It should give one a sense of self-direction and may become a basis for one's ethical and moral decisions. After reading this philosophy, I challenge you to take the time and develop your own working philosophy for programming as an extension agent. I believe that the purpose of program planning in the Extension System is to develop educational programs that will bring the research conducted at the land grant university out to the local citizens in the communities and help them solve current problem situations. Planning includes identification of goals, needs, and target audience, setting priorities, and developing objectives for the program. Design and implementation includes the selection and development of program content, delivery methods, and a time schedule for delivery of the actual program.
Evaluation involves the measuring of program success and impact.
As an extension educator I am actively involved in all phases of that program planning process. Many of them are self-motivated and interested in the educational process. They may be involved in or concerned about a current problem in their personal lives or in their community. Often they are seeking knowledge that is reliable, current, and appropriate for their particular situation. My role as an educator is to plan educational programs that meet the needs of the clientele within my geographic area.