Evaluating the effectiveness of university agricultural extension test stations using Wuli-Shili-Renli methodology

Abstract

Wuli-Shili-Renli (WSR) methodology was used to assess the effects of systematic management on university agricultural extension test stations, in order to understand areas for further optimization. We developed a framework model and evaluation index system, of which, the weights of the evaluation index system were determined using AHP. Using an agricultural extension test station of Hebei Agricultural University as an example, we interviewed and surveyed in total of 225 university extension experts from nine test stations. Assessment showed that the test station system organization produces desirable societal benefits and improvements. In addition, the organizational structure and job allocation were found to act as high-impact factors in improving the optimal system function, with the university extension experts functional better in the incentive and guarantee mechanism than other factors. Our investigation validated that the university extension experts were critical in designing the incentives and evaluation programs.