In the recent past, Extension Training Programs have witnessed multi-farious changes in the training methodology. The old days’ training methods like lecture are now being replaced with different multi dimensional training methods. With the introduction of modern communication techniques, the extension training has received numerous improvements. Senders (1965) commented that to make a training effective it should be based on the fundamentals that people learn by seeing with their own eyes, hearing with their own ears, saying with their mouths and doing with their own hands. Considering the above factors and all the modernization in the field of training methodology, the Institute has also incorporated latest training techniques and extension teaching methods by linkage with other institution like MANAGE, XISS, R K Mission, SRI.
A brief discussion of the training approach/methodology presently being followed by the Institute is given hereunder:-
Lecture-cum- Group Discussion / Group Exercise
The participants of the training courses conducted by this Institute usually are Master Trainers/Scientists of State Agricultural Universities and State, Distt. & Sub Divisional level Extension Officers from State Govts. Since the adult/senior people do not relish too much listening to others, the talk-cum-discussion method is used to orient the participants about concept of a particular module during the training session. The opportunity is provided to the participants to discuss their field experiences and problems related to the particular module. This method is used for the modules on extension talk, skill teaching, Inforamtion Technology and other topics like leadership development, Motivation etc.
Planning Session
In all the courses conducted by the Institute, before practice or presentation on any module, the participants are provided with an opportunity to plan the particular topic in each module under the guidance of faculty members.
Sharing of Experiences:
In a many a cases, A sharing of experiences session included for better understand of problems and prospects of case studies for proper implementation of project at grass root level.
Video Films:
Field Visits:
Practice Session
After planning the topic and demonstration , the participants are provided with an opportunity to practice it. The practice on letter writing and drawing techniques are given to the participants in order to develop skill in preparation of visual aids in computer. Similarly participants practise for extension talk session as well as skill session before the actual presentation. This helps in developing confidence among the participants in use of various extension methods and A.V.aids in the field situation.
Presentation
The presentation of extension talks and the skill teaching plans by the participants forms one of the important techniques adopted in all the courses. These presentations may either be an individual or a group activity. The extension talks delivered by the participants would invariably be supported by some kinds of visual aids which they would prepare by themselves in consultation with the faculty members. The participants are requested to present their talk plans and skill plans, after proper planning & practice/rehearsal.
Appraisal
The appraisal of the presentations of extension talks & skill teaching plans is done by the faculty members and participants on certain norms. The appraisal of the visual aids is part of the appraisal of extension talks. In the process of appraisal, the strong points are highlighted and points for improvement are given in the form of suggestions for further improvement.
Recall Session
The recall is done with the specific objectives to strengthen the remembrance of the participants on the major learnings daily/weekly. The participants are asked to recall the important/major learning's on individual/group basis, which are visualised on chart(s) and kept displayed in the class room till concluding session.
Back at work Plan
At the end of the course the participants are requested to indicate about the major learnings during the course and their application in their backhome situation.
Evaluation
The training programmes conducted by the Institute are being evaluated which help in monitoring the training progress and also provide opportunity to the faculty to incorporate the topic(s)/revise methodology as per the need of the trainees while planning for future course.
Inductive Learning
Generally in most of the courses the above mentioned training methodology is adopted. However, in some courses like Extension Management, Monitoring & Evaluation Project Management & PRA Techniques and Management of Training Programme “COVERDALE” Training Methodology, in which participants are divided in sub groups and task is given, is used. The group members are requested to assemble in general session for presentation/appraisal/inputs. This provides 100 % involvement of the participants.
