Extension

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Abstract

Extension involves 'the conscious use of communication of information to help people form sound opinions and make good decisions' (van den Ban & Hawkins, 1996). In practice this includes building and enhancing the knowledge of people in rural communities. For students the subject is about people and change in the agricultural and equine industries. It introduces the role of the social sciences in agriculture and equine industries - emphasising social relationships and networks as well as the physical and biological components of the farm and industry systems. It gives students an appreciation of social processes as a means of change and improvement in whichever industry and role they see themselves. It uses methods and theory from communication and social science to provide an understanding of the forces and process of change, and to develop the skills necessary to assist people achieve change.

Syllabus

Extension concepts and practice. The history and development of Australian agriculture - including agricultural education.Communication theory. The Information business. Basic skills. Communication models to improve and criticise practice.The professional talk. Choosing the topic, planning, and constructing the talk. The theory, choice and construction of visual aidsDiffusion and adoption behaviour of … For more content click the Read More button below.

Extension concepts and practice. The history and development of Australian agriculture - including agricultural education.
Communication theory. The Information business. Basic skills. Communication models to improve and criticise practice.
The professional talk. Choosing the topic, planning, and constructing the talk. The theory, choice and construction of visual aids
Diffusion and adoption behaviour of farmers and equine business operators. The sociology and behaviour of managers and owners.
Bottom-up change. Community participation and rural development. The enhancement of farm systems by improving complex problem management and by using local knowledge and skills.
Marketing, economics in the public and private sectors.
Social research - its relevance to community research and development
Group dynamics and group exercises. The knowledge and skills required.
Mass communication. Understanding and knowing who to use to achieve intended outcomes.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

Be able to describe the social component of the agricultural and equine industries and the social processes occurring within them

Be able to describe the process of change, its effect on people and how extension processes can facilitate change management

Be able to use communication theory to analyse and improve extension.

Be able to demonstrate skills and strategies for effectively interpersonal communication

Enrolment restrictions

Incompatible