Philosophy of extension

Brief exposure to the basic philosophy of extension education.

1. P hilosophy of Extension Education Dr . Debashis Dash Ph.D. (Agricultural Extension and Communication) e-Content Developer IDP-NAHEP, GBPUA&T, PANTNAGAR

2. PHILOSOPHY Greek Word: “ Philos ” (Knowledge) and “Sophia” (Manner) Philosophy, basically is the manner to achieve the knowledge. Philosophy is the pursuit of wisdom which consists of answers to the questions after critical investigation of both theoretical and partial causes. Hence, Philosophy is a body of general principles or laws in a particular field of knowledge.

3. Philosophy of Extension Education Kelsey and Hearne (1967 ): The basic philosophy of extension education is to teach people how to think, not what to think. Extension’s specific job: Providing specific advice, technical information, counselling help, furnishing inspiration without directly helping them to find out the solutions. Philosophy of extension education would furnish the principles or guidelines of extension in order to mould the programmes or activities related to this.

4. Principles describing Philosophy of extension The individual is supreme in democracy, The home is the fundamental unit of civilization, The  family is the first training group of the human race, and The foundation of any permanent civilization must rest on the partnership of man and land . Mildred Horton (1952)

5. Philosophy of Extension Education Hypothesis Rural people are capable, intelligent and willing to change their situation P ractical Implication Furnish the extension principles or guidelines so that the rural people are capable of changing their current situation.

6. Ensimger ( 1962)’s Concept of Extension Philosophy Extension is an educational process. The changes occur in the behavioral components of the people, Helping people to help themselves. It is “learning by doing” and “seeing is believing” It is development of individuals and their society. Extension is a two way process It is basically working in harmony with culture of people. Extension is education for all the farmers, farm women, youth and villagers as a whole . Extension is a continuous educational process in which both learner and teacher contribute and receive.

7. Dahama (1965) Concept of Extension Philosophy Self-help People are the greatest resources It is a cooperative effort It has its foundation in democracy It involves a two-way channel of knowledge and experience It is based on creating interest by seeing and doing Voluntary, co-operative participation in programmes Persuasion and education of the people The programme is based on the attitude and values of the people It is a never ending process

8. CONCLUSION The philosophy of extension work is based on the importance of an individual in the promotion of progress for rural people and for the nation. Extension Educators should cooperate with people to help them, develop themselves and achieve superior well-being.

9. Thank You