Lecture 1: Introduction to ICTs and e-Extension

Concepts of ICTs

• Definition: Technology supporting activities involving information; includes gathering, processing, storing, presenting data, and facilitating collaboration and communication.

• Key Outputs: Knowledge, experience, products.

• Usage Variability: The concept of ICT changes based on local culture, available technology, and its management and configuration.

Aims & Objectives of ICT

• Recognized as a core education element alongside reading, writing, and numeracy.

• Essential for engaging youth in modern society and creating knowledge nations.

Lecture 2: Importance of ICT in Governance and Education

E-Governance

• Definition: Use of ICT to enhance governance and citizen-government relationships.

• Benefits: Improved service delivery, transparency, accountability, and efficiency within government operations.

E-Learning and M-Learning

• E-Learning: Comprehensive term for electronic learning that includes various online methodologies.

• M-Learning: Mobile learning using portable devices, allowing learning on the go.

Lecture 3: Knowledge Management

Definition & Principles

• Knowledge management involves systematic management of knowledge assets to create value.

• Key principles include shareability, cultural change, integration with existing systems, and focusing on core knowledge.

Challenges in Knowledge Management

• Issues include poor utilization, knowledge islands, and high costs of sharing knowledge.

Lecture 4: Role of ICTs in Agricultural Knowledge Management

Significance in Agriculture

• ICT improves agricultural productivity by providing farmers with vital information and facilitating knowledge sharing.

Key Areas of Impact

• Market Access: Enhanced information about market prices and competition.

• Disaster Management: Real-time actionable information for disaster preparedness.

• Financial Inclusion: Strengthening access to financial services for farmers.

Lecture 5: E-Extension Initiatives in Agriculture

Prominent Initiatives

• AGROPEADIA: Repository for localized agricultural knowledge.

• KISAN MOBILE ADVISORY: Provides farm advisory through mobile text messages.

• FARMERS’ PORTAL: A one-stop shop for farmer information on agriculture, animal husbandry, and fisheries.

Lecture 6: Global and National E-Extension Initiatives

International Programs

• Various countries, particularly in Asia, are leveraging ICT for agricultural and rural development with numerous successful initiatives.

Examples of Innovative Use

• e-Choupal (ITC): A platform for farmers to access market information directly.

• CGIAR Learning Resource Centre: Provides standardized learning resources for the agricultural community.

ICT Applications in Extension and Advisory Services

Types of Tools

• Knowledge Centers: Digital kiosks and community radios providing vital information on agriculture.

• Web Portals: Platforms that enable farmers to access information efficiently.

• Community Radio: Serves as an inexpensive tool for broadcasting important agricultural information.