But, the new communications technologies offer interesting ways to enhance traditional deliveries by broadening the audience, including more educators in the delivery process, and improving the timeliness of the information. Since 1987, the University of Minnesota has explored these possibilities with products developed from a video capture of its annual agricultural situation and outlook conference. The first experiment, which began in 1987, focuses on a video capture of the conference presentations plus preparation of a conference highlights version. Savings in terms of time, transportation, and lodging of a specialist on the road have been considerable. And, the product is especially versatile.
County agents can augment other programs with a short video segment at their convenience.
Many county agents use the materials for professional development, essentially experiencing the conference at their convenience. Considerable classroom use has been made by technical institute and vocational agriculture instructors. Local demand for video checkout from county Extension offices, local libraries, or local video stores by farmers and local agribusiness has been highly variable. It's most popular with farmers, bankers, and elevator managers who are members of local marketing clubs. It serves as a focus for at least one or two of their periodic meetings.