University NetworkUniversity of Guelph School of Environmental Design and Rural Development
Exploring the futureThe establishment of the Department of Extension Education in 1959 came about mainly because of support from the Ontario Department of Agriculture (ODA), especially the Extension Branch. The ODA had extension people in each county and district who were almost, without exception, graduates of the OAC. These people were specialists in various areas; Soil Science, Crop Science, Animal Science, Poultry Science but had little training in how to teach. They felt that with increasing scientific knowledge available, they would be more effective in their work if they had some formal training in the methods and techniques to help them in the dissemination of information. Today, Capacity Development and Extension provide courses and research work for a broad range of students with backgrounds in Politics, International Development, Engineering, Sociology and many others. The diversity of the program allows a rich mixture of ideas and viewpoints. The mission of the Capacity Development and Extension program is to enhance the quality of life of rural people and communities, acknowledge and respect a diversity of needs and perspectives, through the provision of educational opportunities, interdisciplinary research, and community outreach. The program aims:
The Capacity Development and Extension Programs, together with the Rural Planning and Development Programs and the Landscape Architecture Programs form the School of Environmental Design and Rural Development. Each school has its own unique focus and together they represent a strong advocate for rural concerns and study. Undergraduate programCapacity Development and Extension offers a Minor in rural extension studies. Capacity Development and Extension also offers a Certificate in Communication Process through distance education. MSc ProgramCapacity Development and Extension offer a professionally oriented program leading to the MSc degree. The program covers a broad range of topics including rural extension theory, adult learning and development, capacity development, interpersonal communication, communication technology and international extension. A variety of learning formats are offered by the program including independent study, seminars, a practicum, international courses and research colloquia. International Development Studies Collaborative ProgramCapacity Development and Extension participate in the collaborative international development studies (CIDS) program. Students take a minimum of 2.5 course credits in the program and a minimum of 2.5 credits in international development studies. The MSc degree for students in this program will have the specialist designation international development studies. Please consult the International Development Studies listing for a detailed description of the collaborative program including the special additional requirements for each of the participating departments. PhD in Rural Studies Capacity Development and Extension is a major participant in the PhD in Rural Studies. This program provides opportunities for students to be advised by faculty in thisschool. For further information please go to www.uoguelph.ca/~rsphd/ Community outreachOur faculty and students are involved in a number of research and outreach projects in Canada and around the world. These are some selected projects and areas of research. Canadian Research Projects
Communication TechnologyMembers of the department have played a key role in research and development of computer mediated communication (CMC), and computer assisted learning. The use of the Internet, World Wide Web and its implications for distance education in rural areas, nationally and internationally is a growing component of the program. Video is a group and community process tool, and the department has its own recording and editing equipment to facilitate teaching and learning at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The communication technology stream is noted for its cooperative development and research activities around the world.
International Research/Development ProjectsCapacity Development and Extension has amassed considerable research, teaching and project management experience in other countries including Russia, Bolivia, Brazil, India, Egypt, Ghana, Uganda, Senegal and Cameroon. Projects in these countries have looked at rural quality of life, agricultural extension practices, communication technology (including Internet connectivity) and distance education programs. Students may have the opportunity to become involved in future projects.
ContactUniversity of Guelph Tel: (519) 824-4120 ext 53408 http://www.uoguelph.ca/ |