Title: A SCALE TO MEASURE THE PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE OF EXTENSION PERSONNEL

Authors: Neethu B. Nair, K. A. Jahagirdar and J. G. Angadi

Publisher: The President, Society of Extension Education Gujarat

Keywords: professional competence, extension personnel, agricultural extension, scale development, competence assessment

Volume: 40

Issue: 2

Year: December 2025

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56572/gjoee.2025.40.2.0010

Abstract: Agricultural extension and advisory services are crucial for enhancing food security and economic stability. To effectively address modern agricultural challenges, it is essential for extension personnel to possess new and relevant competencies. This study aimed to develop a standardized scale for measuring the professional competence of extension personnel. The scale development process involved several stages, including the identification of dimensions, statement collection, relevancy testing, item analysis, and tests for reliability and validity. A total of 67 statements across nine dimensions were retained for the final scale, demonstrating high reliability (r = 0.774) and construct validity. This standardized scale can be used to assess the competence of extension personnel, aiding policymakers in making informed decisions to enhance the effectiveness of extension services.