Effects of Agricultural Extension Workers’ Perceptions of Off-the-Job Training and On-the-Job Training to the Development of Their Skills

Abstract

This study was conducted to identify the contributing perceptions of Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) regarding off-the-job training and on-the-job training (OJT) for developing their extension skills. Data on AEWs’ skill levels on selected four extension skill areas, their perceptions of Off-JT and OJT were collected from 90 AEWs using structured questionnaires. AEWs’ skill levels on four extension skill areas ranged from 36 to 86. AEWs’ perceptions of Off-JT did not significantly differ between AEWs with less than average skill levels and AEWs with higher than average skill levels. However, AEWs’ perceptions of OJT significantly differed between the two groups of AEWs. Perception of practical steps of OJT was important contributing factor to AEWs’ skill on work planning. Besides, perceptions of merits of OJT were important contributing factors to AEWs’ skills on working with group, organizing demonstration, assessing farmers’ problems, and work planning.