewed on a continuous basis, no deadlines! What are 4-H Programs of Distinction?4-H Programs of Distinction are a collection of program descriptions that reflect the high quality of 4-H youth development programs that are occurring in communities across the United States. They represent outstanding examples of programs that:
Why 4-H Programs of Distinction?Scholarship is defined as intellectual work whose significance is validated by one's peers, whose relevance is valued by those for whom it is intended, and that is communicated to others so that human knowledge advances and so others can improve their educational programs. The 4-H Programs of Distinction is designed to help 4-H professionals to:
The Submission ProcessColorado 4-H Programs of Distinction can be submitted to Jan Carroll at jan.carroll@colostate.edu. Manuscripts are accepted on a continuous basis, and must be submitted electronically. How will the 4-H Programs of Distinction be accessible?Web Site: 4-H Programs of Distinction will be available through an on-line searchable database on the 4-Husa.org web site, CYFERnet and related sites. The central database will feature selected 4-H Programs of Distinction, author recognition, and full recognition to the author's state and institution. Because of the continuous submission process, new content will be readily available. A 4-H Programs of Distinction cover page template will also be available for developing reports, media press kits and impact reports to funding sources. Invited Presentations: Top "Program of Distinction" entries will be selected for invited presentations and/or poster sessions at the annual NAE4-HA conference. The number of entries will be at the discretion of the NAE4-HA program committee. What are the Characteristics of a Program of Distinction?The following characteristics are examples of what represents a Program of Distinction:
4-H Programs of Distinction is supported by the National 4-H system partners and coordinated through National 4-H Headquarters, CSREES, USDA. Contact: Barbara Stone, National 4-H Headquarters, CSREES, USDA, 202.720.5345, E-mail: bstone@csrees.usda.gov. Criteria for EvaluationThe criteria for 4-H Programs of Distinction are reviewed for program content and readability. A total of 100 points will be assigned. Comments will be provided as appropriate. Program Content (70 points) Importance: Does the program warrant inclusion as a Program of Distinction? Does it represent something that 4-H educators, colleagues and stakeholders should know? Innovation: Is it innovative and original? Does it describe something that has not been widely done? Program Description and Design: Are the planned educational efforts based on needs assessment and relevant data? Is the targeted audience clearly identified? Is teamwork or collaboration evident? Program Outcomes and Impacts: (Describes short-term, mid-term or long-term outcomes. What happened as a result of the program?) Program Evaluation: Process indicators: Were the activities conducted as planned? Program outcome indicators: Did the participants demonstrate: the desired level of knowledge and skills, enhanced awareness, or improved practices expected for the program? Readability (30 points) Interest: Captures and holds readers attention. Development: Paragraphs and sentences are appropriately sequenced and constructed to support the central idea and conclusions. Mechanics: Uses acceptable standards of spelling and grammar. Graphics: Tables, graphs or photographs are accurate and appropriate. Submission Form Maximum length: 1,000 words, plus tables and graphics. Program of Distinction Category: (See "Program of Distinction Categories" below) Title of the Program: Rationale for Program: Program Description and Design: Knowledge and Research Base Used for Program Content and Design: (include citations) Targeted Audience: Program Outcomes and Impacts: Program Evaluation: (Description of procedures and findings providing evidence that program achieved its targeted outcomes) Suggestions for Replication of Program in Other Settings: Sources of Funding: Contact Person for Additional Information: Categories The 4-H Programs of Distinction categories support the National 4-H Strategic Plan, current national priorities, the 2004 4-H Professional Research, Knowledge and Competency (4-H PRKC 2004) model and those areas that build overall capacity for 4-H youth development. Leadership, Citizenship and Life Skills Categories
Science, Engineering and Technology Literacy Categories
Healthy Lifestyles Categories
Youth in Governance Categories
Organizational Strategies Categories
— Jan Carroll Permission to Display for Silk GarmentsAttached as a PDF file is a "Permission to Exhibit Form" for silk garments in the 4-H clothing division at Colorado State Fair. Please have the 4-H member who exhibits the top silk garment at your fair complete this form and attach it to the state fair entry tag. Completed forms must be attached to the entry tag at time of entry at state fair or the garment will not be displayed. We take these precautions as we have had some silk garments fade while on display in the 4-H Building, much to the distress of the member and their family. — Sue Cummings Policy for Cloverbuds at FairWith fair season just around the corner, I wanted to remind everyone of the policy for Cloverbud participation at fair. The Cloverbud Project (individuals five- to seven-years of age) is a non-competitive opportunity. Members are to be recognized for participation only and should not be awarded recognition based upon competition. Cloverbuds can take their "projects" to fair/exhibit day, go through an interview process if they feel comfortable with it, get a participation ribbon and have their projects put on display. They simply cannot be evaluated using either the Danish or American ribbon system. Cloverbud members are not to participate in or show any livestock (cattle, beef, horse, swine), small animal projects, shooting sports projects or activities, or any other state or county project. They are to enroll and participate in only the Cloverbud project and activities. Please see page 3.4 of the Colorado 4-H Youth Development Handbook for further information. The Cloverbud policy was developed based upon developmental research and knowledge and is intended to protect the young member from potential serious physical injury and unnecessary emotional stress. — Sue Cummings Forestry AwardThe Colorado Forestry Association will again provide Savings Bonds to the Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion 4-H Forestry projects at the state fair. The bonds will be ordered immediately after selection so that they may be presented to the recipients during their county achievement night programs. — Sue Cummings Six Flags Elitch GardensHelp celebrate over 100 years of 4-H at Six Flags Elitch Gardens July 30, 31, and Aug. 1, 2004. Attached as a PDF file is an order form for your use. You can also download the order form online. Six Flags Elitch Gardens and 4-H Youth Programs of Colorado State University Denver Extension are offering tickets for admission to Six Flags Elitch Gardens for only $18! This is a $18.99 savings over the regular price and includes admission, all rides, waterpark and attractions. Everyone is invited to join in on the fun! Your order and payment is due by July 23. For further information call your county office or Ken Grimes at 720.913.5270. — Ellen Butler
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