A critical history of change in agricultural extension and considerations for future policies and programs.

The thesis explores the history of changes in agriculture policy and extension so as to inform the more effective delivery of future activity in these areas. Social and sustainability concepts are given particular attention due to their growing popularity in current agriculture initiatives. The questions framing the thesis address: what influences have shaped agriculture policy and how do these affect the development of extension models? and what is required to develop effective agriculture extension policies and programs that specify social and sustainability outcomes? The thesis achieves the above by observing a history of ideas relating to adult education in general and more specifically agricultural extension, including an account of the main movements in which they have been significant. A contemporary example of how policy directs program delivery to achieve social outcomes involving learning is provided through the NAVIGATOR® case study, developed and implemented in partnership with the South Australian wine industry. The case study leads to an investigation into the historical origins and application of selection of terms commonly used in agricultural extension to gain a greater understanding of the adoption of new language into this field of study. This is followed by a more in-depth examination of the social capital and sustainability concepts, touted as preferred outcomes for modern agricultural programs. Key features identified by the study include the confusion surrounding the language used and the role of the political economy in directing agriculture initiatives. I conclude that, if the social outcomes implicit in many modern agricultural policies and programs related to the concept of sustainable development are to be achieved, more weight must be given to the tradition of social science that emphasizes inquisitive and collectivist understandings of the dynamics of change. In obtaining clarification on the language used and what is to be achieved, the tendency for programs to lead to government ‘rhetoric’ when scrutinised may be avoided.Thesis (Ph.D.) -- University of Adelaide, School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, 201