Applied Economics Teaching Resources

an AAEA Journal

Agricultural and Applied Economics Association

Teaching and Educational Methods

Seven Editions of Pedagogical Innovation: Insights for Developing an Agribusiness Management Curriculum for the Twenty-First Century

Jay Akridge(a), Freddie L. Barnard(a), Brady E. Brewer(b), W. David Downey(a), John C. Foltz(c), Trey Malone(a*), and Elizabeth A. Yeager(b)
(a)Purdue University, (b)Kansas State University, (c)University of Idaho

JEL Codes: A20, A22, Q13, I23
Keywords: agribusiness education, agribusiness management, curriculum design, digital transformation, pedagogy, strategic management, textbook analysis, workforce development

First Published Online: December 2, 2025

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Abstract

This article examines changes in agribusiness management education through updates to the textbook Agribusiness Management, focusing on how the book has changed in response to shifts in student demographics and employer demands. Over the years, the textbook has evolved to accommodate a more diverse student base, including many students without traditional agricultural backgrounds. By combining foundational business principles with essential agribusiness skills, it has broadened its relevance to meet the needs of modern learners. The seventh edition features significant updates, with a focus on digital technology, AI, and strategic management. It includes case studies and practical examples to engage students with current challenges and opportunities in the agribusiness sector. This edition also aims to align educational content with industry needs, striking a balance between technical knowledge and the personal and professional skills essential for today’s job market. Informed by feedback from industry stakeholders, academia, and students, these revisions address the need for a dynamic agribusiness curriculum that prepares students for a rapidly changing sector. The article highlights strategic curriculum enhancements that equip students with business, management, strategy, and leadership skills, supporting the goals of agribusiness programs to meet evolving educational standards and industry needs.

About the Authors: Author order is alphabetical; contribution is equal. Jay T. Akridge is Trustee Chair in Teaching and Learning Excellence in the Department of Agricultural Economics at Purdue University; Freddie L. Barnard is Professor Emeritus in the Department of Agricultural Economics at Purdue University; Brady E. Brewer is an Associate Professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics at Kansas State University; W. David Downey is a Professor Emeritus in the Department of Agricultural Economics at Purdue University; John C. Foltz is Professor Emeritus in the Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Sociology at the University of Idaho; Trey Malone is Boehlje Chair in Managerial Economics for Agribusiness in the Department of Agricultural Economics at Purdue University; and Elizabeth A. Yeager is an Associate Professor and Director of Undergraduate Programs in the Department of Agricultural Economics at Kansas State University.

Acknowledgments: The authors appreciate the helpful comments from the reviewers in improving the final draft of the manuscript, as well as the support of the editorial team for this special issue.

Copyright is governed under Creative Commons

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