An Evaluation of the Farmer-Training Programme in Jamaica: Opportunities for use of ICTs in training delivery and in farming activities

The purpose of this research was to evaluate the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) farmer training programme in order to ascertain the value to its clients. The Kirkpatrick evaluation approach was used to evaluate the training programme under four levels namely: reaction, learning, behaviour and results, guided by six evaluation questions. The sample size used in this study was n= 208 (200 farmers and eight extension specialists). Data collection methods included questionnaire, interview, observation and document review. The findings showed that the majority of the farmers were satisfied with the training programme. An integrated model to the delivery of training through the inclusion of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) and more field demonstrations were needed. It was recommended that a proper evaluation system along with an integrated (ICT) model to deliver training is required, in order to enhance the value of the training programme to more rural farmers