Comparing an Asynchronous Online Extension Program and a Traditional Face-to-Face Program for Delivering Master Producer Content

Asynchronous online extension programs (AOEP), in which content is made available on-demand, have the potential to help Extension programs reach a wider audience due to scheduling flexibility and elimination of travel, while reducing the strain of limited time and financial resources of Extension professionals. However, in comparison with traditional in-person Extension programming and online synchronous programming (live webinars), asynchronous programs can require significant time and resources during the initial development stages. The University of Tennessee, with support from the TDA, USDA and TSU, recently developed a Tennessee Master Nursery Producer Program (TMNP) consisting of traditional in-person classes (simultaneously accessible as live webinars).  The traditional delivery format was subsequently phased out and replaced by an asynchronous education program. The traditionally formatted TMNP consisted of 24 hours of live instruction taught over a 6 week period.  Nationally recognized experts (in-state and out-of-state) were scheduled to teach various components of nursery crops production, as well as pest management, economics and marketing, and estate planning.  The AOEP is comprised of 21 one-hour modules, and covers container and field production, plant nutrition, irrigation management, pest management, pruning, propagation, and economics and marketing.  Topical quizzes were given at the end of each day of the traditional program, while each module of the AOEP is followed by a quiz with a minimum score requirement to advance to the next module. A comprehensive final exam was administered for the live program and is currently administered within the AOEP.  The advantages and disadvantages and requirements of each type of program delivery will be covered including cost to develop, implement, and administer; prerequisite computer skills of participants; development and stability of program content; graduation rates; social dynamics and instructor rapport; and ability to respond to emerging issues. While content was not identical, graduates of the AOEP estimate roughly a three-fold greater economic impact compared with graduates of the live program.  The potential effect of program delivery on economic impact will be discussed as well as ways to maximize impact and user satisfaction with an AOEP.  The use of AOEP for data collection and archiving will also be covered. Programs with a traditional delivery format and AOEP can both help disseminate information to Extension clientele.  Understanding the advantages and disadvantages and requirements of AOEP and traditional programs can help extension professionals make an informed decision about the program delivery that best suits their program and audience needs.