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SOC 954V: (Virtual Field Study) Agriculture: Past, Present, Future, is a computer generated Video study course on CD. It is not a travel course. It is designed to help all classroom teachers increase their agricultural literacy and become more knowledgeable about the importance of agriculture in their own state and nation. No prior agriculture or farming background is required. The scenario for this course uses examples from California's Central Valley, and a primary emphasis is placed on the small family farmer. Teachers are asked to apply information learned to their own local farming industry. Teachers will explore their own local farm industries in order to become familiar with their contributions, the problems faced by farmers, field workers, labor contractors, and others involved in "putting food on our nation's tables." Assignments and materials provide teachers with experiences and information related to content standards appropriate for presentation of "Agriculture In The Classroom" instruction. Course materials include a CD, a History Channel Farming Technology Video, a highly acclaimed text (Epitaph for a Peach: Four Seasons on My Family Farm), Course Booklet, and a Teacher Resource Guide to Educational Materials About Agriculture. These materials, used to provide course instruction, are also appropriate to be used in most classrooms. Epitaph for a Peach: Four Seasons on My Family Farm, by David Masumoto, is an excellent book suitable for being read to or by students. PC Requirements Teachers need a PC with MS Windows, a working sound system, CD-ROM, and a DVD player. . No Special Technical Skills or Programs are required. Simply insert the CD and you'll soon meet many interesting people involved in our nation's food production. NOTE: Some newer Apple Macintosh computers will run this PowerPoint CD Program. (It is recommended that Macintosh owners check with the course Computer Consultant before registering.) Bill Hullender:   Course Computer Consultant, is available via phone (559) 875-4414 and email at no charge before and/or during enrollment. If you have computer questions, please feel free to contact Bill.