August 5, 2008

When students enroll in an equine science class at Chandler-Gilbert Community College, they can expect to spend more time in a barn than in the classroom.

For more than 10 years, Douglas Stedman has been bringing CGCC students into his barn to gain hands on experience in learning about and caring for horses.

Owner of Fox Mask Farm, a boarding and training facility in Gilbert, Stedman believes that the hands-on approach is best when it comes to teaching students.

“I’ve found that most students learn more effectively in a hands-on situation,” Stedman said. “Rather than looking at a picture in a text book, they have the opportunity to observe and work with real horses. Students always comment about how they appreciate the practical, real-world format of these classes.”

Stedman said that his classes contain a wide spectrum of students, including pre-veterinary and agricultural business students from ASU, as well as community members who own currently own horses.

“There are quite a few people in the East Valley who own horses and want to become more knowledgeable with the intent of providing the best possible care for their horses,” Stedman said.

Ashley Butka, 19, of Queen Creek has taken three CGCC equine science classes from Stedman.

“I own several horses myself, and it’s a big responsibility,” Butka said. “I wanted to learn as much as I could so that I could properly care for my horses. The hands-on aspect of the class made a huge difference in being able to understand the ideas and concepts being presented. I would recommend these classes for horse owners or anyone considering purchasing a horse.”

Stedman said that he is able to help place many of his students in internships with veterinarians, trainers, and even at his own farm after taking these classes.

“An internship is a great opportunity for students looking to get into any aspect of the field,” Stedman said. “By the time they finish an internship, students have a really good grasp of the amount of work involved in breeding, training, becoming a veterinarian, and the many other related career fields.”

Equine Science classes available this fall at CGCC include Principles of Equine Science, Equine Anatomy and Physiology, and Equine Business and Law. For more information, access www.cgc.edu or call (480) 988-8000.