Influence of Training Method on Learning Ability of Smallholder Farmers: Case of Moisture Conservation Farming Training

Abstract

This study sought to identify factors that influence learning during training among small holder farmers on the new moisture conservation innovations (conservation farming) by Agricultural Technical and Extension Services (AGRITEX) and the objectives of the study was to identify the training methods used by AGRITEX officers in training  Conservation agriculture and to find the effectiveness of the training methods in transferring knowledge The study took the form of a case study. Six small holder farmers trained on the new moisture conservation innovations were researched on. The study showed that AGRITEX to certain extent gave farmers some chance to participate during training especially in carrying out demonstrations, field days and during look and learn tours.  The look and learn tours were appreciated most by many farmers as they were saying they can learn much by visiting other farmers. However, AGRITEX can further improve its training to improve learning among farmers through participatory course design which can help in the improvement of training for farmers to improve on practicing what they have trained.