Computer applications and computer technology transfer by Mississippi Extension personnel: An evaluation of involvement, competencies and training

The study was used to determine the involvement of Mississippi Cooperative Extension personnel in computer applications and computer technology transfer and to determine the training needs and responsibility perceptions of MCES personnel. This descriptive study used a mailed questionnaire to gather data. Administrators, agricultural agents, home economists, 4-H agents, secretaries and specialist were surveyed. The population size was 476. With stratified sampling 343 questionnaires were mailed and an 86% response rate resulted. Most MCES personnel indicated they used a computer 6 hours each week--one of the hours spent in software experimentation. An average of 13 interactions per month with other personnel and or clientele on computer interactions. Most respondents (93%) had access to at least one MS-DOS (IBM compatible) computer. The most frequently listed audience for technology transfer efforts was "farmers". Other audiences listed were: youth and volunteers, business and industry, homemakers, change agents, government officials, the unemployed and schools. Most respondents indicated that they looked to administration for support in keeping current with computer technology.