(a) List the three main extension teaching methods. (b) For each method listed in 10(a), state three types. (c) Give four qualities of a good extension agent.
Explanation
(a) The three main extension teaching methods are: (i) Individual method. (ii) Group method. (iii) Mass method.
(b) Three types within each method: Individual method: (a) Farm visits (b) Home visits (c) Office visits (d) Telephone calls (e) Personal letters (f) E-mails (g) Text messages through G.S.M.
Group method: (a) Meetings (b) Demonstrations (c) Field trips (d) Group discussions (e) Seminars (f) Workshops (g) Symposia (h) Excursion/Tours (i) Agricultural shows (j) Debates (k) Conferences (I) Lectures
Mass method: (a) Use of posters (b) Display boards/bill-boards (c) Newspapers (d) Fliers, hand bills, leaflets, pamphlets distributed. (e) Projected visuals/film shows/videos. (f) Radio (g) Television (h) Websites/Internet (i) Exhibition (j) Journals/Proceedings/ Periodicals.
(c) Qualities of a good extension agent: (a) Must be polite or humble to the farmers. (b) Must understand the customs and traditions of the people in the community. (c) Should be able to communicate very well, particularly in the language of the people. (d) Should know the best times to visit the farmers in order to avoid conflicts of programmes. (e) He should deliver his messages clearly, aided with good materials, which catch the imagination of the listeners. (f) Should be tactful and helpful at all times as the need arises. (g) Must be honest and transparent. (h) He must be competent in the subject matter. (i) Should be diplomatic. (j) Must be assertive/ tolerant/patient/approachable. (k) Should be able to adapt to environment of his assignment. (I) Must have good initiative. (m) Must be persuasive. (n) Must have interest in farm work.