793-402 Rural Communications and Extension

Credit Points

HECS Band

Coordinator

Semester

Contact

Subject Description

On completion of this subject students will be able to demonstrate the ability to:

• explain how humans communicate;

• demonstrate an understanding of how adults learn;

• facilitate a group discussion in an adult learning situation;

• choose an extension method appropriate to a given situation;

• design an extension program plan in consultation with a rural community; and

• evaluate an extension program.

The content includes: Understanding human communication, meaning, perception, attitude formation, views of the world, stereotypes, non-verbal communication; how adults learn, how an extension worker can assist adults in their learning projects; evolution of twentieth century extension philosophy and practice; choosing a model of extension appropriate to the task; extension in the context of individuals, groups and communities; collaborative inquiry in rural contexts, Landcare, Farm Advance, Salinity Action Groups, cooperative research; evaluating extension activities; practical extension skills: facilitating learning in groups, oral presentation, writing newspaper items, and advertising copy, making radio broadcasts, effective photography, using audio visual aids.

Assessment

Two case studies (50%); essay of 3000 words (50%).