THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE EXTENSION POLICY ON LARGE AGRICULTURAL LAND PLOT SUPPORT SYSTEM OF PADDY FIELD IN CHACHOENGSAO PROVINCE IN THE FISCAL YEAR 2016

Abstract

In this thesis, the researcher studies agricultural processes and operations in addition to proposing guidelines for making improvements in the implementation of the extension policy for large paddy-field land plots in Chachoengsao province in the fiscal year 2016.

In adopting a mixed-methods research methodology, the researcher employed both qualitative and quantitative research methods.

In the qualitative phase of research, the researcher interviwed ten representatives of the work committee. Moreover, focus group discussions were conducted with discussants from two groups of large agricultural land-plot operational committees.

In the quantitative phase of research, the researcher employed a questionnaire for gathering germane data from a sample population of 205 agriculturalists participating in the project.

In regard to this project, Khlong Khuean and Bang Nam Prieo districts were selected as operational pilot areas. Furthermore, district agricultural officers served as plot managers.

The results of the qualitative research employing interviews and focus group discussion showed that overall operations could reduce costs and efficiently increase production. However, a problem remained in regard to the purchasing prices of produce. Nevertheless, the public sector arranged negotiations with businesses and drafted Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) for the purchasing of produce from large paddy fields.

In the quantitative phase of research, the researcher surveyed the opinions of member agriculturalists with results as follows:

The members of the sample population exhibited opinions at the highest level in respect to decreases in production costs (M = 4.46); production increases (M = 4.46); community management (M = 4.27); and project management (M = 4.22). However, in regard to marketing management, members of the sample population evinced opinions at a moderate level (M = 3.92).