THE ANNUAL INFORMED ARIZONA EQUESTRIAN HORSE SYMPOSIUM: DOES A CHANGE IN VENUE IMPACT THE PERCEPTION OF LEARNING?
Extension Education
Betsy Greene
Extension Horse Specialist
University of Arizona
Tucson
Abstract
The Informed Arizona Equestrian Horse Symposium was developed to address a documented need for science-based horse owner education identified in a 2015 statewide survey. This Extension program, established through collaboration between Arizona Cooperative Extension and local veterinarians, aims to improve equine management knowledge and decision-making among horse owners. In 2025 and 2026, the symposium was rebranded and relocated, incorporating new facilities and a two-day format to expand educational opportunities and enhance participant engagement. Program methods included delivery of 15+ lectures and demonstrations annually to over 100 participants, covering a range of equine health and management topics. Innovative teaching strategies, such as live-streamed demonstrations using mobile devices projected in real time, were implemented to improve visibility and audience interaction. Participant outcomes were evaluated with paper-based surveys using 5-point Likert scales to measure knowledge gain, satisfaction, and intended behavior change. Demographic data and response patterns were analyzed using Microsoft Excel and SAS. Results indicate that attendees consistently rated presentations as useful, clear, and relevant, with reported increases in knowledge across all topics. Greater knowledge gains were associated with more technical or unfamiliar subjects, while smaller gains and lower intent-to-change scores were linked to basic or previously familiar content. Positive correlations were observed between land ownership and travel distance, suggesting higher engagement among more invested participants. Program satisfaction metrics were strongly correlated in 2025 but not in 2026, potentially reflecting changes in format from a 1-day to 2-day event with a cost increase. Live-streamed demonstrations were identified as a highly valued addition. In conclusion, the symposium demonstrates sustained impact as an effective Extension education program, successfully increasing participant knowledge and supporting informed equine care decisions. Continued refinement of evaluation methods and expansion of interactive learning approaches will further strengthen program accessibility, relevance, and measurable outcomes.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: Betsy Greene, Deborah Reed, Rebecca Splan
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Greene, B. Extension Horse Specialist, University of Arizona Cooperative Extension, Arizona, 85721-0090
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Reed, D. Program Coordinator, Senior, University of Arizona Cooperative Extension, Arizona, 85721
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Splan, R. Associate Professor, Delaware Valley University, Pennsylvania, 18901