Abstract
Knowledge on Tap is an innovative public education program developed through a partnership between the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Extension Office in Seminole County, the Museum of Seminole County History, and the Sanford Museum, with additional organizations contributing as guest experts. Hosted in a local bar, the program delivers engaging lectures on environmental and historical topics—paired with custom-themed craft beers—to foster informal learning and civic dialogue. Over 16 sessions, attendance ranged from 12 to 30 participants, with 169 survey responses showing a marked increase in self-reported knowledge (from 1.81 to 4.11 on a 5-point scale). Topics have included local history in a global context, insects, invasive species, landscape basics, and edible gardening. Participants have requested expanded offerings, including cooking classes and deeper dives into environmental and historical subjects. The program demonstrates a scalable model for environmental education and community engagement, with measurable learning outcomes and sustained interest. Sessions are already booked through 2026 with WopsHops Brewing Company. Other nearby businesses have also requested similar programs for their own clients. Knowledge on Tap illustrates how cross-sector collaboration and creative delivery can enhance public understanding and inform future educational policy.
Presenters
Kaydie Mc CormickResidential Horticulture Agent & Master Gardener Volunteer Coordinator, IFAS/Extension, University of Florida, Florida, United States Morgan Pinkerton
Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems Extension Agent, Extension Seminole County, University of Florida/IFAS, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Education, Assessment and Policy
KEYWORDS
Informal Education, Community Engagement, Environmental Education, Public History, Cross-Sector Collaboration
