Examination of the perceived professional competencies needed by block supervisor

Abstract

The main purpose of this study was to examine the perception of SMOs towards the professional competencies needed by the Block Supervisors of the Department of Agricultural Extension. Data were collected from 150 Subject Matter Officers (SMOs) during July 24, 1993 and July 24, 1994. A list of 31 professional competencies included in the questionnaire were grouped into five areas: (1) communication and teaching, (2) program planning, (3) program evaluation, (4) administration, and (5) continuing education. Analysis of data indicated that each of the competencies were judged to he important. The ten professional competencies with the highest need for training- included: knowing sources of desired technical information, determining community needs, influencing farmers to accept change, maintaining subordinate morale, interpreting results in program evaluation, conducting a method demonstration, writing reports, budgeting, teaching youth, and involving people in programs. Irrespective of their characteristics all the respondents demonstrated similar responses pertaining to the competencies needed by the BS.