April 2004

Empowering extension managers through participatory learning

by G. Jaya,
Assistant Director

and M.N.Reddy,
Director (Agricultural Extension & Communication)
National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE),
Hyderabad, A.P., India

The article is based on case study research method conducted on the experiential methodology followed by MANAGE. Experiential learning focuses on interactive and upward spiral learning process of preparation-action-review(P-A-R) in repeated cycles. The facilitators create learning opportunities through which participants discover and develop new insights of working together and explore inherent skills in themselves, rather than being taught by trainers. This opportunity helps the agricultural extension managers of various line departments to discover how they can improve their performance and to empower themselves for undertaking their jobs effectively. The study reveals the key features and the strengths of experiential learning methodology of MANAGE as perceived by the participants.

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