Knowledge and Needs of Knowledge of Selected Aspects of Technology Transfer Techniques of District Agricultural Agent, Department of Agricultural Extension, for the Rural Development in the Central Region.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate level of knowledge and needs of knowledge of selected aspects of technology transfer techniques of district agricultural agent. Simple random of 196 district agricultural agents was employed. The data was collected by using questionnaire. Statistical analysis used were percentage, mean score, and chi-square. The results of the study revealed that a majority of district agricultural agents was male, receiving Vocational Agriculture Certificate in Plant Science. The level of knowledge received from Vocational Agriculture Certificate curriculum and training as perceived by more than half of respondents was high and intermediate respectively. As a whole, the perceptions of the respondents towards the level of knowledge of selected aspects of technology transfer techniques was low while the need of such knowledge was high, such as steps and factors affecting the change of farmers’ attitudes, motivation and group dynamic. No difference between the two agricultural agent groups, above and below average service age, regarding the perceptions of needs of knowledge both in psychological and methods of teaching aspect. According to the study conducted, it was recommended that the training curriculum should be revised by giving more concentration on extension courses. With regard to the development of Vocational Agriculture Certificate curriculum, the content both in theoretical and practical aspect should be inserted in order to be well prepared for the change leaders in the community.