Document Type : Research Paper
Author
1- Ph.D. Student, Department of Agricultural Extension and Education, Faculty of Agriculture, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
Abstract
Since 2020, the Production Support Collaborators “Yavaran – e -Tolid” initiative has been implemented as one of the flagship programs within Iran’s New Agricultural Extension System. The program aims to capitalize on the scientific expertise of university faculty members, researchers from agricultural research centers, and field extension agents to transfer technical knowledge, improve productivity, and advance sustainable development in the agricultural sector. This applied, field-based study evaluated the program’s effectiveness in achieving its intended goals in Hamadan Province and identified the corrective measures needed. The statistical population of the research is a collection of experts, Agricultural Extension, and researchers who are active in implementing the project (N=160), . The statistical sample included 113 people from the general population who were selected using a proportional stratified sampling method. Data were gathered using a structured questionnaire based on the CIPP Evaluation Model, with content validity confirmed by experts and reliability verified using an ordinal theta coefficient of 0/892. Findings from the one-sample t-test indicated that the mean scores for the “Context” and “Process” components were significantly higher than the benchmark value of 3, reflecting relatively greater satisfaction among respondents in these dimensions. In contrast, the “Input” component showed no significant deviation from the benchmark, while the “Product” component scored below it, indicating incomplete achievement of intended economic and environmental outcomes. Major challenges identified included limited financial resources, weak institutional support, insufficient educational equipment, restricted access to modern technologies, and inadequate attention to specific target groups. The Kruskal Wallis test revealed no significant differences in attitudes among occupational groups. Overall, the program demonstrated relative effectiveness in goal-setting and process execution, but achieving sustainable results will require strengthening resources, enhancing institutional backing, targeted planning for disadvantaged groups, and establishing a continuous monitoring and evaluation system.
Keywords
- Agricultural Production Support Collaborators "yavaran – e- tolid"
- Agricultural technology promotion
- CIPP evaluation model
- agricultural extension
- agricultural knowledge
Main Subjects