Comparing sericulture extension models for silkworm cocoon production management in Iran

This study compares sericulture extension models from the views of extension agents and sericulturists for silkworm cocoon production management in Iran. To achieve this aim, 316 sericulturists were selected through stratified random sampling technique and 58 sericulture extension agents were studied by census. Research methodology applied in this study was a combination of descriptive-analytical and quantitative methods and statistical method included path analysis. The results showed that the affecting factors for silkworm cocoon production management from the sericulturistsʹ view were effective in training presentation and participation, respectively. Based on the extension agentsʹ model, the affecting factors on the production management of silkworm cocoon were extension agentsʹ training methods, effective training presentation to extension agents and infrastructures. Accordingly, effective training should be presented for extension agents and sericulturists. In the extension agentsʹ model, the most important impacts on the sericulture extension resulted from the marketing and extension agentsʹ training methods. Also, in sericulturistsʹ model, marketing had effect on attitudes towards extension. Therefore, both sericulturists and extension agents believed that extension department should improve sericulture marketing activities.