Extension Agents Perception of Open Data Usage in Agricultural Communication in Abia State

Abstract

The study assessed agricultural extension agent's perception of open data usage in agricultural communication in Abia State. Simple random sampling technique was used to select 83 extension agents for the study. Data for the study was collected with the use of questionnaire and described with frequency counts, percentages and mean. A moderate percentage (68%) of extension agents were aware of open data with only 15% and 7% having high and very high level of awareness. A relatively high percentage (54%) understand what open data is all about with only 49% consenting to be involved in the use of open data mainly at a moderate level (66%). Extension agents mainly perceive open data to facilitate agricultural research ((Formula presented) = 3.2), facilitate access to research findings ((Formula presented) = 3.2), give access to the work of other extension agents in other states ((Formula presented) = 3.2), expose them to innovation in agriculture ((Formula presented) = 3.2) and ensure timely access to all necessary information ((Formula presented) = 3.1). The major challenges to the use of open data among extension agents were lack of fund to purchase internet bundle ((Formula presented) = 2.2), unavailability of internet facilities ((Formula presented)= 2.1), lack of basic ICT facilities ((Formula presented) = 2.1) as well as lack of adequate knowledge of the use of ICT((Formula presented)= 2.0) and open data ((Formula presented) = 2.0). Propagation of the use of open data could be done mainly by provision of ICTs in offices ((Formula presented)= 3.6), training of extension agents to understand the concept of open data ((Formula presented) = 3.6) and provision of internet facilities for extension agents ((Formula presented) = 3.5). The study emphasized the need for Government through the Agricultural Development Programme (ADP) to provide basic ICT tools in offices and provision of internet facilities to enable extension agents maximize the use of open data.