levels of Some Competencies Needed for Using Computer Based Technology Media as Information Resources for Agricultural Extension Agents in Ismailia Governorate

Abstract: Information resources are of great importance for effective extension work, accordingly providing extension agents with them and elevating their capabilities in using them is highly important. The importance of computers in providing their users with the needed, timely, up-to-date information is advantageous for agricultural extension agents. In order to attain best utilization we must insure the agents' proficiency through developmental plans designed according to accurate assessment of the agents' competencies. The study aims at determining the degree of agricultural extension agents' competencies needed for using computers as information resources including : competencies needed for using computers, competencies needed for internet navigation, competencies needed for the web-based communication. In addition, the study aims at studying the relationship between the competencies degree and each of the following independent variables: Age, rural/urban background, residence, academic degree, graduation seniority, duration of service in agricultural, duration of service in agricultural extension work, previous training, access to computers and internet.
The study was conducted in Ismailia governorate. A sample of 116 persons was randomly chosen out of 154 extension agents working in Ismailia, Abusware, Elkassasin, Elkantara Gharb, Elkantara Shark, El Tal Elkebir, Fayed. The sample size was determined using the formula mentioned by Keijcie & Morgan(1978). For data collection, a specially designed questionnaire was distributed during their meetings. In addition to their personal characteristics they were asked to rate their competencies degree concerning 15 competencies that represent the three main competencies studied. Frequencies, Averages, percentages, Chi Square test and simple correlation were used in analyzing data and presenting results.
The results indicated that 62.9% of the respondents got low degrees, 37.1% got moderate and high degrees. The respondents got the highest degrees in ompetencies needed for using computers, followed by internet navigation, followed by communicating through the web* Using Chi square test and simple correlation several relationships were indicated between the competencies degrees and independent variables studied at 0.01, at 0.05 significance level as follows: A relationship was indicated between competencies degree and rural/ urban residence, academic degree, computer and internet previous training and access to computers.
The study recommends that agricultural extension agents attend training programs designed to meet the aspects revealed in order to attain proficiency in using computers and internet as information resources.
Publication year 2007
Pages 213-236
Availability location Agricultural Extension and Rural Development Research Institutes library
Availability number
Organization Name
City El-sharkia- egypt
serial title research Journal of Environment and Society Service
Author(s) from ARC
Agris Categories Extension
Publication Type Journal
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