Abstract

Natural resource issues that involve extension education are on the rise world wide. Common examples include deforestation, soil and water quality and conservation, sustainable forestry, endangered species conservation, agroforestry, ecotourism, and protected area management. During 2001, an assessment of the need, delivery, and content for a Forestry and Natural Resources/Extension Education graduate program was conducted with 500 members of the International Union of Forestry Research Organizations (IUFRO) Extension Working Party. Thirty-five countries were represented in the study, which found an overwhelming need for such a program. While barriers for participants included funding and time away from family and work, distance delivery via the Internet was found to be a viable option. Members said that the program should include a required thesis and core courses in Foundations of Forestry and Natural Resources/Extension Education, Extension Program and Curriculum Design, and Participatory Management.

Keywords: Forestry Extension, Graduate Education, Natural Resources, Sustainable Forestry

Download Article:

Full Text

158 Kb