GENDER DIFFERENCES IN AN ON-LINE CERTIFICATION PROGRAM FOR GOAT PRODUCERS

Abstract

In 2006, Langston University unveiled an on-line training and certification program for meat goat producers consisting of 22 learning modules. Participants take pre- and post-tests and must record a minimum score of 85% to pass the 16 required and a minimum of 3 elective modules for certification. As of May 31, 2008, 638 participants had registered for the program and 64 had completed the requirements for certification.  An equal proportion of males (335) and females (303) have registered for the certification program (c2=1.61; P=0.21). The same nearly-equal gender frequency of registered participants also existed for those becoming certified, 39 males vs. 25 females, (c2=3.06; P=0.08).  A higher proportion of registered females (c2=17.38; P<0.01) and certified females (c2=11.52; P<0.01) were engaged in full- vs. part-time farming than registered and certified males.  There were no gender differences for farm size (c2=7.98; P=0.33) or for herd size (c2=2.89; P=0.58).  For all participants over all tests, there were no differences in pre- or post-test scores between genders (P=0.23).  For those participants required to take post-tests for the 16 required modules, females scored higher on pre-tests than males (66.8 vs.62.1%, P<0.05)  For the 6 elective modules, there were no gender differences in pre-test or post-test scores.  Results show that both women and men goat farmers will equally access and use an on-line certification program.  Pre- and post-test scores show equivalent knowledge of goat production for female and male goat producers.  The greater proportion of females than males who characterize themselves as full-time farmers illustrates the importance of women in the goat industry.