Perception of Agricultural Advisory Companies’ Educators Regarding the Importance of Professional Competencies in Training Process in Iran

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess perceptions of educators of agricultural advisory services regarding the importance of necessary professional competencies in education process. This descriptive correlational study utilized a survey research method. The statistical population consisted of agricultural educators of advisory services in two western provinces of Iran, Illam and Kermanshah (N=1853). Sample size was determined by using Krejcie and Morgan’s (1970) Table. Proportional stratified random sampling method was used to select 317 educators as the sample of the study (with return rate of 0.94 percent). Data were collected through questionnaire; its content validity was confirmed by using a panel of agricultural extension and education experts and the reliability of different parts were calculated in 0.70 - 0.90 range resulting from a pilot test. Comparing different competencies, the educators perceived the importance of teaching and learning methods at the first and delivery strategy at the last ranks. The results of Friedman test (P ≤ 0.01 & Chi²=48.802) showed that there was meaningful difference among the respondents’ perceptions on the importance of professional competencies in education processes. Based on the mean ranks of each statement in four competencies the professional competency development model for agricultural extension educators of agricultural advisory services was designed.