Murray State Theses and Dissertations
Abstract
Elementary agriculture education (EAE) has recently emerged as a growing component of Georgia public education, yet limited empirical research exists regarding its measurable effects on student outcomes. As educational leaders continue to seek justification for program implementation and expansion, research examining the influence of EAE is necessary. The purpose of this quantitative experimental study was to examine the effects of EAE on leadership development, science process skills, and reading comprehension among fifth-grade students in Georgia public schools. Findings indicated a statistically significant relationship between EAE and leadership development, while no statistically significant differences were found in science process skills or reading comprehension. The findings support EAE as an immediate influence on leadership development, with the potential to strengthen foundational skills necessary for long-term student success across the P-20 continuum.
Year manuscript completed
2026
Year degree awarded
2026
Author's Keywords
elementary agriculture education, elementary leadership, science process skills, reading comprehension
Degree Awarded
Doctor of Education
Department
Educational Studies, Leadership and Counseling
College/School
College of Education & Human Services
Dissertation Committee Chair
Ben Littlepage
Committee Chair
Justin Sealy
Committee Member
Jacob Falwell
Document Type
Dissertation - Murray State Access only
Recommended Citation
Mears, Lindsey R., "THE INFLUENCE OF ELEMENTARY AGRICULTURE EDUCATION ON LEADERSHIP, SCIENCE PROCESS SKILLS, AND READING COMPREHENSION" (2026). Murray State Theses and Dissertations. 463.
https://digitalcommons.murraystate.edu/etd/463
Revisions made 2