Utilization pattern of extension tools and methods by Agricultural Extension Agents

Authors

  • M Surudhi Thanthai Roever Institute of Agriculture and Rural Development
  • M Asokhan TNAU, Coimbatore – 641 003
  • R Arunachalam TNAU, Coimbatore – 641 003

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.26725/JEE.2017.2.29.5838-5849

Keywords:

Extension method, Extension agent, ICT, individual contact method, group contact method, mass contact method

Abstract

A study was conducted in Krishnagiri district of Tamil Nadu state to understand the utilization pattern of extension tools and methods by the agricultural extension agents. As ICT revolution is slowly conquering the rural sector, it becomes imperative that the agricultural extension agents transform themselves to the changing times and develop competencies in utilizing these ICTs.  The study explored the usage of various extension tools and methods by the change agents and the constraints faced in utilizing them. The findings revealed that the extension functionaries frequently used the individual contact methods viz., telephone, office calls and farm and home visits in the process of transfer of technology. Least efforts were shown in sending SMS based communication. Meetings were the common and frequently adopted group contact method. Demonstrations, farmer field school, farmer’s interest groups, field trips and farmer training programmes were moderately adopted. Posters, leaflets and pre-season campaigns were the widely adopted mass contact methods. They possess least skill in utilizing farm magazines, presenting television and radio programmes, which are among the most popular and most efficient mass contact methods. The extension functionaries need to be trained adequately on the wider use of electronic communication methods like e mails, and SMS in the local language. Efforts should be taken up to sensitize the importance and train the extension agents in the usage of different group and mass contact methods.

Author Biographies

M Surudhi, Thanthai Roever Institute of Agriculture and Rural Development

Assistant Professor (Agrl. Extension), TRIARD, Perambalur - 621 212.

M Asokhan, TNAU, Coimbatore – 641 003

Professor and Head, Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Sociology, TNAU, Coimbatore – 641 003

R Arunachalam, TNAU, Coimbatore – 641 003

Professor (Agrl. Extension)

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Published

2018-05-14

How to Cite

Surudhi, M., Asokhan, M., & Arunachalam, R. (2018). Utilization pattern of extension tools and methods by Agricultural Extension Agents. Journal of Extension Education, 29(2). https://doi.org/10.26725/JEE.2017.2.29.5838-5849