Research findings: interests and involvement

In a telephone survey conducted for K-State Research and Extension in Summer 2007, 70-percent of Kansans said they were “very interested” in health and nutrition issues; and 68 percent said they were “very interested” in environmental preservation issues. About 80 percent said they were “very” or “somewhat” interested in not only those two topics, but also community development; home and family; lawn and gardening; and youth development.

The same survey showed that the highest number of Kansans are “very” or “somewhat” involved in health and nutrition (81 percent) and home and family (78 percent) activities. In order, the same group said they were also involved the following:
- lawn and gardening (69 percent);
- youth development (56 percent);
- environmental preservation (55 percent);
- community development (54 percent);
- agriculture (35 percent); and
- 4-H (21 percent).

The results indicate strong opportunities for K-State Research and Extension to reach Kansans who have interest in areas beyond their direct involvement. One approach may be to make sure that participants in a program also receive information about all of the programs offered at the local office.

For more information, contact Pat Melgares, 785-532-1160, melgares@ksu.edu

Research findings: interests and involvement