Using Distance Education in Extension Programming

Abstract

This paper provides an overview of the development of the Management Analysis and Strategic Thinking (MAST) program conducted by Kansas State University. This intensive management training course for progressive farm and agribusiness operators is being delivered successfully using a combination of face-to-face and distance extension delivery techniques. We find that some parts of the program are best delivered face to face and other parts are best delivered via distance. Of participants surveyed, 94% would recommend the MAST program to their peers, and 100% believe the program will have a positive impact on their businesses' bottom line.

Developing an Asynchronous Online Tennessee Master Nursery Producer Program

“…he traditional extension education model, in which staff administers in-person presentations that growers in a particular region of the state attend, has proven successful in the past (Jones et al, 2007). Although effective, this model can pose challenges for the audience, particularly so for nursery crop producers.…”

Advantages and Disadvantages of Asynchronous Online Extension Programming for Delivering Master Producer Content

“…T he traditional extension education model (Bohlen et al, 1960) has proven successful at disseminating information and fostering adoption (Jones et al, 2007). Although effective, there are challenges to traditional live educational programs and demonstrations, for both the extension system (delivery) and the intended audience.…”

Staying in Touch through Extension: An Analysis of Farmers' Use of Alternative Extension Information Products

“…Similarly, as funding for agricultural research and Extension programs decline, Extension program efficiency becomes increasingly important (Ahearn, Yee, and Bottum, 2003;Dooley and Fulton, 1999;Martin, 2001;McDowell, 2001). This suggests that Extension educators should choose those methods of information delivery that maximize program efficiency and effectiveness (Jones et al, 2007). However, farmers vary systematically in their preference and frequency of use of alternative Extension delivery media (see, for example, Suvedi, Lapinski, and Campo, 2000), creating a set of distinct farmer audiences.…”