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Digitizing Extension Services: Evidence from a Two-Sided Randomized Experiment in Indonesia

Author

Listed:
  • Furlani, Irene

    (University of Passau)

  • Grimm, Michael

    (University of Passau)

  • Raya, Alia

    (Universitas Gadjah Mada)

  • Ishadiyanto, Salim

    (Universitas Gadjah Mada)

  • Widjanarko, Nadila

    (Universitas Gadjah Mada)

Abstract

We conducted a cluster randomized controlled trial to evaluate a platform-based training intervention designed to integrate digital technologies into agricultural extension services and aimed to reduce information delivery costs while improving the efficiency of extension systems. The intervention targeted both extension workers and farmers and combined a digital literacy module with modules on digital agribusiness practices. We compared fully online delivery with a blended format combining online and in-person instruction, examining effects on platform adoption, digital literacy, and the use of digital agribusiness practices, as well as the cost-effectiveness of each modality. Both delivery modalities increased knowledge and adoption of the digital platform among extension workers and farmers and reduced digital literacy constraints among farmers, suggesting that digital platforms can facilitate information diffusion in agricultural extension systems. The intervention also increased the integration of digital agribusiness practices by extension workers, with evidence of adoption of some practices among farmers. Both interventions were relatively inexpensive compared to conventional extension training programs.

Suggested Citation

  • Furlani, Irene & Grimm, Michael & Raya, Alia & Ishadiyanto, Salim & Widjanarko, Nadila, 2026. "Digitizing Extension Services: Evidence from a Two-Sided Randomized Experiment in Indonesia," IZA Discussion Papers 19041, IZA Network @ LISER.
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp19041
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    JEL classification:

    • C93 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Field Experiments
    • O12 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Microeconomic Analyses of Economic Development
    • O13 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Agriculture; Natural Resources; Environment; Other Primary Products
    • O33 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Technological Change: Choices and Consequences; Diffusion Processes
    • Q12 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Agriculture - - - Micro Analysis of Farm Firms, Farm Households, and Farm Input Markets
    • Q16 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Agriculture - - - R&D; Agricultural Technology; Biofuels; Agricultural Extension Services

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