Abstract
Interest in the educational satellite technology in Cooperative Extension is increasing rapidly. This study describes program delivery through the Cornell Cooperative Extension Satellite Network (CCESN) as a new educational initiative in the information age. The description is focused on examining extension educators' perspectives on teaching techniques, communication channels, and factors related to participation in the program. The study found that traditional educational techniques such as multiple speakers, interviewing, case studies, team teaching, and panel discussions were seen as only somewhat effective, and communication channels such as face-to-face contact, small group meetings, interactions with local county extension staff, and personal contact by telephone more effective than satellites and computers. Factors encouraging participation include economy of scale, access to information and other resources, professionalization of programming, and interactivity, and those that discouraged participation include lack of interactivity, programming costs, lack of depth in content, and technical support. Further study is needed to probe satellite technology as a single educational delivery or one needing combination with other technologies.
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