Name of Presenter:  M. L. Annette Reynolds, County Extension Director
               843-525-7118 (w) 843-525-7243 Fax
               ARYNLDS@CLEMSON.EDU (E-mail)

ABSTRACT: NINE WAYS TO MAKE LEARNING FUN

Galileo said "You cannot teach a man anything: you can only help him find it
within himself".  To facilitate this process, try linking the learning activity to as
many different intelligences as possible.  As a general rule of thumb, take the
information to be learned and:

     Create a comfortable environment by giving respect, safety (physical and 
emotional), inclusion, experience (related to learner's own life), and  immediacy 
(immediate application to own life).  Other considerations include temperature, 
light, space, equipment, etc.  Consider Spiritual Intelligence: every person desires
a chance for self expression, a chance to prove his or her worth, the desire to 
excel.  Give each person the challenge of a fine reputation to live up to.
     Talk, read or write about it ...
     Draw, sketch, or visualize it...
     Dance it, build a model of it, or find some other hands-on activity
       related to it ...
     Sing it, chant it, rap it, find music that illustrates it, or put on background 
       music while learning it ... 
     Relate it to a personal feeling or inner experience ... 
     Conceptualize it, quantify, or think critically about it ... 
     Work on it with another person or group of people ... 
For most effective learning to take place, you must plan not only for content, but
action and reflection!

                     Three Learning Domains
            -cognitive (ideas, knowledge) or "head"
           -affective (feelings, emotions) or "heart"
           -psychomotor (physical, doing) or "hands"

The deepest learning occurs in the affective or feeling domain.  In your learning
activities, use ALL three domains.

When we use only the linguistic/verbal mode of transfering knowledge our
chances for learning to take place are lessened.  When we use all (or as many as
possible) forms of intelligence to transfer knowledge effective learning can
heppen for all involved.

We have tended to use the linguistic/verbal mode at the expense of the others
AND THE PEOPLE WE SERVE.  As we move to High Tech presentations, let us
also move to high touch use all forms of intelligence.

+++++++++++++++++++


1998 National Meeting, Epsilon Sigma Phi
the national honorary Extension fraternity
December 10-12, 1998
Atlanta, GA.

Presentation

Frank Carr						Ann Rhinesmith
Family and Consumer Science Educator
RCE of Warren County
Wayne Dumont Jr. Admin Bldg
165 County Route 519S
Belvidere, NJ 07823-1949
908-475-6504
E-mail: Rhinesmith@aesop.rutgers.edu

Title of Presentation:

"Reach Out and Touch Someone Through ITV"



Abstract:

The Morris County Interactive Television (ITV) Network is a regional 
consortium of 21 schools in a tri-county section of NJ.  In 1997-98, a 
character education program was offered by Extension Educators
(4-H and FCS) to tenth through twelfth grade students in network schools.

This pilot program combined Extension programming with interactive 
classroom technology in providing a distance learning course in 
character education.

The program began with two 50 minute sessions involving three schools
with 54 students  and grew in the next semester to four 50 minute 
sessions involving nine schools and 120 students.  The demand was 
higher than anticipated and provided a waiting list of clients.  

The Workshop will focus on the character education program, using the
ITV technology, working in the system and teaching tools and techniques
for an ITV class.  The session will be discussion oriented, with presenters
providing insights and tips for getting started and flourishing in this new setting.

The character education section of the session will review the course
content and interactive activities used in delivering course material.
The technological portion of the session will review the technology involved, 
using the technology and how the technology must play into the preparation 
for the program.  Working in the system will explore the collaborative partnerships, 
getting started, the process of evolving programs and cost considerations.  
Teaching tools and techniques will cover a variety of tips for combining 
technology with presenter skills and course content to maximize the program impact.


+++++++


J. Henry Duncan, University of Kentucky, College of Agriculture
Agriculture Water Quality Liaison
663 Teton Trail, Frankfort, Ky 40601
Day phone:502 564 3080;  Fax:502 564 9195;  hduncan@ca.uky.edu

Title: Implementing the Kentucky Agriculture - Agriculture Plan


Abstract:

The State Agriculture Water Quality Plan was developed as a result of State 
legislation enacted in 1994. The Cooperative Extension Service and the 
National Resourses and Conservation Service assigned two full time positions 
to work with the fifteen member Governor appointed Authority to develop and 
implement the State Plan. Two hundred and fifty farmers and local leaders 
were recruited and served on five committees to help  develop the plan. 
A program learning farmer workbook was develped for the Farmers use in preparing 
the plan. Numerous video tapes ,educational pamphlets and table top displays 
were produced. A computerized electronic program was developed and distributed 
on CD Rom disc and on the internet.  Workshops have been conducted state wide
for Technical Agencies and for local farm leaders. County producer workshops are 
currently being held. The goal is for the 88,000 farms to have Agriculture Water
Quality Plans by October 2001.  This State-Wide effort is gaining national attention 
because of the cooperative approuch and the use of the latest technical and 
teaching aids. Through use of the Electronic Workbook, the average Landowner 
can develop an Agriculture Water Quality Plan within an hour which would otherwise
take a day or two to develop.


++++++++++++++++++


Presenters:

Dr. Ed A. Brown
Professor, Extension Program Coordinator - Plant Pathology
3301 Miller Plant Science Building
University of Georgia
Athens, GA 30602

Mr. Don Hamilton
Assistant Coordinator Office of Information and Technology
College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
202 Hoke Smith Building
University of Georgia
Athens, GA 30602

Presentation Title:

Development of a Digital Imaging Diagnostic System for Extension Education Programs


Abstract:

	The primary purpose of Extension Plant Pathology is to provide educational 
programs and materials to county extension offices in order to improve crop and animal 
production systems, to ensure environmental integrity and agricultural sustainability 
while maximizing economic impact. Through creative grantsmanship, funding was generated
 to support the placement of 60 diagnostic imaging stations throughout Georgia. 
These stations will be equipped with microscopes, computers, video and digital cameras
with soft ware to facilitate the capturing and transmission of images for diagnosis. 

	More than 4000 plant disease samples are submitted to the Plant Disease Clinics
in Georgia  annually. This takes time and most samples are submitted through overland mail. 
With the equipment placed in the county extension offices, county faculty can submit field, 
macro and microscopic images of symptoms and signs of disease and pest agents in a timely 
manner. To date 31 of the sites have been placed and 94 county and state staff faculty 
trained in Georgia. Phase II will be implemented this winter and the additional 29 sites will 
be located.  

	This technology will help facilitate disease diagnostics and save time and disease 
losses. With this educational diagnostic tool county faculty will become better trained  in 
diagnosing problems at the local level and will reenforce the county delivery system. Growers 
can contact the county extension office and request assistance in diagnosis. The agents 
can image the samples and make microscope mounts of the disease causing agents and 
submit the images over the Internet with the appropriate information needed to diagnose 
the problem. The state staff faculty will be able to access the images from any Internet 
access nation wide to diagnose the problem and get educational help to the agents and 
clients in short time. 

	We estimate the diagnostic time for about 60% of the samples will be cut in half. 
This will strengthen the extension commitment to environmental integrity by diagnosing the 
problem in a timely manner and incorporating management systems educational recommendations 
as quick as possible.  As the samples are submitted for disease and pest diagnosis, the best 
images will be saved and incorporated into a Disease Diagnostic Library. This diagnostic 
library will be Internet based and available to all that have Internet access. 


++++++++++++++++
						

Name, title and address of each presenter
Natalie Thomas, Ed.D., CFCS
Professor Emeritus 
176 Henderson Road 
Fairbanks, AK 99709

Presentation Title:	Faces that Make a Difference


Abstract 

Five retired Alaskan Cooperative Extension faculty who taught life skills to 
Alaskan families and individuals from 1925-1986 made a difference in the lives 
of people are featured as models for employees in this experimental project 
developed by Dr. Natalie Thomas, Epsilon Sigma Phi Historian.


The Alaska Cooperative Extension faculty face the great challenge of distance 
when trying to deliver information and education to a diverse audience throughout 
Alaska.  The 250 remote villages require air transportation. Flying to remote 
villages to schedule workshops that reach a very small population can be 
expensive and time consuming.  Also, while Extension faculty are away from 
their office, questions from local clientele continue to mount.  Time for scheduling 
the workshops after arriving in a village is difficult.  Often when it s time to leave, 
people ask,  When can you come back?  While you would like to return, you know 
it is not possible. Therefore, CD-ROMs and the Internet can be methods to lower 
costs and reach more people at a time when individuals are available to learn. 
Interactive multimedia is a medium that can be a great asset.

This multimedia design features an interface as an example for navigational ease. 
The faculty featured will serve as a brief member profile, history and model for 
professional development.

The purpose of this project was to experiment with a design that Macromedia 
Director supports for both Macintosh and PC platforms.  In addition, as the 
Epsilon Sigma Phi Historian, the goal prevails to capture a brief profile and 
activities of the members of the Alaska Chapter.

The ultimate goal is to have the project serve as valuable information for 
encouraging and managing professional development opportunities, nominating 
members for awards, scholarships and recognition for accomplishment. In addition, 
capturing a brief history of the members of the Alaska Chapter, and tracing the 
history of the Alaska Cooperative Extension Service will be preserved.  

The project has been evaluated for ease in navigation and ultimately will be 
evaluated to determine the use and value to faculty in CD-ROM form. The same 
project can be replicated for access on the Internet.

There is many more faculty who have used a unique style for making a difference 
in the lives of others that will be added as the project continues to grow.


++++++++++++++++++++


Presenters:

Mr. Don Hamilton
Assistant Coordinator Office of Information and Technology
College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
202 Hoke Smith Building
University of Georgia
Athens, GA 30602

Dr. Ed A. Brown
Professor, Extension Program Coordinator - Plant Pathology
3301 Miller Plant Science Building
University of Georgia
Athens, GA 30602

Presentation Title:

Distance Diagnostics Through Digital Imaging: A Simple, Versatile, Supportable System

Abstract:

	Distance Diagnostics Through Digital Imaging is an approach to image transfer 
which uses the World Wide Web as the communication medium. This project was 
designed with simplicity in mind both for the users as well as those who support the 
system. Distance Diagnostics was developed to enhance the speed with which plant 
diseases can be diagnosed as part of a Georgia Extension Plant Pathology educational effort.

	Distance Diagnostics is a three-year $1 million project funded by an anonymous 
private foundation and matching state lottery grants. One hundred eighty faculty will be 
trained to use the system. Sixty imaging stations have been distributed to county offices. 
Each imaging station consists of a computer, hand-held digital camera, stereo microscope, 
compound microscope, video camera, video-to-computer image capture device, color 
printer, plant disease compendia, and diagnostic supplies.

	Non-proprietary, affordable equipment was chosen for ease of use and efficiency 
of support. The hand-held camera, a Sony Mavica, was chosen because images are 
transferred to the computer via diskette, it has excellent close up ability, and general 
usage is intuitive. A CCD-chip video camera was chosen for microscopic images for the 
ability to see fine-tuning adjustments as they are made. Considerable research was 
conducted to determine the correct combination of components which make this project 
successful. While significant time was spent comparing technical specifications, the 
subjective judgement of the scientist was critical in determining the usability of the system. 

	 A team approach of development between Information Technology and Plant 
Pathology professionals has resulted in a system that is simple to use yet holds enormous 
potential for program enhancement. While Distance Diagnostics is based on enhancing 
plant disease diagnosis, the system is applicable to other disciplines as well.

++++++++++++++++++


Rachel T. Guthrie
County Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences
P.O. Box 107
Watkinsville, Georgia 30677
(706) 769-3946
Fax: (706) 769-3909
E-mail:   uge1219@uga.cc.uga.edu

Co-Presenter
Bonita Roberts
County  Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences
Suite 150
1241 Helen Highway
Cleveland, Georgia 30528


TALK, TEACH, TOUCH: PUBLIC RELATIONS 
IDEAS FOR BUILDING STAKEHOLDER  SUPPORT 
FOR EXTENSION EDUCATORS 

	Have you ever worried that the modern Extension Service needs to shore
 up its base of political and public support in order to ensure its funding and its future? 
	You are the image of Extension.  If you want legislators to believe in you as 
a leader and educator, it's your responsibility to reach out and Touch them by 
communicating one on one with brief factual impact statements.  Learn how to involve 
them and to balance high tech with high touch.
	It is critical to make funders believe you make a difference.  
It's your responsibility to Talk to them in ways they accept and understand.  
	It is your responsibility to motivate the media to want to buy into and support 
your Extension programs and Teach them who you are and how you can utilize high 
tech to effectively communicate the value and impact of Extension programs.
	"Talk, Teach, Touch: Public Relations Ideas for Building Stakeholder Support 
for Extension Educators" is a workshop that will help you identify and implement ideas 
for building relationships to insure you get your message across.  Use of techniques like 
innovative marketing through collaboratives will be presented.  It remains critical that 
Extension personnel help decision makers on the local, state and federal levels understand 
the impact Family and Consumer Sciences is having on constituents of their educational 
programming.  Learn strategies that work to involve political leaders and funders.  Learn 
how to radiate a positive image and not be caught off guard when working with the media.
	Much of the information shared in this conference evolved from sessions offered 
at the Public Issues/Leadership Development Conference.  By attending the workshop you 
will leave with some high tech practical public relation skills that will effectively 
communicate your Extension message of impact achieved with public dollars.


+++++++++++++++++++


Contact:	Kay Hendrickson
		Area Extension Agent
		Franklin County Cooperative Extension
		Franklin County Courthouse, 1016 North 4th Avenue
		Pasco, WA  99301
		Phone:  	509-545-3511
		FAX:		509-545-2310
		E-mail:	 HYPERLINK mailto:hendrik@wsu.edu hendrik@wsu.edu

Presenters:	Kay Hendrickson			Myrna Miller
		Area Extension Agent			Area Extension Agent
		1016 N. 4th Avenue			11104 NE 149th Street
		Pasco, WA  99301			Building C, Suite 100
							Brush Prairie, WA  98606

Title:	Kids, Machines, and Volunteers:  A Winning High Tech/High Touch Combination

Description: 	Learn about a project connecting at-risk youth, sewing machines, 
entrepreneurial interests, and volunteers.  Youth evaluated technology change using 
the sewing machine and experienced the value of computers for personal design 
decisions, communication of information, and the marketing of sewing projects.  

Conference Objective:	This workshop ties very well into the Conference Objective--
Help professionals define ways of providing education to learners not connected to 
technology.  We have many learners who are not connected to technology but all 
learners are affected by technology.  This workshop will highlight a project that began 
with the intent of a high touch program but quickly became a program showcasing 
technology uses for earning power.  This happened because both the youth learners 
and the volunteer teacher/learners got excited and caught up in learning about 
technology possibilities and discussing what impact it has on their learning and 
earning power.  Because of this, providing technology access became very important.  
Sewing was used as the vehicle for this program.  Most subject areas that Extension 
deals with could be used as the vehicle. This workshop will hopefully spark ideas of 
how to incorporate technology into on-going Extension programming. 

Abstract:	Most kids love machines—any machine.  They like to play with 
machines and see how they work.  Knowing this and practicing what Cooperative 
Extension is well known for--using volunteers and teaching sewing, the So, So, 
SEW!! Curriculum was designed and piloted with help of a National 4-H Council 
grant.  This project started as a more traditional program targeting at-risk kids.  
It became a project evaluating the change in sewing machine technology over 
the years.  Because of the demand for the program, the original learners became 
teachers for additional classes.  To keep the youth/teachers enthused, an Internet 
segment was incorporated to help them look for additional project marketing ideas.

This project focused on building self esteem in at-risk youth through sewing projects 
taught by caring, committed volunteers.  The targeted audience included youth from 
a multiplicity of ethnic and cultural backgrounds.  Participants were exposed to a 
variety of skill development activities including, using a sewing machine, hand 
sewing, completing projects, using the Internet to get sewing information, and 
using a computer to help in design decisions.  Youth used different machine 
technologies, from the tredle to a programmable embroidery sewing machine.  
Projects were sewn and evaluated for utility, workmanship, and marketability.

Trained volunteers worked with youth, most often one adult with two youth.  
This "high touch" program gave the youth a mentor.  This was important because 
many of the youth became "teachers" for additional classes after the demand for 
the program soared.  At first the adult volunteers taught the curriculum, then the 
youth and volunteers became a team.  Wanting to provide incentives for the 
youth who were teachers, additional activities were introduced.  A commercially 
available computer software program was used to teach personal design.  Youth 
evaluated the software in terms of marketability, utility, and completeness.  

The youth/teachers were very involved in helping others complete sewing projects.  
They also enjoyed making their own projects.  They became so skilled that they 
asked for ideas on selling the items. The adult volunteers began to ask how to 
help get more marketing access for the youth.  With additional help from school 
systems, the youth/teachers gained access to the Internet and found information 
on marketing sewing projects.  This project continues and is expanding because 
the youth and the adult volunteers keep asking questions and finding avenues 
to answer the "what if. . .?"  "how about. . .?" "how can we. . . ?"


++++++++++++++++++++

Keith Martikainen
Ext. 4-H Youth Specialist
Tel. 308-385-6424
FAX 308-385-6414
email:	

Single presenter, already listed

Presentation title:
	Leveling the Field - Conducting state wide interviews via videotape

(Impact) This provides: 
 	Personal financial and time savings by doing the interview locally, instead 
of a trip of 300 to 400 miles (for some) to take part in a 10 minute interview.  Career 
preparation experience in an interview process gaining in popularity.  A self evaluation 
tool for assessing personal communication skills through later tape review (With the 
candidates consent) the tape can be shared with decision makers so they may see 
first hand the communication skills of program participants.  Question selection allows 
them to hear a participants views firsthand, the impact of being involved in Extension 
programming has had on them.  For a number of participants, face to face interviews 
would have forced them to withdraw due to time and expense.

Workshop participants will:
 	View examples of the videos
 	Receive copies and walk through the guidelines provided to candidates
 	Discuss the challenges and opportunities using this type of program
 	Discuss potential secondary uses of the tapes
 	Receive examples of video release forms

Equipment & room set up:
	Class room with VHS/VCR & TV
	Overhead projector & screen

+++++++++++++++++++

Keith Martikainen
Ext. 4-H Youth Specialist
Tel. 308-385-6424
FAX 308-385-6414
email:	

Single presenter, already listed

Presentation title: Programming Face to Face, Long Distance

Abstract:
Should candidates travel hundreds of miles for a 10 minute interview?  
How far will participants travel for Extension programs?  
Are there equal program opportunity concerns?  
Nebraska has successfully conducted state level interviews by videotape, 
and programs at multiple sites simultaneously, with direct interaction with all sites.

Interview candidates are provided guidelines for arranging and formatting 
videotaped interviews, including camera placement and appropriate 
involvement of an on-site question reader, for fair comparison with candidates 
taped at other sites.

Local satellite down links and compressed video sites (utilizing phone lines) 
provide new opportunities for Extension programming at all levels.  Many 
Extension staff have little experience with these methods.  Hosting a distance 
learning site, or originating a program takes advanced planning for success.  
Guides for hosting a downlink site, or tips in the studio can assist in success.

(Impacts include)
-University and participant financial and time savings by: not having participants 
travel great distances to a single site, or Extension resources traveling to multiple sites.
-Career preparation experience in an interview process gaining in popularity.
- A self-evaluation tool for assessing personal communication skills through later 
videotape review
-(With candidates' consent) tapes shared with decision makers provide first hand 
observation of program participants' communication skills.
-Question selection provides participants' evaluation of impact attributed to being 
involved in Extension programming.
-For many, requiring on site interaction to participate in Extension programs or 
interviews would have forced them to withdraw due to cost and time limitations.

Evaluation of one program conducted simultaneously at four sites indicated:
- Many participants attended sessions otherwise cost and time prohibitive.
- 64.5 % strongly or extremely favor future use.
- 64.5 % lived more than 100 miles from the site where instructor presented in person
- 51.6% lived over 200 miles away
- 19.3 % would have participated if it were only available at the instructor led site.

Although distance willing to travel may vary with each state, it's clear that more 
people can be reached through this method.

Workshop participants will:

-Receive copies and review examples of video release forms, interview guidelines, 
and site facilitator tip sheet to help in maintaining local audience involvement
-Discuss: challenges and opportunities using these methods of programming, 
potential secondary uses of tapes, and documenting possible financial impact of 
program offerings 
-Observe video examples of interviews, a basic compressed video studio with 
presenter controlling camera shots, and more advanced studio with control room staff

Fred McClanahan, Jr.
Larimer County Cooperative Extension
1525 Blue Spruce Drive
P.O. Box 543
Fort Collins  CO  80522-0543
(970) 498-6000
FAX (970) 498-6025
larimer@coop.ext.colostate.edu 
www.colostate.edu/Depts/CoopExt/LARIMER/ 

+++++++++++++++++++

Contact Person:
Jacqueline E. LaMuth
Associate Professor
Interim Leader, Evaluation 
The Ohio State University Extension
700 Ackerman Road, Suite 240
Columbus, OH 43202	
Phone: 614-292-6470
FAX: 614-292-7341
E-mail: lamuth.1@osu.edu


Presenter:
Jacqueline E. LaMuth
Associate Professor/Interim Leader, Evaluation
700 Ackerman Road, Suite 240
Columbus, OH 43202

Presentation Title: Responding to Mid-Way Evaluations Creates a Win-Win 
Experience for Everyone


Abstract:
"Wonderful! Can't believe you revised your program because of what I said 
last week!" "I've never had any speaker care enough to make changes so 
the program was more meaningful to me.   Thank you."  These remarks are 
typical of what appears on end-of-workshop evaluations when mid-way 
evaluations are used by individual instructors and teams to check how closely 
they are meeting the expectations of their audiences.    

Extension educators routinely ask workshop participants to complete some kind 
of summative self-assessment at the end of the learning experience.  They ask 
what was learned, worthwhile or useful. They may ask what was least helpful.  
Occasionally they solicit suggestions for improving future presentations.  These 
inquiries benefit the instructor but have little utility for the participants who don't 
see much purpose in spending time on them.  Mid-way evaluations directly benefit 
participants by providing feedback to the instructors.

For two years, several teaching teams have been asking their participants four 
questions at the close of each day of multi-day workshops:
1. Are we on target? Are we doing what you expected?  Explain.
2. What topic or issue you hope will be included that hasn't mentioned so far?
3. Is there anything about the arrangements or the workshop itself we can change 
      to make this the best possible workshop for you?

Responses usually refer to room conditions, a speaker's habits or style,  the 
knowledge level being too basic or advanced, or a topic that is on the agenda.  
It seems unimportant that every suggestion or desire be addressed and included.  
It does seem significant that the teaching team acknowledges all comments, 
the ones that are already included in the plans, the ones that have been added 
to expand a planned topic, and ways for participants to learn about something 
that is too specific or complex to be added at this point.

The result of these mid-point checks is a win-win experience for everyone. A 
connection develops between teachers and participants.  Participants feel 
valued; teachers enjoy the success of tailoring their presentations to each 
specific audience.  Participants don't scurry out the door and try to avoid the 
evaluation at the end.  Instead, they have learned by example,  that their 
opinions are important, appreciated, and used. They take the time to write 
multiple comments, suggestions and compliments.  The evaluations are filled 
with useful descriptive information that will help them tp them improve their 
teaching content and delivery.

++++++++++++++++

Contact person:	David Miller
		Ohio State University Extension, District Specialist, Farm Management
		16714 State Route 215
		Caldwell, Ohio 43724
		Daytime phone - (740) 732-2381
		FAX number    - (740) 732-5992
		E-mail address - MILLER.58@OSU.EDU

Presenters:	David Miller
		Ohio State University Extension, District Specialist, Farm Management
		16714 State Route 215
		Caldwell, Ohio 43724

		Christopher Zoller
		Ohio State University Extension, Agriculture and Natural Resources Agt.
		219 Stonecreek Road
		New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663-6902


Presentation Title:  Computerized Farm Record Keeping Workshops - An Opportunity 
for High Tech and High Touch


Brief Description:  Computerized farm record keeping workshops taught by Ohio 
Extension personnel have resulted in high adoption rates, better business 
management decisions and improved record keeping skills.

Abstract:

Computerized record-keeping workshops have been taught by Ohio State University 
Extension agent and specialists since 1990 in response to expressed interests of 
agricultural producers. The workshops are designed to provide participants with 
hands-on experience with computerized records, to show how low-cost software 
such as the Quicken program can be adapted for farm record keeping and to 
demonstrate how easily a computerized records system can generate information 
and reports needed to manage a modern farm business.  By 1994 over 1000 people 
had attended these workshops at which time a follow-up survey was undertaken to 
determine the impact of OSU Extension's efforts.  Overall, eighty six percent of the 
respondents reported farming activities while the remaining fourteen percent either 
had a non-farm business or wanted to learn about computer records for their own 
personal use.  Over seventy four percent of the farmers responding had adopted 
the Quicken program for their farm business record keeping.  These adopters 
indicated they are working on their farm records using Quicken more frequently 
and improved business management decisions had resulted.  They felt the improved 
management decisions came from better tracking of income, expenses and account 
balances with computerized records, that their records were more accurate, more 
accessible and more current and that their records were more easily used for farm 
enterprise analysis, year-end income tax management and for budgeting and 
projections.  The respondents also reported their record keeping skills had improved 
with fifty six percent rating their skills as poor to fair before the workshop while 
eighty two percent rated their record keeping skills as good to excellent after the 
workshop.  Teaching computerized farm record keeping workshops has resulted 
in a high rate of adoption, improved business management decisions and improved 
record keeping skills.  These workshops have also allowed agents and specialists 
to teach in small group settings, to increase their knowledge of computer records 
and to provide needed follow up to get the participants started properly on 
computerized record keeping.

			
+++++++++++++++

Contact person/presenter:
Peter Nitzsche
County Agricultural Agent 
Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Morris County
Phone: (973) 285-8307
Fax: (973) 605-8195
nitzsche@aesop.rutgers.edu 

Title: Utilizing Fax-on-Demand and Fax Broadcast Technology to Deliver 
Extension Information 

Abstract: Fax-on-demand and fax broadcast are new methods of communications 
which combine computer, fax, and telephone technologies. Fax-on-demand is a 
user-friendly system which can make extension information available twenty-four 
hours a day, seven days a week.  The only thing required is  access to a fax 
machine and a touch tone phone.  To use the system, the user places a call to a 
designated phone number and then enter his/her fax machine number on the 
phone keypad.  A catalog of numbered documents is then faxed to their location.  
After reviewing the catalog, the user can call back to request any of the items 
listed by keying in the  document number(s) and those documents will be faxed 
to him./her.
	Fax broadcast allows clientele to subscribe to receive newsletters or 
other information automatically by fax.  Fax broadcast makes timely extension 
information more valuable to clientele by faxing it to them one or two days before 
traditional mail delivery.
	Both fax broadcast and fax-on-demand have been used successfully in 
New Jersey and other states to deliver timely extension information.  These 
technologies have proven to be very user-friendly and efficient.  Fax-on-demand 
and fax broadcast can save extension money by reducing postage, printing and 
handling costs, since a computer does most of the work.