Training Needs on Land Development of Sub-District Volunteer Soil Doctors in Udon Thani Province

Abstract

The objective of this research was to study the training needs for land development of the sub-district volunteer soil doctors in Udon Thani province. The samples of this research were 113 sub-district volunteer soil doctors. Data used in this research were gathered by using interview schedules. The data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics. The study found that most soil doctors were male and averagely 53.9 years old. They completed primary education (grade 6) and have worked as soil doctors for 13.6 years. The most important source of income was from agricultural sector, accounting for 63,318.58 Baht on arrange in the recent year (2017). They also had the off-farm income of 10,336.28 Baht. The average un-paid debt was 43,194.60 Baht. The village fund was the main source of loan. The soil doctors received information on soil development in the past of 6 months from agricultural officials the most. They also needed the training on soil nutrients and soil amendment materials. They also needed the trainers with good personality and the use of tape recorders during the training session for reviewing the training contents. The soil doctors also needed the regular follow-ups and the suggestions after training from the related officials. For the comparison of the needs for training, the volunteer soil doctors with differences in age, education level, and time period in the service had different needs in some items.