Human Development

Purdue Extension Approach to Education

Extension approaches education from a human development standpoint by focusing on the interactions of children, adults, and families and the positive and negative situations in which they live. Through relevant and meaningful educational programs and resources, Extension works to improve challenging situations and strengthen positive ones.

Supporting the Development of Individuals, Children, and Families

Individual growth and family life happen in the context of communities, states, nations and the world. What is known about the development of children and families is based on observed common behaviors and usual or expected experiences over time. But, individuals and families often experience unexpected and many times negative circumstances.

When children, adults, or families are able to overcome these challenging situations, they are called resilient. This resiliency is based on the resources available to them in their community as well as from other people and resources.

Plans of Work 

During the fall and winter of 1997-98, Purdue Extension talked with people in every Indiana county and asked two questions:

1. What are the high-priority issues in your community?
2. What difference could and should we make with Extension educational programs?

The answers from the more than 5,000 people who willingly gave their time to respond were organized and carefully considered. From that feedback, Extension identified 16 broad issue areas and set up interdisciplinary teams of Purdue Extension specialists and educators who developed a Plan of Work for each issue area. These Plans were compiled into a State Plan of Work that guides Extension in planning and conducting educational programs for the next five years and beyond.

Building Strong Resilient Families in Indiana

The Extension State Plan of Work related to "Strong, Resilient Families" includes educational objectives and expected outcomes as noted below.

Educational Need in Indiana.

There are approximately 1.5 million children under age 18 living in Indiana. Many challenges face them and their families. Difficult situations such as poverty and violent communities or a lack of positive parenting role models make it difficult for families to function in healthy ways. Changing family forms and situations leave families looking for new skills and resources. Many parents lack a sense of direction and optimism, skills for dealing with children and parenting responsibilities, and the necessary programs and services to support them.

Educational Programming for These Audiences.

The "Strong, Resilient Families" Plan of Work provides educational programs to parents (including those serving as parents or guardians), childcare providers, families, and the professionals who work with them.

Educational Goals.

1. Indiana parents will become actively involved in their children's lives and will be effective in facilitating the growth of healthy, competent, and confident children;
2. Family members will develop the skills to support each other and address their programs; and,
3. Communities will develop a spirit of support and celebration of families, parenting, and children.

Educational Outcomes.

• Parents will learn and use positive parenting practices.
• Childcare providers will learn about and offer high quality care.
• Participants will learn and use positive personal development and relationship skills.
• Participants will learn and use positive family relationship skills.

Purdue Extension places high value on programs that.

• Address grassroots needs and build on existing knowledge levels;
• Are county based but connect the university to the community so others can realize the benefit from current scientific information and technology;
• Build human capacity and emphasize values, ethics, and character development; and,
• Promote strong families, strong businesses, and strong communities.

Information on other Purdue Extension Plans of Work
http://www.ces.purdue.edu/what_is_ext.htm