An Analysis of Educational Needs of Farmers Equipped with Sprinkler Irrigation Systems in Kermanshah Province (Case Study in Songhor Township)

One of the technologies that deal with efficient use of water is sprinkler irrigation systems. If farmers are to continue the use of sprinkler systems which may be crucial in agricultural development, educational programs should be tailored to their needs. Therefore, the main purpose of this study was to analyze educational needs of farmers equipped with sprinkler irrigation. Furthermore, this study sought to investigate the appropriate teaching strategies that should be used by extension educators when teaching sprinkler irrigation systems. Finally, this study focused on competencies needed by adult educators as perceived by farmers. The target population of this descriptive survey design consisted of farmers who were equipped with sprinkler irrigation systems (N=75). An accessible sample of 63 farmers participated in this study (86% response rate). Using Borich Need Assessment model, four educational needs emerged. Namely, distinguishing different components of the system, system maintenance, knowledge on different sprinkler irrigation methods, and their relative advantages and disadvantages were prioritized by farmers. Moreover, farmers ranked face to face training, demonstration farms, and workshops as their top three preferences for receiving training for sprinkler system. Finally, farmers believed that sprinkler irrigation educators should be competent in different design systems and their components as well as competence in diffusion of innovations. The result of this study has major implications for sprinkler irrigation development programs. First, extension agents should train farmers on technical issues related to irrigation systems. If educational needs of farmers are to be met, extension agents with competencies in irrigation systems are suggested. Moreover, they also need to use face-to-face education when training farmers.