Knowledge and perception of extension agents on information and communication technologies (ICTs) use in extension service delivery in Ondo State, Nigeria

This study determined the knowledge and perception of Extension Agents (EAs) on information and communication technologies (ICTs) use in extension service delivery in the two Agricultural zones of Ondo State. Fifty EAs were randomly selected from each zone. Validated questionnaire was used for data collection and appropriate statistical tools were used to analyze the data collected. The results showed that half (50.0%) of the EAs were highly aware of the various ICT while 50.0% had high knowledge on ICT use. Furthermore, majority (72.0%) of the EAs had indifferent perception towards ICT use. The results also showed that there were significant association between EAs awareness on ICT and EAs membership of professional association (X 2 =53.341: df=1: p≤0.05) and highest educational level (X 2 =99.96: df=4: p≤0.05). Furthermore, significant relationship existed between EAs knowledge on ICT use (r=0.656: p≤0.01), their perception towards ICT use (r=0.301: p≤0.01) and their awareness on ICT. The results of this study show that programmes designed to improve EAs use of relevant ICTs should address their education and professional association participation.