Adult Education and Development: A Study of Farmers' Training Centers in Dale Woreda in Snnpr
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Date
2009-06
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
This research was planned to assess the implementation of the modular training that was
being given to farmer trainees in Dale Woreda Farmers' Training Centers (FTCs) in light of
adult and non-formal education principles and practices. To this end, a cross-sectional study
design was employed The subjects were selected using purposive, stratified, and available
sampling techniques. The main technique of data collection for the study was questionnaire
which was filled by 120 trainee farmers found in four different FTCs in the Woreda. To
supplement the data, interviews with extension experts found at MoARD, REoARD, ZoARDD
and WBARD department and focused group discussions with facilitatorslDAs, coordinators,
PA representatives and trainee farmers of the FTCs were conducted In addition, classroom
and center observations were carried out and information was also collected from training
modules and other relevant documents. For analysis purpose descriptive statistics
(percentage and mean value) and thematic analysis were employed. The major findings of the
study indicated that the FTCs in Dale Woreda faced serious problems in giving both
theoretical and practical training due to lack of teaching aids, modules for trainees, proper
facilitation practices, direct participation of trainees in the preparation of materials,
demonstration plots with the necessary inputs, and facilities like workshops, exhibitions,
water supply and toilets. It was also found out that factors like interruption of training, and
the presence of incompatible structures in the FTC compound were worsening the situation
in which the training is implemented. Based on these findings, some ways of lessening the
problems were proposed: provision of the FTCs with necessary teaching aids, demonstration
plots, jUnctional workshop and exhibition and modules for trainees. Besides, training in
andragogyladult education and the facilitation of participatory training is to be provided to
the members of the extension department working in the different hierarchy of MoARD, in
general, and to DAs working in the FTCs as trainers of farmers in particular. Moreover, it is
advisable to involve trainee farmers in every step of the way in the process. Finally, different
stakeholders of the FTC training should work hand-in-hand to solve problems related to the
learning environment.
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