سازوكارهاي تقويت كاركرد خدمات برون رساني آموزش عالي كشاورزي ايران در عرصه كشاورزي

Strengthening Mechanisms of University Outreach Function in Iranʹs Agricultural Extension System

Agricultural universities have three well-known functions, including teaching, research and services. Unfortunately, in Iran the third function which means University Outreach Services, does not have positive impact on agricultural extension system. This research project was carried out aim to identification of strengthening mechanisms of university outreach function in Iranʹs agricultural extension system. This research was conducted based on survey strategy. Thus, data were gathered by questionnaire as research tool. Statistics population included three groups: agricultural university faculty members, extension faculty members and experts of Extension, Deputy of Jehad-e-Agriculture Ministry. Sample size for university faculties group was 130 persons and for second group was 145 persons. Data were analyzed by SPSS 11.5. Research results were indicated three groups of mechanism including printed and visual educational materials, organizing the extension education unit at campus, setting up the rural studies center, applying the participatory research approaches, setting up consultative center at campus and consulting electronic networks. Also, these mechanisms were prioritized based on combined means. According to research findings, effective implementing of explained mechanisms required set up a joint committee, including staff experts of both ministries, in order to conduct regular meetings due to appropriate policies.