STILLWATER, Okla. - The Oklahoma 4-H program has long been known for project work in areas such as livestock, sewing and foods. As times change, so do the interests of club members.

Jeff Sallee, state 4-H program assistant specialist, said while the traditional project areas such as livestock, cooking and sewing remain popular, science and technology programs and projects are gaining a lot of interest, and programming is changing to meet the all of the new demands.

“When you think about technology, electronics such as computers quickly come to mind. However, the science and technology aspect of 4-H programming encompasses so many different things,” Sallee said. “We’re even seeing new divisions open up at both the Oklahoma State Fair and the Tulsa State Fair in the science and technology area.”

Oklahoma 4-H’ers have been able to enter fair projects such as digitally altered photographs, Web page designs and PowerPoint presentations. But with the expanded categories, visitors to the both of the fairs are likely to see robotics, Global Positioning Systems (GPS)/Geographic Information Systems (GIS) displays and robotics, including both remote control and programmable robots. In addition, a new junior division for homemade model rockets also has been added.

Project work is not the only way 4-H’ers can learn about science and technology. Activities such as Science Camp, Science Leadership Conference and the Omniplex Camp-In also provide club members with ample opportunities to learn new and exciting things that are related to science and technology.

The Ag in the Classroom program offers a number of bio-technology lessons geared for students up through sixth grade.

Club members who have an interest in geology will soon be able to learn new things through materials currently being developed specifically for the Oklahoma 4-H program by the Oklahoma Energy Resources Board. The state offers much diversity geologically, such as lava-covered mesas and the Ouachita Mountains. These new materials will emphasize that geology is more encompassing than just rocks.

“One of the main priorities we have with the science and technology project area is to show how science and technology relates to all areas of life,” Sallee said. “We want to expose club members to new things that they could enjoy learning about. There are more and more materials becoming available for adults volunteer leaders who are interested in starting a science and technology project club.”

There are a number of science and technology kits and materials that can be checked out from the State 4-H Office or any of the district offices, including 4-H GPS Units, 4-H Lego Robotics, Hydro-Rocket Launchers, E-SET Science is Here, Biotechnology and the Future, Wonderwise Curricula, 4-H Aerospace Projects, 4-H Computer Mysteries, Youth Experiences in Science and 4-H SERIES (Science Experience and Resources for Informal Education).

“There are many ways to apply science and technology to all areas of 4-H and learning about these areas can help develop skills such as leadership, recordkeeping and public speaking,” Sallee said. “We’re very excited to be able to offer 4-H’ers experiences and help them learn things that will apply to all aspects of their lives.”

Contact: Jeff Sallee jeff.sallee@okstate.edu