HorseQuest.info Equine Knowledge Modules

This project involves the development of educational modules to compliment material and learning outcomes of the Web site www.HorseQuestinfo. HorseQuest.info is an Equine Knowledge Base launched in early April 2003. The Southern Regional Equine Extension Specialists from 13 southern regional states will contribute to the development of four proposed modules. The Equine Knowledge Modules will address the program areas of Animal Sciences, Environmental and Natural Resources and Veterinary Medicine and be accessible through HorseQuestinfo. The development of Equine Knowledge Modules using Web technology and infrastructure will require only a browser and an Internet connection for user access. By leveraging their knowledge and sharing information, the Southern Region Equine Extension Specialists can empower their clientele and extension professionals with the ability to learn more about Equine Science in a "just in time" manner, eventually earning a certification in specific subject areas. The user interface and information system used will allow easy submission of content in a wide variety of media formats, including text, images, animation, audio, and video. Target audiences are the over 2 million horse owners, those non-owners of horses, millions of international owners and interested parties. Target audience includes the general public, county extension agents, young people, college students in equine programs (which are 90% female), Veterinarians, professors, farriers, farm workers (which are predominantly Hispanic), and equine professionals. Women will be a targeted audience as their presence in the horse industry continues to escalate.