The Acquisition of Organic Agriculture Knowledge through Online Media and Application of Lecturers and Staff at Maejo University, Chiang Mai Province

Abstract

This survey research aimed to explore the behaviors through the online media,   the acquisition of knowledge, problems and suggestions related to organic agriculture through the online media of lecturers and staff at Maejo University, Chiang Mai province. The samples were 121 lecturers and staff who were randomized by proportional stratified random sampling. A set of questionnaires was used for data collection and analyzed by using descriptive statistics. Research findings showed that;

1. Most of the respondents acquired knowledge about organic agriculture in their office through online media (Google, Facebook) once or twice per week, 1-2 hours each time. Using smart phone to retrieve data about organic vegetable planting led to higher level of knowledge and understanding for teaching applications. They downloaded the data, expressed opinions, and sometimes forwarded the data in their online group. Most of the respondents (70-79%) were satisfied with their acquisition of knowledge about organic agriculture although they did not apply as a group member nor construct a content for sharing.


2. They preferred to use Google and www.greennet.or.th because it was easy and up-to-date. Online media led to higher level of knowledge which could be used for and working making decision; and they transferred data through Facebook.


3. Problems encountered included needed data could not be found; data were not reliable; lack of sources and references; and incorrect data sharing. The following were suggestions finding data sources or references; a training on data retrieval; and an analysis / comparisons of data before sharing.