Extension experts´ use and perception of ICT-based knowledge platforms: Case from South Wollo, Ethiopia
- Publikations-Art
- Kongressbeitrag
- Autoren
- Birke, F. M.; Knierim, A.; Mamusha, L.
- Erscheinungsjahr
- 2017
- Tagungsname
- ESEE 2017
- Tagungsort
- Chania (Kreta)
- Tagungsdatum
- 04.-07.07.2017
Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) have become powerful tools in the agriculture extension services. However, there is limited knowledge on how agricultural extension experts use these tools and their perception towards their usefulness. This study aims at contributing to knowledge on how agricultural extension experts use ICTs in the extension organization in Ethiopia and how they perceive their usefulness for gaining agricultural knowledge and information that supports their work. We conducted an exploratory case study on ‘Agricultural knowledge centers’ (AKCs), which are platforms that provide access to agricultural knowledge and information via online and offline resources in four offices of agriculture. We collected data using in-depth interviews and structured questionnaire then analyzed them based on the three concepts of Theory of Planned Behavior: personal belief, subjective norms, and behavioral control. In the study site, young male agricultural extension experts with university degrees visited AKCs often. Those at expert positions had positive perception on the usefulness of ICTs for personal benefits and the supervisors for communication. However, experts perceived that their supervisors think AKC visit as time wasting activity. In addition, experts perceived that internet speed, organizational support, and center manager’s accountability contributed to their manner of use. The findings showed that while access is a prerequisite, it is no guarantee that ICTs are used for agricultural knowledge search. Therefore, it is important to consider the knowledge needs of the agricultural extension experts and the organizational readiness to benefit from the potential of new technologies such as ICTs.
Keywords: Agriculture extension, pattern of use, attitudes, knowledge and information