Study of Extension Roles: What Kaset Tambon Does: A Case Study in Nakhon Ratchasima, Northeast, Thailand

Abstract

The purpose of this survey research is to gain insights into strength and weakness of extension organization in the province. A total of seventy Kaset Tambon (KT) in Nakhon Ratchasima, Northeastern province of Thailand have been tested on their perception related to level of importance and level of implementation of their roles, and organization management aspects. The relationships between their level of importance and level of implementation were studied through a correlation test. The findings of this research show that, perception of KT in sum are positive on both level of importance and level of implementation of their roles with the total mean scores of 3.92 and 3.55 respectively. The correlation test showed statistical relationship among three studied items. The test of perception of KT on organization and management aspects however has carried different reflection. The level of implementation of requisite management aspects measured at average mean score 2.83, being at moderate level pointing to the need to revamp, improve certain features of extension organization. This has been confirmed by observation of weak relationships between level of importance and level of adequacy on majority of the items. The study has reflected the inadequacy of extension organization management in sum in various practices. Major recommended practices from this study include the need for extension to draw clear mission statement, set clearer directions and policies, raise educational background and qualification level of staff members, emphasize importance of applied research, build management information system, strengthen network and information technology operations in the field, and integrate approaches towards advising, counseling amongst the government agencies.