Information and Communication Technology Training Needs for Agricultural Extension Workers in Delta State, Nigeria

International Journal Of Agricultural Science, Research And Technology In Extension And Education Systems

مقاله 4، دوره 11، شماره 2، شهریور 2021، صفحه 99-107   

نوع مقاله: Original Article

نویسندگان

Oghenero Joseph Ovharhe^{* 1}؛ Peter Otunaruke Emaziye¹؛ Elizabeth Yarhere²؛ Ajieh Patrick Chuks¹؛ Deborah Oghenero Igeh¹؛ Faith Oghenevwede Ugbunu¹

¹Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, Delta State University, Asaba Campus, Asaba, Delta State, Nigeria

²Raw Materials Research & Development Council, Asaba, Delta State, Nigeria

چکیده

The study investigated the training needs of agricultural extension workers on the use of information and communication technology (ICT). Some specific objectives were to ascertain the level of awareness on channels of information on ICT available to extension workers and to identify the constraints facing agricultural extension workers on the use of ICT in Delta State. A sample size of 80 was obtained; first, purposive and second, random sampling techniques. Information was gathered with a semi-structured questionnaire. Major results obtained revealed that the respondents’ awareness of information channels on ICT were mostly telephone (96.3%), photo camera (95.0%) and radio (93.9%). In the competence of ICT utilization, telephone with on-line forum (group chat) (mean = 3.6), and laptop (mean = 3.3) were most applicable. However, low competence in usage was recorded in video conferencing (mean = 2.0), and GPS (mean = 1.7). The most serious constraints were frequent power failure (mean = 3.7), high cost of ICT infrastructure coupled with poor communication network (mean = 3.6) in the rural areas of Delta State. Result of tested hypothesis showed that there was a significant relationship between social economic profile of respondents and ICT competence of extension workers (p <0.05). The benefits of the study is typical in the exposure of necessary training needs made available for development interventions. It was recommended that there ought to be regular electricity power supply, subsidized the high cost of ICT and availability of good communication network in rural areas.
 
DOR: 20.1001.1.22517588.2021.11.2.4.8

کلیدواژه‌ها

Information communication technology, Agricultural Extension؛ Training Needs

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