Identifying Staff Development Needs of Cooperative Extension Faculty Using a Modified Borich Needs Assessment Model

Abstract

The concept of needs assessment has evolved since the mid-sixties as a\rdirect offshoot of the social action legislation period (Stufflebeam,\rMcCormick, Brinkerhoff & Nelson, 1985). The logic behind identifying\reducational needs stems from the desire to design and implement relevant\reducational programs which are based on measurable and achievable goals\rand objectives. Gathering data from potential clientele and actively\rinvolving them in the process of identifying potential educational\rprograms increases the likelihood of implementing relevant educational\rprograms; thus, increasing the likelihood of achieving appropriate outcomes.\rThis article describes an educational needs assessment process\rwhich was employed in an attempt to develop a prioritized list of\reducational needs for extension field faculty.