O Conducting a Demonstration










 In the previous chapter we were considering a mode of communica-
 tion-giving a talk-which relies on the mainly one-way communi-
 cation that we characterized in Chapter Five as presentation. You
 are bound to be frequently involved in occasions where this mode
 is the only choice open to you. When you are asked to speak at
 barazas or other formal meetings, you rely on your words-and the
 emphasis you can inject through your manner of delivery or any
 visual aids you have with you.
 But, as we have discussed earlier, the presentation mode has its
 drawbacks when you really want to promote learning. You can
 effectively convey a limited amount of information in a talk, or you
 can arouse your audience's interest in and awareness of a problem.
 But, unless you can use more participatory, active methods of
 communication, you cannot be certain that any information you
 give will be retained, and you will certainly not be able to develop
 skills.
 Agricultural Extension has promoted a method of communication
 known as the field demonstration which, if used effectively, in-
 corporates all three modes of communication. Within the overall
 presentation framework there are elements of discussion and
 action-based modes which encourage the participation of the
 farmers through inviting debate on issues and through engaging
 them in practice of skills.
 Unfortunately, too many demonstration days still rely too much on
 the one-way communication of talking and showing-rather than
 on the participatory modes of discussing and doing. Too often the
 demonstrator remains the main, or even only, performer. The
 farmers remain passive listeners and watchers.