The second key question in understanding one's personal philosophy of adult education is the strength to which we're committed to certain values. Raths, Harmin, and Simon suggest that it's possible to distinguish between three levels of a value.8 Acceptance of a value is a tentative belief in a given position, preference for a value means that we're willing to actively pursue and be identified with the position, and commitment is a strong belief in a position, often expressed as conviction, faith, or loyalty. A value to which we're committed would obviously be more worthwhile to defend than one that we merely accept. However, it can help us to understand ourselves and why we make certain decisions. The educational role of the Extension professional is much too important to leave to mere chance or tradition.
Philosophy provides an informed alternative.
Adult education philosophy applied to Extension practice. Emphasizes experience of learner in determining problem areas and solutions to be considered. Behaviorist Emphasizes importance of the environment in shaping desired behavior. Behaviorism has contributed to the development of systematic instructional design models and emphasizes accountability. Specialist serves as facilitator of the learning process.