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Testing Extension Services through AKAP Models

Authors :
De Rosa, Marcello
Bartoli, Luca
La Rocca, Giuseppe
Source :
Journal of Agricultural Education and Extension. 2014 20(5):513-535.
Publication Year :
2014

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of the paper is to analyse the attitude of Italian farms in gaining access to agricultural extension services (AES). Design/methodology/approach: The ways Italian farms use AES are described through the AKAP (Awareness, Knowledge, Adoption, Product) sequence. This article investigated the AKAP sequence by submitting a questionnaire to a sample of Italian farms, providing questions on each step of the sequence. Findings: The results confirm the validity of the model and the necessity to evaluate AES in each phase of the sequence, through an in-depth analysis of the possible motivation for not adopting them. Practical implications: The functional repositioning of agriculture redefines the role of the farm, by introducing new possibilities of production and by fostering multifunctional activities. In this context, new tasks for AES emerge, aiming at sustaining farm development along either sectorial or territorial paths. Difficulties in adopting AES call for both fostering higher levels of access to services on behalf of farms and the adequate supply of services to farms' new needs. Originality/value: AKAP models have been prevailingly used in developing countries to evaluate the efficacy of extension in increasing agricultural productivity. This article demonstrates how this model could be of help in developed agriculture too in performing new lines of development rooted in the new models of multifunctional agriculture.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1389-224X
Volume :
20
Issue :
5
Database :
ERIC
Journal :
Journal of Agricultural Education and Extension
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
EJ1035502
Document Type :
Journal Articles<br />Reports - Research
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1080/1389224X.2013.872044