Open and Distance Learning (ODL) For Improving Social Competence of Agricultural Extension Workers

Huda, Nurul (2013) Open and Distance Learning (ODL) For Improving Social Competence of Agricultural Extension Workers. In: Konferensi ICDE, 15-19 Oktober 2013, Tianjin, China.

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Abstract

One essential competence that agricultural extension workers must posses is social competence which is directly related to their duties to interact with farmers. This research was intended to : (1) analyze the extend to which ODL can improve the social competence and its aspects; (2) analyze the dominant factors affecting social competence of extension workers; and (3) formulate a strategy for the development of social competence of extension workers at UT. Designed as an explanatory research, the entire population of agricultural extension workers who were graduated from UT in four different locations were used as respondents. A survey technique was implemented among them. Information from stakeholders were also collected to elaborate the findings. Data was analyzed by using descriptive and regressionanalysis. The findings indicated that : (1) agricultural extension workers who were graduated from UT had a moderate level in their social competence. Their knowledge on social concept was relatively good but still having problems in implementing it; (2) learning facilities, training, and subject matter coverage were factors significantly affecting social competence. The most dominant factor was held by subject matter coverage;; and (4) strategies that can be formulated to improve social competence were improving their level of knowledge and skills in terms of social matters. These can be focused on improving the learning quality at UT, mainly on subject matter development. From the findings, it can be concluded that ODL as an educational institution can be addressed by agricultural extention workers to improve their social competence. By studying on ODL institution, they can improve their competence without leaving their duties on extension activities.

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