Simple Learning Contract

A learning contract should contain the following elements:

1. Names of mentor and intern
2. Specific learning objectives
3. Time frame or evaluation schedule: when and how often the mentor and intern will meet to discuss the intern’s progress and possibly revise the contract.
4. Evidence of learning: how the intern will show his or her learning, e.g., demonstrate a skill, write a report, keep a journal.
5. Evaluation criteria: how learning will be measured, e.g., knowledge-based criteria such as comprehensiveness, depth, clarity or usefulness; skill-based criteria such as precision, speed, comfort; and who will evaluate the learning. Self-evaluation by the intern is perfectly appropriate.
6. Signatures of mentor and intern with date

Learning Contract #

Intern Name: ________________________________

Farm: ________________________________

Farmer/mentor: ________________________________

Season: 20____ from March to November. 

Evaluations: Mid-season check-in in July; final check-in in November.

Learning goals agreed upon: #

e.g., pests and diseases; weed control; fertility; crop planning; grazing rotation; farm accounting and business planning; etc.

I will measure my progress by:

e.g., keeping a journal; self-evaluation; peer feedback; etc.

Signed:

Apprentice / Date

Farmer / Date