The role of agricultural extension workers during the digital transformation period at the Agricultural Extension Center in Lowokwaru District, Malang City

Abstract

Introduction: The agricultural sector plays an important role in Indonesia's economic development, because most of the Indonesian people work in the agricultural sector. Agricultural extension workers are people whose job is to provide motivation and encouragement to change mindsets, ways of working and habits in accordance with the development of a technological culture. This study aims to analyze agricultural extension workers in carrying out their role during the digital transformation period at the Agricultural Extension Center in Lowokwaru District, Malang City. Methods: This study uses the Mixed methods method. Sources of data in this study were taken from primary data and secondary data. The number of samples taken was 30 samples registered in the Farmers Group at BPP Lowokwaru District, Malang City. Sampling using a purposive sampling technique. Data collection used a questionnaire, and the measurement scale used was the Likert scale. Data analysis used multiple linear regression with SPSS 22. Results: simultaneously variables such as extension agents as facilitators, innovators, motivators, dynamists, and educators affect the income of farmers who are registered at the Agricultural Extension Center, Lowokwaru District, Malang City. Conclusion: This study shows that X₁ (extensionist as a facilitator), X₂ (extensionist as an innovator), and X₅ (extensionist as an educator) affect farmers' income in the application of digital technology