Descriptive Study of the Training Needs for Men and Women Farmers in Semi Desert Areas A Case Study in East of Jordan

This study aimed at specifying the training needs for farmers (men and women) in semi-desert areas in east of Jordan. The study has been conducted on a sample of (100) men and women. The data was collected by using a questionnaire prepared by the researcher. The questionnaire was composed of two parts: one for personal and job information and the second included a measure to test the level of information of the men and women farmers in plant production, animal production, bee keeping and food processing. The questionnaires were shown to a number of experts and arbitrators to assure usefulness and efficiency, as well as the coefficient of validity and reliability for some variables in the study. Then the information was collected (April up to June, 2005. The data was analyzed by using the (S.P.S.S). The following points are the most important findings of the study: 1-The animal production came first, then food processing, bee keeping and finally, the plant production for men. While for women the plant production ranked first, then bee keeping, animal production and food processing. 2- With respect to training needs in plant production field, for women the priority of training needs was given to fruit trees followed by crops then vegetables. While for men the vegetables ranked first followed by Crops and the fruit trees were in the last place. 3- Regarding the priorities of training in animal production, the poultry came first followed by sheep and goats then the cattle for men, while for women the sheep and goats came first followed by poultry then the cattle. Important recommendations: 1- Training center in extension administration should develop practical and scientific plan building on the results of this study. 2- More regular field surveys aiming at specifying the needs of men and women. 3-The extension administration should provide the extension workers especially in the fields of animal, plant production and food processing.