9 pages, This study investigates how communication channels to exchange agricultural information were chosen. Specifically, it identifies the communication channels used by farmers in Tanzania and determines the factors influencing the choice of communication channels for exchanging agricultural information. The study employs a meta-analysis review methodology in identifying, evaluating and interpreting studies relevant to the topic of interest. The results indicate that radio, mobile phones, television, fellow farmers, agricultural extension agents and newspapers were the commonly used communication channels for transferring agricultural information. Moreover, the channels’ influence, availability, affordability, communication network coverage, and the resources and facilities needed to use a particular communication channel were found to influence the choice of channels. It is concluded that understanding the audience, the characteristics surrounding messages and choosing appropriate communication channels are important for enhancing access to agricultural information. It is recommended that agricultural information providers should understand the factors surrounding communication channels before disseminating agricultural information
Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Document Number: C17253
Notes:
Pages 131-150 in Carine Alders, Bertus Haverkort and Laurens van Veldhuizen (eds.), Linking with farmers: networking for low-external-input and sustainable agriculture. Intermediate Technology Publications, London, UK. 298 pages.
Baker, G.L. (author / Louisiana State University), Ebata, A. (author / University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign), and Bloome, P. (author / Oregon State University)
Format:
Conference paper
Publication Date:
1998-06-14
Published:
USA
Location:
Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Box: 104 Document Number: C09089
Notes:
1998 National Extension Technology Conference. June 14-17, 1998 . St. Louis, MO. 2 p. http://outreach.missouri.edu/netc98/manuscripts/ebata.html