The purpose of this study was to determine the competencies entry–level Extension professionals will need in 2015. A Delphi panel of nationally recognized Cooperative Extension experts was developed to collect data. The 12 panelists reached consensus on 19 competencies. There were two key groupings among the competencies: extension program development process and core interpersonal skills. Cooperative Extension should examine ways to align its efforts with the competencies identified from this study in order to pro–actively plan for a successful future.

In 1980, Borich presented a new model that allowed errors in an individual’s judgment of self-proficiency to be offset by considering the perception of a group. The model relied upon the calculation of means for competency items measured with ordinal scales, an approach subject to debate in modern times. The purpose of our study was to explore the use of a novel approach we developed, the Ranked Discrepancy Model (RDM), as an alternative method to the Borich model for determining training needs. Data obtained from an online survey of extension professionals employed by a land-grant university in the United States was used to compare the training needs identified by applying the Borich model with those identified by applying the RDM. A very strong and statistically significant correlation existed between the scores derived from using both models, demonstrating a high level of consistency between models. Researchers conducting competency research should consider adopting the RDM given its suitability for delivering results that closely resemble findings from the Borich model while providing improved rigor in methods and increased detail about training needs.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to describe selected Caribbean extension officers' technology preferences and examine factors that may affect their technology preferences. Design/methodology/approach: The sample consisted of extension officers (N = 119) participating in professional development training sessions in Grenada, Belize and Saint Lucia. A 29-item instrument with a four-point scale was used to gather data on technology preferences. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyse the data. Findings: Extension officers used Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) for personal benefits and increased professional productivity but then would use traditional interaction methods with farmers. Education levels of extension officers played a part in technology acceptance; higher levels of education earned led to an increase in technology use. Practical Implications: An increase in awareness is important for the further adoption of ICTs for extension purposes. Organisations in both the public and private sector must work to increase knowledge of ICTs for the benefit of stakeholders. The use of ICTs can increase productivity for extensions officers and expand educational opportunities for learners. Originality/value: The use of information communication technologies (ICTs) by extension to disseminate educational materials around the world is widespread. While ICTs exist, extension officers' level of acceptance in using technology for their core job functions may prohibit the dissemination of ICTs to farmers. Increasing awareness and use of ICTs can lead to more productive relationships between extension officers and agricultural stakeholders.

The purpose of this study was to compare and contrast an academic extension education model with an Extension human resource management model. The academic model of 19 competencies was similar across the 22 competencies of the Extension human resource management model. There were seven unique competencies for the human resource management model. The integration of the models was informative to support and confirm the educational directions of each model. The human resource management model provided information for potential areas to include in the academic preparation of entry-level educators and agents. The academic extension education model indicated possible educational opportunities for credit and non-credit course work.

Cooperative Extension's role as a relevant provider of nonformal education is dependent upon its ability to improve and adjust in response to internal and external pressures. Periodically conducting needs assessments focused on the Extension organization can aid in Extension's efforts to deliver quality educational programs by pinpointing priority areas in need of improvement. A qualitative analysis of the final reports from the University of Florida's IFAS Extension annual county program review process was conducted to identify challenges and threats facing county Extension offices. Common challenges were marketing deficits, loss of human capital, and technology barriers. Common threats were the economy, increased numbers of urban residents, and insufficient facilities. Developing and implementing strategic plans to resolve the needs identified in this study may increase the effectiveness and efficiency of Extension.

Purpose: The effectiveness of new extension approaches hinges on farmers’ willingness to adopt innovative ways to interact with extension. Therefore, this study explored farmers’ willingness to use mobile text messaging for two-way interactions with Ministry Extension officers. Design/Methodology/Approach: Guided by the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), this study followed a correlational design and survey data were conveniently collected from 200 farmers of Trinidad. Findings: Findings showed most farmers of the sample knew how to send and receive text messages, and many owned Internet-enabled smartphones. In addition, most farmers were willing to communicate with extension officers through text messages. Practical Implications: Ministry Extension should revisit and revise their policies of communicating with farmers. Administrators should encourage extension officers to use SMS to respond to farmers’ requests and information needs. Theoretical Implications: While the UTAUT provided an appropriate framework for understanding farmers’ use of text messaging, researchers should tailor the moderator variables to the country’s context. Originality/Value: This study is the first to look at farmers’ willingness to use two-way information communication technologies in Trinidad. Results showed there is potential for Ministry Extension to use text messaging to communicate with farmers.