Information and Communication Technology Use Capacity Within Extension Networks: Development and Preliminary Validation of an Empirical Scale

Advancing information and communication technologies (ICTs) has become central to international agricultural extension development efforts. ICTs are crucial in facilitating transfer, ensuring stakeholder access information, increasing the decision-making capacity of smallholder farmers. The research presented here introduces an instrument developed quantify perceptions ICT use within networks. aggregate scale was verified for content validity, response process internal structure consequential validity informing its use. administered network members (n = 122) associated with Global Forum Rural Advisory Services. An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) conducted measures correlation reliability analyzed. Six factors were extracted analyzed further. resulting Perceptions Use can be used as reliable instruments quantifying capacity, enhancing needs assessments, policies practices which maximize capacity.