Use of Bennett's Hierarchical Model in the Evaluation of the Extension Education Program for Cacao Farmers in the Northeast Region of the Dominican Republic. Summary of Research 54

A study evaluated the cacao farmer training program in the Dominican Republic by testing hypothesized relationships among reactions, knowledge and skills, attitudes, aspirations, and some selected demographic characteristics of farmers who attended programs. Bennett's hierarchical model of program evaluation was used as the framework of the study. Target population consisted of 510 male regional cacao farmers. A sample of 200 farmers was selected, and 160 completed interviews by researchers. The study found that most farmers had participated in the program one or two times, almost all had favorable reactions to it and high perceptions of knowledge and skills gained, as well as high intentions to apply knowledge and skills. The study also found that older farmers had a more negative attitude toward information given, whereas a small positive correlation was found between favorable reaction to the program and perception of skills gained. The study concluded that Bennett's model was a coherent framework for this type of research and that the study course should continue with modifications designed to facilitate high involvement of course participants. (27 references) (KC)