An Empirical Determination of Tasks Essential to Successful Performance as a Commercial Vegetable Producer. Determination of a Common Core of Basic Skills in Agribusiness and Natural Resources.

To improve vocational educational programs in agriculture, occupational information on a common core of basic skills within the occupational area of the commercial vegetable producer is presented in the revised task inventory survey. The purpose of the occupational survey was to identify a common core of basic skills which are performed and are essential for success in the occupation. Objectives were accomplished by constructing an initial task inventory to identify duty areas and task statements for the occupation. The initial task inventory was reviewed by consultants in the field and 283 tasks were identified. A random sample of 84 commercial vegetable producers based on the 1975 directory of the Ohio Vegetable and Potato Growers was otabined. Data were collected utilizing a questionnaire. Forty-three questionnaires were returned of which 37 were usable. A compilation of basic sample background information is presented on the size and kind of commerical vegetable farm, years as a commercial vegetable producer, and preparation as a commercial vegetable producer. A compilation of duty areas of work performed and work essential for the occupation is given. Percentage performance by incumbent workers and the average level of importance of specific task statements are presented in tabular form. (Author/EC)