Dissertation Information for Joseph B. Ojiambo NAME: - Joseph B. Ojiambo
DEGREE:
- Ph.D.
DISCIPLINE:
- Library and Information Science
SCHOOL:
- University of Pittsburgh (USA) (1989)
ADVISORS: - E. Blanche Woolls
COMMITTEE MEMBERS: - Muhammad Aman - Allen Kent - E. J. Josey - Jack Lee Daniel
MPACT Status: Fully Complete
Title: Communication of agricultural information between research scientists, extension personnel and farmers in Kenya
Abstract: Agriculture plays a significant role in the social and economic development of most developing countries. Agricultural productivity depends to a large extent on improved farming methods resulting from research findings. Agricultural research scientists and extension personnel are the links with farmers in disseminating new farm technology for improved farming.
The purpose of this study was to investigate communication of agricultual information between research scientists, extension personnel and farmers. The survey research method was used to gather data for this study. The data were collected by the use of questionnaires and structured interviews. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data.
The findings revealed that: (1) Research scientists used both formal and informal sources of information to acquire agricultural information. For research scientists, personal communication with immediate colleagues was the most frequently used source. However, agricultural scientific literature and farmers were the information sources and channels considered by research scientists as most important in decision making and problem solving. (2) Extension personnel most frequently utilized informal oral sources and channels in obtaining agricultural information. Of these, communication with superiors was ranked as the most important source of information in decision making and problem solving. (3) A negative attitude exists between research scientists and extension personnel which in turn causes infrequent communication between the two. (4) In order to acquire agricultural information, farmers prefer informal oral sources and channels mainly with extension personnel, through farm demonstrations, communication with neighbors (fellow farmers) and visits to other farmers. Radio programs were also frequently used by farmers as a source of information. (5) Farmers need agricultural information throughout the year, however, different types of information are needed during the different seasons. (6) Libraries and documentation/information services do no yet play a major role in disseminating agricultural information to research scientists, extension personnel and farmers. (7) Without effective communication mechanisms, farmers will be unable to integrate new farming methods in their existing systems. Therefore, Kenya will continue to experience low agricultural productivity and peasant farmers will have a low standard of living.
The study therefore suggests the need for an integrated information communication system with established rural information centers.
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MPACT Scores for Joseph B. Ojiambo A = 0
C = 0
A+C = 0
T = 0
G = 0
W = 0
TD = 0
TA = 0
calculated 2008-01-31 06:23:19
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