(a) State seven objectives of agricultural extension. (b) List the three main types of extension teaching methods and explain any two of them

Answer Details

(a) Seven objectives of agricultural extension:

1. To teach farmers improved farming practices and modern technologies.
2. To increase agricultural production and productivity.
3. To raise the income and improve the standard of living of farmers and their families.
4. To disseminate the results of agricultural research to farmers.
5. To convey farmers' problems and needs back to research institutes for solution.
6. To encourage farmers to form cooperatives and other self-help organisations.
7. To improve rural home and community life, including nutrition, health, sanitation and youth development.

(b) Three main types of extension teaching methods:

1. Individual (person-to-person) methods.
2. Group methods.
3. Mass (mass-media) methods.

Explanation of any two:

Individual methods: the extension worker deals with one farmer at a time, giving direct, personal advice suited to that farmer's particular situation. Examples include farm and home visits, office calls and personal letters. The method allows a close relationship and detailed attention, but it is slow and reaches only a few farmers.

Group methods: the extension worker teaches a number of farmers together at the same time. Examples include result and method demonstrations, group discussions, lectures, field days and farm tours. It reaches more farmers than individual methods, encourages the sharing of ideas and is fairly convincing through practical demonstration.