24 pgs., In order to stay relevant in an online world, Extension must properly use social networking platforms to effectively reach diverse audiences regarding agricultural and natural resource issues. However, few studies have focused on how Extension uses Facebook to effectively accomplish its goal. This study’s purpose was to explore how Utah State University Extension Sustainability uses Facebook to engage followers. The researchers conducted a quantitative content analysis of 504 messages posted to the USU Extension Sustainability Facebook page. Graphics and links were the most common post characteristics used by the organization. Text-only posts and posts containing videos were utilized the least. Food was the most common area of sustainability discussed on the page. Posts containing videos, shared content, or that tagged other Facebook pages in messages experienced statistically significantly higher user engagement than posts without those characteristics. Posts containing hashtags experienced statistically significantly lower engagement. Neutral sentiment appeared in the majority of posts. Additionally, information seeking was the most dominant communicative function among the posts. Neither the type of sentiment nor communicative functions were significantly connected to engagement. Future research should determine changes in knowledge, attitudes, intentions, and behavior as a result of exposure to, and engagement with, the Facebook page. Additionally, a qualitative study determining consumers’ attitudes toward Facebook content can provide a deeper understanding of the audience’s thought processes and content preferences. Page administrators should craft engaging content that builds community among followers.
Hearne, Cannon Chiles (author), Kelsey, Lincoln David (author), and New York State College of Agriculture, Cornell University; Foreign Agricultural Service, USDA
Format:
Report
Publication Date:
1963
Published:
USA
Location:
Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Box: 44 Document Number: B05361
Notes:
Evans ; Preface, table of contents, Ithaca, New York : Comstock, 1963. 483 p.
19pgs, New communication methods and technology continue to emerge and evolve – as do societal trends – making it paramount that Extension professionals stay abreast with the preferred communication channels of potential clientele. By being aware of clients’ preferred communication channels, Extension professionals can increase the number of participants who benefit from their work while also improving the quality of the message being delivered. The present study examined the preferred communication channels of potential Extension clientele specifically when gathering information regarding their community. Specifically, a non-probability opt-in sampling procedure was employed whereby respondent (N = 3,347) communication channel preferences were analyzed from an audience segmentation and uses and gratifications perspective. Overall, the results indicated the most effective channels through which to reach potential Extension clientele under 50 years of age is through the internet and social media, while word of mouth and newspaper are preferred channels for those 50 and over. However, the results of the study indicate there are a variety of potential communication channels with varying degrees of preference among different audiences. Using study results as a starting point to inform communication channel strategy may help to Extension professionals ensure the correct message is provided to the correct audience via the correct channel.
Evans, James F. (author), Hixson, Paul C. (author), Woodis, Ray A. (author), and Woodis: Deceased, former Assistant Head, Office of Agricultural Communications and Education, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL; Hixson: Director of Information Services, Office of Agricultural Communications and Education, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL; Evans: Professor and Head, Office of Agricultural Communications and Education, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL
Format:
Book chapter
Publication Date:
1994
Published:
International
Location:
Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Document Number: C07367
Notes:
See C07353 for original, In: Donald J. Blackburn (ed.) Extension Handbook: Processes and Practices, 2nd edition, 1994. Toronto, Canada: Thompson Educational Publishing, Inc. p. 142-158
