From Observation to Engagement: An Applied Learning Approach at Rannells Ranch

By: Emerson Tarr

When students first visit Rannells Ranch, they often expect a standard research site with open pastures, cattle grazing the hills, and work happening behind the scenes. What they find instead is an environment designed to put them at the center of the learning experience, giving them the space and guidance needed for curiosity to take shape and for observations to develop into thoughtful questions.

For Sophie Westbrook, a research assistant professor in the department of agronomy, this approach is intentional. “Agriculture is a very applied discipline,” Westbrook said. “There’s always a need for more applied learning experiences.” Rannells Ranch provides a setting where concepts introduced in the classroom can be applied in a real-world context.

Westbrook incorporates the ranch into her classes, giving students hands-on learning opportunities. During visits, students discuss management decisions, practice monitoring techniques, and observe how ecological processes unfold in the field. “By getting out here and experiencing this property, they can see how it all comes together, and it adds context to what they are learning in class,” Westbrook said.

Learning at the ranch emphasizes engagement rather than observation alone. Students contribute to field activities, support course-based projects, and engage in applied problem-solving that mirrors professional work. These experiences help students build skills that extend beyond a single class. “Our field teaching here creates transferable skills that will be useful in a variety of career paths,” Westbrook said.

Including students guides the ranch’s evolving mission. Westbrook is intentional about ensuring students understand they belong at Rannells Ranch and are encouraged to engage. “It’s really important to me that this is a resource for students,” she said. “That means getting classes out here and creating opportunities for them to be involved.”

As this teaching focus continues, Rannells Ranch is becoming a place where students move from observation to engagement in applied learning experiences. “The best way to learn is to come out and be part of it,” Westbrook said.