Abstract
This case study explores the implementation of a school food garden project in Hilo, Hawaii, focusing on how such initiatives can connect students to their food sources and contribute to reducing food insecurity within the local community. The primary objective of the project was to help students build a connection between farming and food systems while fostering leadership in sustainable agriculture. Using the Design Thinking Process Learning Theory and Makerspace learning, students investigated, designed, and constructed a garden from scratch. The produce grown was donated to local food banks and organizations serving those facing food insecurity. The research outlines the key steps and challenges of initiating a school garden, highlights the benefits of experiential learning, and examines student outcomes related to food systems, sustainability, and community impact. The study’s findings offer insights into long-term strategies for food education and suggest that integrating school gardens into education can empower students to become future leaders in addressing food insecurity.
Presenters
Han Nee ChongAssistant Professor of Education/Instructional Designer, School of Education, Hawaii Pacific University, Hawaii, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
School, Community, Food Gardens, Service Learning, Farm To School
