ISSN 2756-3642
International Journal of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development ISSN 3254-5428 Vol. 7 (1), pp. 001-007, January, 2019. © International Scholars Journals
Full Length Research Paper
Training needs of Iranian extension agents about sustainability: The use of Borich's need assessment model
Amirhossein Alibaygi1* and Kiumars Zarafshani2
1Department of Agricultural Extension and Education, Faculty of Agriculture, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran.
2Department of Agricultural Extension and Education, Faculty of Agriculture, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran.
Accepted 11 September, 2018
Abstract
This descriptive study probed to in-service training needs of extension agents in West Iran. The statistical population of the study consisted of Agricultural Extension Agents (AEAs) in Kermanshah Province (N = 97) . The entire population was surveyed. Therefore, sampling procedures were not utilized. Based on the Borich Need Assessment Model, a Delphi technique was used to develop 26 competencies needed to assess needs of Agricultural Extension Agents. The perceived level of importance and perceived level of competence of the 26 competencies of AEA were measured. Overall, in-service needs were analyzed and ranked using Mean Weighted Discrepancy Scores (MWDS). The top five competencies in need by Agricultural Extension Agents included agricultural waste management (MWDS = 8.40); participatory technology development (MWDS = 7.02); water conservation (MWDS = 6.73); integrated crop management (MWDS = 6.50); and soil erosion (MWDS = 5.82). The human resource development programs should study how the top in-service areas can be addressed in training workshops.
Key words: Needs assessment, Agricultural Extension Agent, Borich's model, In-service training, and sustainability.