Effects of Agricultural Extension Workers ’ Perceptions of Off-the-Job Training and On- the-Job Training to the Development of Their Skills

Abstract: This study was conducted to identify the contributing perceptions of Agricultural Extension Workers (AEWs) regarding off-the-job training and on-the-job training (OJT) for developing their extension skills. Data on AEWs ’ skill levels on selected four extension skill areas, their perceptions of Off-JT and OJT were collected from 90 AEWs using structured questionnaires. AEWs ’ skill levels on four extension skill areas ranged from 36 to 86. AEWs ’ perceptions of Off-JT did not significantly differ between AEWs with less than average skill levels and AEWs with higher than average skill levels. However, AEWs ’ perceptions of OJT significantly differed between the two groups of AEWs. Perception of practical steps of OJT was important contributing factor to AEWs ’ skill on work planning. Besides, perceptions of merits of OJT were important contributing factors to AEWs ’ skills on working with group, organizing demonstration, assessing farmers ’ problems, and work planning