Training needs of extension agents’ regarding organic agriculture in Saudi Arabia

Bader Alhafi Alotaibi, Edgar Yoder, Mark A. Brennan, Hazem S. Kassem

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

12 Scopus citations

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the needs of extension agents for training on organic agriculture (OA) in the Riyadh Region. Fifty-five percent (n = 69) of extension agents were selected to collect data through an electronic survey. Results indicated that extension agents in the Riyadh Region cited on job training as a main source for acquiring knowledge in OA. Agents expressed interest in receiving training in OA in general, OA marketing, and transitioning to OA. The most useful resources were field days at organic farms, OA training sessions at colleges, and attending OA trial plots. There were no differences in the level of interest in training; however, there were significant differences between individuals in terms of their experience in OA, job responsibility for providing information related to OA, and area of specialization in their job. This study recommends developing professional training programs based on the current knowledge of extension agents.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number101711
JournalEvaluation and Program Planning
Volume77
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 2019

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Business and International Management
  • Social Psychology
  • Geography, Planning and Development
  • Strategy and Management
  • Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Training needs of extension agents’ regarding organic agriculture in Saudi Arabia'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this