Effectiveness of Extension Program Delivery Methods as Perceived by the Central Vietnamese Extension Workers

Abstract

Success of extension programs depends upon appropriateness of extension delivery methods used. It can be argued that if we know what extension methods are appropriate to specific farmers, then it is possible to deliver extension programs which meet farmers’ needs and help bring about changes - knowledge, skills, attitudes, and practices of farmers. A cross-sectional survey research was conducted to investigate the effectiveness of extension delivery methods used in the Central region of Vietnam. A five-point Likert scale which ranged from 1= very ineffective to 5= very effective was used to measure the effectiveness of extension delivery methods. Descriptive statistical analysis methods were used to analyze collected data. Findings show extension methods including: training, farmer-to-farmer extension, farmers’ group meetings, and farm/home visits were most effective. In contrast, extension methods including the use of radio programs, posters, and booklets were not effective.