Steps in Extension Programme Planning

 

According to Kelsey and Hearne (1949), an "extension programme" is a statement of situation, objectives, problems and solutions.

Program development involves: analyzing the situation or context; setting objectives/priorities and; designing an action plan; implementing the plan; evaluating inputs, outputs, outcomes, and reconsider the weak and strong points of the programme.

1 Collection of facts

Sound plans are based on availability of relevant & reliable facts. This includes facts about the village people, physical conditions, existing farm & home practices, trends & outlook. Besides, other facts about customs, traditions, rural institutions, peoples' organisations operating in the area, etc. should be collected. The tools & techniques for collecting data include systematic observations, a questionnaire, interviews & surveys, existing governmental records, census reports, reports of the Planning Commission, Central Bureau of Statistics, and the past experiences of people.

2 Analysis of the situation

After collecting facts, they are analysed and interpreted to find out the problems & needs of the people.

3 Identification of problems

As a result of the analysis of facts, the important gaps between 'what is' & 'what ought to be' are identified and the problems leading to such a situation are located. These gaps represent the people’s needs.

4 Determination of objectives

Once the needs & problems of the people have been identified, they are stated in terms of objectives & goals. The objectives represent a forecast of the changes in the behaviour of the people and the situation to be brought about. The objectives may be long-term as well as short-term, and must be stated clearly.

5 Developing the plan of work

In order to achieve the stated objectives & goals, the means & methods attaining each objective are selected; and the action plan, i.e. the calendar of activities is developed. It includes the technical content, who should do what, and the time-limit within the work will be completed. The plan of work may be seasonal, short-term, annual or long-term.

6 Execution of the plan of work

Once the action plan has been developed, arrangement for supplying the necessary inputs, credits, teaching aids, extension literature etc. has to be made and the specific action has to be initiated. The execution of the plan of work is to be done through extension methods for stimulating individuals and groups to think, act and participate effectively. People should be involved at every step to ensure the success of the programme.

7 Evaluation

It is done to measure the degree of success of the programme in terms of the objectives & goals set forth. This is basically done to determine the changes in the behaviour of the people as a result of the extension programme. The evaluation is done not only of the physical achievements but also of the methods & techniques used and of the other steps in the programme planning process, so that the strong & weak points may be identified and necessary changes may be incorporated accordingly.

8 Reconsideration

The systematic and periodic evaluation of the programme will reveal the weak and strong points of the programme. Based on these points, the programme is reconsidered and the necessary adjustments & changes are made in order to make it more meaningful & sound.