Education

Our Youth Ag Education Program tells the story of modern day agriculture by educating both children and adults about the importance of agriculture to our city, our state, our nation and the world. Students, teachers, and families receive an up-close, hands-on look at the agriculture industry, and the innovative practices and technology that are shaping the future of how we live and eat.

ON SITE ACTIVITIES

Throughout the year, the Education Department reaches more than 50,000 children and adults through on-site programs designed to educate and engage participants in agriculture education. At the core of on-site programming are spring and fall field trips that provide opportunities for classroom and home educators to enhance curriculum through an educational experience that cannot be duplicated in the classroom. Current programs include Farm To Pizza, Exploring Biotechnology and Plants, Animals & Me.

During the annual Indiana State Fair, educational opportunities abound; including school field trips and permanent exhibits like Little Hands on the Farm, The Glass Barn presented by Indiana Soybean Farmers, the Greenhouse and the Normandy Barn.

VIRTUAL LEARNING

The next evolution for education is distance learning programs delivered from The Glass Barn via the Indiana State Fairgrounds Virtual Learning Center. Beginning in 2016, the Virtual Learning Center will offer its first distance learning program. New program offerings are currently being developed and will expand our reach to the entire state of Indiana, the nation and eventually the world.

CONSUMER PROGRAMS

Consumer programs are interactive informal learning opportunities that engage individuals, groups, and families. Focused primarily on adults, these experiences allow learners the opportunity for hands-on exploring to increase their understanding of food, fiber, and fuel and the impact agriculture has on their daily activities.