MODE OF INSTITUTIONAL OR ORGANIZATIONAL COMMUNICATION IN EXTENSION SERVICES

An extension officer communicates within the hierarchical levels of the institution or organization. This is very clear in the organizational chart and it is known as vertical communication of such communication process. When it comes from the top hierarchy (superior) to the bottom levels, it is regarded as descending, if the reverse is the case, it is then called ascending.

In such a case, the main purpose of the extension officer is to be abreast with the organizational policy, things that have taken place and those that are to take place as well, and the decision taken at the higher level of the institution, including how he is evaluated by his super-ordinates.

Another purpose is for him (the extension officer) to be technically current. For this purpose, he has recourse both to specialists and to his supervisors and chiefs. He also has to report on his work. In such reports, the things covered are the problem he encounters, the successes achieved, suggestions and opinions for decision making at the top level.

For the extension officer, he communicates at the operational level too ant at the operational level, the extension officer communicates with other officer of the organization with whom he has contact when performing his duties. This is regarded as horizontal communication since it involves persons or group of persons at the same level in the hierarchy of the organization. The purpose of communication here are; to know the work of the colleagues and enable them to know his work as well, and to discuss experiences and information on problems and possible solutions.

The extension officer has assistance as well as collaborators who they work and communicate with. The main goals here of the extension officer is to give instructions on the task that are to be done, to provide orientation and supervision, to provide knowledge of problems affecting the work, to provide knowledge of the general organization policy and its application to the practical work of the extension organization; to make available information and develop completeness related to the tasks to be worked upon; and to give recognition to the work done and make the necessary corrections.