Committee Chair

Taylor, Jessica N.

Committee Member

Crawford, Elizabeth K.; Rausch, David W.

Department

Dept. of Applied Leadership and Learning

College

College of Health, Education, and Professional Studies

Publisher

University of Tennessee at Chattanooga

Place of Publication

Chattanooga (Tenn.)

Abstract

This study evaluated the effectiveness of a Beginning Commercial Butterfly Breeder Seminar, a training workshop based on evidence-based best practices for rearing butterflies. The evaluation examined participant experience in the workshop, knowledge gained, and any changes in their professional practice. An electronic survey was distributed to participants of the 2022 and 2023 cohorts to collect feedback on their perception of the seminar and mastery of learning outcomes. The results indicated a live perception of the seminar, which equipped participants with the knowledge and skills to develop and implement standard operating procedures to enhance their professional practices and facilitate the application of research findings to promote the overall health and conservation of monarch butterfly populations. The findings of this study can inform stakeholders whether the program learning objectives were implemented in professional practices and whether the training program resulted in modifications to breeder-rearing practices. This data may be utilized to improve the facilitation of future seminars, workshops, and professional conferences. Ultimately, the research study findings offer valuable perspectives for enhancing breeder seminars. This includes integrating hands-on experiences, cultivating a collaborative atmosphere where breeders can convene and exchange their expertise, and implementing small focus groups to provide tailored instruction. It is recommended to consistently assess training seminars, conferences, and other professional development opportunities and make necessary adjustments based on feedback and suggestions from participants.

Acknowledgments

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my committee for their assistance, guidance, and invaluable advice: Dr. Jessica Taylor, my committee chair; Dr. Beth Crawford; and Dr. David Rausch. I also want to thank the International Butterfly Breeders Association and Americans For Butterflies. I appreciate their support, guidance, and encouragement.

Degree

Ed. D.; A dissertation submitted to the faculty of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in partial fulfillment of the requirements of the degree of Doctor of Education.

Date

12-2024

Subject

Butterflies--Breeding; Monarch butterfly--Health; Monarch butterfly--Conservation

Keyword

butterfly farming; butterfly husbandry; citizen science; environmental education; monarch butterfly; program evaluation

Document Type

Doctoral dissertations

DCMI Type

Text

Extent

xi, 77 leaves

Language

English

Rights

http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/

License

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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