How Can Open and Distance e-Learning Be More Relevant in the Philippine Agricultural Extension System?

Jaime A. Manalo IV, Christina A. Frediles

Development Communication Division, Philippine Rice Research Institute

jamanalo4@email.philrice.gov.ph / jamzedy@gmail.com; cafrediles@email.philrice.gov.ph;

&

Glenn Y. Ilar

Technology Management and Services Division, Philippine Rice Research Institute

gyilar@email.philrice.gov.ph

Efforts to utilize open and distance e-learning (ODE) in agricultural extension have taken off in recent years. Many researchers see its potentials in coming up with an alternative extension system. This paper critically evaluates the modes of execution of ODE in the context of the agricultural extension system in the Philippines. Specifically, the paper tackles technology and social issues attached to ODE. Recommendations are likewise forwarded as an attempt to set the direction of ODE in the agricultural extension system in the Philippines. This paper argues that it is only in putting farmers at the heart of the process that ODE can establish its relevance in realizing an alternative or supplementary platform in the agricultural extension system in the Philippines.

Keywords: agricultural extension, e-learning, e-readiness

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