Assessing farmers’ readiness for science and technology education: A baseline study in Andragogy

Abstract

Access to advanced agricultural technologies remains a significant barrier for smallholder farmers, limiting productivity and sustainability in rural communities. This study assesses the readiness of farmers in Marupangdan and Astorga, Daram, Samar, to adopt precision farming through Andragogical Science and Technology Education programs. A descriptive-evaluative research design was used, collecting data from 41 farmers through structured interviews with a questionnaire translated into the local dialect for inclusivity. Descriptive statistics analyzed demographic profiles, adoption willingness, and insights into precision farming practices. The findings revealed that the average age of respondents was 51.12 years, with 78.05% having only elementary education. A significant modernization gap was observed, as none of the farmers utilized precision farming technology, despite 60.98% being familiar with the concept. Notably, 97.56% expressed interest in collaborative learning networks. Barriers to adoption included a lack of training, high costs, and limited technical support. Farmers prioritized increased crop yield (85.35%) over environmental benefits (2.44%), highlighting a knowledge gap regarding sustainability. This study recommends targeted interventions, including phased technology introduction, financial support mechanisms, and community-driven learning initiatives to facilitate technology adoption. Policymakers should consider integrating mobile-based advisory services, shared equipment programs, and government incentives to enhance accessibility. Future research should explore longitudinal studies on technology adoption and comparative studies in regions with successful andragogical education models. These insights contribute to developing adaptive, evidence-based strategies for rural agricultural transformation.