NETC 2010

May 23-26, 2010

Conference Poster Sessions

Posters will be on display throughout the conference. Poster presenters will be available for discussion during the 3:30 PM afternoon break on Monday and Wednesday.

Title: A Multi-Media Approach to Beef Extension
Abstract: Beef producers in Tennessee are utilizing a greater array of technology to acquire information needed to manage their operations more profitably. Budget cuts are forcing Extension to look at more cost effective ways to provide information to beef producers. Utilizing new Web 2.0 technologies, this team has developed a web-based video series that includes more than forty segments that are from three to six minutes long that cover a wide variety of topics related to beef cattle production. Utilizing this technology is helping reach additional producers with important production information at a time when resources do not allow one-on-one contact.
Lead Presenter Name: Emily L. Tipton
Lead Presenter Inst: Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee
Co Presenter Name: Clyde D. Lane
Co Presenter Inst: Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee

Title: Ask an Expert Widget Deployment in North Carolina
Abstract: North Carolina Cooperative Extension county centers deployed the eXtension Ask an Expert widget in 2009. A few key steps contributed to the success of the project. A widget activation feature was added to the county content management system to facilitate deployment. Regional Information Management Agents offered training and assisted with question wrangling. A news release template helped the county centers announce the widget in their local media markets. 90 counties are actively using the widget. Over 1200 questions have been received and answered. How do the county personnel rate the widget and its deployment? Survey results will be shared.
Lead Presenter Name: Rhonda Conlon
Lead Presenter Inst: NC State University
Co Presenter Name: Adrian Gaskins
Co Presenter Inst: North Carolina Cooperative Extension

Title: Email Migration Using Remote Support
Abstract: Changing email systems is a challenge for any organization. The logistics of over 700 users spread across 110 locations in the state increases the challenge. In September 2009 the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture migrated email systems from Lotus Notes to a centrally managed Exchange server run by the UT Office of Information Technology. Developing a comprehensive migration plan for the entire state allowed the six Extension IT staff members to migrate over 700 users remotely in a five week time period. Using the Bomgar remote support system users were migrated quickly and easily to the Exchange system.
Lead Presenter Name: David A Yates
Lead Presenter Inst: University of Tennessee Extension

Title: Growing UF's Gardening Audience
Abstract: The University of Florida has recently launched a social media campaign around consumer horticulture information. The campaign focuses on content delivered through the Florida Master Gardener and Florida-Friendly Landscaping programs. Gardeners are heavy information seekers and readily search for information. Through multiple social networking services (Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, Wordpress, YouTube), we are able to bring current gardening information to our clientele rather than waiting for them to find us.
Lead Presenter Name: Emily Eubanks
Lead Presenter Inst: University of Florida
Co Presenter Name: Jennifer Sykes
Co Presenter Inst: University of Florida

Title: Leading in complex world: Impact of complexity theory on leadership
Abstract: Cooperative Extension, like many organizations, is trying to make sense of the economical, social, and technological changes that have and are occurring. This poster will demonstrate models and methodology for making decision and taking a lead in a complex world.

Using a Cognitive Edge approach, we hope to demonstrate methods for increasing understanding of different perspectives and increasing the range of future possibilities. And, we hope to challenge others to consider what a future Cooperative Extension will look like.
Lead Presenter Name: Kevin Gamble
Lead Presenter Inst: eXtension and North Carolina State University
Co Presenter Name: Beth Raney, Jerry Thomas, Rhonda Conlon, Anne Mims Adrian
Co Presenter Inst: eXtension and Penn State University, Ohio State University, North Carolina State University, Auburn University-ACES

Title: Lights - Camera - Internet: 4-H Photography Leader Training
Abstract: Time and travel is a key element of volunteers not attending training. It is hoped that through this delivery method, 4-H could increase the number of leaders and the quality of the program for youth. Developing a project using various mediums will provide support to those who are engaged in teaching this project. The internet provides an opportunity for volunteers to connect with experts in the photography field , share their photos, and learn from each other.

Participants use WEBCT with 15 modules on their own time and the class meets one-hour weekly using web conference system to review lessons and discuss weekly topic.
Lead Presenter Name: Georgene Bender
Lead Presenter Inst: University of Florida IFAS Extension

Title: Techno-Academy: Using Technology to Educate Youth about Homeland Security
Abstract: Tennessee State University, Cooperative Extension Program has an engagement project entitled Techno-Academy which was designed and implemented by the staff and personnel of the Agricultural Information Technology Center. Using the modules from the National Homeland Security Comprehensive Assessment Model (HLS-CAM) the students were encouraged to develop Assessment Models based on mock disaster activities. This presentation will focus on the modules that were used in those activities and how the students implemented them in their mock activities. Some of the modules that were covered are:

Threat Assessment
"All Hazard" Threat Assessment
Critically Assessment
Community Priority Assessment Plan
Vulnerability Assessment

Also in this presentation we will discuss the "discovery" concept behind today's youth and how they felt about a National threat to their homeland.
Lead Presenter Name: Jonell Hinsey
Lead Presenter Inst: Tennessee State University
Co Presenter Name: Finis Stribling
Co Presenter Inst: Tennessee State University

Title: Use of Automated Response System in Extension Programming
Abstract: Determining the needs of clientele and assessing the impact that Extension programming have on clientele are two key components of an Extension worker’s responsibilities. An Automated Response System (ARS) is a tool that can be used to conduct needs assessments and measure program impact, as virtually any format of questions can be asked (true/false, multiple choice, Likert scale, etc). The ability to export data allows for detailed analysis, including statistical analysis and comparison. The ARS has the potential to improve attentiveness and knowledge retention during meetings since the audience is interacting with the presenter.
Lead Presenter Name: Amy Winstead
Lead Presenter Inst: Alabama Cooperative Extension System

Title: Using an Audience Response System to Enhance Learning Among Pesticide Applicators
Abstract: Many educators rely on PowerPoint® presentations to educate Extension clientele. While PowerPoint® can be a useful instructional tool, it can also be limiting for the participants and the educator. To enhance the learning experience for pesticide applicators, an audience response system (ARS) was used to engage the participants, reinforce exam material, and to collect real-time data from class evaluations and surveys. Ninety-three percent (n=242) of participants surveyed (n=260) indicated that the ARS technology helped them feel more confident about taking a pesticide exam. Verbal feedback indicated that participants “enjoyed the class” more when using the new technology.
Lead Presenter Name: Linda Seals
Lead Presenter Inst: Brevard County UF/IFAS Extension Service

Title: Virtual Alabama: Helping ACES Utilize Geospatial Technology
Abstract: Virtual Alabama is a Google Earth Enterprise product which provides state and federal agencies in Alabama access to state imagery and datasets through 3D visualization. Alabama Cooperative Extension System (ACES) employees can use Virtual Alabama to display, utilize and share geospatial data with other state, federal and local government agencies. Benefits of the program include user-friendly internet-based applications, low cost and easy to access. Virtual Alabama enables those without GIS experience to quickly and easily integrate geospatial technologies. Applications of Virtual Alabama by ACES faculty include nutrient, forest and water management, natural resources planning and monitoring invasive and resistant plants.
Lead Presenter Name: Amy Winstead
Lead Presenter Inst: ACES

Title: High Tech Down Home Disaster Awareness
Abstract: You probably have an eXtension ID and you may be involved in adding county widgets, involved in your state's Institutional Team, and participating in monthly professional development opportunities through eXtension. But did you know that disaster awareness efforts are included in eXtension? The Extension Disaster Education Network (EDEN) officially became a community in the early days with a focus on two agriculture-related topics (agrosecurity and flooding). As you know, disasters don't stop with those two areas. Discover what's new with the EDEN CoP and how the community is integrating high tech with down home disaster issues.
Lead Presenter Name: Virginia Morgan
Lead Presenter Inst: Alabama Coopreative Extension System