Domestic Impacts resulting from the International Extension Projects Nick T. Place, Ph.D. Department of Agricultural Education & Communication University of Florida

International Extension Projects USDA-CSREES Polish-American Extension Project (PAEP) University of Florida/IFAS Internationalizing Extension Training Project (IETP)

Background of the Polish-American Extension Project (PAEP) Overseas Technical Assistance Project. Sponsored by USDA with Poland’s MAFE 1989-1995 Extension specialists and agents. 70 individuals from 26 states 6-month terms Worked with Provincial level ODR staff. Extension methodologies Farm management, farm economics, agricultural technologies, etc.

Background of the Internationalizing Extension Training Project (IETP) Program designed to increase knowledge of internationalizing extension and international opportunities Sponsored by USDA-CSREES, UF/IFAS Extension and the UF College of Ag. & Life Sciences Extension agents, County Commissioners, Graduate students and Extension specialist Four part program Two 3-day introductory sessions, A 10-day international experience, A 2-day reflective session

PAEP Data Gathering Process Questionnaire to all PAEP participants. 96% return of 70 participants Random on-site state visits with participants and near-associates. 8 of the 26 states Telephone interviews with PAEP secondary contacts. 28 completed interviews with community representatives

IETP Data Gathering Process Pre-test/Post-test Used to assess experiences, knowledge, understanding and aspirations Impact questionnaire Used to assess change, results and impact

Data Analysis Quantitative data Qualitative data Basic statistical analysis Qualitative data Content analysis Organizing data into patterns and categories utilizing logic comparison for common themes

Primary Level Impact and Effects Participants

PAEP Participation Findings among Participants Increased international knowledge, awareness and understanding. Skill development, reinvigoration and higher self-esteem. International integration into subsequent extension programming. 46% noted extensive levels International impact and involvement among near associates.

Integration of the PAEP into Extension Programming

PAEP Output and Visibility with Others Upon Return to the US %

IETP Output and Visibility with Others Upon Return to the US

Benefit and Impact upon Participants Greater self-perception Greater commitment for Extension and grassroots programming Keener awareness of culture and working with diverse people Greater international perspective International connections

Second Level Impact and Effects Coworkers and Colleagues Clientele

PAEP on-site interview findings Substantiated participants’ self-observations and change in participants. Domestic value to technical assistance. Implications of international technical assistance.

Results from PAEP Telephone Interviews Unanimous opinions of “Very Positive” and “Very Important” from their secondary interactions. Interviewee comments: Provides new perspectives Rejuvenates thought processes Creates awareness Gives confidence to meet other cultures Brings cultures together Benefits both sides

What Telephone Interviewees Learned or Gained Satisfaction from helping people. Learned about cultures, people & history. Broadened world views & competencies. Expanded insights about interactions of environments & people’s behavior. Created appreciation for differences. Increased knowledge of international markets, business transactions, and difficulties of labor and product supplies.

So, what were the main domestic effects of the PAEP & the IETP? Domestic benefit and impact resulted. Awareness, knowledge, understanding, new connections, international dimension. Encouraged involvement among others. During and after the assignment. Created opportunities for others. Included: study tours, exchanges, hosting, linkages, business endeavors, trade.

Summary Numerous International opportunities for extension. Knowledge, awareness, and understanding to attain a better globally informed public. Focus on Mutual Benefit Cooperative Assistance versus Technical Assistance. What will be the benefit & impact of Extension’s international involvement?