Evaluation Behaviors, Skills and Needs of Cooperative Extension Agricultural and Resource Management Field Faculty and Staff in New Jersey
ISSN 2158-9429
Volume 7, Issue 1 - June 2014
Editor: Linda Chalker-Scott
Abstract
Field-based Cooperative Extension agriculture and resource management personnel in New Jersey were surveyed to determine their program evaluation behaviors, attitudes, skills and needs. Nearly 80% reported recently conducting some level of program evaluation, and were motivated and willing to conduct such evaluations. Time to do so was the greatest barrier. Their self-reported skills and confidence levels were less on upper levels of Bennett’s Hierarchy; evaluation behavior frequencies mirrored this. Respondents need more training on a variety of evaluation skills, including selecting evaluation methods, developing survey instruments, and preparing evaluation reports. Preferred training methods and modes included face-to-face group sessions, web-based materials and webinars. This needs assessment aided in planning educational training, and gathering and developing relevant resources on program evaluation.
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