University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Identifying perceptions associated with agricultural chemical use: Implications for pesticide applicator training programs in Illinois

Thompson, Dennis Ray

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/19704

Description

Title
Identifying perceptions associated with agricultural chemical use: Implications for pesticide applicator training programs in Illinois
Author(s)
Thompson, Dennis Ray
Issue Date
1996
Doctoral Committee Chair(s)
Osborne, Edward W.
Department of Study
Education
Discipline
Education
Degree Granting Institution
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Degree Name
Ph.D.
Degree Level
Dissertation
Keyword(s)
  • Agriculture, Agronomy
  • Education, Adult and Continuing
  • Education, Agricultural
  • Environmental Sciences
Language
eng
Abstract
A dichotomy was found to exist between how pesticide applicators have perceived issues related to agricultural chemical use and what applicators have believed to be true about perceptions held by the public on similar issues. Stakeholders having rural orientations were perceived to be more inclined to be supportive of the use of chemicals in the production of agricultural commodities than were those having an urban orientation. The results of eight qualitative focus group interviews, comprised of fifty-two private and commercial pesticide applicators and public officials in Illinois were conducted and studied. The analysis was set within a framework of a perception variables model developed by the researcher. The model dealt with source, message, and audience factor independent variables and certain internal mediating processes all associated with attitudinal change. Implications of the findings for pesticide applicator training programs in Illinois were that specific: (a) modifications to the existing program, (b) introductions of new teaching methodologies, (c) expansion of subject matter content areas, and (d) increased opportunities for inclusion of the public sector in program planning will lead to improved programs.
Type of Resource
text
Permalink
http://hdl.handle.net/2142/19704
Copyright and License Information
Copyright 1996 Thompson, Dennis Ray

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