An agricultural teacher educator states that one of the most important tasks facing agricultural educators is the determination and refinement of the competencies required of teachers. Also necessary is the determination of how these competencies are best acquired and evaluated to assure high quality standards. (JH)

Describes the Agricultural Satellite Corporation, a consortium of universities and organizations established to conduct agricultural information and instructional services through advanced telecommunications. Looks at incentives that can motivate faculty to plan and deliver distance education programs. (JOW)

Following a brief description of the economic background of Venezuela, this article focuses on the National Institute of Cooperative Education (INCE) program which trains farmers and students, ages 14 to 20. Discusses the cooperative agreement between Pennsylvania State University and INCE to provide in-service training for INCE personnel and…

Theme articles discuss how students learn; how Future Farmers of America (FFA) enhances the process; how FFA helps in teaching employability skills; how FFA programs are developed; how teachers can be more effective in motivating students; how FFA can be incorporated into the curriculum; the value of FFA; and the place for collegiate FFA. (JOW)

Includes "Profession's View of Agricultural Education (AE)" (Christiansen, Briers); "AE: A View from Inside the Classroom" (Pieniazek, Pieniazek); "Managing Change in AE" (Herring); "Image vs. Substance" (Shinn et al.); "AE Profession" (Smith); "Expanded Mission, Expanded Challenges for…