Effective Advocacy for Extension Networks: An Evaluation of Critical Capacities

Davis³

et al. 2021

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This study expands on previous research within an international extension context with a particular focus on identifying the capacities associated with effective organizational functioning. A panel composed of 31 experts participated in a three-round Delphi process and identified a list of 38 specific capacities associated with effective organizational functioning related to extension networks. Among the 38 specific items, five primary themes emerged: (1) an extension network should be transparent about its policies, procedures, and organizational intent; (2) knowledge sharing and collaboration within an extension network is critical; (3) general policies and management guidelines should be in place; (4) the development and maintenance of intentional, long-term relationships with various actors in extension, including stakeholders, policy-decision makers, and the private sector is critical; (5) reasonable expectations and guidelines should be established for both extension network officers and network members. The study’s results provide a guide within which extension networks and organizations may evaluate current capacities from both a developmental and strengths perspective.

Section: Methodsmentioning

confidence: 99%

Effective Organizational Functioning Capacity Needs of Rural Advisory Service Networks: A Delphi Study

Davis³

et al. 2021

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“…Researchers followed literature recommendations to develop the processes and instrumentation (e.g. Delbecq, Van de Ven, & Gustafson, 1975;Lamm et al, 2017;Lamm, Lamm, Davis, & Swaroop, 2018;Nistler, Lamm, & Stedman, 2011). During the first round of the process, experts listed, using a short phrase or word, up to five of the most important capacities a RAS network should possess to be effective in professionalization (Gliddon, 2006).…”

Section: Methodsmentioning

confidence: 99%

Identifying Capacities an Extension Network May Need to Effectively Support the Professionalization of Extension Providers

Davis³

et al. 2020

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Professionalization is a critical component of organizational capacity and productivity. Yet, rural advisory service (RAS) providers who are charged with disseminating research-driven techniques and ideas that enhance agricultural production and addressing local stakeholder needs are often overlooked in this area. One of the critical disconnects is the lack of consistent capacities for RAS networks to effectively support the professionalization of RAS providers. Based on a framework analyzing the typical milestones associated with professionalization efforts, capacity building, and social capital the study provides insights into the support mechanism needed for professionalization. Specifically, a Delphi a panel of 31 experts from 24 countries arrived at consensus on 33 specific capacities a RAS network may need to effectively support the professionalization of RAS providers. The results of the research provide a practical framework for RAS networks to consider from a professionalization and capacity building perspective. Keywords: professionalization, delphi, evaluation, capacity assessment, extension, network

“…The The Delphi method, using three rounds, was used to complete the study, the researchers followed recommendations in the literature to develop the processes and instrumentation (e.g. Delbecq, Van de Ven, & Gustafson, 1975;Lamm et al, 2017;Lamm, Lamm, Davis, & Swaroop, 2018;Nistler, Lamm, & Stedman, 2011). In round one, experts listed five of the most important capacities in a RAS network to be effective in ICT use, by using a short phrase or word (Gliddon, 2006).…”

Section: Methodsmentioning

confidence: 99%

Identifying Information and Communication Technology Use Capacity Needs of Extension Networks

Davis³

et al. 2019

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Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has the potential to address critical considerations within rural advisory service (RAS) networks, specifically, getting the right information to audiences in a timely and appropriate manner. ICTs are technologies that facilitate knowledge and information sharing. For RAS networks, ICTs can be an important tool to ensure that both explicit and tacit information is shared with network members with the anticipated benefit of increased capacity of the network. Although the importance of ICTs are well documented within the literature, there are limited guidelines for what specific network capacities in ICT use are needed to better provide support for RAS providers to fulfill their responsibilities. Using the Delphi process, a panel of 31 experts from 24 countries arrived at consensus on 51 specific ICT use capacities associated with effective RAS networks. The results of the research provide a practical framework for RAS providers and networks to develop ICT use related capacity building and tactical planning activities. Keywords: Information Communication Technology (ICT); ICT use; Delphi; evaluation; capacity assessment